DigiTally

We talk a lot about cutting costs, but how often do we really analyse the data behind those decisions? With fluctuating prices and unpredictable demand, gut instincts are no longer enough to manage food costs effectively. In a landscape where margins are shrinking, are we being strategic, or are we just hoping for the best? Data isn’t just a tool, it’s a window into the choices that shape our business. When was the last time you truly trusted the data to guide your decisions? Let’s Talk #DataDrivenDecisions #FoodCostManagement #FoodServiceIndustry #RethinkFoodService #DigiTally

Manual stocktaking has been part of the food service industry for decades, but in today’s world, we need to ask: at what hidden cost? Time lost, human error, and inconsistent data can create a ripple effect, impacting decisions and profitability. What if we viewed stocktaking not as a task to check off, but as a powerful insight into our operations? Could we be missing opportunities by sticking with outdated methods that don’t tell us the full story? What’s the hidden cost of sticking to "the way it’s always been done"? Let’s Talk #RethinkStocktaking #OperationalInsight #FoodServiceChallenges #FoodServiceIndustry #DigiTally

As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of the food service industry, one thing has become clear: embracing change isn’t just necessary, it’s critical for survival. At DigiTally, we’ve been at the forefront of conversations surrounding ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance), data-driven decision-making, and technology’s impact on workforce dynamics. These are pivotal issues, but addressing them requires us to ask the hard questions: Are we, as an industry, truly ready to make ESG a non-negotiable priority, even if it challenges traditional business models? How can we better leverage data to not only boost operational efficiency but also foster transparency and trust with customers? In a world where technology is reshaping every facet of business, what’s the role of human connection, and how do we retain it while evolving? It’s these questions that keep me thinking about how we, as food service professionals, can work together to build an industry that’s sustainable, forward-thinking, and people centric. I believe the future of food service will be defined by collaboration, innovation, and a willingness to disrupt the status quo. I’d love to hear your thoughts – what are the biggest challenges you see in pushing these initiatives forward? Let’s Talk #FoodServiceIndustry #Leadership #ESG #Innovation #DigiTally #FutureOfWork

Four months ago, DigiTally CEO Patrick McDermott gathered industry leaders for a pivotal Round Table event, tackling the biggest challenges in the food service industry. From ESG priorities to talent recruitment, these conversations continue to shape how businesses operate today. Key highlights included: 🔹 ESG prioritisation driving industry-wide change 🔹 The pressing need for better data to fuel impactful decisions 🔹 How sharing best practices accelerates progress across the sector Special thanks to our incredible participants: Rodney Payne (Aramark UK), Zoë Watts FIH (Bennett Hay), Heather Day (Bespoke Food Group), Francois Gautreaux, FIH (Bespoke Food Group), Chris Chidley (Compass Group), Christina Ronsyn (Eat Social UK), Nico Prinsloo (Eat Social UK), Benjamin McEwen FRSA (Lexington Catering), David Broomhall (The O2), Rebecca Stevenson (SHW Design), Charles Manners(Turpin Smale Catering Consultants), and Chris Sheppardson(EP Business in Hospitality). #FoodServiceIndustry #RoundTableEvent #ESG #Innovation #DigiTally

Empowering Teams in Hospitality: Food Service Matters Podcast! In the latest episode of the Food Service Matters podcast our CEO Patrick McDermott sits down with Simon Esner FIH FIoD 🦾🦻🏼🦿, a true leader in hospitality with 40+ years of experience. Simon shares his powerful insights on the importance of nurturing staff and creating a culture where teams can thrive. From mentoring young talent to retaining top performers, Simon emphasises that investing in people is the key to long-term success in the food service industry. 🎧 Tune in for a masterclass in leadership and team development! https://lnkd.in/eTvijC5w #Leadership #FoodServiceIndustry #TeamBuilding #FoodServiceMatters #DigiTally #SimonEsner #PatrickMcDermott #Podcast

Our recent Round Table event was a fantastic opportunity to exchange ideas and collaborate on ways to navigate the challenges in the education catering sector. Some key themes that emerged include: • School budgets are likely to tighten, demanding smarter approaches. • Quality will become the most important factor for success. • Sustainability efforts need to be affordable and effective. • Plate waste is one of the most expensive forms of waste—yet it's often preventable. • Collaboration between schools, caterers, and consultants is essential for shared success. Take a look at some snapshots from the day! 📷 DigiTally - Patrick McDermott Accent Catering Services Ltd - Ian Crabtree Aramark - Fiona Martin Chartwells Independent - Donovan Paterson Chartwells Independent - Sue Accorsi ISCC Ltd - Lizzie Fowell Lexington Catering - Matthew Wood Lexington Catering - Sean Ritson Lexington Catering - Charlie Hayward OCS - Nicola Sutcliffe MIH Palmer & Howells - Kathryn Dockerty Cohesion Consulting - Glenn Campbell MIH FIC The Litmus Partnership - Joe Parfitt Independent Schools' Bursars Association - John Murphie EP Business in Hospitality - Chris Sheppardson #DigiTally #FoodServiceLeaders #RoundTableDiscussion #SchoolCatering #Sustainability #EducationSector #IndustryInsights #PlateWasteReduction #QualityMatters

