标签存档： barenews

Operational Blind Spots? Self-Audits Reveal the Gaps

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Every organization aims for seamless operations, but hidden inefficiencies can derail even the best-laid plans. These operational blind spots—missed standards, service gaps, or inconsistent procedures—can compromise quality and customer satisfaction. 

 

BARE-ify Self-Audits help you uncover and address these issues proactively.  

Empower Your Team with Real-Time Insights

Traditional audits often rely on periodic reviews, leaving gaps in oversight. BARE-ify transforms this approach by enabling your team to conduct self-audits in real-time, directly from their mobile devices. 

With customizable checklists and intuitive interfaces, employees can: 

  • Identify non-compliance promptly 
  • Document issues with photos and notes 
  • Assign corrective actions with due dates 
  • Track resolution progress seamlessly 

This proactive approach ensures that operational standards are maintained consistently across all locations. 

Streamline Processes with Advanced Features

BARE-ify isn't just a checklist tool; it's a comprehensive solution designed to enhance operational efficiency: 

  • Logic-Powered Checklists: Create intelligent forms that adapt based on responses, ensuring relevant questions are asked every time. 
  • Advanced Analytics Dashboard: Gain a bird’s eye view of performance metrics, helping you spot trends and areas needing attention. 
  • Seamless Report Sharing: Instantly distribute findings to relevant stakeholders, facilitating swift decision-making. 

By integrating these features, BARE-ify empowers organizations to move from reactive problem-solving to proactive process improvement. 

“We have never come across a more intuitive issue mitigation process than the one offered by BARE-IFY. The effortless way in which it tracks actions and mitigates even future issues, makes it one of the most useful applications we have used in our organization so far.” 

-BARE Retail Client 

Foster a Culture of Continuous Improvement

Implementing self-audits encourages a culture where every team member takes ownership of operational excellence. Regular self-audits promote accountability, while the ease of reporting and tracking fosters transparency. 

This continuous feedback loop not only improves compliance but also boosts employee engagement, as teams see the tangible impact of their contributions to organizational success. 

Take the First Step Towards Operational Clarity

Don't let unseen issues undermine your organization's potential. With BARE, you have the tools to illuminate blind spots and drive continuous improvement. 

Ready to enhance your operational oversight?

Your Brand, Seen Through Your Shoppers’ Eyes

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Every brand tells a story — but the version your customers experience may not be the one you intended. From the shelf layout to the final “thank you,” every moment impacts what they believe, feel, and share. 

What matters most? Not how you market your brand—but how they live it. 

See What They See

Most businesses invest in brand visibility. But visibility without insight is short-sighted. What if your signage is bold but confusing? Your store is clean but impersonal? Your digital checkout quick but cold? 

These aren’t surface flaws — they’re missed opportunities. Your shoppers are the real-time reviewers of your brand. Understanding their journey is not optional — it’s the new foundation of brand loyalty. 

To grow, you don’t just need attention — you need alignment.  

The BARE Viewpoint

At BARE International, we go beyond basic evaluations — we step into your customers’ shoes. With our Customer Experience 360 Program, we capture how real people interact with your brand at every touchpoint. 

Our services — from in-person mystery shopping [link to solution] and audits [link to solution] to digital CX and sentiment analysis — help brands reveal the hidden friction points and uncover the emotional drivers of loyalty. 

With nearly four decades of global CX leadership, we help companies not just collect insights — but convert them into customer confidence, increased conversions, and measurable improvement. 

It’s not about checking boxes. It’s about seeing the full picture — and acting on it. 

Every Moment Matters

Think of every step a shopper takes as a decision point.
Stay or leave? Trust or question? Buy once or come back? 

Brand loyalty isn’t built all at once — it’s built through countless, invisible choices shaped by emotion, ease, and engagement. 

What if one missing piece in that journey is costing you repeat business?
What if the answer isn’t more marketing, but better visibility into the customer experience?  

It’s Time to Step Into Their Shoes

Let BARE International help you uncover the answers your customers are already providing — with a full CX 360 program that delivers insights, not just numbers. 

Together, we’ll evaluate the shopper journey, improve every interaction, and ensure your brand story is truly seen — through the eyes that matter most. 

Let’s create brand clarity together.

