Attracting new customers and retaining the existing ones goes hand in hand when it comes to achieving success as a restaurant owner.
Besides, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic is upending things for restaurant businesses. In addition to changing the lifestyle and consumption habits of people, it’s bringing a major shift in the way restaurant businesses market themselves and move forward when this pandemic is behind us. Many of these changes may be irreversible and so, there’s a need for owners to come up with innovative marketing strategies for restaurants to overcome unprecedented challenges.
Here are a few marketing strategies for restaurants that will keep your connection with customers strong while introducing you to new ones.
- Take Your Customers Behind the Scenes
Serving delicious food at your restaurant is not enough to win the hearts of customers. It’s important to understand how you make them feel when they come to you. A great way to connect with your customers and prospects is by taking them behind the scenes in your kitchen.
If we talk about the post-COVID19 world, one thing is for sure. Customers will definitely be more concerned about the quality of food they consume and the environment in which they are served than ever. Take this as an opportunity to share your story as the owner as well as the restaurant’s journey while allowing them to witness the hygiene standards you follow.
2. Leverage the Power of Social Media
You just can’t undermine the power of social media when it comes to devising marketing strategies for restaurants in the modern digital world. Try live streaming on Facebook and Instagram. Get ready to experiment with social media channels and features you have never tried before to reach a new audience. TikTok, in particular, has become very popular where users are sharing recipe videos. You can try that out too!
3. Announce Contests and Gift Cards
Announcing contests and gift cards is an excellent way to spread the word about your business. Come up with irresistible deals and share them on social media and via email. For the contest, consider starting one in your restaurant and ask the customers to share it online.
4. Collaborate with Food Bloggers and Influencers
You can use the network of local food bloggers and influencers by collaborating with them and getting them to talk about your restaurant. You can offer them free meals by inviting them over in return or even pay them to advertise your brand in front of their followers.
5. Introduce Contactless Deliveries
Let’s face it, many people won’t be going out to eat after the current crisis is over as much as they used to. To cater to the needs of these customers, you should consider introducing contactless deliveries so that they can enjoy their meals at home without worrying about their health and safety. This will also give the impression that you truly about your customers and value them.
These marketing strategies for restaurants are a must-try if you want to take your business’ marketing game to the next level. Get ready to welcome the loyal and new customers coming through your restaurant doors!
