What are some external programs that can be capitalized on to reduce costs and or generate revenue? ...

A food service buying program was developed with a local vendor, inclusive of incentives back to the museum for bulk purchases, prompt bill payment and a consolidated inventory list.
 Moderate price increases were implemented on a case-by-case basis.
 A grease buy back program was developed with a local bio fuel company.
 The menu changed to feature more local ingredients, seasonal specialties and cost incentive programs.
 Cross promotions with sister properties and co-op sharing of equipment and purchases were made available.

The majority of these initiatives took over one month to properly enact. It was essential that everyone from the dishwasher to the wine steward were on board and fully accepting of these new practices. At the end of the month, it was clear that the initiatives would make up the difference in lost revenues. None of the Food Service department's 160 person staff was eliminated or laid off. Many of the initiatives developed were adopted in sister properties and have since become company standards.

The museum is still highly regarding but more so now for the innovation and dedication to the staff. Much of the staff have moved on and become highly successful in other ventures. Instilled with one consideration: The realization that people are indispensable and that profit could not come at the cost of labor.

I appreciate your help