In-store Promotions

I talked about practical promotions in my previous post. As I promised, I'll let you in also on in-house promotions for your restaurant.

Given you have already gotten people to come and try your restaurant, there are still several ways you can do to drive their consumption up or to keep them returning. That is, of course, not forgetting to give utmost service and great food.

Let me make an important note not to forget to match your promotions with your target market. If it's a fine dining restaurant, you must be very discreet and very elegant. If it's casual to fast food, you could be a little loose or out-of-the-box.

calling cards as raffle entries
Place a bowl, preferably transparent, in a visible place in the restaurant. Put a signage that will ask guests to drop their calling cards to enter a raffle for a gift certificate or some freebies from the restaurant. These calling cards will come handy when doing promotions (please be mindful of email spamming). Great way to build your customer database.

freebies or discounts for minimum purchase
You probably see these in a lot of fast food chains. I have also seen this used by 5-star hotels to drive sales for a particular drink or food item. This will help you in increasing average guest check or moving and promoting items that are slow-selling or a new product.

coupons for the next visit
One thing to remember when using coupons is to make the offer irresistible and tangible. And not too desperate sounding. Design coupons in a way that they don't look too mass-produced. If you plan to give discounts, give at least 20%. Anything below that would be unappealing.

use your menu
Use the inner front page of your menu for promotions. Highlight your specialties and your menu items with the higher profit margins.

Make your promotions' duration for at least 3 months to really see the effect. Document results and be sure that your staff knows the promotions inside out.