Catering at the Lane - Compass

[Highbury_Blade]

Not really, if it's done right!

They have to keep it warm in Bain-Maries anyway. Precook it and distribute it properly and according to demand and it'll be fine. There's 2 serving times at the end of the day not constant. UHC's are just as useful if used properly and it doesn't take a genius to employ a cook to prepare onm demand either. Especially Burger/hotdogs/sausages from a bain-marie/uhc. It's all done for them!

I'll never understand spending unneccessary money for a crap product.

That's the problem, there's 2 serving times and one of them is a heavily rushed one. In order to speed up service, you should be reducing choice, not widening it. I'd rather they just got better quality burgers, pies and Sausages in. I wouldn't mind paying £3.50 for a hot dog if it was decent meat.

Perhaps they could invite alternate vendors on to the wider concourses, and provide mobile hot dog stands. That's what i think they do at Fulham, and the sauasges are superb.

 

[Rattly Noise]

One of the issues is that sales are only once or at most twice a week and for only a proportion of the year. Tesco's are open 24/7, 364 days of the year so can sell cans at 50p as a loss leader in the hope you'll buy the rest of your shopping from there. The club don't have that luxury, but still have overheads (equipment, cleaning etc...) so you would expect them to have a higher profit margin. It's economics. £3.20 is still a rip off though.

 

[ghandi]

One of the issues is that sales are only once or at most twice a week and for only a proportion of the year. Tesco's are open 24/7, 364 days of the year so can sell cans at 50p as a loss leader in the hope you'll buy the rest of your shopping from there. The club don't have that luxury, but still have overheads (equipment, cleaning etc...) so you would expect them to have a higher profit margin. It's economics. £3.20 is still a rip off though.

Catering is carried out by a third party (Compass) the only leverage the club have is any clauses in that maybe in the contract. We once brought all the catering in-house due to complaints about the standard etc but chose to outsource once again after a couple of years which does point to the probability of making any money out of match day catering for a football club with our attendances is very very difficult particularly when there is a guaranteed income from Compass who will also carry any loss.

 

[Tidzablade]

Cans! Cans! How very dare they! Selling ale in cans after stopping my 9 year old at the turnstiles and telling him he had to drink his pop there and then as cans are not allowed inside the ground! When asked why they told him he could "use it as a missile or rip it open to attack visiting supporters with!" His reply was "I'm only 9, I just want to drink it at half time", but alas he wasn't allowed that innocent pleasure. Now I discover they're selling cans inside!! Bare faced cheek of it!!

 

[ghandi]

Cans! Cans! How very dare they! Selling ale in cans after stopping my 9 year old at the turnstiles and telling him he had to drink his pop there and then as cans are not allowed inside the ground! When asked why they told him he could "use it as a missile or rip it open to attack visiting supporters with!" His reply was "I'm only 9, I just want to drink it at half time", but alas he wasn't allowed that innocent pleasure. Now I discover they're selling cans inside!! Bare faced cheek of it!!

They pour the contents of the can into a plastic glass and they retain the can.

 

[ashsufc1889]

Apologies, it must have been somebody else who commented on the going rate. I was just raising the point that if people were prepared to pay £3.20 for a bottle, then moaning about the price of a can @£3.20 doesn't make sense, since it would probably would be a similar price for the club to buy in.

I would imagine that the club would probably want pretty healthy margins on it, somewhere around the 75% mark. Lets say the can costs the club 50p (Probably less though) and they're selling it at 3.20. Subtract the VAT off that and the club is selling it at a net price of £2.56. The profit on that can is £2.06

GP = (206/256) x100 = 80.4% GP (Which isn't that unusual for a a carling.) If you go into a pub in town owned by a big company they will probably be buying a pint in for 25-30p per pint. Now they have to make 80+% GP on a pint of carling as that usually subsidizes to a degree the drink items in the pub that have a much lower GP (Cask ales for instance)

As far as what a fair price for a can is, then based on the fact that the club has only 2 alcoholic drinks options, i would say a fair margin based on the clubs overheads would be about 75%. (Actually, it's the clubs + Compasses overheads)

If the can costs 50p then a 75% GP + 20% VAT would nudge it around the £2.70 - £2.75 mark. Ditto for the bottles.

