As the summer season unfolds with its warm days and lively nights, businesses everywhere must adapt to the shifting dynamics in consumer behaviour. The promise of sunny skies often leads to a surge in outdoor activities, and with that comes an evolution in how customers engage with your restaurant. Whether you’re managing a bustling café, a cosy bakery, or a vibrant bar, leveraging the summer vibe can significantly enhance your sales. Here’s how you can harness the power of summer to grow your online orders and keep your customers coming back for more.
Summer’s charm lies in its spontaneity. People are out enjoying the warmth, and quick, convenient service becomes more critical than ever. Offering a Click and Collect option allows your customers to order online and pick up their meals without the hassle of waiting in line. This service is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a business booster, giving you the ability to prepare for peak times and manage order volumes efficiently.
Last year, 4 in 10 orders on Slerp were for collection. If you’re not offering Click and Collect, you’re missing out on a substantial slice of sales. For your on-the-go customers, our PressPay feature simplifies the process, allowing them to order in as little as six seconds. Explore how you can integrate this service here.
As temperatures rise, so does the desire for lighter, refreshing meals. Introduce seasonal specials like crisp salads, energising smoothies, and light bites that cater to the summer palate. Not only do these offerings entice customers looking for something new, but they also showcase your restaurant’s versatility and commitment to fresh, local ingredients. Promote these specials across your digital marketing for restaurants strategy to keep your menu appealing and relevant.
Incorporating local, seasonal ingredients into your dishes not only enhances flavours but also appeals to the environmentally conscious diner. Highlight these ingredients on your menu to attract customers who appreciate knowing the origins of their food. Summer is the perfect time to experiment with new dishes and keep your menu vibrant and exciting.
If you have the luxury of outdoor seating, QR code ordering can streamline your service and enhance the customer experience. By placing QR codes on tables, you allow guests to order seamlessly without interrupting their conversations or waiting for staff. This modern approach also helps you collect valuable customer data for future marketing efforts.
Summer holidays bring families together, and that means more opportunities for dining out or ordering in. Create enticing family deals or bundle options that cater to both kids and adults. With 54% of people seeking more kid-friendly options when ordering, offering smaller portions, healthy choices, and fuss-free dishes can make your restaurant a go-to choice for family dining during the school break.
Social media is a powerful tool to promote your summer offerings and attract new customers. Share vibrant photos of your seasonal dishes, announce special promotions, and engage with your audience to build excitement around your brand. Utilise platforms like Instagram and Facebook to reach a wider audience and drive traffic to your online ordering system.
From deliveries to the park to QR code ordering at your outdoor tables, optimising for outdoor dining is crucial during summer. Encourage customers to enjoy their meals in nature, whether it’s a picnic in the park or a cosy meal on your patio. Make sure your online ordering system is set up to support these experiences, ensuring that your service is as delightful as the summer itself.
Summer presents a golden opportunity to adapt and thrive amidst changing consumer habits. By implementing these strategies, you can weatherproof your sales and make the most of the season. From enhancing your menu with seasonal specials to optimising your online ordering for outdoor experiences, each step helps you cater to the summer crowd effectively. Embrace the sunny days ahead and watch your sales soar as you grow your online orders this summer.
54% of people want more kid friendly options when ordering
KAM Media X Slerp
Consumer survey