Hall of fame spot at risk

C1 Espresso owner Sam Crofskey’s place in the Restaurant Association of New Zealand hall of fame is in jeopardy as the industry body reviews the cafe’s employment practices.

Crofskey announced on Sunday that he was taking a ‘‘long break’’ from his Christchurch cafe to take professional advice on workplace culture and assess his ‘‘fit in the company’’.

The move followed a flood of complaints from former employees who accused him of bullying, not allowing required breaks, asking inappropriate questions in interviews, and discouraging staff from taking sick leave.

Crofskey argued the claims were mostly unsubstantiated and said he was happy to address concerns through the ‘‘appropriate channels’’.

He was inducted into the Restaurant Association’s hall of fame last year for service to the industry, including leading the charge to bring hospitality back into the Christchurch CBD after the 2011 earthquake.

He is one of 27 people to receive the honour, which has been awarded since 1992.

The Restaurant Association’s chief executive, Marisa Bidois, said it was supporting the cafe’s owners and staff by reviewing their employment processes.

C1 Espresso is one of its 2500 member businesses.

The industry body helps members with legal processes and creating healthy workplace cultures, among other things.

Bidois said the review would involve working with C1

Espresso staff and checking the cafe’s policies and employment agreements.

The association did not condone the type of behaviour described by former employees ‘‘in any way’’, she said.

‘‘We hope that these incidences coming to light serve as a reminder to employers of their responsibility to their workers.’’

The review could result in Crofskey’s hall of fame status being revoked, she said.

‘‘As a celebrated figure in the industry, Sam understands the responsibility that comes with this.’’

Crofskey served as the Canterbury branch president of the association from 2012 to 2018.

The association wanted to support Crofskey to make the ‘‘necessary changes within his business’’, Bidois said.

The review is expected to be finalised early next week.

Crofskey said his primary focus was to find the best outcome for the cafe and the 25 staff members who ‘‘depend on the business for their income’’.

He would not speak to media until this process was complete, he said.