Cheers Winter 2024 | Page 16

Multi-Concept Hospitality Beverage Program :

Hyatt Hotels

Shaking and stirring it up

Alongside its cozy suites and accommodating amenities , Hyatt Hotels has enhanced the food and beverage experience with a new training program and upgraded offerings . The Shaken and Stirred Program aims to “ elevate the Hyatt experience by offering an inclusive , sustainable and quality-driven beverage selection that resonates with our values and meets diverse guest expectations ,” says Antonio Carranza , corporate director of beverage for Hyatt Hotels .
A SIX-PILLAR PROGRAM
The program focuses on six beverage pillars :
Ambiance and vibe — for creating a welcoming and dynamic atmosphere that enhances the guest experience ;
Ice standards — to ensure the highest quality of ice plays a vital role in cocktail presentation and taste ;
Glassware — selecting and maintaining appropriate glassware for different beverages to enhance visual appeal and functionality ;
Menus — presentation and content , designing engaging and informative menus that showcase Hyatt ’ s beverage offerings effectively ;
Techniques and equipment — to use the best techniques and equipment to deliver exceptional beverages consistently ; and
Garnish program — for implementing a creative and high-quality garnish program to add the perfect finishing touch to Hyatt ’ s drinks .
Each hotel receives a 75−page guidebook detailing the Shaken and Stirred Program and the six beverage pillars . The guidebook provides objectives for each pillar , with clear goals to achieve ; what to look for — key indicators and standards to maintain ; available resources to support implementation ; and to-dos , which are monthly assignments to ensure consistent progress .
For example , the garnish program section covers such topics as how to dehydrate fruit , creating ribbon skewers and properly storing and muddling mint . The glassware section specifies the different types of cocktail glasses and when to use what .
Each hotel has appointed a beverage champion to lead this initiative , who also works closely with Hyatt ’ s beverage team and other departments to tackle one group of “ to-dos ” for each pillar each month over the next six months . The program ’ s success depends on a collaborative team effort , however .
One of the main challenges Hyatt experienced was “ sourcing high-quality , diverse and sustainable products that aligned with our brand values while maintaining competitive pricing ,” says Carranza . “ Inspired by our ‘ Change Starts Here ’ initiative , we committed to working with minority-owned and women-led brands and emphasizing sustainable and wellness-focused options across all properties .”
Educating and aligning Hyatt ’ s suppliers and distribution teams across multiple locations was also difficult , but necessary to ensure consistency .
“ Additionally , implementing our diversity specification key and health-conscious offerings across various regions required coordination and adaptability to maintain Hyatt ’ s standards and flexibility for our individual properties ,” Carranza says .
LOCAL AND SUSTAINABLE
The success of its Shaken and Stirred Program has allowed Hyatt to put more of a focus on expanding the program with additional “ local , sustainable and diverse partnerships ,” Carranza says . And with the increased interest in better-for-you beverages , Hyatt plans to incorporate even more functional beverages and wellness-focused items to meet evolving guest preferences .
Moving forward , Carranza says , “ we ’ re also planning enhanced training for our teams , ensuring they have a deep understanding of the unique qualities in our selections , enabling them to showcase our offerings to guests better and create exceptional experiences .” — Krystina Skibo
16 Cheers • Winter 2024 www . cheersonline . com