December Promotions
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Between the holiday parties and the hectic shoppers looking to grab a meal, most restaurants can expect heavy business in December. Here are some ways to make the month even jollier.
Party Planning
Almost 80% of employers host end-of-year parties, spending a median of $24 per employee, according to 1997 data from the Bureau of National Affairs. Attract some of that business to your restaurant by promoting it as the ideal party place. Hand out fliers advertising your party specials to local offices. Don't forget to contact those companies and groups that hosted their parties at your establishment in the past. Deliver holiday cookies along with your sales information and you're sure to make a memorable impression.
Shop till you drop
If you're located near retail stores, expect harried holiday shoppers to stop in for a bite at your restaurant. You may want to invest in a beeper system to help you better serve the crowds. That way, customers can go about their shopping and head back to the restaurant when their beeper signals that their table is ready.
The gift of food
Remind your customers that a gift certificate to a favorite restaurant is the perfect gift- it always fits. Use posters or table tents to promote your certificates. Boost gift certificate sales by giving customers a free gift- such as a holiday ornament- with each certificate.
Ring in the New Year
About 12% of the public celebrates New Year's Eve by dining out, according to National Restaurant Association research. Prepare for the rush by creating set menus and offering several reservation only seatings. Offering a special three course meal with a glass of Champagne not only simplifies things but also boost check totals. If you are trying to attract families, throw a kid-oriented New Year's Eve party in the early evening. Decorate for the holiday with streamers and confetti and give kids hats and noisemakers. Each hour on the hour from 5-9 pm conduct a New Year's Countdown.
Another way to corner the family market is to participate in one of the First Night celebrations taking place in more than 200 cities across North America. Started in 1976, First Night offered a family friendly, alcohol free alternative to traditional New Year's celebrations. For more information on this program, please visit http://www.firstnightintl.org or call 617-357-0065.
source: The National Restaurant Association