Pubs make no where near that amount of money on beer. Probably around 15-20% at most. Mainly because they are tied into brewery contracts. But even still, not bing tied in, the profits can me increased to around 35-40%.

The reason we can buy alcohol so cheap in a supermarket/shop is that it is bought/produced on a MASSIVE scale compared to barreled alcohol. Producing to such scales, and subsequently selling in massive quantities reduces the overheads and clearly makes it cheaper.

When it comes to Compass/SUFC running a bar all the overheads have to be covered. This includes bills, paying staff wages (albeit they are useless) etc...Compass/SUFC have much more overheads than a pub does and therefore has in increase the prices above the average just to make some money.
I don't agree with the amount extra they charge because they do take the p!ss quite a bit. But i dont see them coming down in price at all.

It's not nice, but it has to happen to keep that side of the business sustainable.

Went off on a bit of a tangent there sorry!
UTB!!

 

[Highbury_Blade]

When i was running pubs for Mitchells & Butler 5 years ago we were buying in Carling at 21p per pint, and selling it for £2.60. I’d imagine given the rate of inflation that would be up to 25-30 a pint now. I’d imagine they’re buying in stella at about 50p per pint. A nice premium lager such as Staropramen would probably be 80p a pint.

Cask ales would start at about 55p for some cheap nasty shit like Greene king IPA, up to a £1 for something really nice like Marston’s Old Empire.

Obviously M&B is a massive pub company in the uk, and local pubs will be buying beer in at higher prices than that.

I would usually deliver about 40% profit to the company, and out of that they would have to take out Head office costs, depreciation, rent etc etc.

P

When it comes to Compass/SUFC running a bar all the overheads have to be covered. This includes bills, paying staff wages (albeit they are useless) etc...Compass/SUFC have much more overheads than a pub does and therefore has in increase the prices above the average just to make some money.
I don't agree with the amount extra they charge because they do take the p!ss quite a bit. But i dont see them coming down in price at all.

Compass do indeed have a lot of overheads, though probably not any more than your large pub company. And as a large catering company, they will be buying beer in at exceedingly cheap prices.

They are charging high prices because they have a monopoly position.

Out of interest, where did you come up with your figures from? If a pub only made 15% profit on a pint of beer then it wouldn't be able to afford to pay it's staff. Staff costs in a typical pub would probably be 20-30% of the pubs entire cost.

 

[Robbie]

Well.... the service has got worse from last season. I didn't think this would be possible.

I got to the Kop catering facilites (south stand side) around 3 minutes before the end of the half (normal time) to find queues already back at the toilets (going up the ramp, not the nearest ones).
I thought I'd stand and try get a beer, however 5 minutes of waiting and moving all of 1 foot - I decided it was a bad idea and left the queue.

Looking at who was serving, there was around 6/7 people serving, absolutely shocking if truth be told. It's like compass don't want to take our money.

I contemplated seeing if the other side of the stand was any better, but a mate came down the stairs and said it was even worse on the side - so decided not to have anything at all (not through choice of course).

Beer hawkers? Could have cleared the queue easily, amount of beer hawkers around? 0.

There were less people on the kop than normal and the queues were bigger. They lost a lot of custom today through ineptitude.

 

[geekblade]

I've always found it quite ironic how you couldn't buy a greasy chip butty at the ground, so when I saw the chippy behind the kop today it made me smile. Was it open though because it was closed up when I went past?

 

[Kopped]

Need to add to this thread:

KOP, John Street end!

No draught Ale
No Pies or anything HOT, BEFORE Kick off.
Top Stalls Closed!
Queue's worse than last year!
PRICES WRONG!! Charged £3.30 for a bottle of piss water, the boards say £3.20! I know it's only 10p but it's 50p when you buy in bulk like we do.
ALSO it's not a pint I've bought, it's 500ml!

