What is the cost to your bar’s reputation from a spilled drink?
Apr 21, 2025
This is a question we receive from many clients who want to know why they should invest in a Non-Slip products from Prestige Non-Slip Solutions.
Let’s break it down. The reputation cost of a slip or spill is usually low; however, this depends on how the spill occurred, where you are, and who observed the spill.
1.) Low Stakes Scenario (Typical Bar Situation)
Cost: Minimal. Maybe a few chuckles or light teasing.
Why: Bars are chaotic. Drinks get spilled all the time. You’re not alone.
Reputation Hit: You might briefly become “that guy/gal who knocked over a pint,” but it fades fast.
Indicated action: Apologise. Provide another drink for free. Use humor to reduce tension.
2.) Medium Stakes Scenario (Crowded or Trendy Spot or on a First Date)
Cost: Moderate embarrassment.
Why: If you’re trying to impress (like on a date or networking), it might make you seem clumsy or not in control.
Reputation Hit: Short-term, unless you handle it with charm or humor.
Indicated action: Apologise. Replace drink for free. Offer a free desert or next drink on the house. Use humor to reduce tension.
3.) High Stakes Scenario (Spill on Someone, or in Fancy Venue)
Cost: High—at least in the moment.
Why: If someone ends up soaked or you ruin someone's vibe/clothes, there's some social damage to control.
Reputation Hit: Potentially memorable, but mostly salvageable if you’re quick with apologies and offer to make it right.
Indicated action: Thoroughly investigate the matter. Provide training for staff. Consider investing in Non Slip solutions. Offer big discount on meal.
4.) Reputation Recovery Tips
Laugh at yourself: Shows confidence.
Offer to buy a replacement drink: Classic recovery move.
Apologize sincerely if you spilled on someone: Maybe offer napkins or even pay for dry cleaning if it’s really a bad slip or spill.
Don’t make it weird. Move on quickly and keep your cool.
Seek out Prestige Non-Slip solutions.
Unless you drenched someone’s $1000 designer jacket with a sticky cocktail, you’re probably fine.
That said, isn’t it better to take slips and spills literally off the table. A five cent tray liner can save a loss of a $20 drink, a $75 plate of food, and a lot of reputational damage. That’s a great return on investment.
That’s where Prestige Non Slip Solutions can help. Our line of Non Slip banquet liners, coasters, doilies, tray liners, tray mats, and ramekins, really help remove slips and spills that can damage your reputation.
Call us to receive some free samples. They’re like insurance for your F&B service.
Blair Currie
VP Sales and Marketing
Prestige Non Slip Solutions
(A Kwickway Products Company)
Tel 416 529 7776
www.prestigenonslipsolutions.com