When you come in and stare at the same four walls every day, it can be difficult to discern if your restaurant needs a bit of sprucing up. Naturally, there are obvious tells like peeling paint, worn-out furniture and a dip in customers that would alert you to the fact that your eatery needs an update. But for the most part, restaurant owners are not always aware of the more subtle signs that their space is outdated.

Sure, the vintage look is in, but if your business is looking more dated than retro, it might be time to consider hiring a professional restaurant fit out specialist. And if you’re still unsure of whether or not you need a fit out, here are the 8 signs your restaurant needs an interior makeover:

1. Outdated technology

Keeping up with the latest technological advancements has proven to become vital in keeping any company in business. In today’s world, technology plays a big role in our daily lives and we are all dependent on it in some way. For the average person, it’s a cellphone. For businessmen, it’s a laptop. And for restaurateurs, it’s their Point of Sale (POS) systems.

POS systems are the backbone of a restaurant. It should enhance your business by making organizational details easier to manage and free up more time for you to focus on customer service. If your POS systems are giving you problems, we would suggest updating the technology and software immediately. When your POS systems are up-to-date, your staff will have an easier time taking care of guests and it will simultaneously improve customer satisfaction.

The latest POS systems are also able to record statistics and sale trends so that you can keep track of your restaurant’s performance without having to lift a finger.

2. Interior design is drab

When last did you stop and take a proper look at your restaurant? How long ago were your walls painted? Are the bathrooms pleasant to be in? Is the aesthetic of your eatery appealing to you and all who walk into it? These are the questions you need to ask yourself regularly to ensure that your restaurant keeps attracting customers.

Interior design trends are constantly changing and can be difficult to keep up with at times. But updating the interior design of your restaurant from time to time is necessary. We understand that a cosmetic remodel isn’t always at the top of the priority list. But with so many other restaurants, cafes and bars to compete against, your business needs every competitive edge it can get to not only survive but be successful.

After all, the interior design is the first thing that customers see when they walk into your restaurant – so make sure you give them a good reason to stay.

3. Presence of health hazards

This might be an obvious one, but we would be remiss if we didn’t mention it. A clear sign that the interior of your restaurant could use a fit out is when there is the presence of health hazards like mould and asbestos.

Kitchens use plenty of water, making it difficult to keep moisture levels low. And as mould occurs because of humidity, it can be tricky to minimize its growth in this area of the restaurant. Moreover, older buildings made use of asbestos for building or electrical insulation. Asbestos can pose serious problems and health risks if exposed.

If you have concerns about health hazards in your restaurant, then it’s time for a renovation.

4. Customers suggest change

The saying, “the customer is always right” is particularly true in this instance. Your restaurant should be a comfortable space for your guests, where they can enjoy a relaxing environment that acts as a home away from home.

If your restaurant is at a point where customers no longer enjoy the look and feel of the space, it is definitely time to upgrade. As a restaurant owner, one of the most valuable things you can do is listen to your guests. Ask their opinions about the interior of your space through surveys, questionnaires or in conversation to find out what you can do to improve customer retention. Trust us, you won’t regret it.

5. Everything is worn out

If anything in your restaurant is old or worn, it should be replaced as soon as possible. Chipped wood, broken rungs and sagging seats are unmissable signs that your eatery is in dire need of a makeover. A fresh and modern design will keep staff and regular customers while attracting new diners and walk-ins at the same time. And while you’re upgrading, be sure to add in a few customer-pleasing amenities like free WiFi and in-house music.

Always make sure to put your best foot forward and invest in upgrades today rather than deal with costly equipment failure or injuries in the future.

6. High energy costs

You can’t control the cost of food ingredients, but you can avoid the headache of high monthly utility bills. If your restaurant is outdated, there’s a big chance that you’re not using the most energy-efficient materials and appliances. In turn, this can cause your energy bills to be far higher than they need to be.

Investing in a fit out that can help lower your costs in the long-run is one of the smartest moves you can make as a restaurant owner. Installing things like air-lock entryways, retooled HVAC systems, insulated windows and LED lights will not only provide some respite from increasing gas and electricity costs but will also make your restaurant more comfortable for both staff and diners.

7. Space is no longer functional

A functional layout is one of the most important aspects of a restaurant. From the kitchen to the dining area, you need to ensure that everything runs smoothly. Unfortunately, as your business grows or changes over time, the original setup of your restaurant no longer works. And if your waiters are finding it difficult to get from the kitchen to their tables or your chefs are struggling to find enough room to work, it is most definitely time for an interior fit out.

8. No one is coming in

The aesthetic of your restaurant plays an important part in attracting customers. And in today’s social media-driven world, where Instagram is king, there has never been a more pressing time to ensure that your restaurant is as appealing to the modern customer as possible.

Even if your restaurant is the cleanest and your food is the tastiest, people eat with their eyes first. Make sure that your restaurant is as appetizing to the passer-by as the meals you serve.

If you are thinking about updating your restaurant with an interior makeover, get in touch with Contractors.Direct and we will connect you with thoroughly vetted qualified contractors who can bring your fit out vision to life, on time and on budget.