Jake
27/03/2023
Very unimpressed having witnessed the security team help themselves to the food catering at our private event.
Attended the venue for my first time for a private event recently on the 25th March, and part of our venue hire included catering that all guests paid for.
Some time into the event while standing right next to our food station, I witnessed two of their security guards approach. But it wasn't to talk to me. No, they started inspecting the food and not just with their eyes but with their hands. And I thought to myself "They couldn't possibly..." and before I knew it, they HELPED THEMSELVES TO A SAMPLE OF THE FOOD. You don't have to believe me, because I can't believe it myself. I was too shocked, could the host possibly have invited any guests that just came from their security job? Nope, the staff that was working there just ate the customer's food.
I understand we also pay for the security to look after us but did not realise we pay for their lunch too. Would you like to partake in our bar tab as well? Although it was my first time at this venue, so maybe this is standard practice here? Considering the fact they had the audacity to eat a customer's food RIGHT NEXT TO THEM. Such a shameless display, at least be subtle.
The real cherry on top was not even five minutes later, another security guard approached me just to crack a joke (???) that me "standing guard" at the food station was "intimidating other people from eating". I guess I was doing as good of a job guarding as your team was since it didn't stop them from eating it though? I believe his only purpose to come around was to jeer at me because he left our floor after that comment, perhaps to forage for more food from a customer. Such an unnecessary comment, you really can't make this stuff up. Cracking one-liners like that, why don't you be a comedian instead, since your work ethic is a joke.
I understand the fault does not directly lie with the venue, rather the security company that is contracted. The bar staff on the other hand was very courteous, but if they are aware the security team does this, it would be very disappointing. I am a hospitality veteran and I also enjoy eating out, and I have never witnessed such unprofessional conduct, never even imagined it. Wanted to like the venue because my friends are regulars but this incident ruined my night. I was actually offered a job here in the past, I would've accepted it if they told me the customer's sponsor the staff meals.
At first I was mad but now I pity them. Mr. B's, please remember that your security team is also considered staff that need to legally get a break while on shift! Or else your venue will be no different from a city park with the birds swooping down to steal your food!