How Restaurants and Bars Can Get Ahead

Eat-in dining closes across America as businesses work to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

It’s now been a couple of months now since the first case of Coronavirus in the United States and we’ve seen unprecedented measures taken to slow the spread. Our country, slowly but surely, has gotten to a point of confidence in knowing what to expect and how to effectively tackle this, but in the meantime, a lot of tough decisions had to be made that unfortunately, dealt a crushing blow to business. As entrepreneurs rush to innovate and temporarily change their model, the question lingers, is this “temporary”?

Many believe that even after local and state bans are lifted, the return to life before Coronavirus will be slow. People may stay reluctant to go out into crowds and that hesitation will continue to inhibit small businesses - especially restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues, from getting back on track. Data suggests that we’re in this for the long haul - that additional waves of outbreak are likely and social distancing can be a broad, long-standing public initiative.

Yet, we must continue to evolve.

It’s happened time and time again - something devastating happens to the economy or society that jeopardizes business as we know it and forces us to adapt - though while never quite like this - there is something to be learned and practiced in response.

So, what can you do to get ahead of this?

If you’re a restaurant or bar that has switched gears from only partial to 100% food carry-out service and delivery, you’re doing your best to boost sales and get as close as you can to previous projections when your sit-in-dining and other offerings were available. There are some things you should think about that can help!

Traditional restaurants embrace modern marketing initiatives to increase visibility and awareness.

Vehicle Wraps

If you have a storefront near or on a moderately trafficked street, utilizing a vehicle owned by your staff or company as a billboard may be a great solution. You can spend thousands of dollars on commercials, billboards, and other traditional advertising media, but for just a second - consider that blank vehicle that you already own on your parking lot transformed into an enticing and informative branded message. It can be a game-changer.

Maybe, you want to let your community know that they have your support. Maybe, this is a perfect time to display photography of your best-selling meals and products and offer some quick listed items with competitive prices.

The fact is - a simple, impactful message and graphic on the sides of a vehicle, whether it remains parked or makes deliveries around town all day, is going to reach thousands of more people every day than anything else. Did we mention it’s by far, the most cost-effective advertising medium out there?

Popular chain restaurants implement branded and customer-friendly pickup stations for easy and sanitary service.

Interior and Exterior Signage

Let your clients and customers know that you’re taking all of the recommended safety precautions. Do you have a pickup location designated at your facility? Is it outside and clearly marked? If it’s inside, do you have messaging and signage to ensure customers feel comfortable making the trip? Your storefront could probably use tear-drop style banners, sidewalk signs or hanging banners. This is probably the best time to update or upgrade your permanent signage to attract the right attention. Interiors may benefit from floor graphics to indicate waiting areas or standing banners to display new specials and information. The options are limitless, and best of all, prices vary based on exactly what you might need. There’s something for everyone. Take look through all of VSP Graphic Group’s simple signage offerings at the link below:

vspmarketinggraphicgroup.tradeshowcityusa.com

Nevertheless, now is the time to be creative, and we cherish these opportunities. Be vigilant, and don’t hesitate to ask for help. Reach out to us if there is anything we can do. VSP Graphic Group and our entire family send you our very best wishes of good health, prosperity, and community. #AmericaStrong