Which KPI best helps identify discrepancies between actual beverage usage and what was recorded in purchases?

• A. Average bottle price
• B. Guest satisfaction
• C. Inventory variance
• D. Drink pace

Answer: (C)

Tracking inventory variance focuses on the difference between what you actually have or used and what the system shows was purchased or recorded. This KPI highlights mismatches that can indicate waste, theft, miscounts, or receiving errors, and it directly reveals discrepancies between real beverage usage and recorded purchases. By regularly comparing physical counts against the quantities documented in purchases and usage, you can spot where the inventory isn’t aligning with the records and take corrective action, such as adjusting par levels, improving receiving procedures, or investigating losses.

The other options don’t target this gap. Average bottle price relates to cost per unit and profitability, not usage vs. purchases. Guest satisfaction measures the guest experience, not stock control. Drink pace tracks service speed, not inventory accuracy.