No-show: what it is and how to reduce it
A no-show is a reservation where the guest doesn't arrive and doesn't cancel, leaving a table empty in a slot that could have been sold — a direct revenue loss, especially on busy dates.
The impact of no-shows
Each no-show is an idle table at peak. On weekends and holidays, a few no-shows dent the night's revenue and waste prepared mise en place.
- Empty table in prime time
- Lost revenue and ingredients
- Worse on busy dates
How to reduce no-shows
Automatic confirmation and reminder (WhatsApp/SMS), a clear cancellation policy and, on peak dates, prepayment or a deposit cut no-shows sharply. A reservation system with reminders helps.
FAQ
How do I reduce no-shows?
With automatic reminders/confirmation, a clear cancellation policy and, on busy dates, prepayment or a deposit.
Is it worth charging a deposit for reservations?
On high-demand dates, yes: a deposit sharply reduces no-shows and protects the night's revenue.