Boost Your HoReCa Business: Creative Marketing Ideas for Hot Summer!

Summer is a vibrant time, bustling with tourists and locals eager to enjoy the warm weather, long days, and outdoor activities. For the HoReCa industry (hotels, restaurants, cafes), it’s a season that offers a golden opportunity to attract new customers and increase turnover. To stand out in a competitive market, you need a blend of unique and traditional marketing strategies. Here are some creative selling ideas to help your HoReCa business thrive during the summer.

Organize Themed Events and Festivals

Host events that capture the spirit of summer. These could include:

• Beer and Food Festivals: Celebrate lockal culture with a modern twist. Invite local breweries and local food makers to set up stalls in your establishment.
• Music Nights: Host live music events featuring local bands or DJs. Consider themed nights like 80s Disco, Jazz Evenings, or local Folk Music.
• Outdoor Movie Nights: Set up a projector and screen for outdoor movie screenings. Provide cozy seating with bean bags and blankets, and offer snacks and drinks.

Collaborate with Local Influencers

Influencers can help you reach a wider audience and add a personal touch to your marketing efforts. Partner with local food bloggers, travel influencers, and lifestyle influencers to promote your business. They can:

• Share their experiences at your venue on social media.
• Create engaging content, such as blog posts, Instagram stories, and YouTube vlogs.
• Organize contests and giveaways to attract their followers to your establishment.

Seasonal Menus and Signature Cocktails as a selling idea

Summer calls for light, refreshing, and colorful dishes. Create a special summer menu that includes:

• Fresh salads and grilled dishes: Utilize seasonal produce to create light and healthy options.
• Signature cocktails: Offer unique cocktails with summer fruits and herbs. Think watermelon mojitos, cooling cucumber gins, or lavender lemonade.
• Ice creams and sorbets: Homemade ice creams and sorbets can be a big hit. Experiment with unique flavors like elderberry, beetroot, or sea buckthorn.

Outdoor Seating Areas and Temporary Patios

Take advantage of the beautiful weather by expanding your outdoor seating options:

• Temporary patios: Set up a temporary patio outside your cafe or restaurant. Use attractive, comfortable furniture and plenty of greenery.
• Rooftop bars: If space permits, open a rooftop bar. Offer great views and a special rooftop menu.
• Street Food Stalls: Collaborate with local street food vendors to create a mini food market. This can attract passers-by and create a lively atmosphere.

Environmental Initiatives

Appeal to environmentally-conscious customers by implementing eco-friendly practices:

• Plastic-free options: Use biodegradable or reusable cutlery, straws, and packaging.
• Farm-to-table: Source ingredients locally, supporting local farmers, and reducing your carbon footprint.
• Green campaigns: Organize clean-up drives or tree-planting initiatives. Offer discounts to customers who participate.

Community Engagement

Strengthen ties with the local community through various initiatives:

• Charity events: Host fundraising dinners or charity auctions. Partner with local charitable organizations and donate a portion of the profits.
• Cooking classes and workshops: Offer classes on traditional cooking, baking, or mixology. This not only attracts customers but also creates lasting memories.
• Collaboration with local artists: Showcase artworks by local artists in your establishment. This adds a unique character and supports the local art scene.

Utilize Technology

Use technology to enhance customer experiences and streamline operations:

• Mobile ordering and reservations: Implement a mobile ordering and reservation system. This is particularly useful for outdoor seating and events.
• Guest Wi-Fi marketing platform: Free Wi-Fi is a must-have; guest Wi-Fi with a password is a hassle. Modern technologies allow for password-free secure networks and can be used to enhance brand awareness and promote upcoming events.
• Virtual tours: Offer virtual tours of your venue on your website and social media. This can attract tourists planning a visit.
• Social Media Campaigns: Run engaging social media campaigns. Use hashtags, share user-generated content, and organize contests to maintain audience interest.

Traditional Marketing with Class

Don’t overlook the power of traditional marketing strategies:

• Flyers and posters: Distribute flyers and hang posters in high-traffic areas. Highlight your summer offers and events.
• Local media: Advertise in local newspapers, magazines, and radio stations. Send press releases about your summer activities and special offers.
• Loyalty programs: Reward loyal customers with a summer loyalty program. Offer discounts, free items, or exclusive event invitations.
• Direct Marketing: Build a guest database to promote events and new menus through email and SMS marketing. Remember, personalization is key to success.

Summary

Summer is the perfect time for the HoReCa sector to shine. By combining creative marketing ideas with traditional marketing strategies, you can attract more customers, create unforgettable experiences, and increase your turnover. Approach the season with enthusiasm and watch as your venue becomes a favorite spot for summer gatherings.

Contact Smart Wi-Fi to discover how powerful and affordable Wi-Fi marketing can be for your business.