 

[gavtheblade]

they should be burned like witches!

 

[Pollingtonblade]

Well.... the service has got worse from last season. I didn't think this would be possible.

I got to the Kop catering facilites (south stand side) around 3 minutes before the end of the half (normal time) to find queues already back at the toilets (going up the ramp, not the nearest ones).
I thought I'd stand and try get a beer, however 5 minutes of waiting and moving all of 1 foot - I decided it was a bad idea and left the queue.

Looking at who was serving, there was around 6/7 people serving, absolutely shocking if truth be told. It's like compass don't want to take our money.

I contemplated seeing if the other side of the stand was any better, but a mate came down the stairs and said it was even worse on the side - so decided not to have anything at all (not through choice of course).

Beer hawkers? Could have cleared the queue easily, amount of beer hawkers around? 0.

There were less people on the kop than normal and the queues were bigger. They lost a lot of custom today through ineptitude.

John St side of kop was exactly the same, the queues were longer than at any point last season, less staff serving and no beer hawkers. Resulting in loads of people not bothering - meaning loss of money. Also no beer hawkers.

Serious question Foxy will this get passed on?

 

[Foxy]

Serious question Foxy will this get passed on?

You have my word that the concerns will be passed on and that'll I'll do what I can to get a response.

Do bear in mind that the bloke in charge did ask for patience as he tried to turn things around, so thinks might not instantly get better, but he's committed to making sure they do.

 

[Linz]

You have my word that the concerns will be passed on and that'll I'll do what I can to get a response.

I'll just add to that with the fact that the more information you can pass on (dates, times, which stand, which kiosk etc.) they're more likely to be able to trace back to where the problems were.

I do know from the person who was manning the cellars yesterday that because the pumps are so far away from the barrels in some instances, there's hardly any pressure to bring the beer through which causes slow serving times. Obviously that's an infrastructure thing which would cost quite a bit of money to put right. It's crap, but they're trying to get by with what they're got to work with in some cases.

 

[bricktop]

Last month, amongst other things, we were part of a group that met with representitives of the Blades and the new General Manager in charge of Compass' operations at the lane, Andy Smith (though he's no stranger to the lane, having been involved in the past).

A number of previous issues were discussed and as part of his introduction, Andy explained some of the issues that need working around and some of his plans and aims for the future.

One of the things that stood out was the enthusiasm and honesty, but like any business Compass will always be judged by their performance and the customer's experience.

As part of the process we've said that we'll collate feedback, comments, concerns and questions and regularly provide these for the perusal and reaction from Compass, so as always please post, pm and email anything you would like us to pass on. We'll then do our best to facilitate a response.

I'll allow Andy to introduce himself:



After a number of comments regarding the cans on sale last night, I mentioned it to Andy, who tells me that these are a temporary measure whilst a few bits are finalised and that come the first game of the season there will be no cans.

Could you also mention it to your source within the club, that the catering on the kop yesterday was even worse than it was last season, and i actually think the standard of the catering at Bramall Lane is amongst the worst in the League

 

[Kopped]

I'll just add to that with the fact that the more information you can pass on (dates, times, which stand, which kiosk etc.) they're more likely to be able to trace back to where the problems were.

I do know from the person who was manning the cellars yesterday that because the pumps are so far away from the barrels in some instances, there's hardly any pressure to bring the beer through which causes slow serving times. Obviously that's an infrastructure thing which would cost quite a bit of money to put right. It's crap, but they're trying to get by with what they're got to work with in some cases.

1. Date: Saturday 13th August

Time: 15:55-16:00

Place: KOP-John Street End

Kiosk: Beer Only!

Problem: Service= POOR! Over-charged from what was written on the board! (£3.30, board said £3.20)
No draught Ale, Just Bottles of WARM Carling! Or Small 275ml Bulmers.
Queue at the second set of steps back. Was served as 2nd half kicked off, so 20 minutes to get served! NO "Ghostbusters"

2. Date: As above

Time: 14:50

Place: As Above

Kiosk: 2nd to the Right Kiosk, Food Kiosk.

