Football season is here, and with it comes a wave of enthusiastic fans eager to enjoy the games over good food and drinks. For restaurant owners, this is a golden opportunity to boost profits. But how can you ensure your establishment stands out and attracts these eager patrons? Here are some practical strategies and tips to maximize your restaurant's profits during football season.
Know Your Audience
Understanding your customer base is crucial. Footfall during football season is likely to include die-hard fans, casual viewers, and social groups looking for a lively atmosphere. Creating offerings that meet the needs of these diverse groups can make all the difference.
Create Game-Day Specials
Special promotions are a surefire way to attract more customers. Consider offering discounts on popular items like wings, burgers, and beer. For example, a "Game Day Combo" that includes a burger, fries, and a beer at a discounted rate can be very appealing. Also, don't forget about non-alcoholic options—offer special deals on soft drinks and mocktails to cater to all preferences. A well-crafted game-day menu can entice both regulars and new patrons to choose your restaurant over others.
Optimize Seating Arrangements
Seating arrangements can significantly impact the customer experience. Ensure that your layout allows for easy viewing of the game from every seat. Multiple screens and strategically placed TVs can help achieve this.
Consider rearranging tables to accommodate larger groups, as football games are often a social event. Offering communal seating options can encourage camaraderie among patrons and create a more vibrant atmosphere.
Offer Loyalty Programs
Implement a rewards system that incentivizes customers to return for future games. Create exclusive perks for loyalty program members, such as early access to reservations or special game-day offers. This makes customers feel valued and more likely to choose your restaurant over competitors. Promote your loyalty program through in-store signage, social media, and email marketing to ensure maximum participation.
Host Special Events
Hosting special events can set your restaurant apart from the competition. Consider organizing pre-game parties, halftime trivia contests, and post-game celebrations. These events can create a festive atmosphere and draw in larger crowds. Promote these events well in advance to give customers ample time to plan their visit. Use all available marketing channels to spread the word and generate buzz.
Enhance Online Ordering
With the rise of online food delivery, ensuring your online ordering system is seamless is crucial. Optimize your website and mobile app for easy navigation and quick checkout. Highlight your game-day specials prominently on these platforms. Offer incentives for online orders, such as discounts or free delivery during game times. This can encourage customers who prefer to watch the game at home to choose your restaurant for their food needs.
Train Your Staff
Your staff plays a significant role in the customer experience. Ensure they are well-trained and prepared for the busier football season. Conduct training sessions focused on customer service, upselling techniques, and handling high-volume periods. Encourage staff to wear team jerseys or themed attire to enhance the game-day atmosphere. This small touch can make a big difference in creating a fun and engaging environment for your patrons.
Download our restaurant guide for additional tips on growing your business!
