How to improve your sales in your restaurant ?

The restaurant industry is a competitive one, and it can be tough to stand out from the crowd. If you’re looking to improve sales in your restaurant, there are a few things you can do.

1. Upsell and cross-sell

Upselling and cross-selling are two great ways to increase your average ticket price. Upselling is the process of encouraging customers to purchase more expensive items or add-ons, while cross-selling is the process of recommending complementary items. For example, if a customer orders a steak, you could suggest a more 28 days mature steak (upsell) or a side of mashed potatoes or a glass of wine (cross-sell).

2. Offer discounts and promotions

Discounts and promotions can be a great way to attract new customers and encourage existing customers to return. Make sure to promote your discounts and promotions effectively so that customers are aware of them. You can promote your discounts and promotions through online and offline channels, such as social media, email, and print advertising. These promotion are useful to bring covers in your calmer periods or to attract a new type of clientele and convert them to become regular clients.

3. Improve customer service

Good customer service is essential for any business, but it is especially important in the restaurant industry. Customers who have a positive experience at your restaurant are more likely to return and spend more money. Make sure your staff is friendly, helpful, and attentive. You should also make sure that your restaurant is clean and well-maintained. Use of feedback will be essential in order to know your weakness and act on it. Also, ensure that the staff is recognised on positive feedback, creating a positive work environment.

4. Create a welcoming atmosphere

The atmosphere of your restaurant can have a big impact on sales. Make sure that your restaurant is clean, well-lit, and inviting. You should also consider playing music that is appropriate for your target audience and at the right level for the concept of restaurant you operate.

5. Offer a variety of menu items

Having a variety of menu items will appeal to a wider range of customers. Make sure to include items that appeal to all different types of dietary restrictions and preferences. For example, if you have a vegetarian customer, you could offer a veggie burger or a salad. If you are in a residential neighbourhood, consider a kids menu.

6. Make sure your food is delicious

Sound like an evidence, but the most important factor in increasing sales is to make sure that your food is delicious. If your food is not good, customers will not come back. Make sure your chefs are using fresh, high-quality ingredients and that your food is prepared to perfection. Do not cheat on quality!

7. Get involved in the community

Getting involved in the community is a great way to build goodwill and attract new customers. You can get involved in the community by sponsoring local events, donating to local charities, or simply being a good neighbour. The construction of a good database using your booking system will help you recognising your local regulars and get to know their like and dislikes.

8. Use technology to your advantage

There are a number of technologies that can help you improve sales in your restaurant. For example, you can use a point-of-sale system to track sales and inventory, and you can use a customer relationship management (CRM) system to track customer interactions. More recently, the use of QR code allows to access allergen on your menus or pay your bill at the table without any wait.

9. Keep up with the trends

The restaurant industry is constantly changing, so it’s important to keep up with the latest trends. This means staying up-to-date on new menu items, new technologies, and new marketing techniques.

10. Be patient

Improving sales in your restaurant takes time and effort. Don’t expect to see results overnight. Just keep working hard and following these tips, and you’ll eventually see your sales improve.

April 2023