6 tips to boost your restaurant sales in times of coronavirus
The restaurant in times of coronavirus needs to reinvent itself to adjust to the new normal. Nothing is like before, and these changes must be addressed. The protocols established by the health authorities oblige investment and restructuring.
Your customers think more before eating out. Fear and the economy are two paralysing factors. There is so much talk about infections in places where there are many people, that people do not feel safe in public spaces. On the other hand, the economic situation is complex, people try to save money and the sector where expenses are spared before is undoubtedly leisure.
The restaurant's situation in times of coronavirus remains complex, despite the reopening being authorized in some areas. Because an open restaurant without customers only generates expenses, the key is to design and implement strategies to attract customers and drive sales.
Safety is the issue of the moment. Potential clients feel threatened everywhere. Creating a safe environment, in which the customer is cared for, is the fundamental issue. It is important to design a strategy that clearly shows the measures that have been taken and all the provisions to avoid contagions.
Whether it is dealing with customers, the safety of staff or sourcing fruit juice suppliers UK restaurateurs use, diner safety is the priority!
1. Create a safe restaurant
The government has issued guidelines for the hospitality industry. Make sure your restaurant is prepared and adapted to the current regulations related to COVID 19. It is a good strategy to boost sales.
2. Contactless systems in the restaurant
Contactless systems avoid contact of people's hands with restaurant surfaces. Adopting contactless technology for orders and payments is a good measure to attract customers and increase sales.
Automated doors, digital letters, and contactless payment systems are some of the possibilities that these systems offer. There are different options for each situation in which you want to implement the technology. The important thing is to include it.
3. Proposals to retain customers
To increase sales, in addition to acquiring new customers, you have to try to retain those who have already patronised your restaurant. A good loyalty strategy makes a difference compared to the competition.
A loyalty plan can include accumulation of points redeemable for discounts or gifts. Some platforms generate personalized promotions and discounts, based on customer preferences and are sent to them through emails or WhatsApp messages.
The intention is to show the customer that the restaurant values them and that they give them incentives to keep them coming back. Greetings and special invitations on birthdays are details that always go down well. The person feels that the restaurant recognizes and appreciates them.
4. Use of terraces and outdoor spaces
The open sky is a highly valued commodity in these times of coronavirus. The risk of contracting COVID-19 is markedly reduced if people stay outdoors. To take advantage of these spaces, it is necessary to manage the tables well. Having an online reservation system helps to organize the demand. Online waiting lists are also helpful. Capacity and social distancing must always be respected.
To control the maximum number of people allowed, it is necessary to have a tool that shows the occupation and availability of places. Where possible, this information should be displayed in real-time on the restaurant's website, so that people know. In this way, crowds at the door and customer disappointments will be avoided.
5. Promote take away and delivery services
Many restaurants have incorporated a take-out and home delivery system. And for those who haven't, it's a good time to start. People have become used to ordering food from restaurants and consuming it at home. These services are good options to increase sales.
The entire restaurant menu may be available, only a part, the most suitable to be transported, or present a daily menu. The food service outside the premises must be well planned and organized.
6. Marketing is a fundamental tool to increase sales
A comprehensive marketing strategy is the key to selling more. The website is the heart of the strategy because it contains all the information. It must always be up-to-date and with the full description of all protection measures and promotions news.
Social networks are essential! The permanent presence on Facebook and Instagram contributes to the dissemination of everything the restaurant offers. It is also a good resource to log into specialized restaurant networks and set up a Google My Business account. The Internet sells, and therefore you have to be present in most of the channels that can be covered.
Technology is an invaluable ally in these times. You can bring together creativity, innovative ideas and technological resources to respond to the crisis.
