Q: The question today is what can a single unit operator in a small city offer as rewards? Are there examples of other casual restaurants that offer non-discount type rewards? Have they been successful with such a program?
A: The answer is; They are absolutely successful!
In fact it is almost easier in a smaller community to do so, simply because you are already part of a community.
What I always recommend is that you belong to the Chambers of Commerce in your market, then leverage those relationships to creatively package goods and services from those businesses. It becomes a huge win-win for everyone involved as well as helping defray costs across the number of participating businesses – this includes printing and distribution. No Chamber? Just approach those businesses that your guests will receive a “value benefit’ from and use them to create rewards. This practically becomes a cross-promotional program that drives business for all involved.
Also, too many operators get caught up in trying to create a huge inventory of “rewards†when all you really need to do is understand from your guests, what it is that they value and then provide it for them. This could be many items or it could not be. It will depend on the feedback you get from your guests and more importantly hinge on your ability to develop relationships with them in the first place.
Stick to creating and executing on value for every guest in every program and you can never fail.
You must be logged in to post a comment.