Casual Dining Franchise Marketing Strategies

Loyalty programs are a staple at successful casual dining restaurants—and for good reason. With minimal effort, you can create regulars out of new customers and boost business among the regulars! Consider special offers like free appetizers, points systems and more.

Whether or not you're new in town, local publications (print and online) are a great way to get some visibility. Pitch yourself to editors and/or purchase listings and ads for greater visibility.

Advertising new items, seasonal specials and events—even just via outdoor signage at your location—and can boost business quickly. Run ad campaigns to promote them on social, search and other channels for added reach.

These days, it's not just about your website. In fact, most customers will find what they need (hours of operation, menus, reviews, etc.) to make their decision without ever visiting it. See what happens when people Google your name—are your hours, menus and photos up to date? How are your reviews? If things need work and you're not sure where to start, work with an expert partner who can help.

Since 2020, home food delivery and takeout is the new norm—even for restaurants that were traditionally dine-in. Make sure you have good, easy-to-find-and-use options for takeout and/or delivery. If you go with delivery apps, explore paid options to boost your presence and offer deals to tip the scales in your favor.

Some casual dining categories—like pizza and burgers, for example—are more competitive than others. But regardless of your food genre, you'll want to do what you can to own the space in your market—or at least in your neighborhood. This involves a strategic mix of SEO and search marketing (paid search) to ensure you turn up at the top when people search for your kind of place. Work with a knowledgeable partner to ensure maximum ROI.

Word of mouth and drive-by-traffic will only get you so far. You'll need to find targets in your specific demographic beyond your immediate neighborhood, and today's digital advertising channels are just the solution. Connected TV, display and social advertising offer the amazing ability to reach the people that are most likely to become your customers—at the right place and time.

Local casual dining establishments can earn a name in their community quickly—for better or worse. Have a plan in place to monitor and respond to reviews, and keep a finger on the pulse of feedback. Also be sure to solicit reviews from customers to keep your restaurant well-reviewed. If your current reputation could use some work, partner with an expert agency that can provide solutions.