Restaurant operators are always looking for new ways to connect with their customers to engage and encourage return visits. From your website to your loyalty program, looking at real data is the best way analyze who is visiting, how often, what they are ordering, how much they are spending, and more. Getting specific on generational spending is a great way to get to know your customers and exceed their expectations.
Gen Z is generally defined as people who were born between 1997 and 2012, so many of them have joined the full-time workforce and have made dining out part of their budgets. In fact, studies show that this generation spends most of their disposable income on dining out.
Using technology to get to know Gen Z diners better will help your restaurant capture their attention, engage with them, and turn them into valuable customers.
Tech tools
Gen Z-ers are super tech savvy, favouring online ordering, loyalty apps, and speedy pickup. Using technology to streamline your operations and offer a faster, more efficient experience will appeal to this generation. Work on building your online brand to attract attention, create a loyalty program that resonates, and use the data you gain to up your guest experience.
That data can help you make the most of your menu, too. A 2022 study showed that Gen Z-ers favoured chicken above all other menu items, so analyze all the data at your disposal to tailor an experience, menu, or vibe that will keep them coming back for more.
The power of social media
Gen Z often sees a product or business for the first time on social media, so this is a medium that can be very valuable to restaurants. Develop a social media strategy that captures the attention of Gen Z foodies with beautiful images, interesting videos, popular hashtags, and interaction with your audience.
The beauty of this generation is that they are more likely to share positive experiences online, take group selfies, create unboxing videos, and post reviews that can really help your brand.
Working with an influencer can also help grow your audience of Gen Z-ers. Start by researching a few influencers that are popular with this generation and partner with them to reach more of your target market.
RELATED: Can influencer marketing help your restaurant?
Tap into tech by making the most of the tools at your disposal to get Gen Z diners interested in visiting your restaurant.
