How a Refreshed Interior Design Can Help Stave Off Labor Issues

We’ve written about how Archmill House’s Rapid Re-Image solution can save you money and enhance the customer experience, but a refreshed interior can also have a significant impact on your staffing and human resources. Simply put, QSRs and retailers can not underestimate the importance of the physical environment when it comes to attracting and retaining top talent, especially in today's competitive job market.

Here are some of the ways a refreshed interior design can help stave off labor issues and create a more positive and engaging workplace.

A Better Employee Experience

Archmill’s Rapid Re-Image solution lets you refresh your establishments without the cost and time delays of a full renovation. The exact project scope varies with every client, but QSRs and retailers across North America have used the Rapid Re-Image Solution to quickly and efficiently:

• Update front counters, cabinets, tabletops, and seating

• Add digital displays and kiosks

• Remove and replace existing fixtures

• Install new flooring

• Update restrooms, with new fixtures and wall finishes

• Refresh interior and exterior signage, graphics, and paint

• Adding or improving climate control capabilities

While all these updates will certainly help improve the customer experience, you cannot discount the impact a refreshed storefront will have on your own staff. An aesthetically pleasing and well-designed workspace can contribute to a more enjoyable employee experience, improving overall well-being and job satisfaction. In fact, a survey by Management Today revealed that 97% of respondents considered their workplace as a symbol of whether or not they were valued by their employer.

Increased Productivity and Performance

A better employee experience will often lead to increased productivity and performance, and this is then further enhanced by an optimized layout and organization. A well-designed interior layout that considers workflow and efficiency can minimize distractions, reduce time wasted on unnecessary tasks, and increase overall productivity.

All Rapid Re-Imaging projects provide an opportunity to re-evaluate the overall layout and workflow of your establishment. We have found that by decluttering your space and looking for ways to optimize operations improves productivity and creates a culture that is always searching for opportunities to improve.

Many successful Re-Imaging projects also take the opportunity to invest in new equipment, including new kitchen applications, payment systems, and kitchen displays, all of which can further increase your staff’s efficiency and productivity. In fact, according to QSR Magazine, updating kitchen display systems can reduce ticket times by up to 40%.

Improved Employee Safety

In addition to enhancing the employee experience and increasing productivity, a refreshed interior design can significantly improve employee safety. A workspace that prioritizes employee safety not only demonstrates care for their well-being but also minimizes the risk of accidents or injuries, which can lead to costly lawsuits and absenteeism.

A Rapid Re-Image can improve employee safety in a number of ways, including:

• Optimizing the arrangement of workstations, aisles, and equipment
  This can create a safer environment, improving flow, and reducing the risk of collisions.

• Updating equipment
  Investing in new kitchen appliances that have advanced safety mechanisms can help prevent burns or other kitchen-related incidents.

• Implementing new tech
  Integrating smart technology such as sensors, automated systems, monitoring devices, and security systems (including surveillance cameras and access control measures), can help deter theft and enhance employee safety.

• Enhancing lighting
  An updated, efficient lighting system can improve visibility, reduce eye strain, and minimize the risk of slips, trips, and falls. It also can do quite a bit to create a dynamic, visually appealing space. Take a look at a recent project we completed for Psycho Bunny, a popular men’s clothing brand for an example.

Minimizing Risk

Refreshing the interior design of your establishment can also minimize risk within the workspace, which is crucial for tackling labor issues. One effective strategy is to implement integrated mobile and online order pick-up to the front office service counters for mobile and online order pickups. With the continued demand for contactless transactions, having a designated area for these services not only streamlines operations but also reduces congestion and potential conflicts between staff members, customers, and food delivery workers.

Updating your interior can also be an opportunity to implement signage and visual cues that highlight safety measures and guidelines. Clearly marked exits, hazard warnings, and reminders to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) can serve as visual reminders, promoting a safe working environment.

Get in touch today with the Archmill House team to learn more about our Rapid Re-Image Solution and get a quote.