Talkback #TalkBack: Trust at a cost - should small businesses tighten order checks?
Sep 17, 2025
Gabrielle Maswi, Director of Three by Garamika, and Jamie Lim, owner of Joo Bar and Sticky, dive into the murky waters of bulk-order scams targeting small food businesses. They share their experiences with trust and the vital role of deposits to safeguard against fraud. The guests highlight red flags to watch for in scams, including impersonation tactics, and emphasize the importance of internal checks and community alerts. Their insights offer a valuable perspective on balancing trust with safety in the food and beverage industry.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Trust Built From Repeat Customers
- Gabrielle from Three by Garamika says bulk orders often come from repeat diners and rapport built in-store.
- She and her sister still vet bulk orders personally before accepting them.
Decades Of Practical Reservation Rules
- Jamie Lim says her businesses take bulk orders mainly from familiar customers and official channels.
- She enforces deposits for bulk work and hasn't faced major scams in 17 years.
Require A Deposit For Large Orders
- Ask for a deposit on large orders to reduce no-shows and scams.
- Jamie recommends 50% deposits for big reservations or event bookings.