3.4 Opening and Closing Procedures

Opening Shift Checklist

The following checklist ensures you are fully prepared for a successful shift. Proper preparation helps maintain efficiency, professionalism, and an excellent customer experience.

1. Product and Equipment Check:

• Sign-Out and Verify Inventory:
• Use the sign-out sheet to confirm receipt of pops.
• Check the accuracy (correct flavors and quantities) and quality of the product.
• Inspect Equipment Condition:
• Cart: Ensure it is clean and functional.
• Rainbow Umbrella: Verify the top and bottom pieces connect properly. (Double-check before leaving, as mismatched parts won’t fit.)
• Chalkboard: Ensure it is ready to display a clear and attractive menu.
• Speaker (Optional, but Encouraged): Test for functionality and charge level.
• Stool: Bring one for shifts longer than 4 hours.

1. Essential Supplies Checklist:

• Bottle of water
• Cash bank: Only required if you’re accepting cash.
• Chalk and chalkboard eraser
• Paper towels (for customer convenience and cleanliness)
• Phone or tablet with internet access for POS
• Scissors (for quick adjustments or emergencies)
• Card reader for POS system (ensure it’s charged and connected)
• Tip jar (for selling events; this is your responsibility)
• PPE (as required during health-related precautions like Covid-19)

1. Cart Location and Setup:

• Confirm Cart Location: Ensure the designated spot is clean, accessible, and ready for customer interaction.
• Set Up Equipment:
• Securely position and open the Rainbow Umbrella, ensuring the top and bottom pieces are correctly connected.
• Arrange the chalkboard with a clearly written menu and promotional highlights.
• Organize all materials neatly for an inviting setup.

1. Social Media and Engagement:

• Post on Social Media: If possible, share your location and a fun update for followers.
• Share with Account Manager: If a social post isn’t possible, take a fun photo and send it to your account manager for sharing.

This version maintains clarity, adds actionable tips, and emphasizes avoiding common pitfalls like mismatched umbrellas. Let me know if there’s anything else to refine!

Closing Shift Checklist

The closing shift is essential for maintaining accuracy, cleanliness, and organization. Follow this checklist to ensure a smooth wrap-up and preparation for the next event.

1. Sales and Financial Reporting:

• Finalize Sales Sheet:
• Record sales by payment method (cash, credit card, other).
• Double-check totals for accuracy.
• Count and Verify Sales:
• Count cash received and reconcile with the recorded cash sales.
• Confirm credit card and other payment totals.
• Compute for product variance (e.g., pops sold vs. inventory used).

1. Documentation and Reporting:

• Log Key Events:
• Record significant occurrences in the logbook (e.g., sales highlights, customer complaints, unique observations).
• Note any feedback or insights that could help with future planning or problem-solving.
• Report Product Issues:
• Document any damaged, discarded, or unsellable product (e.g., melted pops, broken packaging).

1. Inventory and Equipment Check:

• Organize Remaining Product:
• Arrange leftover inventory neatly and securely for transport.
• Ensure pops are stored in proper conditions to avoid waste.
• Check Supplies:
• Confirm that all supplies (e.g., chalk, paper towels, card reader, cash bank) are accounted for before packing up.

1. Cleanliness and Sanitation:

• Sanitize Equipment:
• Clean the cart, umbrella, chalkboard, and any other equipment used during the day.
• Ensure everything is ready for the next shift or event.
• Tidy the Surroundings:
• Pick up all garbage or trash from the area.
• Leave the location as clean as (or cleaner than) when you arrived.

1. Final Transport Preparations:

• Securely load all equipment and supplies into the vehicle.
• Double-check the area to ensure nothing is left behind.