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The Shift Report
Real talk, tips, and tools for café and restaurant operators who want to run tighter, smarter venues.
Welcome to The Shift Report — Bam Bam’s no-fluff knowledge drop for hospo professionals.
From food safety updates and menu wins to system hacks and staff management tips, this is where we share the real stuff that helps venues run better.
No trend-chasing. No fluff. Just practical advice from someone who's been on the line and in the grind.

The Shift Report
🛎️ Real advice for real operators.
For venue owners, managers & hospo professionals ready to level up.
Smart, practical advice on menus, staffing, service systems, marketing, cost control, and everything in between. Straight-talking posts from the front lines of hospitality, written to help you sharpen your venue and stay ahead of the game.


Menu Development: The Secret Weapon for Profitable Venues
A great menu isn’t just about pretty fonts and trendy dishes — it’s your most powerful profit tool. In this Shift Report, we dive into how smart menu development and costing can boost margins, cut waste, and keep customers coming back for more."
Ben Maher
Aug 152 min read


Why Food Safety Systems Are the Secret Weapon of High-Performing Venues
A food safety plan isn’t just about ticking compliance boxes — it’s the backbone of a smooth, profitable venue. Discover how the Food Safety Success System turns compliance into a powerful onboarding and operational tool, saving you time, stress, and money.
Ben Maher
Aug 23 min read


Stop Wasting Time: How an All-In-One Food Safety System Can Transform Your Venue
Let's be honest—running a café or restaurant is not exactly the leisurely career you dreamed about. Instead of sipping espresso and...
Ben Maher
Jul 262 min read


Want Bigger Profits? Start With Better Systems—Here’s How
The Real Problem: “Winging It” Doesn’t Work Anymore Let’s be honest: running a café or restaurant is chaos on a good day. Between hiring...
Ben Maher
Jul 82 min read


🎶 “Alexa, Play Better Vibes” – How Music and Atmosphere Can Make or Break Your Venue
If your venue’s playlist swings from whale noises to screamo… we need to talk. Setting the vibe isn’t rocket science—but it is an art. In this post, we’re diving into music, mood, and a few easy wins to make your space feel as good as it looks. Bonus: we made you a playlist. You’re welcome.
Ben Maher
Jun 203 min read


The Shift Report: The Real ROI of Hiring a Consultant
Discover the real ROI of hiring a hospitality consultant. Learn how outsourcing to an expert like Bam Bam Culinary Consultants helps South East QLD venues save time, reduce stress, and open smarter.
Ben Maher
Jun 62 min read


What’s a Fractional Executive Chef—And Why It Might Be the Smartest Hire You Make This Year
Hiring a full-time head chef costs big money—and comes with big risks. But there’s a smarter way: fractional executive chef services....
Ben Maher
May 262 min read


Winter is Coming — Here’s How Smart Cafés Get Lean, Not Lazy
Winter’s coming, and that means two things: 1. You can finally wear your favourite crewneck without sweating through it 2. Trade slows...
Ben Maher
May 223 min read


Not Just Another Hospitality Consultant 👨🍳: The Bam Bam Difference 🧠💥
🍳 Let’s unf ck your venue — and actually make it work.* Let’s be honest: the term “hospitality consultant” can feel a bit... vague....
Ben Maher
May 172 min read


🌸 Making the Most of Mother’s Day: 5 Smart Service Tweaks for Cafés & Restaurants
How to survive the rush, protect your margins, and give Mum a great time (without burning out your team). Mothers Day is Here! Mother’s...
Ben Maher
May 92 min read


Why Your Restaurant Needs a Consultant (Even If Your Mum Says It's Fine)
Running a restaurant is a labour of love. Your friends and family rave about your food, your regulars are loyal, and your mum says you're...
Ben Maher
Apr 292 min read


The Real Cost of Trading on Public Holidays: Should Your Café or Restaurant Open?
Public holidays can feel like a golden opportunity for hospitality businesses — packed streets, more foot traffic, and the chance to cash...
Ben Maher
Apr 113 min read


Keeping Up with Food Safety Laws: What Queensland Cafés and Restaurants Need to Know in 2025
Because nothing says "fine dining" like a surprise health inspection. Updated for 6/5/25 Clean kitchens don’t just win customers — they...
Ben Maher
Jan 172 min read
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