Social Media Storytelling: A Game-Changer for Hospitality Brands In today’s fast-paced digital world, storytelling has become a powerful tool for hospitality businesses to build brand awareness and connect with audiences. In a recent episode of the Food Service Matters podcast, Patrick McDermott speaks with Katie H., Global VP of Marketing at Rhubarb Hospitality Collection, about how social media storytelling can drive success in the food service industry. From the impact of Instagram on restaurant bookings to the creative ways Rhubarb Hospitality uses behind-the-scenes content, Katie shares valuable insights on crafting engaging and authentic social media campaigns. Highlights include: • The power of visual storytelling on platforms like Instagram • Leveraging customer-generated content for authenticity and engagement • How to create unique, shareable content that resonates with today’s audiences • The role of metrics in refining social media strategies Ready to elevate your social media game and take your brand to the next level? Dive into the full blog post to explore these insights and more! https://lnkd.in/eBDQE5Pb #SocialMediaStorytelling #FoodServiceIndustry #DigitalMarketing #BrandAwareness #DigiTally #FoodServiceMatters

New Episode Alert: Food Service Matters - ESG in the Hospitality Industry Join us for an insightful conversation on the latest episode of the Food Service Matters Podcast: A DigiTally Podcast, where our CEO Patrick McDermott is joined by hospitality industry veteran Simon Esner FIH FIoD 🦾🦻🏼🦿 With over 40 years of experience, Simon shares invaluable insights into how sustainability and ESG practices are shaping the future of food service. From managing waste to sourcing locally, Simon delves into the critical role these initiatives play in maintaining margins while benefiting the planet. 🌍 🎧 Don’t miss this deep dive into the sustainable future of food service! https://lnkd.in/eTvijC5w #ESG #Sustainability #FoodServiceLeadership #FoodServiceMatters #DigiTally #PatrickMcDermott #SimonEsner #Podcast

On Wednesday, September 18th, Patrick McDermott brought together key leaders and experts in the food service industry to discuss the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of school catering. 🔑 Key Takeaways: • The education market is likely to contract sooner rather than later. • School budgets will be increasingly constrained. • Quality will be king, with a shift towards high-quality offerings. • Change is inevitable. Now's the time to adapt, not bury our heads in the sand. • Sustainability efforts will only gain traction if they're cost-effective. • Plate waste is a hidden expense, driving unnecessary production and supply costs—most of it is avoidable. • Clear communication between consultants, caterers, and schools is key to success. • Caterers should become trusted advisors, driving ESG initiatives that benefit both schools and the sector. We want to extend a huge thank you to all of our guests for their valuable contributions and insights. Your expertise and collaboration are what drive progress in our industry. Accent Catering Services Ltd - Ian Crabtree Aramark - Fiona Chartwells Independent - Donovan Paterson Chartwells Independent – Sue Accorsi ISCC Ltd - Lizzie Fowell Lexington Catering - Matthew Wood Lexington Catering - Sean Ritson Lexington Catering - Charlie Hayward OCS - Nicola Sutcliffe MIH Palmer & Howells - Kathryn Dockerty Cohesion Consulting - Glenn Campbell MIH FIC The Litmus Partnership - Joe Parfitt Independent Schools' Bursars Association - John Murphie EP Business in Hospitality - Chris Sheppardson #DigiTally #RoundTableEvent #FoodServiceIndustry #EducationSector #CateringInnovation #Sustainability #SchoolCatering #ESG

Throwback to Our Inspiring Round Table Conversation at Token House! It’s been six months since DigiTally had the honour of hosting a powerful Round Table Conversation on tackling the challenges of margin pressures in the food service industry. Our CEO, Patrick McDermott, was joined by an esteemed panel of industry experts: Simon Wade – Eat Social UK Holly Jack – Social Pantry Glenn Campbell MIH FIC – Cohesion Consulting Andrew Etherington FIH – AEA Simon Esner FIH FIoD 🦾🦻🏼🦿 – Uncommon Sense This discussion highlighted the incredible resilience and adaptability of our sector, showcasing innovative strategies for success. Revisit the key takeaways and insights from this impactful conversation https://lnkd.in/eTZf8w_q #Throwback #FoodServiceIndustry #FoodServiceMargins #RoundTableDiscussion #IndustryInsights #DigiTally