The Missing Piece to Your Business Excellence

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Every organization strives for excellence — but often, a key element is missing. Strategies are built, goals are set, and performance is tracked, yet the expected outcomes don’t always follow. What’s missing isn’t effort — it’s often insight. 

More Than Just Data

Today’s businesses are surrounded by data — but data without context is just noise. Real progress comes from turning numbers into narratives that guide decisions. Business excellence doesn’t come from measuring everything — it comes from understanding what truly matters and why.

To grow, you don’t just need metrics — you need meaning.

The BARE Advantage

At BARE International, we don’t just deliver data — we deliver clarity. Our expertise in research, auditing, and mystery shopping empowers brands to uncover what really happens in the field and how that translates into business performance. 

With over 38 years of global experience, we help organizations improve customer experience, ensure brand consistency, and make confident decisions backed by real insights. What makes us different is not just the information we gather — it’s how we help you see and use it. 

Solving the Excellence Puzzle

Excellence is not a finish line — it’s a moving target. And the breakthrough your organization needs might not be a drastic change, but a missing piece that brings clarity and cohesion. 

Let BARE International be that final piece — helping you connect the dots between experience and performance, promise and delivery.
Let’s complete your puzzle together. 

Request a FREE quote!

BARE International Celebrates Global Growth, Client Successes, and Innovation Milestones Following Annual Company Update

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BARE International announced record-setting achievements at its recent State of the Company meeting. With growth across various industries and regions, the company attributed its success to a shared commitment to values, innovation, and global collaboration.

Washington, D.C. – [July 8, 2025] — BARE International, a global leader in customer experience research and brand evaluation, proudly announced key accomplishments and strategic initiatives following its recent State of the Company meeting. The update, hosted by company President Jason Bare, celebrated growth, innovation, and employee engagement across BARE’s international offices.

A Culture Anchored in Core Values

At the heart of the meeting was a reaffirmation of BARE International’s foundational values: Ownership, Integrity, Diversity, and Open Communication. “These aren’t just words on a page,” said Jason Bare. “They’re the compass guiding our decisions, fostering accountability, and shaping how we engage with one another and our clients.”

Global Growth and New Client Momentum

In a significant testament to BARE’s impact and reach, the company welcomed 91 new clients this year. The U.S. grew with 24 new accounts, followed closely by India and the Philippines with 14. Regions including Latin America, Brazil, Europe, China, and the Middle East also contributed to the expansion.

Notably, 46% of new clients came from the retail sector, 40% from automotive, and the remainder from industries such as hospitality and solar energy, showcasing BARE’s adaptability and appeal across a variety of industries.

Operational Excellence and Global Impact

This year, BARE International completed over 104,000 client evaluations, or “shops,” in 176 countries, with a remarkable 99% completion rate—a milestone that speaks to the company’s global consistency and operational discipline. In addition, employees across all departments have driven forward a unified focus on performance, innovation, and support.

Highlights included the growth of the LinkedIn newsletter BARE It All, which gained over 4,400 subscribers within its first six weeks of launch, measurable advancements in automation, business intelligence, and IT initiatives, as well as strong results in client engagement and retention. BARE’s turnover rate remains low at 12.9%, and departmental leaders also previewed upcoming data-driven and client-focused projects.

Commitment to Community

Underscoring its dedication to social responsibility, BARE International reported a year-to-date total of 4,423 donated hours through employee volunteering and charitable efforts. This reflects the company’s continued investment in making a positive impact beyond business goals.

Voices of Leadership

“Growth is important, but what makes me proud is how we’ve grown—with integrity, teamwork, and an unwavering commitment to quality,” said Melanie Cihak, General Manager of BARE’s U.S. Office and a 23-year veteran of the company.

“BARE has always been more than a company. It’s a global family built on trust and shared purpose, and this year proves what we can achieve when we lean into that.”

Global Connections, Local Impact

Jason closed the meeting by showcasing photos and stories from team travels, client visits, and global engagements. The message was clear: BARE’s success is powered by human connection, across continents and departments alike.

