How the Nightlife Giant Remained on Top for a Decade

During his discussion with Prisila, a correspondent from Asia Business Outlook Magazine, Wilbert offers insights into how professionals in fast-paced environments effectively handle inventory, control food costs, and reduce wastage.

Wilbert Valentino or Will creating and operating nightlife destinations in the Philippines for almost 20 years. He has been working and part of the core group that ran the best nightlife brands since the resurgence of the industry in the early 2000's. 

What strategies do we employ to attract and retain customers in a competitive nightlife market and how do we balance the need for a vibrant and exciting atmosphere with the responsibility of maintaining order and compliance with regulations?

The Palace has always been in the forefront of the nightlife industry. Innovation and a holistic approach to nightlife entertainment wherein we provide end to end memorable experiences to our guests. These are the ways on how we remain on top of this business. End to end memorable experiences meaning from the entrance the guests will be provided exceptional experiences from courteous staff to a world class entertainment to unforgettable closure to their nights. We maintain a responsible and a safe atmosphere in all of our establishments by limiting our capacity to what is mandated to us by the government and employ a platoon of security officers to keep order and balance as well as keeping our guests safe from any dangers or distractions. 

2. How do the professionals manage inventory and control food costs while minimizing waste in a fast-paced environment?

We employ a 3rd party auditing team that specializes in food and beverage auditing system that conducts monthly accounting of our stocks. This auditing team is the one that tells us if there are missing items or something does not add up. There is a system of shortages and overages that will be up for contention and justification to give tolerance to small degrees of mistakes so it will be fair for the management and the staff.

That is the strength of The Palace. Since we are a nightlife complex spanning 6,800 sqm., Offering a  wide variety of entertainment activities for all guests covering a big spectrum of distinct nightlife spaces that guest do not have any reason to go elsewhere. Facility must be five (5) outlets that covers the diverse facets of the industry and caters to all of our guest’s wants and needs.

4. The hospitality industry often involves working with people from different cultural backgrounds. How do you demonstrate cultural sensitivity and ensure an inclusive environment?

With nearly two decades of industry experience, there has been a consistent track record of success in various ventures. However, continuous improvement remains a priority. Hence, the introduction of a Culture Re-Building initiative, aimed at fostering a long-lasting culture that will carry the brand, into the next decade and beyond. This culture seeks universal buy-in towards the company's direction, spanning from top leadership to every member of the organization, and centers around the collective pursuit of the company's vision and mission. The vision revolves around transforming ordinary nights into unforgettable memories for guests, while the mission involves curating and delivering exceptional nightlife experiences that exceed guest expectations and foster lasting connections through outstanding service.

"The introduction of a Culture Re-Building initiative, aimed at fostering a long-lasting culture that will carry the brand, into the next decade and beyond."

5. The hospitality industry is evolving with technology. How do we stay updated with the latest trends and tools to enhance the guest experience?

We aspire to lead the way in introducing one-of-a-kind experiences to our guests. We bring in the latest lights and audio technologies that will bring a world-class experience to our patrons. We have kinetic lights that create moving and light patterns that awes our guests. Our sound system is at par with the best international clubs in the world. Our guests can book their reservations in the most convenient way and we offer several medium of portals for ease in access to our outlets.