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Community

This translation was created from the original text using AI (DeepL).

Relevance to the Restaurant Industry

The success of a restaurant business depends largely on the people who work there. Fair working conditions, respectful treatment, and reliable, legally compliant employment practices help attract and retain qualified employees over the long term.

However, social responsibility extends beyond one’s own employees. It is also reflected in collaboration with suppliers, in a commitment to the local community, and in treating all stakeholders along the supply chain with respect. Businesses that embrace social responsibility build trust, strengthen their reputation, and lay the foundation for long-term business success.

Advantages

  • Avoiding Costs and Risks Through Compliance with Legal Regulations
  • Lower absenteeism and fewer sick days
  • Motivated, committed, and reliable employees
  • Higher employee retention and lower turnover
  • Employees become credible ambassadors for the business
  • Higher guest satisfaction and stronger guest loyalty
  • Long-term and reliable relationships with suppliers
  • Strengthening of image and reputation
  • Positive contribution to the local community
  • Support for the regional economy

Did you know that...

... that in the restaurant and food service industries, there are often no HR representatives to support staff or, for example, prevent the (unintentional) violation of fundamental rights?

... underpaid and exploited workers in the hospitality and food industries are still a common occurrence, for example, with regard to physical working conditions, working hours, workplace safety, or contractual aspects such as temporary and seasonal work?

Tips

There are three ways to run a socially responsible business. This is achieved through your employees, your suppliers, and your local community.
​

Please keep the 7 fundamental rights in mind

Use the following fundamental rights to uphold national labor laws and your employees’ basic human rights.

  1. Freedom of assembly and respect for the right to collective bargaining
  2. Elimination of all forms of forced or compulsory labor, including disciplinary measures
  3. No child labor (and consideration of the needs of young workers)
  4. No discrimination in employment and occupation
  5. Fair compensation
  6. Fair working hours
  7. Health and safety

Check what needs to be done 

Learn about the legal requirements, assess the current situation, implement changes, and monitor the measures put in place. Ensure that all employees are provided with personal protective equipment (PPE) as needed. Also offer your employees the option, for example, to take home any leftover food.

Buy from local suppliers 

Buy your seasonal products locally.

Hire local staff and be inclusive

Make it clear that you run an inclusive restaurant where discrimination is not tolerated, whether among employees or guests. When hiring local employees, take into account diverse social backgrounds and cultures, including those of immigrants.

In-depth study

Good to Know

Human Rights

Human rights are crucial to a person’s self-fulfillment, and the United Nations’ “Universal Declaration of Human Rights,” adopted in 1948, forms the basis for essential human rights requirements in all companies.

Uniform Guidelines

Uniform guidelines for the implementation of fundamental human rights were developed by the United Nations in 2011 in the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights.

Labor Law Provisions

There are labor law regulations that must be complied with regardless of the type of employment contract (e.g., fixed-term/permanent or full-time/part-time).

Fair Working Conditions

Extreme challenges to fair working conditions include forced labor, discrimination, and other forms of unethical business conduct.

Human Rights in the Workplace

Human rights mean that employees have the right to be protected from unfair treatment in the workplace. This includes, among other things, protection against wrongful termination or discrimination, the right to freedom of assembly, and fair

Advanced tips

Presentation

01

Communicate Clearly and Concisely

Make your commitment and expectations clear to your employees. Define all tasks clearly and precisely. Talk to them frequently and foster a sense of belonging through training and professional development opportunities or social gatherings (team events, Christmas parties, etc.). Implement an efficient complaint procedure to better handle feedback. Reach an agreement with your employees on how tips will be distributed.

Information

02

Talk to Your Supplier

Stay in regular contact with your suppliers. Ask your suppliers what measures they are taking to ensure fair working conditions. You can also share what you’ve learned with them.

Service

03

Train and Support Your Staff

Work together to determine how you can support employees who are caring for family members or children and for whom you may need to find last-minute replacements. When creating shift schedules, take into account the needs of older and physically disabled employees. Support your staff through continuing education and promotions.

Of course

04

Make a Difference in Your Community

Get involved in local activities and charitable projects, such as street festivals. Donate surplus food. Raise money for charitable causes or allow employees time off to support local charities. Make your restaurant available as a meeting place even outside of business hours, for example, for local welfare associations and organizations. Create an inviting space for parents with children, especially during the day.

Progress

05

Check Your Progress

If you want to highlight your social responsibility as a restaurant owner, you should talk to your employees, your suppliers, and members of your local community. Implement solutions that don’t require too much effort on your part. Let your guests know about your social commitment. For example, you can draw their attention to your responsible practices with signs in the restaurant or information on the menu.

Your Checklist
  • Familiarize yourself with national legislation regarding working conditions and the seven fundamental rights defined by the UN
  • Involve your staff and suppliers
  • Engage with your local community
Waste
Comprehensive Guide