As the restaurant industry becomes increasingly competitive, it’s more important than ever for restaurants to have effective marketing strategies in place to attract and retain customers. In this blog post, we’ll explore 9 proven marketing strategies and tactics that restaurants can use to drive more business and build a loyal customer base.
- Leverage the Power of Social Media
Social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter can be powerful tools for promoting your restaurant and engaging with customers. However, it’s important to use these platforms strategically, rather than just posting random content without a clear plan.”Social media can be a game-changer for restaurants when it’s done right,” says Sean Lobdell, CEO of Stainless Communications. “By creating a cohesive brand message across your social media channels and engaging with your followers regularly, you can build a loyal following and attract new customers.”To make the most of social media, start by defining your brand voice and messaging, and create a content calendar that aligns with your business goals. Post high-quality photos of your food and drinks, and use relevant hashtags to reach a wider audience. Encourage customers to tag your restaurant in their posts and respond to comments and messages in a timely manner to show that you value customer engagement. - Optimize Your Website
Your website is often the first impression customers will have of your restaurant, so it’s crucial to make a good impression. Make sure your website is optimized for both desktop and mobile devices, and includes important information like your menu, hours of operation, and contact information.”Your website is the foundation of your online presence, so it’s important to make sure it’s user-friendly and reflects your brand identity,” says Lobdell. “By optimizing your website for search engines and using clear calls-to-action, you can drive more traffic and convert visitors into customers.”Consider adding online ordering functionality to your website to make it easier for customers to place orders, especially during busy periods. You can also use your website to showcase your restaurant’s story and values, and share testimonials from satisfied customers to build trust and credibility. - Build an Email List
Email marketing is a powerful way to stay in touch with customers and keep them informed about promotions, events, and new menu items. To build an email list, offer an incentive like a discount or free item in exchange for customers’ email addresses.”Email marketing is one of the most cost-effective ways to reach your customers and keep them engaged with your restaurant,” says Lobdell. “By segmenting your email list and personalizing your messages, you can increase open rates and conversions.”Use your email list to send targeted promotions and offers, share behind-the-scenes stories and updates, and solicit feedback from customers to improve your offerings. Be sure to comply with email marketing regulations like GDPR and CAN-SPAM to avoid legal issues. - Offer Online Ordering
With more customers choosing to order food online, offering an online ordering system can help streamline the ordering process and boost sales. There are several online ordering platforms available, including Grubhub, Uber Eats, and DoorDash.”Online ordering is a must-have for restaurants in today’s digital age,” says Lobdell. “By partnering with online ordering platforms and optimizing your menu for online orders, you can reach new customers and increase revenue.”To make the most of online ordering, offer promotions and discounts for customers who order through your website or app, and consider offering delivery or pickup options to give customers more flexibility. - Create Loyalty Programs
Rewarding loyal customers with exclusive discounts, free items, or other incentives can be a powerful way to encourage repeat business - Partner with Influencers and Bloggers
Partnering with influencers and bloggers can be a great way to reach new audiences and promote your restaurant through word-of-mouth marketing. Look for influencers and bloggers in your niche who have a large following and a loyal audience, and offer them a free meal or other incentives in exchange for promoting your restaurant on their social media channels or blog.”Partnering with influencers and bloggers can be a powerful way to tap into their followers and get your restaurant in front of new potential customers,” says Lobdell. “Make sure to choose influencers who align with your brand values and have a strong social media presence.” - Host Events and Promotions
Hosting events and promotions can be a fun and engaging way to attract customers and create buzz around your restaurant. Consider hosting a special menu item or drink promotion, live music or entertainment, or a holiday-themed event.Events and promotions are a great way to get your restaurant noticed and create a sense of excitement among your customers,” says Lobdell. “Make sure to promote your events and promotions on social media and through email marketing to reach as many people as possible.” - Focus on Local SEO
Optimizing your restaurant’s website and online presence for local search is key to attracting customers in your area. Make sure your website includes your address, phone number, and other relevant information, and create listings on Google My Business and other local directories.”Local SEO is crucial for restaurants, as it helps ensure that customers in your area can easily find and connect with your restaurant,” says Lobdell. “Make sure to optimize your website and listings for local keywords and phrases, and encourage customers to leave reviews to improve your online reputation.” - Leverage User-Generated Content
Encouraging customers to create and share content about your restaurant on social media can be a powerful way to build buzz and attract new customers. Consider creating a branded hashtag and encouraging customers to tag your restaurant in their posts.User-generated content is a great way to show off your restaurant and build credibility among potential customers,” says Lobdell. “Make sure to engage with customers who share content about your restaurant, and consider featuring their posts on your social media channels or website.”
By implementing these 9 proven marketing strategies, restaurants can attract and retain more customers, increase revenue, and build a loyal following. Remember to track your results and adjust your strategies as needed to ensure ongoing success.
