Have a new restaurant,open 6 months,but need to find an inexpensive effective way of bringing in additional $?

Question

It's a small community in NC,Only 8000 people. Have been using radio and newspaper.But, people still don't know we are here. Need some good input,Thanks

Answer 1

Do you have an actual marketing plan, or is your advertising just kind of thrown out there with what you can afford to spend?

I'm guessing you don't have an actual marketing plan that maximizes your advertising budget to a targeted audience.

I would ssuggest looking into getting some advice and help from the governments SCORE program (Service Corp of Retired Entrepanuers). This is typically a free or low cost service that pairs business owners with business savvy volunteers who can mentor you through things like this, and help you devise a good marketing plan.

A simplified approach to marketing - make sure you have some way of figuring out what advertising is the most effective. If you are using coupons, make sure they are tagged or coded so you know where they are coming from - spend more money on the outlets that are bringing you in a higher percentage of business for the money you are spending.

Answer 2

If you have the type of restaurant that is appropriate for familes try contacting the schools, local clubs etc. Some schools have a reward program for grades, attendance, good behavior etc, and the students get certificates for free ice cream, free meals, etc. and generally speaking when they go for the free item the family would join them for dinner. You would get more exposure and possibly more customers. This also gives you a good rep. as a supporter of the community.

There are a lot of restaurants that offer a "kids eat free or for $1.99 night" They might have a clown come or some other kind of entertainment. One place - a sports restaurant- puts cartoons on the tvs that night. If you get the kids you'll do great - parents love to go places where the kids can be entertained.

Answer 3

Have you tried making up flyers and doing a letterbox drop? Maybe you could offer a small discount coupon on it for the customers first visit. Make sure your customer service is second to none with the clientele you already have and with all future clients as well. Make up small "what did you think" cards for customers to fill out if they choose when they leave, this way you will know what they do or don't like so you can make the appropriate changes.

Answer 4

1) Have special theme nights - e.g. Halloween so that people can have fun also.

2) Open your restaurant for people celebrating birthdays or anniversary. People remember special occasions.

3) Bring your food to the people - offer catering service so that they know about you and your restaurant.

Answer 5

if the people aren't coming to you, go to the people.

You said restaurant right? Well then why don't you do a lunch run? Make a whole lot of dishes and go to all the business's around your area and sell your food.

Good luck