Managing a restaurant, bar, or pub isn’t just about great food, drinks, and service – it’s about ensuring the books balance at the end of the day and that you have a profitable, resilient business. Thanks to tight profit margins, seasonal fluctuations, and unexpected costs, cash flow presents a unique challenge for the hospitality industry. Staying on top of cash flow is essential for businesses where even a small dip in revenue can create big problems.
Let’s explore why forecasting tools can make a real difference in keeping your business afloat – and even thriving.
The biggest cash flow challenges in hospitality
Running a hospitality business means juggling multiple priorities: ensuring staff are paid on time, stocking shelves, and delivering an excellent customer experience. But even the busiest establishments can face financial pressure if cash flow isn’t carefully managed.
Why restaurants, bars, and pubs struggle with cash flow:
- Tight profit margins: With food and drink costs accounting for a significant chunk of revenue, there’s often little room for error.
- Fluctuating sales: Weekly takings can vary wildly depending on the time of year, local events, or even the weather.
- Seasonal trends: Many businesses see peaks during holidays or weekends, while mid-week or off-season periods bring slower sales.
- Unexpected costs: Equipment breakdowns, last-minute repairs, or unexpected tax bills can leave you scrambling for cash.
How cash flow forecasting helps hospitality businesses
Cash flow forecasting isn’t just a ‘nice-to-have’ – it’s a practical tool that can help you avoid cash shortages, plan for the future, and take control of your finances.
Practical strategies for managing hospitality cash flow:
Predict peak and slow seasons
Forecasting allows you to identify patterns in your sales and prepare for quieter months. For example, if January tends to be slow, you can adjust your staffing levels and inventory to match reduced demand.
Monitor expenses and avoid cash shortages
Keeping an eye on your outgoing payments ensures you’re never caught short. By tracking supplier payments, payroll, and fixed costs like rent, you’ll know exactly when cash is leaving your account – and whether you’ll have enough to cover it.
Optimise inventory and reduce waste
With margins so tight, over-ordering stock isn’t an option. Forecasting tools can help you predict demand more accurately so you buy just the right amount and avoid unnecessary waste.Proactive cash flow management reduces financial stress and gives you the confidence to invest in growth when the time is right.
How Futrli helps you take control of your hospitality cash flow
Our software was built with hospitality businesses in mind. In fact, the idea for Futrli was sparked by our founder’s near-miss: nearly losing her pub to an unexpected £40,000 VAT bill. That close call inspired the development of tools that help businesses avoid similar situations.
Here’s how we can support your business:
User-friendly tools for complex scenarios
Hospitality cash flow isn’t straightforward, but that doesn’t mean managing it should be complicated. Our tools are designed to simplify forecasting, even if you’re not an accounting expert.
Real-time tracking and integrations
With real-time cash flow tracking and integration with leading accounting platforms, you’ll always have an up-to-date picture of your finances.
Customisable reporting
Tailored reports make it easy to analyse your finances in detail, whether you’re reviewing seasonal performance or identifying areas for cost savings.These features are designed to give you control over your finances, so you’re prepared for anything – from unexpected expenses to seizing new opportunities.
Stay ahead: manage hospitality cash flow with Futrli
Hospitality businesses face unique challenges, but with the right tools, you can stay one step ahead. Futrli offers practical, easy-to-use software designed to help you manage cash flow, forecast future trends, and build a more resilient business.