Hospitality Co-Chair Comments on New Restaurant Vaccine and Booster Policies

Nation’s Restaurant News (NRN) discussed a new trend for restaurants with Alden Parker: requiring proof of vaccination for both employees and diners, with some across the country recently adding a booster requirement.

Alden does not believe booster shot requirements will become the norm or as much of a widespread trend for restaurants, noting that fine-dining restaurants may be swayed more than fast-casual establishments.

“I think with certain clientele you might be poised to gain the number of visits you have by having a booster requirement, while others you might see a decrease,” he said.

His main advice was to maintain regular, clear communication with guests and employees well before changing policies.

“It takes a concerted effort to put out the information, update your website and reservation system, and have staff incorporate that language into speaking with customers,” Alden said. “You really have to look for all of those touch points and make sure staff are trained to deal with customer questions as they come up.”

Read the full article in Nation’s Restaurant News.