Spread the word when you're opening a new restaurant in town to boost interest and keep your customers coming back for more. With a few simple marketing strategies, you'll be able to create great word of mouth without spending a fortune on the promotions.
Instructions
1. Write a simple press release to send to local newspapers and radio stations to promote the grand opening. Point out the ways your restaurant is different from other establishments in the area and outline a few of your specials and specialties to attract customers. You can find a template online at Microsoft.
2. Distribute flyers to the homes and businesses in the neighborhood or throughout the parking lot at a large supermarket near your complex. Include a sample menu along with a coupon that they can redeem at the grand opening for a sample dessert or a promotional item like a mouse pad, notepad or pen printed with your restaurant logo. You can order promotional items online at Blueberry Ink.
3. Invite local celebrities, the mayor and city council members to attend the opening. Their appearances may lead reporters and photographers from local newspapers or newscasts to cover the event, garnering your restaurant additional publicity.
4. Offer samples of signature dishes to people who pass by the restaurant but don't come in to dine. Give diners who do order dinner during grand opening week a discount coupon for a future meal or for a free drink or appetizer to encourage repeat business.
5. Consider providing entertainment during the grand opening, but ensure that it suits the tone or theme of your restaurant, like having a string quartet playing at an upscale establishment, and that it doesn't disturb the other businesses in the area or prevent customers from having a relaxing dining experience.
6. Concentrate on the food above all else. Although promotions, entertainment and giveaways may get new customers in the door, only delicious dishes, friendly and attentive service and great prices will cause them to return.
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