Addressing Keg Losses: A Collaboration Between Restaurants and Breweries
Keg loss is a growing issue in Alberta.
To tackle this challenge head-on, we’re teaming up with our buddies at the Alberta Brewers Association to launch a fun and educational initiative. Our goal? To shine a light on the cost of lost kegs and inspire a spirit of cooperation to keep our kegs safe and sound. Let's work together to ensure our community continues to thrive, one keg at a time!
The Problem
Restaurants often face challenges with the timely pickup of empty kegs by breweries. This delay creates storage issues, as many restaurants lack the secure space needed to store kegs safely. Consequently, kegs may end up in less secure areas, increasing the risk of theft. These logistical issues can strain the relationship between restaurants and breweries, impacting our ability to serve customers efficiently.
Breweries invest heavily in their kegs, which are essential for distributing their products. Unfortunately, when kegs are left in unsecured areas by restaurants, they become easy targets for theft. The loss of kegs not only represents a financial burden but also disrupts the brewery's operations and supply chain.
The Consequences of Inaction
If restaurants and breweries do not work together to take proactive measures, the issue of keg loss will continue to grow. Breweries may be forced to impose deposits on kegs or charge restaurants for lost property, creating financial strain for both parties. Such measures could damage the supportive dynamic that local breweries and restaurants share as both industries face rising costs.
The Solution
To address these challenges, the Alberta Hospitality Association is collaborating with the Alberta Small Brewers Association (ASBA) to launch a joint educational campaign. This initiative emphasizes the importance of mutual respect, timely communication, and shared responsibility between breweries and restaurants.
Breweries should prioritize timely pickup of empty kegs, as storage space is a luxury many small businesses cannot afford. Restaurants, in turn, should promptly notify breweries when kegs are ready for pickup and ensure they are stored securely until collection. Remember, supporting each other means upholding your commitments throughout the entire process.
To curb keg losses, breweries should:
Specify a timeline for keg pickup on invoices.
Include a phone number on kegs for quick notification when a keg is empty.
Note that if a restaurant fails to notify the brewery for pickup, any lost or stolen kegs will incur a charge.
Collaborate with nearby breweries to hold kegs temporarily if timely pickup is not possible.
Setting clear expectations with restaurants is a straightforward yet effective step in preventing keg theft.
To curb keg losses, restaurants should:
Establish a reasonable timeframe for keg storage before brewery pickup.
Request an easy contact method from breweries to notify them when a keg is empty.
Understand that the absence of deposits on kegs relies on their accountability. Communication and setting expectations are vital in addressing this problem.
Through education, clear communication, and mutual respect, we can reduce keg losses and strengthen the bond between these two vital industries. By addressing these challenges collaboratively, we can continue to thrive, supporting each other and our local communities.