As we get closer to the first warm long weekend of the season, many operators will be looking for ways to drive traffic and raise revenues. Spring and summer offer unique opportunities for operators to capitalize on long weekends with outdoor space, seasonal offerings, and streamlined operations.

Be patio-ready

Even if it isn’t quite warm enough for the patio, Canadians love to enjoy the outdoors as soon as they can. If you can offer an outdoor space, you double your capacity and can meet a need that many consumers will be looking to enjoy this long weekend. But not all restaurants will be ready or equipped to serve outside so ensure that you promote this part of your business so you can get ahead of the competition and encourage more visitors. Get the patio guest-ready with heaters and ambiance that will make it enjoyable even as the temperatures drop at night.

Staff correctly

Remember that it is a long weekend for your staff too, so you may get a higher number of requests for time off. Post the schedule early to allow for enough time for switches, if needed. Also, if your patio is open, plan for possible inclement weather, a full outdoor space, more traffic in tourist areas, or any other potential complications for staffing. Often the weather encourages guests to make last-minute dining decisions, so be prepared for additional guests should the weather be favourable. If you have seasonal staff starting, make sure that they are well trained – the last thing you want to do is drive traffic, only to offer a subpar experience.

Create a compelling offer

Celebrate the long weekend with a featured drink, new seasonal menu, live entertainment, free giveaways, or anything else you can think of to get people through the doors. You might even want to create a ‘long weekend event series’ to host through the summer and drive long-term repeat traffic. Partner with a local brewery, create innovative boards and share plates, or host a happy hour with fun spring cocktails and mocktails. Get attention for your restaurant for the long weekend by offering something fun and festive for your guests.

As the unofficial start to summer, many Canadian diners are looking to visit their favourite restaurants, gather with friends, and enjoy a newly opened patio. Make sure that your restaurant becomes a long weekend destination with great outdoor space, elevated customer service, and a menu that guests can’t wait to try.