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Boss Ops

Boss Ops · UK hospitality

How to review restaurant labour cost

Understand the labour-cost-to-revenue calculation and keep scheduled estimates separate from approved attendance and actual payroll costs.

Choose a matching reporting period

Compare labour cost and revenue from the same dates and site. Labour cost percentage = labour cost ÷ revenue × 100. For example, £3,000 ÷ £10,000 × 100 = 30%.

Keep estimates and actuals separate

Scheduled hours, less planned unpaid breaks, can support an estimate using confirmed pay details. Actual payroll may include employer costs, overtime and other adjustments; reconcile it through payroll.

Review the records behind a change

Check attendance, breaks, missing rates and site assignments before interpreting a percentage. Use your own verified revenue and operating targets rather than a generic forecast.

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