Have you tried everything, and just can’t seem to get more customers in the door? The restaurant industry is incredibly competitive, so sometimes it takes some trial and error to see what works. Whether you're a café, bistro, diner, or any other hospitality business, creative promotions can be the magic ingredient to bring in more customers.

Here are some fresh promotion ideas that you can try out in your business:

1. Themed Nights and Events

Create a buzz by hosting themed nights that would excite your target market. Whether it's a “Taco Tuesday,” “Wine Wednesday,” or a “Friday Night Jazz,” themed nights can also have the added benefit of fans of that theme coming in weekly. Incorporate live music, special menus, or interactive elements like cooking demos or trivia nights to make it interesting.

2. Loyalty Programs and Rewards

A well-structured loyalty program encourages repeat customers. Offer points for every dollar spent and allow customers to unlock special rewards for having more points, like discounts or free items. Consider a digital app or punch card system to streamline the process.  

Hospitality Innovations offers a custom app service which includes a loyalty rewards system! Learn more about it here.

3. Happy Hour Specials

Happy hour is a classic way to boost traffic during slower times of day. Offer discounted drinks and appetizers to entice after-work crowds or weekend diners. You can make it even more appealing with unique cocktails, small plates, or special entertainment like a DJ or live musician.

4. Social Media Contests and Giveaways

Leverage the increased reach of social media by running contests and giveaways. Encourage viewers to follow, tag friends, or post photos with a branded hashtag. Prizes could include free meals, discounts, or exclusive dining experiences, helping to increase your online presence and attract new customers.

If you’re looking for tips on how to leverage social media and boost your online presence, check out our free marketing guide for hospitality businesses! It’s launching soon, so sign up here to be the first to get notified when it’s out.

5. Discounts for Groups and Large Parties

Encourage large group dining by offering special discounts or complimentary items for large parties. Whether it’s a birthday bash, a family reunion, or a corporate gathering, making it appealing and affordable for groups to dine with you can boost your bookings and overall sales.

6. Flash Sales and Limited-Time Offers

Create a sense of urgency to act now with flash sales or limited-time offers. Promote these through your website, social media, and in your establishment. Special deals, such as “Buy One, Get One Free” or “Half-Price Appetizers,” can make customers choose you.

By experimenting with these promotion ideas, you can find what resonates best with your customers and start bringing in more. The key is to stay creative, listen to your audience, and continuously evolve your strategies.

For more ideas surrounding how to bring in more customers, check out our free marketing guide for restaurants! We will go over how to set up a compelling social media presence, build your brand, start email marketing, and more.

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