The holiday season is upon us, bringing with it the promise of increased foot traffic and revenue. But with rising costs and persistent labor shortages, maximizing this opportunity requires a strategic approach. This spotlight offers actionable tips to help you navigate these challenges and create a holiday season that's both merry and profitable.

Driving Foot Traffic: More Than Just Decorations

While twinkling lights and festive décor are essential, driving foot traffic requires a multi-faceted approach:

• Embrace the Power of "Limited Time Only": Create a sense of urgency with limited-time holiday menu items and promotions. This encourages customers to visit sooner rather than later, fearing they'll miss out.
• Partner with Local Businesses: Cross-promote with nearby retailers or community organizations. Offer discounts to their customers or host joint events to expand your reach.
• Leverage Social Media: Run targeted ads showcasing your holiday offerings. Host contests and giveaways to generate excitement and encourage sharing. Don't forget to highlight your safety protocols and any special accommodations you're making.
• Don't Underestimate Email Marketing: Segment your email list and send personalized holiday greetings with exclusive offers or early-bird specials.
• Community Engagement: Sponsor a local holiday event or offer a discount to community members. This builds goodwill and attracts new customers.

Marketing Magic: Spreading Holiday Cheer (and Awareness)

Effective marketing is crucial for cutting through the holiday noise:

• Highlight Value & Savings: Emphasize affordable options and special deals. Consider offering family-style meals or bundled packages to cater to larger groups.
• Tell a Story: Connect your holiday offerings to meaningful traditions or charitable causes. This adds emotional resonance and differentiates you from the competition.
• Visual Appeal is Key: Invest in high-quality photos and videos of your holiday dishes and ambiance. Use these visuals across all your marketing channels.
• Mobile-First Approach: Ensure your website and online ordering system are mobile-friendly. Many customers will be searching for dining options on their phones.
• Track Your Results: Use analytics to monitor the performance of your marketing campaigns and make adjustments as needed.

Menu & Recipe Ideas: Festive Flavors on a Budget

Crafting a compelling holiday menu doesn't require breaking the bank:

• Focus on Seasonal Ingredients: Utilize readily available and affordable seasonal produce like squash, cranberries, and root vegetables.
• Elevate Classic Dishes: Put a holiday spin on your existing menu items. For example, add Lingonberry jam to your turkey sandwich or offer a special pumpkin spice dessert.
• Consider Family-Style Options: Offer large-format dishes that are perfect for sharing, reducing individual plating time and food waste.
• Embrace Vegetarian and Vegan Options: Cater to a wider range of dietary preferences with creative plant-based holiday dishes.
• Pre-Portioning:Pre-portion ingredients to save time and reduce waste.

By implementing these strategies, you can navigate the challenges of the holiday season and create a festive and profitable experience for both your customers and your team. Remember, a little planning and creativity can go a long way in making this holiday season your best yet.

Content courtesy of General Mills Foodservice