May Promotions

Here are some ways to officially bid adieu to the winter blues and ensure that April showers bring May dollars.

Celebrating Seniors
May is Older Americans Month, an annual event sponsored by the federal government's Administration on Aging. Attract this loyal-and growing-customer base by offering early-bird specials throughout the month. In addition, offer a senior menu with smaller portions or a special senior discount on items from your regular menu. Because many seniors are on restricted diets, construct your senior menu to include items such as baked potatoes, grilled chicken breast and steamed vegetables.

All Dressed Up
The month of May is the height of prom season. To attract promgoers, offer a three-course prix-fixe pre-prom dinner. Or, host an alcohol-free after-prom party where students can munch on appetizers and dance until the wee hours of the morning. Serve festive drinks such as virgin pina coladas and sparkling cider. Advertise your prom festivities in high school newspapers, on table tents throughout your restaurant and through fliers at local formal-wear and flower shops.

Fiesta Time
Cinco de Mayo on May 5th celebrates Mexico's 1862 victory over France. Offer discounts on tequilas and margaritas to toast Mexico's Independence Day, and decorate your restaurant with bright-colored streamers, balloons and pinatas. Serve Mexican fare such as quesadillas, and create a taco bar where customers can choose from different fillings, including chicken, pork and beef. Contact local high schools to cater lunchtime festivities for students taking Spanish classes.

Mom's The Word
About 38 percent of the population eats at a restaurant on Mother's Day, according to the National Restaurant Association's 2000 Holiday Dining report, making it the second most popular occasion for dining out; birthdays are number one. Entice moms to your restaurant on Mother's Day, by advertising brunch and dinner specials. Pamper the guest of honor with a complimentary sparkling cider; or give her a free five-minute phone card to enable her to call a loved one who couldn't celebrate in person. Present each mother with a miniature potted plant or a packet of flower seeds adorned with a ribbon and a card with your restaurant's logo.

Fun in the Sun
Memorial Day is the unofficial start of summer. Boost takeout sales by offering carryout picnics complete with barbeque ribs, side salads and dessert. Dust off the patio furniture and invite guests to dine outdoors on traditional grill favorites-such as hot dogs, cheeseburgers and corn on the cob-as well as your regular menu.

Source: The National Restaurant Association