Winter can pose challenges for restaurants, with shorter days and cold weather making it harder to entice customers to leave their cosy homes. However, there are several tactics you can use to boost your revenue and fill your tables during these slower months. Here’s a guide from the First Table marketing team to help you win this winter.
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For many people, dining out isn't just about the food—it's about the atmosphere and the opportunity to socialise with friends and family. During the winter months, creating events that specifically target your regulars and give them a good reason to leave the house is paramount.
Identify your customers' demographics and interests to tailor events accordingly. For example:
Knowing your customers and getting creative can make dining out a special outing. Promotional events provide the extra incentive needed to brave the cold. According to a recent survey by Eventbrite, 70% of people attend events to escape their daily routine, and during winter, this desire can be even stronger.
Winter is the perfect time to update your menu to include comforting, hot, and filling dishes. Consider launching a new winter menu with a Sunday roast lunch paired with red wine. Highlight seasonal vegetables and hearty sides like roasted veg or mac 'n' cheese. Introduce winter-themed desserts such as fondue or hot puddings.
Updating your menu doesn’t have to be dramatic. Simply including seasonal veg and a few wintery dishes will keep it exciting and fresh for your customers while also keeping costs down.
Winter is an ideal time to fill those empty tables by listing your restaurant on the First Table website and app. This innovative restaurant discovery platform is a hidden gem for restaurant owners, offering a free listing to showcase your business to a diverse audience of local food enthusiasts and drive more off-peak reservations.
First Table operates on a unique off-peak pricing model that incentivises diners to book during quieter times, making the platform cost-free for restaurants. Upon signing up, each restaurant receives a complimentary tailored marketing campaign to enhance visibility and secure guaranteed off-peak bookings.
As you'll attest to, social media is a powerful tool for reaching potential customers and keeping your current fans engaged. However, as busy restaurant owners and managers its easy to forget to ensure you're making the most of your social channels. Remember to:
Collaborating with other local businesses can significantly boost awareness during winter. For example, partner with a local winery or wine bar to host a special event where you serve an exclusive menu with their wines paired with dishes designed by your chef. Both businesses can promote the event on social media, increasing reach and giving customers a compelling reason to visit. Additionally, consider working with local gyms and other small businesses to create special offers for their customers, such as discounted meals for gym members. These collaborations not only enhance your visibility but also foster a sense of community support.
For more detailed guidance and support, don’t hesitate to reach out to the First Table team. We're here to help you succeed!