Monin 'back to work' workshops tackle consumer confidence

Consumers are willing to overcome any concerns about social distancing to be back socialising again, according to research from syrups and flavours specialist Monin.

Almost 53% of consumers stated that socialising is the element they have missed most in life as result of the country's lockdown, but the return to normal is also matched by concerns, with 52% claiming the likely lack of social distancing and overcrowding would still be their biggest worry.

According to the survey by Monin UK, the top three things venues can do to reassure consumers are:

• Set up antibacterial stations with hand gel readily available (45%)
• Clearly display protection measures around their venue (35%)
• Limit time customers can spend in a venue at any one time (29%)

Opening outdoor-only spaces (27%) and focusing on staff welfare (19%) complete the top five actions that operators can take to help consumers feel confident

Lee Hyde, beverage innovation manager at Monin, said: “The research gives some clear pointers on everyday operational needs to reassure customer bases, but it of course goes deeper than the headlines, which is why we will be bringing a range of leaders together to share their insights, opinions and tips for the foodservice industry to maximise opportunities.

“Our Reintroduction Workshops go live today on our website and are driven by these insights,” adds Hyde.

The Reintroduction Workshops aim to help operators navigate reopening effectively and efficiently. They are hosted by Monin’s Dan Fellows, two-time winner of the World Coffee in Good Spirits title, supported by Sam Trevethyen, head of beverage training and development at Grind, Matt Hollidge, aka the Amateur Mixologist, and Will Pitt, the 2019 UK Latte Art champion, 2020 UK Coffee in Good Spirits champion and the founder of Fort's in Margate.