A research project has found that diners’ behaviors and motivations change depending on the reason. It could be a celebration, a casual meet-up with friends, a date, or just simply coming home from work. Seasonal changes also have an impact on restaurants. On the holidays, for example, some upscale restaurants may experience a decline in sales, while in the summer, they thrive.
Simply put, the occasions that may or may not be related to seasonal changes affect a restaurant’s performance.
That said, how can your business adjust to such factors? Should you come up with a seasonal or occasional menu? Being able to cater to your customer’s changing needs is key to maintaining your standing in the industry. Your business might also be promoted by websites in Singapore and other countries that specialise in dining establishment promotions. People are always on the lookout for the best places to dine, even more so during special occasions.
People’s Preferences are Influenced By an Occasion
There are five most common reasons people dine out, namely: everyday dining, business meal, date night, friends get-together, and special occasions. On special occasions, people’s goals are to commemorate and celebrate. This is when they are willing to spend more and even travel. On date nights during Valentine’s day, for example, their choice of a restaurant is strongly based on the quality of food, ambiance, service, and restaurant type (if it’s new or old). Research has found that people’s needs in a restaurant intensify during special occasions. Some are even willing to visit a restaurant beforehand to check if it meets their standards and expectations.
Restaurant Performance on Holidays
Depending on the type of dining you offer, your business can either thrive or decline during seasonal holidays. You may face a decline because many people opt to dine at home to spend time with their families during the holidays. However, you can also experience a boost in sales. When you make your restaurant available for private events, companies and families can book your function rooms for big annual celebrations. If you own a fast-food chain, you’re also likely to see an increase in sales because customers would like a quick, go-to meal while shopping for the holidays.
Why You Should Come Up With a Seasonal Menu
To stay relevant in any season, you should come up with a limited edition or seasonal menu. Your loyal customers will renew their patronage for your business with the limited-time offers, and the seasonal connection can attract new customers. Seasonal menus are also great for social media marketing, as the time-sensitive message can drive people not to miss out on the opportunity.
Your staff’s talents and skills can also shine with a seasonal menu. Your kitchen team can experiment with new recipes and work with new ingredients, and the servers can show enthusiasm in introducing a new menu.
When you come up with a limited-edition menu, it can be an opportunity for you to help local farms and suppliers. Seasonal goods from local farms are great inclusions in your menu. Your customers will surely be moved when the menu shows your business’s contribution to the local economy.
Seasonal menus can also reduce your food costs. Certain food items may be more expensive during a particular season, while seasonal foods will be relatively cheaper. Focusing your menu on seasonal foods can be cost-efficient for your business.
Considering all points stated, special occasions and changing seasons indeed affect your customer’s preferences and motivation to dine out. As a restaurant owner, it is important to stay informed of their changing needs. Apply your acquired knowledge in your marketing strategies to maintain your business’s good reputation and popularity in the industry.
