Introduction

When running a restaurant, hitting revenue goals is critical for long-term success. While large-scale marketing like TV ads and billboards might not be feasible for smaller businesses, there are plenty of affordable, creative ways to boost revenue. Here are 12 proven tips to help you get started!

1. Snapchat Geofilters

Leverage the popularity of Snapchat among millennials with custom geofilters for your restaurant. Customers can snap pictures of their meals and share them with friends, promoting your brand organically.

2. Direct Mail

Direct mail remains effective, especially for targeting local customers. Include coupons or special offers to grab attention and encourage visits.

3. Influencer Marketing

Partner with food influencers who have large followings on social media. Their endorsements can boost your credibility and attract new customers.

Tip: Start with a personal message expressing your admiration for their work and invite them to try your restaurant.

4. Delivery

Collaborate with delivery platforms like DoorDash or Uber Eats to reach customers who prefer dining at home. This expands your customer base and increases sales.

5. Social Media

Get creative with your social media strategy. Share engaging content, run competitions, and post photos of your delicious dishes. Avoid repetitive advertising posts to keep followers interested.

6. Coupon Drops

Partner with local landlords to deliver coupons to tenants. Regular coupon drops create goodwill and attract repeat business from the local community.

7. Text Marketing

Use text messages to send exclusive offers and rewards to customers. Keep messages infrequent to avoid spamming.

8. Email Marketing

Email remains a powerful tool for customer engagement. Send newsletters with updates, special offers, or email-only deals to keep your audience engaged.

9. Radio

Build a long-term relationship with a local radio station. Explore collaborations like live on-air promotions, contests, or sponsoring events to increase visibility.

10. Special Events

Host themed events to draw in different demographics. Examples include “Daddy/Daughter Night” or “Wine Wednesday.” Special events keep your restaurant exciting and encourage repeat visits.

11. Give Back

Organize charity events or collaborate with local schools. Giving back fosters goodwill and establishes your restaurant as a community leader.

12. Watch the Competition

Keep an eye on your competitors’ marketing strategies, menus, and promotions. While you shouldn’t copy them, you can adapt successful ideas to suit your restaurant’s unique identity.

Conclusion

By implementing these 12 tips, you can increase your revenue and attract more loyal customers. Combine multiple strategies for maximum impact, and you’ll see your restaurant thrive in no time!