In today’s unpredictable economy, many restaurant owners are in need of a jolt - something that doesn’t only attract new customers, but will also want to make existing customers come back every time. There are many elements that affect the overall value of your restaurant, from marketing and the menu to hygiene and technology. It’s important to take all these features into account when you’re trying to improve your business. There are of course many potential ways you can achieve growth, some of which we will discuss in this article.
Here are 4 ways to take your restaurant to the next level:
1. Introduce new products and services to add value to your restaurant
Incorporating items that complement the products you’re already selling can generate new sales and keep people interested in your restaurant, which of course will make sure they come back for more! Consider the current trends and listen to your customers. Do you have patrons constantly asking you for plant-based or gluten-free alternatives? Then it’s time to include it on the menu.
Improving your image can also add value to your restaurant. For example, in 2017 reducing the amount of food waste is more important than ever. Many restaurants have found ways to incorporate this trend into their image, by making jam from leftover fruits or donating food to homeless shelters for example. Make sure you let your customers know you care about these causes and what you do to support them. They’ll visit your restaurant with a smile on their face.
2. Take advantage of apps and programs
Are you taking advantage of online software programs and apps for your restaurant? If not, you definitely should! You could be missing out on cost-effective and innovative solutions that’ll help you save time and streamline your business. If you already made the move you’ve probably noticed that online applications have changed the restaurant business for the better. Moving to an app or online software program is a win-win situation that’ll help you save not only time, but also money and stress.
3. Reconsider your marketing strategies
Digital marketing has become big in the last few years, and it will continue to rise. If you haven’t already, it’s time to reconsider your marketing strategies. Are you using ‘old school’ ways to generate new customers? A good idea might be to Google yourself. Do your website and social media pages show up on the first page, as well as your business listing on Google? Because they should. Use your social media to connect with new patrons and attract them to your restaurant with good-quality images and deals.
4. Support your staff
Studies have shown that happy employees are more productive, so it’s important to support your team and make them feel appreciated. One study showed that productivity increased by an average of 12%, and reached as high as 20% above the control group. You know better than anyone else that working in a restaurant is one of the most hectic jobs out there, and having a strong human factor is one of the most important aspects of any successful business. Listen to your employees and try to help them solve any problems they have.
As a bar manager or restaurant owner, you know that it’s important to invest in your business to help take it to the next level - not just investing money, but also the time and patience to make sure everything is going according to plan. The restaurant industry is a competitive one, so you need to be on top of all the elements that affect the overall value of your restaurant.