Issue: No Hot food (Including Hotdogs, Pies, Sausage rolls, Burgers), no apology, Poor at best!

Please pass this on and get it sorted for Tuesday as they've had 3 months and the last 6 home games from last season to sort this out! Disgraceful Behaviour from a so called Professional Catering Group!

 

[raul]

Wouldn't it be a good idea if someone at the club decided that, instead of relying on the seemingly limitless time and efforts of Fonz, they appoint someone who's job is to act as conduit between fans and the club. Something like a Talking to Fans Guy, but maybe someone can offer up a better title.

 

[Kopped]

You mean like a Fans Communication Officer?

I believe we have 1 and we are supposed to have a fans voice in The Fans Alliance, according to Stuart Drew in the programme yesterday!

Maybe they should put their heads above the parrapet

 

[Robbie]

I do know from the person who was manning the cellars yesterday that because the pumps are so far away from the barrels in some instances, there's hardly any pressure to bring the beer through which causes slow serving times. Obviously that's an infrastructure thing which would cost quite a bit of money to put right. It's crap, but they're trying to get by with what they're got to work with in some cases.

I'd agree with this if it was just fitted. But surely these are the same pumps that have been around for the last few seasons?
Further to that, if they know there's a problem - get some beer poured in anticipation of the crowds coming down.

They've lost a lot of money from Saturday becuase of their ineptitude to serve in a reasonable time.

 

[Micalijo]

You have my word that the concerns will be passed on and that'll I'll do what I can to get a response.

Do bear in mind that the bloke in charge did ask for patience as he tried to turn things around, so thinks might not instantly get better, but he's committed to making sure they do.

Could you organise a mass boycott of their products? Surely that would be a better use of your time than passing on messages to this bloke who I realise will be trying his best but who most liklely has zero power to do owt about it. It does not take time to make sure each kiosk has hot food available, it is massive incompetence on the Blackwell scale - although why people need it so desperately is beyond me.

---------- Post added at 10:14 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:12 AM ----------

You mean like a Fans Communication Officer?

I believe we have 1 and we are supposed to have a fans voice in The Fans Alliance, according to Stuart Drew in the programme yesterday!

Maybe they should put their heads above the parrapet

Now, now kopped - Mr Batho is very popular in these parts. Oh no, forgot he's communciations manager not fans communications manager now.

---------- Post added at 10:15 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:14 AM ----------

Wouldn't it be a good idea if someone at the club decided that, instead of relying on the seemingly limitless time and efforts of Fonz, they appoint someone who's job is to act as conduit between fans and the club. Something like a Talking to Fans Guy, but maybe someone can offer up a better title.

Fonz? You mean Foxy?

 

[Linz]

Fonz? You mean Foxy?

I may be wrong but Foxy + Linz = Fonz.

Could you organise a mass boycott of their products? Surely that would be a better use of your time than passing on messages to this bloke who I realise will be trying his best but who most liklely has zero power to do owt about it.

Slightly hypocritical for us to do it... seeing as we get into the ground as late as possible so as not to have to buy anything

 

[raul]

Thought about Lixy, but then, what with Dazzler being back, thought again...

 

[SouthEssexBlade]

I may be wrong but Foxy + Linz = Fonz.

Bollocks to that.

Foxy + Linz = Xyli

Got an exotic ring to it

Or flip it and have Lixy...sounds like a porn star :clap:

 

[Flatulent_Bob]

Could you organise a mass boycott of their products? Surely that would be a better use of your time than passing on messages to this bloke who I realise will be trying his best but who most liklely has zero power to do owt about it. It does not take time to make sure each kiosk has hot food available, it is massive incompetence on the Blackwell scale - although why people need it so desperately is beyond me.

---------- Post added at 10:14 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:12 AM ----------



Now, now kopped - Mr Batho is very popular in these parts. Oh no, forgot he's communciations manager not fans communications manager now.

