HOW TO IMPROVE YOUR FOOD MARKETING AND ACQUIRE NEW CUSTOMERS
The very first things to consider, according to Maria Paloschi of WPG web project, a web agency targeting websites and communication in the catering industry, are social media, given that as many as 75% of people seek information via the social channels before attending and/or placing a booking with a specific venue.
The main channels available are:
- Facebook,
- Instagram,
- Pinterest,
- Google My Business
These are the best social channels for a café, pastry shop or restaurant as they allow users to upload a wide range of up-to-date images of their sweet and savoury products.
However, it is worth dwelling a moment on Google My Business and, indeed, on Trip Advisor.
Google My Business and Trip Advisor are the main “places” where reviews about venues are collected. If customers can’t find a review for your venue, it will be harder to attract them and generate trust, which is why these two channels of communication should always:
- be handled with care, providing appropriate responses to each review
- have recent, eye-catching images of your products
- contain an overview of your menu.
This will significantly improve your customer engagement rate and result in a significant increase in bookings.
These two channels are the first port of call for anyone looking for information about your venue. Don’t forget to highlight your number on Google My Business and to set up a simple, online table booking system.
The venue’s website is also a key element of food marketing. This is another channel potential customers will peruse carefully, and, combined with social media marketing on the main social channels and SEO optimised content, makes up a complete package with which you can increase your online visibility and therefore enjoy the patronage of an increasing number of customers. Of course, you’ll have to rely on professionals for this kind of service. The key is: few but effectively targeted activities!
