Masters of Scale avatar

Dexa/Masters of Scale

Learn more
Published May 30, 2020

Rapid Response: Danny Meyer, 10 weeks later: How to revive restaurants

Renowned restaurateur Danny Meyer delves into the seismic shifts in the restaurant industry caused by the pandemic, highlighting the urgent need for systemic changes and innovative strategies for survival. Meyer shares transformative insights on adapting to new business models, embracing safety-focused service styles, and leveraging creative recovery strategies to revive his culinary enterprise.
Episode Highlights
Masters of Scale logo

Topics covered

Popular Clips

Episode Highlights

  • Safety Protocols

    Danny Meyer emphasizes the importance of balancing safety, economic, and emotional factors in reopening restaurants. He highlights the need for protocols that ensure safety without compromising financial stability, as every day of loss could lead to further layoffs 1. Meyer also discusses the unique challenges faced by different restaurant locations, such as those in high-rise buildings, and the importance of adapting strategies to meet these challenges 2.

    We want to have provided exceptional outreach services, whether it's emotional, whether it is helping people with jobs, whether it's helping people with learning opportunities, whether it's helping people to stay connected with each other.

    ---

    He believes that maintaining morale and confidence among staff and guests is crucial for a successful recovery.

       

    Revenue Streams

    Meyer explores innovative revenue streams to sustain his restaurants during the pandemic. He mentions the potential of a 'health passport' to reassure customers and the strategic use of lean teams to maximize profitability 3. Additionally, Meyer discusses leveraging partnerships with companies like Goldbelly to ship signature dishes nationwide, creating new sales channels without relying on in-person dining 4.

    It's almost been an invitation for people to call me with their ideas or to write me with their ideas.

    ---

    These strategies aim to address the limitations of reduced capacity and ensure long-term sustainability.

       

    Employee Management

    Rebuilding the workforce is a key focus for Meyer as he navigates the recovery phase. He notes that many former employees have found new opportunities, highlighting the need to re-recruit dispersed team members 5. Meyer also reflects on the emotional impact of the pandemic, likening the initial layoffs to chemotherapy, a necessary step for long-term survival 6.

    Unlike a sports team, we're going to have to re recruit our team because people have dispersed.

    ---

    He remains committed to rehiring and rebuilding, with each restaurant developing its own entrepreneurial strategy for recovery.

Related Episodes