---------- Post added at 10:15 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:14 AM ----------

N.B. <Cough> Mr Batho is also rather pally with Odders as well. <cough>
Although I'd prefer the friendly approach to him by Fonz (that's godda stick, I like it), than the ridiculous "fat cunt" and such shite that greeted his appointment elsewhere.

But I think he is referring to the case that I don't think Richard B is in that role anymore.

 

[Linz]

But I think he is referring to the case that I don't think Richard B is in that role anymore.

Indeed. His title is now "Communications Manager" which while similar to "Supporter Communications", is more of a move towards the media side so dealing with James Shield, Radio Sheffield etc. rather than us in the stands.

Andy Smith at Compass has asked us to pass on any concerns so we will do. But it's a case of don't shoot the messenger. It isn't really our job to pass stuff on but we're happy to - we don't expect flak for it.

 

[Quiff Boy]

well....

oldham's visitors end ran out of pies before before the whistle blew for half time, and they had 1 small booth selling booze, for 3000 travelling fans... that was fun.

and last time i went to the away end at pig pen (which wasn't even for the derby) they didnt sell any booze at all. iirc they didn't even sell any food that was veggie. it was either a hot dog or a steak pasty.

what year are we living in?

tbh, the best away end catering i've seen is huddersfield, who have a good range of beer, cider & pies in the away end.

let's face it, footy catering is notoriously sh*t though, isn't it? wherever you go.

one thing that used ot infuriate me was that i can't drink milk, and i remember for years i couldn't get a coffee at the lane without milk in it. they came with those bloody awful fake milk granules already added into the cup. has that changed now? can you actually buy a black coffee? or any kind of brew with no milk in it?

as i say, what year are we living in? a black coffee and a veggie-friendly pie in this day and age shouldn't be impossible, should it?

 

[Flatulent_Bob]

Those areas in the Gods between the South stand and BL also round out of pies, burgers, hot dogs before the second half started.
Unfortunately they didn't tell anyone who continued to queue and got a fair bit of grief for it too.

 

[essex blade]

the kiosks at the top of the kop steps on the john stret side were closed all match.

 

[Kopped]

I've had this reaction from The Compass Representative about Catering issues last Saturday on the Kop:

Hi Kopped,

I am the new General Manager of Compass Group at Sheffield United. I am aware the concourse was a contentious issue last season, and although it may not have appeared that way we have made a concerted effort to improve this season. We will/are launching;

- Fish and Chips
- Hog roast
- Spicy bean burger

As well as a number of new product lines.

We have recruited a completely new set of staff, there were no agency staff on Saturday which is huge progress. We have made a real effort to train the new staff but it is hard to recreate a matchday scenario in the close season during training and given time (I know that is not what you want to hear) the end results can only far exceed your previous experiences not only last season but the season before as well.

With regards to your experience on Saturday; I can assure you there were products remaining, the issue was the level of new staff meant that although the food was cooked it had not been replenished and had not made it to the area. I want to be honest with you; this is embarrassing that something so simple meant that you could not spend your hard earned money with us.

The signage has been addressed today, and is being reproduced as we speak. That was completely out of our control and the company that produced it only arrived Friday evening to install it and by then it was too late.

As off tomorrow I have purchased a mobile bar and that will be installed on the kop to ensure there is bitter available. Going forward Larger will still be in bottles because the quality of the equipment is not, as you have experienced suitable to meet the demand. This is due to the deal the club and we are tied to.

To compensate for this we purchased 40 new fridges at the end of last season and during the close season to ensure that from now on the Lager you are served is cold.

My sincere apologies.

Regards

Compass General Manager

 

[Robbie]

Come on then, Kopped.
Does that answer satisfy you?

My main points what he has skirted around would be,
While they may be new staff and not agency (good move), there still wasn't enough staff.
If the food wasn't in the kiosks, then no - there wasn't food remaining.
If the signage was erroneous, then surely charging what it said on the current signs would be the best course of action.
They purchased 40 new fridges? Well, why aren't they using them?