STREET WISE

Livening up the sukiyaki scene

No proof is needed to convince Thais that the political and economic atmosphere is gloomy.

Everywhere we see fewer people in shopping complexes and on the street. Restaurant sales have dropped as few people want to dine out or, when they do, they eat quickly and leave.

MK Restaurants is one of the victims of the general gloom. The sukiyaki restaurant chain has reportedly seen the number of diners drop by half since the New Year's Eve bomb blasts in Bangkok.

But recently MK has shown others how it has managed to be in the forefront among Thai restaurant chains. It has embarked on a special campaign led by all MK waiters and waitresses. Starting a few days ago, the campaign kicked off at every branch in Bangkok .

One of my friends was surprised when, five minutes after she arrived at the Lat Phrao branch, she witnessed a sudden commotion. As a song blasted over the speakers, all staff rushed into position and began to dance along in rhythm - like in a fitness gym.

It was such a scene: ranks of frantic dancers in a sukiyaki outlet!

What's more surprising is that 30 minutes later, the song was replayed and the staff rushed again into position for a repeat exercise round.

The staff told my friend that this campaign is meant to keep them alert and, more importantly, to enliven the mood among diners.

What does this sound like to you? Will it really help?

I don't know. But I recognise that since we can't change external factors, it is we who have to change or else we'll

go nowhere in today's murky conditions. Very positive thinking!

achara_d@nationgroup.com

The Nation
Thu, February 1, 2007