Agree who supplies the glasses, who keeps clean stock available and who collects used glasses. Glass hire and glass clearing are different responsibilities; one does not automatically include the other.
Follow the glass from first pour to collection
Plan clean-glass storage near the bar and a separate place for used returns. If the caterer is collecting glasses, confirm where they are brought and whether any washing or reuse is actually available during service.
Base quantities on the drinks format, guest count and return process, not simply one glass per guest. A reception followed by an evening bar may need a different allowance from a short drinks period. Check the agreed hire terms for packing, breakages and returns, and make sure additional clearing staff are booked where needed.
- Assign collection, washing if available, packing and supplier return.
- Keep used glasses away from the clean serving frontage.