Increasing Restaurant Profitability During a Pandemic?!

As the pandemic continues, it is no secret that the restaurant industry has been severely impacted by limitations, challenges, and changes. More than 110,000 eating and drinking establishments were forced to close temporarily or permanently last year due to COVID-19. Now more than ever it is crucial that restaurants focus on what can make them most profitable during these uncertain times. So what can restaurants do to assure they are achieving maximum profitability?

1. Takeout/Delivery Options

First and foremost, takeout and delivery options should be prioritized during this time when eat-in options and/or capacity may be limited. Make the window for ordering as wide as possible. If it is not offered already, consider implementing online order options for convenience directly through the company website. Try to prevent profit splitting with delivery services such as GrubHub, DoorDash etc. If your restaurant does not already offer takeout/delivery services, incorporating these could definitely help turn a profit.

2. Revamp the Menu

This is a great time to focus on what menu items are most popular and what items could be removed to help cut costs and help budgets. Try offering dishes with similar ingredients to limit the variety of inventory needed. Also advertising new menu items could help bring more customers in, which brings us to our next tip…

3. Social Media

Social media is a great way to stay connected with your loyal customers and attract new customers as well. This is a great way to communicate any changes or modifications your restaurant may be making (hours, menu items, cleaning protocols, dining options). You can make customers excited about new menu items or hype up existing ones on social media. Keep your website updated and your online presence strong.

4. Cut Costs

Focus on ways to overall cut costs-- but not quality. As previously mentioned, take a look at menu items and ingredients that may not be necessary. Ask if plastic utensils are needed before automatically including them in takeout orders. Look for ways that electricity could be less utilized around the restaurant. Every dollar saved can be valuable.

While it can be challenging, many restaurants have found ways to survive and even become very profitable during these times. Alpha Data Strategies encourages you to stay flexible, continue to make data-driven decisions, and achieve your maximum profitability. Don’t forget, we’re always here to help! Contact us at info@alphadatastrategies.com.