Building a Winning Team - Success is ALWAYS a team sport.
Success in the food and beverage industry has always hinged on people. In 2025 and beyond, a cohesive, motivated, and well-coached team is more important than ever. Think of your business like a sports team—where you, as the owner, are the coach; your managers, the captains; and your employees, the players on the field. Your business stands out when everyone knows their role and gives their best effort. Here’s our thoughts on how to create a winning team that thrives:
1. Envision What “Winning” Looks Like
The first step in building a strong team is to visualize success. Ask yourself: What does a winning F&B team look, feel, and act like? A winning team looks confident and professional, feels energised, and acts with a shared purpose. Write down these qualities and use them to form the basis of your business’s vision.
2. Communicate the Vision
As the leader, you must clearly and consistently share this vision with your captains (managers) and players (frontline employees). People work best when they understand why they do what they do. By explaining your vision—whether it’s about delivering top-notch service, innovating the menu, or creating a community hub—you inspire your team to believe in the mission.
3. Cultivate a Winning Culture
Culture is the environment in which your vision grows. A positive work culture fosters open communication, mutual respect, and a sense of belonging. This means celebrating wins, learning from setbacks, and encouraging every voice to be heard. Check-in with your managers and employees, and provide resources and training that support their growth.
4. Empower Your Captains
Your managers need to lead by example. Empower them to make decisions, provide feedback, and mentor their teams. Managers who feel trusted and capable set the standard for everyone else. Investing in their professional development, clear responsibilities, and constant support from you create strong captains ready to inspire their players.
5. Develop Your Players
Players—or employees—need the right coaching, too. Equip them with the skills and knowledge they need to excel. Hold regular team meetings, create training opportunities, and set measurable goals. Provide constructive feedback and recognize outstanding performance. When your team members feel supported and see a path for growth, they’re more likely to stay committed.
6. Keep Score & Celebrate Wins
Winning teams measure their performance. Whether you track customer satisfaction scores, financial metrics, or employee engagement levels, use these “scores” to celebrate wins and identify areas for improvement. Recognizing progress keeps your team energized and focused on what matters most.
In 2025, the thriving F&B businesses will treat their employees like pro athletes—coached, inspired, and supported. By clearly envisioning success, communicating that vision, and fostering a winning culture, you’ll create a team ready to outperform the competition. Remember:
A winning team starts with you, the coach—empowering your captains and players every step of the way.
