In just a few weeks, the world has changed dramatically. Consumers have gone from eating out 2-3 times per week to social isolation and the industry as a whole is feeling its painful effects. Although there’s no proven roadmap, there are ways to be nimble and creative to weather this storm.
ESTABLISH TRUST
Reassure guests that your establishment has always had food-safety procedures in place. Go even further by explaining your “no-contact” protocols and what you’re doing to ensure the health and safety of your patrons.
BUILD COMMUNITY
Re-create what guests have always loved about dining out with at-home options that meet needs for bonding and excitement. Host happy hours via Zoom or create connection points through on-line cooking classes that allow customers to order ingredients from your restaurant and then tune in to virtually cook the meal alongside your chef.
CURATE MENUS AROUND CULTURAL MOMENTS
Holidays have always been high points for restaurants. Consider how to extend those experiences to cultural moments. Is there a Netflix show that’s trending? Consider how you can tap into the zeitgeist by creating menus built around those hit shows. Create family-friendly boxes that allow kids to participate in the cooking process and host a social media challenge to see which family creates the most inspired meal. Host a “Chopped” style challenge by asking patrons to sign up for a box of items and posting the results on social for your followers select the winner.
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