Sweet Dee’s Jerk
THE CLIENTS
The client is a UK-based business operating a group of concession stores and provider of catering services for events. They specialize in offering food based on cherished family recipes.
THE PROBLEM
Due to space constraints in the client’s retail locations, all meals to be sold there and to be served at events are prepared at a Central Production Unit (CPU). However, the high operational costs of maintaining this CPU have significantly strained their cash flow. This threatened the growth and sustainability of the business.
The business was facing challenges in managing cash flow and obtaining meaningful insights from their data reports. Cash flow troubles made it hard for the business to scale and optimize operations to capitalize on their market familiarity. They had a clear goal of ensuring quality and convenience in accordance with customer expectations, but this was weighed down by the high costs associated with their centralized operating model.
OUR SOLUTION
Virgate began by analysing the business’s historic data, breaking down the financials by each operational area rather than relying solely on consolidated figures. This granular approach enabled the leadership team to identify which parts of the business were performing well and which were underperforming. With this clarity, they were able to make informed long-term decisions that aligned with their business goals.
In addition, Virgate introduced a live cash flow management tool, offering more precise forecasting capabilities. This tool empowered the business to anticipate cash flow needs in real time, something they had struggled to manage effectively before. The combination of detailed financial insights and improved cash flow forecasting provided the business with the tools necessary to optimize operations and create a clear path toward growth.
RESULTS DELIVERED
Implementing the live cash flow forecasting tool allowed the client to gain a clear understanding of their financial position, payables and taxes. They could now project cash flow over a 3-month cycle and course correct for upcoming event sales and costs.
Virgate introduced scenario planning tools, enabling the client to assess the impact of future decisions and identify profitable operational changes. This also highlighted the contributions of different business units, helping to refine operational strategies for improved profitability. This approach revealed cost-saving measures exceeding £15,000 per month, which were identified and locked in during a single planning session.
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