How restaurants can capitalise on Black Friday

One of the easiest ways restaurants engage customers on Black Friday is through exclusive discounts and special menu items. Picture: Pexels/Mike Jones

One of the easiest ways restaurants engage customers on Black Friday is through exclusive discounts and special menu items. Picture: Pexels/Mike Jones

Published Nov 12, 2024

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As the festive season approaches, businesses across various sectors eagerly anticipate the shopping frenzy that Black Friday brings.

Restaurants, in particular, have a unique opportunity to leverage this consumer-driven day. By implementing strategic approaches, eateries can turn this day into a lucrative boost for their bottom line.

Here are several ways restaurants can capitalise on Black Friday.

One of the easiest ways restaurants engage customers on Black Friday is through exclusive discounts and special menu items. Picture: Pexels/Mike Jones

Offer exclusive discounts and deals

One of the easiest ways restaurants engage customers on Black Friday is through exclusive discounts and special menu items. Consider offering a limited-time menu or meal deals that entice patrons to dine out rather than stay in.

For instance, a two-for-one deal on popular dishes or a discount on group dining can attract families and friends looking to celebrate their shopping victories over a meal.

Leverage online reservations and pre-orders

With many customers keen on maximising their shopping time, restaurants can streamline the dining experience by offering online reservations and pre-ordering services.

This not only enhances convenience for the consumer but also allows restaurants to manage their capacity and reduce wait times effectively.

Consider an online campaign that makes it easy for patrons to book tables and order food in advance, especially for large groups.

This is a perfect opportunity for restaurants to host themed events that resonate with the excitement around Black Friday. Picture: Pexels/Cristian Rojas

Create themed events

This is a perfect opportunity for restaurants to host themed events that resonate with the excitement around Black Friday.

Organising special evening events that include live music, trivia, or even fashion shows can create a buzz that draws in crowds looking for more than just a meal.

Collaborating with local businesses for cross-promotions could also amplify the appeal.

Bundle deals with local businesses

Forming partnerships with nearby shops can be mutually beneficial. Restaurants can offer meal deals that include discounts or vouchers for local stores, encouraging customers to enjoy a meal before or after their shopping spree.

This enhances customer experience and promotes local business synergy, creating a win-win situation for the community.

Creating excitement around unique, limited-time menu items can create urgency and encourage diners to visit. Picture: Pexels/Valeriya

Offer limited edition items

Creating excitement around unique, limited-time menu items can create urgency and encourage diners to visit.

Whether it’s a unique cocktail or a seasonal dish that’s only available for Black Friday, the principle of scarcity can significantly enhance interest and attract curious diners eager to try something new.

Enhance social media presence

Engaging with customers on social media platforms is crucial during the busy shopping period.

Restaurants should ramp up their social media marketing efforts, showcasing their Black Friday offers, behind-the-scenes preparations, and the dining atmosphere.

This can stimulate interest and attract a larger audience. Utilising hashtags specific to Black Friday can also increase visibility.