The New Year has just started, and people are looking for thoughtful, hassle-free gifts. That’s where your restaurant’s New Year gift vouchers come in! They’re not just a great way to boost your revenue—they also help you attract new customers and keep your regulars coming back.
Let’s explore some fun and practical ways to promote your New Year gift vouchers. Whether you’re a local curry house celebrated by the Curry Oscars or a restaurant proud of your Restaurant Awards, these tips will help make your vouchers the perfect New Year gift.
Why Should You Offer New Year Gift Vouchers?
Gift vouchers are a win-win for you and your customers. Here’s why:
- Spread the word about your restaurant: Every voucher sold is a chance to reach new diners.
- Encourage repeat visits: When customers use their vouchers, they will likely return.
- Boost cash flow: You get the money upfront, which is super helpful for those quieter months.
- Showcase your achievements: If you’ve snagged a food industry award, your vouchers carry that extra credibility.
Make gift vouchers part of your New Year plans, and you’ll set the stage for a thriving year ahead.
1. Make Your Vouchers Look Amazing
First impressions matter, right? Your gift vouchers should reflect the vibe of your restaurant. Think about:
- Adding your logo and branding.
- Highlighting your achievements like the Curry Oscars or Restaurant Awards.
- Being clear about the value and how to redeem them.
If your customers are tech-savvy, offer digital gift vouchers. They’re convenient, instant, and eco-friendly—a win all around!
2. Shout About It on Social Media
Social media is your best mate when it comes to spreading the word. Here’s how you can make your posts pop:
Get Festive
Post pictures and videos of your vouchers surrounded by New Year decorations. People love anything that feels celebratory.
Talk About Your Achievements
Mention your food industry awards in captions like, “Give the gift of award-winning dining this New Year!” It builds trust and shows off your credentials.
Run a Giveaway
Why not offer a free gift voucher in a fun competition? Ask followers to like, share, or comment on your post. It’s a simple way to boost engagement and reach more people.
3. Use Your Website
Your website is your 24/7 shopfront, so ensure it works for you. Here’s what to do:
Create a Special Page
Build a dedicated page for your gift vouchers and optimise it with keywords like:
- “Buy New Year gift vouchers online”
- “Award-winning restaurant gift vouchers”
- “Curry Oscars restaurant gifts”
Make the page clear, simple, and full of calls to action like “Get Yours Now.”
Add Pop-Ups or Banners
Pop-ups might sound annoying, but they work! Use them on your homepage or menu page to say something like, “Give the gift of amazing food this New Year!”
4. Send Out Emails
Don’t let your email list go to waste. Send out friendly, engaging emails that:
- Show how easy and thoughtful gift vouchers are.
- Mention your awards, like the Restaurant Awards, to add credibility.
- Offer special discounts for early birds, like “10% off if you buy before Christmas!”
Personalise Your Emails
Make your emails feel personal. For example:
- To regular customers: “Share your favourite dining experience with a gift voucher!”
- To one-time event customers: “Loved your last visit? Give the same joy to someone special.”
5. Work with Local Influencers
Influencers can work wonders for your marketing. Here’s how to make it happen:
- Find food bloggers or local influencers who love dining out.
- Ask them to share their experience at your restaurant and mention your vouchers.
- Highlight your achievements, like any food industry awards, in their posts.
Pick influencers whose audience matches your target customers. It’s all about getting the right eyes on your vouchers.
6. Promote Inside Your Restaurant
Your current diners are the easiest audience to convert. Try these simple ideas:
- Table Displays: Place small, attractive signs on tables promoting your gift vouchers.
- Staff Recommendations: Encourage your staff to casually mention vouchers when chatting with diners or presenting the bill.
- Receipt Messages: Add a note like, “Gift vouchers available now!” to your printed or digital receipts.
7. Team Up with Local Businesses
Teamwork makes the dream work! Partner with nearby businesses, such as:
- Gift shops: Bundle your vouchers with their products.
- Event planners: Include vouchers in party packages.
- Fitness centres: Offer vouchers as rewards or as part of wellness packages.
Don’t forget to mention your Restaurant Awards during these collaborations—it’s a great trust-builder.
8. Get Some Press Coverage
A press release can do wonders. Share news about your gift vouchers, especially if you’ve earned recognition like the Curry Oscars. Include:
- What makes your vouchers special.
- A quote from you about why they’re the perfect gift.
- Your restaurant’s achievements in food industry awards.
Send your release to local papers, food blogs, and online magazines to get the word out.
9. Add Limited-Time Offers
Create urgency to drive sales. Some ideas include:
- Bonus Vouchers: “Buy a £50 voucher, get a £10 voucher free!”
- Early Bird Discounts: “20% off if you buy before 31st January.”
- First Buyer Perks: “First 20 customers get a free dessert voucher!”
10. Share Customer Reviews
People trust other people. Encourage customers to leave reviews after using your vouchers. Share their kind words on your website and social media, especially if they mention your awards, like the Curry Oscars.
Wrapping It Up
Promoting New Year gift vouchers doesn’t have to be complicated. With some creativity, smart marketing, and a sprinkle of your restaurant’s unique charm, you can make your vouchers the hottest gift in town.
Start today, and turn this New Year into a celebration of success for your restaurant!
