To increase check values, you can implement various strategies to encourage customers to spend more. Here are some effective ways to achieve that:
- Menu Engineering: Analyze your menu and strategically position higher-priced items. Highlight them with appealing descriptions, visuals or symbols to draw attention and entice customers to order them.
- Upselling & Cross-Selling: Train your staff to upsell by suggesting additional items or upgrades. For example, they can recommend premium ingredients, special drinks, appetizers or desserts that complement the main course. Cross-selling involves suggesting complementary items like appetizers or side dishes.
- Specials & Limited-Time Offers: Introduce daily specials or limited-time offers that are unique or exclusive to your restaurant. Customers may be more inclined to try them, especially if they have a sense of urgency to take advantage of the offer.
- Bundle Deals: Create value-packed bundle deals where customers can get a combination of items at a slightly discounted price. For example, a "family meal" that includes multiple courses or a "meal deal" that combines a main dish, side and beverage.
- Add-Ons & Extras: Offer optional add-ons or extras for an additional charge. This can include premium toppings, sauces, sides or special ingredients.
- Beverage & Alcohol Sales: Encourage beverage sales by training your staff to suggest drink pairings with the meal. Promote specialty cocktails, wines or craft beers that complement your menu items.
- Loyalty Programs: Implement a loyalty program to reward frequent customers. Offer exclusive perks, discounts or freebies to incentivize them to visit more often and spend more.
- Ambiance & Experience: Enhance the overall dining experience to justify higher prices. Pay attention to the atmosphere, decor, music and lighting to create an ambiance that aligns with your pricing strategy.
- Special Events & Entertainment: Organize special events, live music performances or themed nights to attract customers and encourage them to stay longer. Offer packages that include entertainment, dinner and drinks.
- Personalized Service: Train your staff to provide exceptional customer service and personalized recommendations. When customers feel valued and well taken care of, they are more likely to trust suggestions and indulge in higher-priced items.
REMEMBER!! All these tips are great, and increasing check values is important. However, it's equally essential to deliver quality food!
Need help with menu engineering , loyalty programs and more? Martin Bros. has the culinary and marketing professionals and resources to assist you! Contact us for more information!
