The holiday season offers restaurants a prime opportunity to increase sales with restaurant gift cards, draw in new customers through holiday events, and create a memorable dining experience that encourages repeat visits well into the new year. Here are 5 marketing strategies to use to help your restaurant make the most of the holiday season and boost sales.
1. Festive menu & limited-time specials
One effective strategy to attract attention during the holiday season is to have a specialty seasonal menu. By offering limited-time dishes, desserts, or cocktails that resonate with the holiday theme, you can entice customers with the allure of a distinctive experience. Take advantage of popular seasonal flavors such as pumpkin, cranberry, peppermint, and various spices. Promote these seasonal offerings on social media, emphasizing their availability only during the holiday period to instill a sense of urgency.
2. Restaurant gift card promotions
Restaurant gift cards are a popular gift to buy during the holiday season and they offer a dual benefit: gift cards generate instant revenue and serve as an effective means of enhancing brand visibility. Offering a small incentive can greatly increase your restaurant gift card sales. For instance, a promotion such as “purchase a $50 gift card and receive a $10 bonus card” can add value for both the giver and the receiver, making it an attractive option for holiday gifts.
3. Social media & email campaigns
Take advantage of social media and your email newsletters to promote your holiday menu, restaurant gift cards, and any holiday events you might have. Countdown posts can build excitement around the release of holiday specials or upcoming events, and a video tour of your decorated space can attract even more attention.
In addition to social media, email marketing can boost engagement and sales. Send festive emails to your subscribers, showcasing seasonal offers, upcoming events, and special deals like restaurant gift card promotions. Consider adding a “forward to a friend” button to expand reach, as many people plan group meals during the holidays and may forward details to friends or family.
4. Promote takeout & holiday catering options
Some people prefer to celebrate at home but still want a delicious holiday meal. Providing takeout or catering services, particularly for Thanksgiving or Christmas meals, can attract those seeking the ease of a restaurant-quality dining experience without the burden of preparation. Create various holiday takeout packages that include a range of choices to accommodate various group sizes and dietary needs. Market these packages in advance and offer pre-ordering options to enhance operational efficiency.
5. Encourage repeat visits with a loyalty program
Maximize the benefits of your restaurant’s loyalty program during the holiday season by providing double points or a special holiday bonus. For those who have not yet joined, encourage sign-ups by providing a seasonal incentive, such as a complimentary dessert or a discount on their next visit. A well-structured loyalty program not only attracts customers during the holidays but also encourages them to return, ensuring you maintain the momentum in the new year.
Quick holiday statistics for 2024
- 87% of U.S. consumers plan to celebrate Thanksgiving in 2024. (1)
- 92% of Thanksgiving 2024 celebrators plan to make a holiday-related purchase. (1)
- An average of eight gifts or gift cards were expected to be purchased for the holiday season in 2023, compared with nine in 2022. (2)
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