From Vendor Partner Perdue Foodservice
Rolling out limited-time offers (LTOs) is a proven way to create buzz, attract customers and drive profits, and focusing on value-oriented LTOs can resonate with budget-conscious consumers.
As menu prices increase, consumers are looking for affordability. To save money dining out, 53% order from the value menu and 44% take advantage of LTOs, especially GenZ at 49%. A large number (41%) join loyalty clubs/rewards programs, while 39% look for deals directly on restaurant or delivery apps.1
The secret to marrying value with profitability lies in adopting a calculated strategy combined with the most craveable offerings.
Here are two approaches:
1. Focus on high-volume, low-cost side items
Draw guests in the door with value deals on popular, high-volume, low-cost side items.
The quick-service restaurant chain Taco Bell, for instance, found success by leaning on its Nacho Fries side. The chain’s most successful product launch in its history, it was first offered as an LTO in 2018. The taco giant picked fries for this promotion due to their proven popularity as a side dish, confident that guests would purchase additional items to complement their fries.2 While Nacho Fries come back periodically, in November 2023, Taco Bell launched a 30-day Nacho Fries Lover’s Pass LTO exclusively available to loyalty rewards members, who happen to spend 40% more per year than non-members.2 Available only on the chain’s app, the month-long Nacho Fries Lover’s Pass promotion allowed one daily order of regular Nacho Fries with a choice of one of six sauces for a total of $10.
2. Target low-traffic times of day
Regardless of the meal deal you introduce, boosting sales by targeting specific times can effectively draw in foot traffic during typically slower business hours. Consider implementing early bird or late-night discounts, which you can offer regularly or in conjunction with special occasions.
Televised football games offer a prime opportunity for daypart LTOs. In 2023, Chili’s optimized these sports-watching occasions by offering special deals on Saturdays and Sundays as well as from 3 p.m. until closing on Mondays and Thursdays throughout football season. Promotions included wings starting at $7, $6 Loaded Queso Fries and a buy-one-get-one-free deal on eight-piece boneless chicken wings on Mondays.3
Overall, you can help drive both immediate revenue and sustainable growth by focusing on strategic, cost-effective, value-centric promotions. You’ll attract more guests and encourage higher spending while building a loyal customer base.
Sources
1International Foodservice Manufacturers Association’s IFMA CPP 2024 report, May 2024
2Klein, Danny, “Taco Bell Subscribes to the Next Generation of Value,” QSR magazine, Dec. 15, 2023, https://www.qsrmagazine.com/story/taco-bell-subscribes-to-the-next-generation-of-value/
3Cafarella, Haley, “NFL and College Football 2023: Fast-Food Restaurant Specials,” franchisewire.com, Sept. 16, 2023, https://www.franchisewire.com/2023-nfl-and-college-football-fast-food-restaurant-specials-deals-and-promotions/
Looking for more LTO ideas? Check out Summer 2026 Food & Drink Holidays for some inspiration!
