Menu margin reviews depend on accurate portion data and recent supplier pricing. Missing either produces gaps we leave blank rather than estimate.
Two inventory snapshots minimum
Provide counts from the start and end of the review quarter. Single-point counts cannot show usage patterns for items with irregular delivery cycles. Freeze count dates in your intake email.
Supplier invoices within ninety days
Invoice dates must fall inside the review window for price delta calculations. Older contract prices are noted as stale in the report — useful context if you are preparing for renegotiation.
Recipe cards with gram weights
Volume measures (1 cup, 2 tbsp) require conversion. Gram or millilitre weights reconcile faster against delivery units. If cards use volume, expect a note requesting scale verification during an optional kitchen visit.
Seasonal and limited items
Flag items that appeared mid-quarter. Margin rankings weight by volume — a two-week LTO affects the quarter less than a year-round seller but still belongs in the tier if it drove significant covers.
Kitchen visit expectations
Optional two-hour visits verify yield on three to five items. The analyst observes prep, does not interfere with service, and records variance against the card. Permission to record weights on a tablet should be arranged with the kitchen manager in advance.