8.7 MANAGING EXTERNAL HIRE

When producing information on the external hire options of your space, it’s important to clearly explain the general capability of the space on the website, in detail and with photos.

What is included:

Our rates include use of our bespoke built, fully equipped teaching kitchen.

10 grid rational combi oven.

4 Ring Induction hobs on each section.

For example, the Hackney School of Food website clearly outlines what is included in the space:

10 height-adjustable workstations (5 are on wheels for flexibility).

1 height-adjustable teaching station (on wheels for flexibility).

Handwashing station. Pot wash area includes 4 sinks with 2 spray hose taps and a Meiko industrial dishwasher. Tall catering fridge. A range of cookery utensils.

Cutlery, crockery, glasses and mugs.

Use of a digital projector and Bluetooth speaker on request.

Free Wi-Fi.

In addition, our walled garden includes:

Our talented team of chefs are available to cater for your events or meetings, designing bespoke menus to accommodate your needs.

100m2 wood oven (HSF induction required to use).

Garden work station.

Large fire pit. Awning and patio heaters. Outdoor tables and benches.

8.8 MARKETING TIPS

SOME TIPS:

Make sure you have good quality photos on the website that illustrate the feel of the space as well as its capabilities.

It’s a good idea to distil the website information into one-page PDF brochures. This makes it easy to explain the space. These can be emailed over to potential clients, or printed off and given at in-person viewings for them to take away.

Work out what way is best for external hire enquiries to get in touch with you – is it via a phone number or an email address? Consider the option that reduces the chance of enquiries being missed or slipping through the net.

Following up on enquiries is a key part of securing your bookings. It can remind potential external hire customers to book in their session before it’s too late. Being firm but not pushy is vital.

To sell the space, why not invite the potential hirer to visit. Photos go a long way, but do not compare to being in the room itself. Consider whether virtual tours can be facilitated.

You must properly price your hire based on a scale of what it includes, below is a breakdown of what you might need to bear in mind:

• For how long will the space be booked?

• Chef and Assistant hire.

• Booking a cookery lesson.

• Covering your building overheads.

• Will you need a key guardian, or will there always be a manager / representative on site?

Always provide clear T&Cs of the hire, including a deposit amount and consequences of late cancellations or damage to the space / equipment. Clearly outline when the deposit and hire fees need to be paid.