Gift cards are a powerful marketing tool for restaurants. As the holidays approach, they present an opportunity to drive revenue, attract new customers, and deepen loyalty with your existing guests.
Offer a Bonus Incentive
Entice your customers to buy gift cards by sweetening the deal. A “buy a $50 gift card, get a $10 bonus card” promotion is a proven way to increase sales during the holiday season. Bonus cards can have shorter expiration dates, encouraging recipients to redeem them quickly and return as paying customers.
Make Them Visible
Out of sight, out of mind! Place your gift cards where customers can’t miss them—by the register, on your website’s homepage, and even at the bottom of your receipts. Eye-catching displays with holiday-themed designs can make them irresistible.
Go Digital
Physical gift cards are great, but digital options are a must in today’s convenience-driven market. Promote e-gift cards on your social media channels and email campaigns. Include a quick link for customers to purchase directly—it’s perfect for last-minute shoppers.
Collaborate with Influencers
Work with local influencers to highlight your gift cards. Ask them to create fun, shareable content showing off the benefits of your restaurant and why a gift card is the perfect present for foodies in their lives.
Highlight the Versatility
Remind customers that your gift cards aren’t just for dining in. They can be used for takeout, delivery, or even catering services. The more ways they can use it, the more appealing the gift becomes.
Create Exclusive Experiences
Pair gift card purchases with unique dining experiences. For example, sell a $100 gift card and include an invite to an exclusive chef’s tasting menu or a behind-the-scenes kitchen tour. Experiences like these add a personal touch that recipients will love.
Leverage Social Media
Run a holiday giveaway featuring your gift cards as prizes. Use engaging posts like “Tag a friend who loves our [signature dish] and enter to win a $25 gift card!” This not only increases engagement but also builds excitement around your brand.
Partner with Local Businesses
Team up with nearby shops or events to bundle your gift cards with other products or services. A “dinner and a movie” package or “brunch and a spa day” offer can attract a broader audience.
Train Your Team
Your staff are your best salespeople. Train them to mention gift cards during every customer interaction, from taking reservations to dropping off checks. Empower them with talking points about promotions or benefits to spark interest.
Promote Year-Round
Gift cards aren’t just for the holidays. Use targeted campaigns for birthdays, graduations, and other milestones to keep sales strong throughout the year.
Gift card marketing is a win-win strategy. It drives immediate revenue while bringing in new and returning customers. Plus, many gift card holders spend more than the card’s value when they redeem it—a bonus for your bottom line.
At EyeSpy, we’re here to help you implement these strategies and craft a marketing plan that works for your business. Let’s make this holiday season your most successful yet!
