Feathers Inn pub to switch to five-day week
By switching to a five-day working week, staff at the pub will benefit by being able to spend more time with their families, while it gives its owners, Rhian and Helen Cradock, the chance to work on new dishes.
Although initially starting with an ‘indefinite trial’ on 14 January, the plans will be made permanent if they are a success.
The kitchen will be open from 6pm on Wednesday evenings, and from 12-2pm and 6-8:30pm on Thursdays and Fridays. Weekend hours will see the kitchen serve Saturday lunch between 12-2:30pm and dinner between 6-8:30pm, while Sunday lunch will be served from 12-4:30pm.
The couple said that they made their decision after months of extensive research, but they feel that, despite losing money, the pub will benefit as the guests will be given priority.
“We have, for almost a decade, led the way for good food in our region and this we believe is another leap forward in seizing on what we believe is the right thing to do,” Helen said.
“We will not be doing food anymore on Tuesday and Wednesday lunch times. It’s a small change but will reduce our income. The bar will be open as usual for drinks on Tuesday evenings as always. This also puts the customers first, so we know they are always getting the very best we can offer.”
Chef patron Rhian hopes that the decision will boost morale, reduce staff turnover, and help in menu creation.
“We have been open for nine years and the idea came along because they no longer had the time to be creative. We don't have any time to do it and we don't have a development kitchen,” he said.
"We might not take as much money but I want a better standard of life for the people that work here, especially the guys who have been with me for years. I want to show them that I appreciate they have stayed with me and now they can enjoy a bit more freedom. I have a family now too and time with them is important to me."
