Equipping independent restaurateurs for the digital age

Independent restaurateurs are facing increasing pressure from large restaurant chains, many of which are increasingly using technology solutions as part of their global growth strategies. The independent entrepreneurs are sometimes unaware of the competition they face for their own survival.

This latest study by the METRO Chair of Innovation focuses on the challenges facing restaurateurs and their attitudes toward training, as well as educational innovations from other business sectors that enable the creation of learning communities. The concept of the study represents an innovative approach to training self-employed restaurant operators. It takes into account the challenges that exist in this industry, such as lack of time and money as well as economic challenges, areas of interest, existing level of digitalization, and preferred training formats.

The biggest challenges

The survey results showed that the biggest challenges for independent restaurant operators are delivery services, administrative activities and staff administration. In contrast, their main training interests focus on managing food, beverage and other procurement costs, as well as mastering cooking techniques and forecasting demand. The insights gained on the mismatch between identified challenges and areas of interest have informed the design of the Learning Community concept. The concept offers solutions that train restaurateurs in the topics that interest them, while gradually introducing them to more critical topics. At the same time, it triggers an increased exchange among restaurateurs.

"The Learning Community not only offers a targeted and innovative training concept on relevant technologies, but also addresses the key challenges that self-employed restaurateurs face in their day-to-day business," says Dr. Christine Demen Meier, head of the METRO Chair of Innovation. The innovative educational solution developed by the research team consisting of Dr. Christine Demen Meier, Caroline Guigou and Isabelle Vetterli also uses gaming elements to enhance the learning experience, motivate participants to continue and help them develop an understanding of digital content.

This latest study concludes the study activity at the Metro Chair of Innovation. However, the partnership between METRO and EHL will grow and develop. Further information on this will be announced shortly. Detailed information on the METRO Chair of Innovation is available at www.innovationchair.com is available. The research results can also be obtained here via download.