About BARE International: BARE International is a privately held global customer experience research firm providing customized mystery shopping, audits, online reputation management, and customer satisfaction solutions. With 13 offices worldwide and operations in over 175 countries, BARE supports businesses across industries with data-driven insights that drive results. Learn more at www.bareinternational.com

How International Standards Build Trust Inside BARE’s ISO Certification

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Behind every great delivery lies a standard. As expectations for operational excellence rise across industries, organizations are challenged to deliver not just results — but results that are consistent, secure, and built on quality from the inside out. 

Whether you’re dealing with customer experience, logistics, research, or technology — following international standards helps ensure that your business is structured to protect, perform, and grow. 

🛡 Why Standards Matter

Standards create a common language. They define what quality means across regions, departments, and industries. When organizations align their operations to internationally recognized standards, they promote transparency, reduce risk, and build long-term trust. 

One of the most critical areas where standards make a difference today is in information security — where trust, compliance, and customer protection must go hand in hand. 

🔐 ISO 27001: More Than a Certificate

ISO/IEC 27001 is the leading international standard for Information Security Management Systems (ISMS). It outlines a framework for managing sensitive information, protecting it from threats, and ensuring its integrity and availability. 

From technical systems to human processes, the ISO 27001 framework requires robust governance, risk management, business continuity, and continual improvement. It’s a benchmark for companies that take data security seriously.   

🌐 BARE International and ISO 27001

At BARE International, excellence in customer experience research is matched by a strong internal foundation. In 2023, we achieved the ISO/IEC 27001:2013 certification, reinforcing our commitment to global security standards and responsible data handling. 

This certification followed an extensive independent audit of our systems, policies, and procedures. It reflects a company-wide approach to protecting client and consumer data, from physical infrastructure to digital systems and day-to-day operations.
 

"ISO 27001 is not only about meeting a set of standards but also about building trust with our clients and partners. It demonstrates our commitment to information security and assures them that their data is in safe hands" said Péter Bodnár, CTO of BARE International.

🔍 What It Means for Our Clients

Partnering with a certified company means more than regulatory compliance — it means: 

  • Peace of mind when handling sensitive or confidential data 
  • Structured processes for business continuity and risk management 
  • Globally consistent service quality 
  • Commitment to ongoing improvement and accountability 

As our CEO, Michael Bare, shared: 

 "This certification further enhances our reputation as a leading customer experience market research company. It’s a testament to our teams’ hard work and dedication." 

🚀 The Standard Behind the Service
 

Certifications like ISO 27001 reflect who we are: a global company that values transparency, consistency, and quality in every delivery. They support our purpose — to deliver insights that drive action, powered by security and trust. 

At BARE, we don’t just meet expectations.
We standardize excellence. 

From Greenwashing to Genuine: How to Communicate Your ESG Efforts Authentically

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Customers today are more skeptical than ever. They want to support brands that align with their values—but they also want proof. In the age of heightened ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) awareness, simply talking about sustainability or ethical practices isn’t enough. To build lasting trust and elevate customer experience, brands must communicate ESG initiatives with clarity, transparency, and authenticity. 

Why Authentic ESG Messaging Matters

Nearly 90% of Gen Z consumers believe companies should be held accountable for their environmental and social impact, and they actively seek transparency. Yet, the rise of “greenwashing” has led to consumer skepticism. When messaging feels exaggerated or vague, it backfires—damaging credibility instead of enhancing it. 

The Risk of Greenwashing in CX

Greenwashing refers to the act of making misleading claims about a company’s ESG practices. It often shows up as buzzwords without backing: “eco-friendly,” “sustainable,” or “ethical” without any data or certifications to support them. In a CX context, this erodes trust quickly. 

A recent study by McKinsey highlights that while 66% of consumers consider sustainability when making a purchase, only 20% trust the sustainability claims brands make. 

How to Communicate ESG Efforts Authentically

  1. Be Specific: Avoid vague language. Instead, communicate measurable goals and milestones. For example, say: “We reduced plastic usage by 40% in our packaging in 2024,” rather than “We’re going green.”
  2. Show the Process, Not Just the Outcome: Authenticity lies in the journey. Share behind-the-scenes stories or challenges faced while implementing ESG practices. Brands like Patagonia have been successful by transparently communicating both wins and work-in-progress initiatives.
  3. Back It Up with Data and Certifications: Use third-party certifications and verified metrics to validate claims. Highlighting certifications such as B Corp, Fair Trade, or LEED can lend credibility.
  4. Train Customer-Facing Teams: Ensure your service teams understand the brand’s ESG commitments and can speak to them confidently. This consistency strengthens trust at every touchpoint.
  5. Invite Dialogue and Feedback: Encourage customers to engage with your ESG efforts. Include surveys, social polls, or Q&As to keep the conversation open. Transparency is a two-way street.

