I worked for a consulting firm that consulted for local restaurants during and after the 2008 financial meltdown. This thread will discuss how customer habits changed so this could be a possible guide as to what owners can expect in the future as the economy restarts.
1/6

The biggest shift we saw was couples splitting an entree for dinner. Money was tight but people still want to visit restaurants. They will split a dish and still enjoy the dining experience. Maybe think about adding a "Big enough for two" section to your menu.
2/6

Customers will also order less drinks that cost money and mire glasses of water. Think about suggestive selling for drinks and offering enticements like free refills or a to go cup after the meal.
3/6

Customers love to know the exact cost of what they will spend. The chains do two entrees for $20 and other price fix specials. This taxes away check delivery anxiety.
4/6

The best service will win in a down economy. If the lines outside of @ChickfilA should tell you this. Up your service to another level. Make sure all servers are polite, well trained, and have a great attitude. Now is not the time for bad reviews and non returning customers.
5/6

Next thread will be ideas that I think will put your restaurant above your competition in the mind of your customers when things get back to some level of normal.
6/6 #restaurantindustry #localbusiness #Covid_19