Penalties for no-shows: Restaurant owners disappointed at being ‘lumped together’

Montreal restaurant owners express dissatisfaction with current no-show penalties for reservations as it fails to cover potential income loss. The existing policy, generally a $20-$30 charge, doesn't deter customers from not showing up. Restaurant owners suggest implementing stricter measures, like prepayment or higher penalties, to compensate for lost revenue that affects staff wages and supply expenses. Stricter no-show policies could also help manage food waste and scheduling more effectively. Restaurant industry spokespeople propose standardizing these practices across the board to better support business operations and sustainability.