CX Bonus: Where BARE International Fits In

At BARE International, we help brands uncover what their customers are really thinking—including how ESG messaging is received in the real world. Our insights help bridge the gap between intention and perception so your customer experience aligns with your ESG values. 

Final Thoughts

Authentic ESG communication is no longer optional—it’s essential for building credibility and connection in today’s customer experience landscape. Done right, it turns values into value. Done poorly, it risks alienating the very audience you’re trying to inspire. 

At BARE International, we pride ourselves on helping businesses decode these customer behaviors. Whether it’s uncovering hidden trends or designing feedback loops for continuous improvement, our research empowers brands to stay ahead of the curve. 

Want to learn more about what drives customer loyalty in the airport lounge and financial industries? Reach out to us today to explore how our tailored research can take your CX strategy to new heights. 

Tell us about your business and what keeps you up at night. We can help. 

Why ESG Matters in Customer Experience: Building Brands for the Future

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Customers today aren’t just buying products—they’re buying into values. A recent study revealed that 75% of consumers worldwide expect brands to contribute to their well-being and quality of life.

This means ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) isn’t just a corporate checklist—it’s a powerful driver of customer experience (CX). At BARE International, we see firsthand how ESG-forward brands build deeper trust and loyalty.

The ESG-CX Connection

What is ESG, and Why Does it Matter in CX?

Real-World Impact: Companies recognized for their sustainability efforts, such as those honored at the SEAL Business Sustainability Awards, have seen a surge in customer loyalty. Brands that walk the talk get noticed.

How ESG Supercharges CX

  1. Loyal Customers, Stronger Brand: Customers stick with brands that stand for something. PepsiCo’s ESG initiatives have solidified its loyal customer base.
  2. Better Customer Satisfaction: People feel good spending money with brands that care. Studies show customers are more loyal to companies with strong ESG efforts.
  3. Future-Proofing the Business: ESG isn’t just good ethics—it’s smart strategy. Companies with strong sustainability policies adapt better to regulations and shifting consumer expectations.

How Brands Can Integrate ESG into CX

  • Assess and Align: Conduct an ESG audit to identify gaps and opportunities in your customer experience strategy. Prioritize areas where sustainable changes can enhance brand perception and loyalty.
  • Educate and Engage: Train employees to integrate ESG principles into everyday customer interactions. Ensure customer-facing teams understand and can communicate the company’s sustainability initiatives authentically.
  • Innovate for Impact: Leverage technology to streamline sustainable practices—such as AI for reducing resource waste or digital tools to improve transparency in operations.
  • Make It Measurable: Set clear KPIs to track progress in ESG-driven CX initiatives. Regularly evaluate customer sentiment and adjust strategies based on feedback and performance data.

Overcoming the Challenges

Myth: ESG Hurts the Bottom Line.

Reality check: Sustainable practices cut costs in the long run (think energy efficiency) and attract conscious consumers.

Communicating ESG Without the Hype

Customers can spot greenwashing a mile away. Authenticity and transparency—like showcasing progress, not just promises—win every time.

Final Thoughts

ESG is reshaping customer expectations, and the brands embracing it aren’t just doing good—they’re winning in CX. Whether it’s reducing environmental impact, fostering inclusivity, or building trust through transparency, these efforts matter.

At BARE International, we help businesses uncover key insights to understand the true nature of their customer experience—because real change starts with real data.

At BARE International, we pride ourselves on helping businesses decode these customer behaviors. Whether it’s uncovering hidden trends or designing feedback loops for continuous improvement, our research empowers brands to stay ahead of the curve. 

Want to learn more about what drives customer loyalty in the airport lounge and financial industries? Reach out to us today to explore how our tailored research can take your CX strategy to new heights. 

Tell us about your business and what keeps you up at night. We can help. 

