Responding to online reviews: a cheat sheet for restaurants

By Mark Plumlee In today’s digital age, online reviews play a critical role in a restaurant’s reputation, which can directly affect the bottom line.  A recent survey showed that 90 per cent of consumers read online reviews before visiting a business, and 88 per cent trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations. Therefore, it’s […]

Is it time for a new marketing strategy?

If your restaurant has been relying on the same marketing strategy for any length of time, chances are, it’s time to shake things up. Staying consistent with your brand and messaging is important, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get creative with your marketing when it needs a refresh. A new marketing strategy means staying […]

5 Christmas marketing ideas

By Megan Prevost Christmas is just around the corner, which means everyone is looking for that perfect present or special place to spend time with their loved ones. It also means it’s time to ramp up those holiday marketing campaigns! The happiest season is the busiest season, too, so you need to stand out from […]

Sustainability matters to today’s Canadian consumers

Sustainability is a hot topic for Canadians and it is becoming increasingly important to consumers, with 45 per cent looking to increase their sustainable behaviour. Recently, consumers were asked to rate the importance of restaurants making sustainable choices. Results were steady across the board, with QSRs (at 57 per cent), fast casuals (at 56 per […]

Merchandising could help boost your restaurant’s brand

Are you looking for a new way to boost your restaurant’s brand and spread the word about your business? If you’ve already sent out flyers, partnered with other businesses, and marketed promos, maybe it’s time to try something new. Many restaurant chains are creating merchandise as a marketing tool. Tim Hortons partnered with Justin Bieber […]

What are customer profiles — and why should you build them?

By Mark Plumlee Knowing your customers is perhaps the most important part of running a successful small business. Knowing your target audience should inform every decision you make – your overall atmosphere, your menu, your marketing strategies, and beyond. Familiarity with your diners allows your business to provide them with the exact drinking or dining […]

How to use design to make your restaurant stand out — part 2: restaurant atmosphere

By Megan Prevost While the design and content of your menu can certainly help your restaurant stand out, customers think about more than just food when they’re choosing a restaurant to dine at. Restaurant marketing professionals know that restaurants provide customers with an experience, not just dinner. Whether subconsciously or explicitly, diners select restaurants based […]

Foodservice brands must walk a tightrope between physical & digital experience

By Dustin Hassett Now more than ever, restaurateurs are operating in an experience economy. Customers are interacting with competitor brands over multiple channels every hour of every day, and they expect every digital experience to measure up to the Amazons and Ubers of this world. Just like the behemoth tech brands, foodservice businesses need to […]

Why custom uniforms can be effective tools in the hospitality industry

By Nick Warrick Staff members in the hospitality industry have a critical role in providing a positive customer experience. These employees represent your brand, whether they work in the background or have face-to-face customer interactions. The clothing your staff wears creates a lasting first impression for your guests. Choosing custom uniforms at your location makes […]