How to promote a restaurant with print marketing
Running a successful restaurant isn’t just about great food and drink, it’s about getting customers through the door and giving them enough reasons to come back. Print still plays a strong role in how restaurants attract and retain customers, especially at a local level. From flyers and loyalty cards to menus and posters, print marketing is often the first time people will see and interact with your brand.
Why print marketing works for restaurants
Print marketing for restaurants continues to work well because it’s built around being seen at the right time. Digital advertising can be effective but is intrusive and often ignored, whilst a poster in the window, or takeaway menus, are visible at the point when people are actually deciding where to eat.
A big advantage is the guaranteed local targeting. Individual restaurants rely on attracting customers who are nearby. Print doesn’t rely on algorithms or ad spend fluctuations, it puts your brand in front of people who are most likely to visit or order.
Using print for local restaurant promotions
For restaurant owners, making their business visible locally is everything. Print marketing can be targeted to specific neighbourhoods or local businesses, giving it a clear advantage over broader and unpredictable digital advertising.
However, like all print marketing you need a strong offer, attractive branding and clear contact details. Printed materials can be displayed in your own window or distributed in the local area to build awareness. You may also attempt to create some local partnerships with gyms, offices or hotels that would be willing to do some cross promotion with you.
Essential print materials for restaurants
Having the right mix of printed materials can be crucial as each item plays a different role.
Menu printing
Your menu shouldn’t just be seen as a list of dishes, it’s also an important sales tool. Your menus should guide customers and influence their ordering decisions. A well designed, professionally printed menu should present your food in the best possible way, whilst also reinforcing your brand. You may also choose to regularly update your menu designs to reflect seasonal changes and keep your offerings looking fresh.
Flyer printing
Printed flyers are one of the easiest ways to reach local customers. Flyers can be delivered door-to-door or handed out on the high street. They are an effective way to highlight special offers, events or new openings. A bold and easy to read flyer will draw people in as they pass by.
Poster printing
Posters are particularly good at grabbing attention when placed in windows or in strategic high footfall areas. They work well for highlighting deals, events, discounts or new menus. The key to an effective poster is a strong headline and an attractive offer.
Placemat printing
Once you have enticed customers into your restuarant custom placemats are a great way to further engage them. Placemats can showcase drinks, desserts or offers whilst people are sat choosing what to order. They’re a subtle way to increase spend without being pushy.
Loyalty card printing
Loyalty cards are ideal at encouraging repeat visits to your restaurant. Your loyalty cards could include a “buy 5 get 1 free” type offer, or you could have a points based system. Either way you’re giving customers an additional reason to come back – turn one-off visitors into regular customers.
The quality of the print really matters
The professionalism of the design and the quality of the print will impact how your restaurant is perceived. A flimsy menu or faded colours can give the impression of low standards even if that’s far from the truth.
Many of your printed items such as menus and loyalty cards will be stored and handled regularly, choosing the right paper stock and print finishes will keep them looking good for longer.
There’s also consistency to factor in. You need strong branding with colours, fonts and finishes matching across all print. Working with an experienced hospitality printer will ensure everything looks cohesive. If your print marketing materials look well made and considered, people are more likely to trust your food and service will be too.
We work with tourism and hospitality businesses to design and produce print that not only looks the part but works hard too. From menus and brochures to signage and leaflets, we’ve got you covered.
Get in touch today to chat through your ideas.