What could be a better pairing than the holidays and giving back? Promoting your restaurant during the season while helping out your community or favourite cause can help boost your brand, attract like-minded customers, and create a buzz for your business.
Some of the major chains have recently launched campaigns that help raise their profiles while raising funds for causes that are near and dear to their hearts:
Tim Horton’s U.S. launched their first-ever Holiday Smile Cookie campaign from November 18 to 24, to catch the attention of holiday shoppers and give back at this busy time of year. The white chocolate sugar cookie features red and green baked-in sprinkles, decorated with the signature icing smile. Along with driving sales and traffic, this campaign allows Tim Horton’s to support an additional 400 organizations in Canada.
Swiss Chalet’s Festive Special is back, including the classic dinner, Festive Third Rack, and The Festive Family Pak. As part of the promotion, they are hosting a contest that runs from November 1 to December 29. The winner of the contest receives a $150 restaurant gift certificate, as well as a $1000 donation to the charity of their choosing. In addition, select locations are donating one can of soup to a local food bank for every chicken, broccoli and cheddar soup order they receive.
From November 1 to November 30, the Dunkin’® Joy in Childhood Foundation® Give Joy to Kids fundraiser returns, offering guests who donate $1 a coupon for a $1 medium hot coffee. Donations help fund the Foundation’s impact programs to benefit kids facing hunger or illness, also funding events like Dunkin’ Prom, Connecting Joy, and more.
Although not technically a holiday-themed campaign, in celebration of their 50th anniversary of giving, McDonald’s launched a year-long celebration of Ronald McDonald House, partnering with brands to participate in raising funds. They have recently teamed up with Bubba Wallace (NASCAR driver) to round purchases up to the nearest dollar, along with hosting several local events to raise money and awareness.
‘Tis the season to spread cheer, and restaurants that focus on giving back can build their brand, raise revenues, connect with their clientele, and help make a difference in the community.