BARE INTERNATIONAL PROMOTES MELANIE CIHAK TO US DEPUTY GENERAL MANAGER, RECOGNIZING 20 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE IN CLIENT SERVICES AND VOC/CX STRATEGIES

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BARE International announces Melanie Cihak’s well-deserved promotion to the US Deputy General Manager role, recognizing her two decades of exceptional service and contributions to client services and Customer Experience (CX) strategies. As Deputy General Manager for North America, she will lead BARE’s regional strategic initiatives with a focus on client relations, project management, and innovation. This promotion, along with recent key organizational promotions, demonstrates BARE International’s commitment to recognizing and cultivating internal talent.

BARE International, the global field force leader in customer experience research, is thrilled to announce the well-deserved promotion of Melanie Cihak to US Deputy General Manager. This milestone celebrates Cihak’s 20-plus years of dedicated service and outstanding contributions to client services and Customer Experience (CX) strategies at BARE International.

Melanie Cihak brings to her new role a wealth of experience that spans over 20 years, during which she has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional results. Her profound expertise in client engagement, combined with her strategic insights into VOC/CX strategies, has significantly enriched BARE International’s service offerings.

“I am both honored and thrilled to embark on this exciting new chapter with BARE International,” remarked Cihak. “I am eager to collaborate with our expert team to drive innovation, surpass client expectations, and lead our organization to continued success.”

As the Deputy General Manager for North America, Cihak will drive BARE International’s strategic vision for the region. Her extensive background in client relations, project management, and leadership will be instrumental in advancing innovation, streamlining operations, and fostering continued growth within the organization.

“I am immensely pleased to announce Melanie Cihak’s promotion to the US Deputy General Manager role,” stated Jason Bare, President of BARE International. “Melanie’s years of exemplary service and profound understanding of client needs have propelled our company forward. With her leadership, we are poised to continue delivering unparalleled insights that enable our clients to elevate their customer experiences.”

Earlier this year, BARE International proudly disclosed its certification as a Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) company, exemplifying a steadfast commitment to fostering diversity and inclusivity within the corporate landscape. The organization also recently unveiled promotions for two remarkable team members. Michele Jowdy steps into the role of Director of Business Development for the Americas, leveraging her extensive expertise and strategic acumen to propel regional expansion efforts. Likewise, Gyselle Rodriguez assumes the Global Director of Operations role, responsible for the seamless orchestration of operations worldwide. These advancements underscore the company’s dedication to nurturing internal talent and pursuing excellence across all facets of its enterprise.

About BARE International:

With a legacy spanning 36 years, BARE International is a pioneering global provider of customer experience research. Catering to a diverse spectrum of industries, BARE International operates in more than 150 countries, supplying actionable insights provided by their in-house field force team that drive customer satisfaction, loyalty, and business efficacy. Learn more at http://www.bareinternational.com

BARE INTERNATIONAL CELEBRATES A DECADE OF EXCELLENCE WITH RECORD-BREAKING 10TH CONSECUTIVE MSPA ELITE STATUS

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BARE International is proud to announce that it has once again been recognized with MSPA Elite status, marking a decade of unwavering excellence in the field of customer experience insights.

Out of more than 90 outstanding companies, only seven were chosen for the esteemed designation of Elite status. The announcement was made at the annual CME (Conference for Creating, Measuring, and Enhancing the Customer Journey) conference in Colorado Springs on October 5, 2023.

Rich Bradley, Governor of the MSPA Americas Board of Directors, described the designation as a “signal to the world” of being a leader in advancing the strategic goals of the MSPA Americas Board of Directors. He stated, “Your support in providing that industry leadership is greatly appreciated!”

Attending the conference were Michele Jowdy, Business Development Director for the Americas; Melanie Cihak, US Deputy General Manager; and Jason Bare, President of BARE International. They joined fellow industry leaders at the CME conference, engaging in valuable networking and knowledge-sharing sessions.

“Earning MSPA Elite status for the 10th consecutive year is a testament to our global team’s dedication and hard work,” stated Jason Bare. “We remain committed to delivering the highest level of customer experience insights through teamwork and innovation.”

The MSPA Elite honor represents the pinnacle of achievement within the mystery shopping and customer experience industry, recognizing companies that consistently demonstrate exceptional professionalism, commitment to quality, and outstanding service in customer experience research.

