Did your restaurant sales take a hit during the coronavirus pandemic? If so, you are in the majority. This past year has been a tough one for restaurants.
Now that vaccination rates are climbing, you can start thinking about growing your sales in the post-pandemic world.
But how does your marketing need to change? How much profit do you need to make to financially recover from the pandemic?
Keep reading, and we’ll give you an easy guide on how to increase restaurant sales in the post-COVID world.
Grow Restaurant Sales With Delivery Services
Many restaurants discovered quickly how to grow restaurant sales during COVID. The answer? Joining delivery services.
Despite the fact that dine-in restaurants are now the norm again, customers still want expanded delivery options. Plus, some customers still do not feel safe going out to eat.
One of the best ways to grow your restaurant sales in the current market is to join a delivery service. For more information, check out the best delivery service for restaurants.
Bring Back Happy Hour
One of the best ways to increase restaurant sales has historically been by designing irresistible happy hour deals. Happy hour is a great way to bring in extra business.
When guests come in for a happy hour, they often end up staying for your regular dinner service and continuing to order food and drinks.
Plus, you can save even further on happy hour drinks by using cheaper base spirits than you would for your normal cocktail menu.
Unfortunately, happy hour is currently illegal in 11 U.S. states. Make sure you check in on your state’s liquor laws before running a promotion.
Raise Drink Prices
Both during happy hour and regular service, you can reliably increase restaurant sales by slightly raising your drink prices. It is common knowledge in the restaurant industry that many businesses make a larger profit on alcohol than on food.
Since customers are so excited to sit at bars and drink in restaurants again, they may not even notice a slight uptick in your prices. If they do notice, they’re likely not to care.
Reward Loyal Customers
To increase your restaurant sales, it is important to have a loyal customer base. Loyal customers will stick by you during difficult times, regardless of the whims of COVID regulations.
You can easily create a rewards program for repeat customers. You can give them coupons or free items in exchange for a certain number of dine-in or delivery orders.
Customers love feeling like they have a special relationship with their favorite restaurants. Foster a feeling of connection with them, and your profits are sure to grow.
Rehabilitate Your Restaurant Sales Today
Don’t wait to start rebuilding your restaurant sales. As long as you follow these simple tips, your business may thrive again in no time!
Remember to listen to the demands of the customer and do your best to adapt to this changing food service market.
For more tips for business owners, check out the rest of our blog!