Cihak added, “This recognition reinforces our position as a trusted partner for businesses seeking to enhance their customer journeys. We are grateful for our clients’ continued trust in BARE International.”

CEO Mike Bare, who received the news while attending an international hospitality conference, remarked, “I’m immensely proud of our dedicated team, including our talented BARE team colleagues and the global field force of Independent Contractors who gather valuable insights for our clients.”

BARE International has consistently demonstrated its dedication to delivering actionable insights, leveraging a team of skilled professionals and a committed global field force of Independent Contractors. Their expertise in VOC research and business intelligence analytics has been pivotal in helping clients improve their customer experiences.

About BARE International:

With a legacy spanning 36 years, BARE International is a pioneering global provider of customer experience research. Catering to a diverse spectrum of industries, BARE International operates in more than 150 countries, supplying actionable insights provided by their in-house field force team that drive customer satisfaction, loyalty, and business efficacy. Learn more at https://en.bareinternational.com.cn/

7 SECRETS TO ELEVATING THE GUEST EXPERIENCE

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In an era where the hospitality landscape is evolving rapidly, guest experience has emerged as a defining factor for hotels’ success. Exceptional guest experiences are a blend of thoughtful strategies, operational excellence, and genuine care.

Here are the top 7 key insights and industry best practices that can help you elevate the guest experience in your hotel and perhaps inspire new avenues of excellence. 

1. THE GUEST EXPERIENCE QUOTIENT

Guest experience isn’t a single moment; it’s the sum of all guest interactions with your establishment.

Every touchpoint presents an opportunity to create lasting impressions from the initial booking process to check-out. How seamless and enjoyable these touchpoints are greatly influences your guests’ perception of your brand. 

2. AUDIT FOR EXCELLENCE

Comprehensive audits can act as a guiding light, illuminating areas that deserve attention.

You can align your hotel’s services with guest expectations by evaluating processes, identifying bottlenecks, and addressing operational inefficiencies. Consider conducting regular internal audits as part of your commitment to delivering consistent quality.

3. QUALITY ASSURANCE AS A PILLAR

Quality assurance programs are the backbone of a guest-centric approach.

Establishing standardized service protocols ensures that each guest is treated to a consistent level of excellence. This is where your staff’s training and commitment to providing impeccable service come to the forefront.

4. THE EFFICIENCY-EXPERIENCE CONNECTION

Efficiency isn’t just about quick check-ins; it’s about giving guests the gift of time.

Smooth operational workflows translate to more opportunities for meaningful interactions. When cumbersome processes don’t bog down your staff, they can focus on what truly matters – catering to your guests’ needs.

5. UNVEILING INSIGHTS WITH MYSTERY SHOPPING

Stepping into your guests’ shoes is an enlightening experience.

Engage in mystery shopping initiatives to gain an unfiltered view of your hotel’s strengths and areas of improvement. Use these insights to fine-tune your services, refine training programs, and nurture a culture of continuous improvement.

6. STRIVING FOR AUTHENTIC PERSONALIZATION

Personalization isn’t just addressing guests by name; it’s about understanding their preferences and anticipating their needs.

Consider leveraging technology to track guest preferences and tailor experiences accordingly. When a guest feels genuinely understood, their loyalty deepens. In fact, after surveying a random sample, we found that 69% of respondents are extremely likely to return to a hotel that provides a personalized and memorable guest experience.

7. NAVIGATING GUEST FEEDBACK

Guest feedback, whether positive or constructive, is a valuable compass guiding you toward guest satisfaction.

53% of our random sample respondents prefer to provide feedback regarding their hotel experience via online review sites, and 29% prefer utilizing the hotel’s direct feedback form. Embrace both online reviews and direct feedback channels.

Responding thoughtfully shows your commitment to improving and adds a human touch to your brand. 

Elevating guest experience is a collective effort that involves every team member, from the front desk to housekeeping, from management to kitchen staff. As you explore avenues to enhance the guest experience, consider these strategies as stepping stones toward creating meaningful connections that turn guests into loyal advocates.

Together, we can shape a hospitality landscape that leaves a lasting impact. Contact us today to learn more about extraordinary guest experiences