Social Media and technology are powerful bottom-line catalysts for restaurant businesses. Restaurants have always been a big part of our social life and social media is an essential part of how we communicate and share experiences. It should be no surprise that social media also significantly impacts the restaurant industry. Here’s how restaurants can use social media and technology to boost sales.
The Importance of Social Media for Restaurants
The restaurant industry has always been competitive. To stand out from the crowd, restaurants need to offer something unique that will appeal to customers. Social media can create a more engaging and interactive experience for customers. For example, many restaurants now use social media to post photos and videos of menu items. This helps potential customers see what the restaurant offers and makes them more likely to visit.
In addition, social media can be used to build relationships with customers. By interacting with customers on social media, restaurants can create a sense of loyalty and connection. Customers are also more likely to share positive experiences with friends and family members if they feel a personal connection to the restaurant.
Social media also allows restaurants to tap into new markets and grow their customer base. For a restaurant owner, traffic to their website or social media account is vital. Tracking these analytics is an effective way to ensure that the right strategies are in place. (Total Food Service, 2019)
According to a recent survey, more than 8 out of 10 restaurant owners already use or plan to use social media as a crucial marketing tool. Social media can be used to quickly establish a positive online reputation, something that would otherwise take months or years. When done well, these strategies can result in increased sales and profits. (Rathi, 2022)
How Technology Impacts Restaurant Sales
The use of technology can have a massive impact on creating a positive customer experience. Technology can be used to streamline the ordering and payment process. This is especially important for busy restaurants that need to move customers quickly through the ordering and order fulfillment process. Many restaurants now use online ordering systems that allow customers to place their orders in advance. This helps reduce wait times and makes the dining experience more efficient.
Technology can also be used to boost sales from existing customers. For example, many restaurants offer loyalty programs with discounts or points for every purchase. These programs can be accessed via a smartphone app or card, making it easy for customers to take advantage of the benefits.
In addition, restaurants can use technology to upsell customers on additional items. For example, some online ordering systems allow restaurants to suggest add-ons or side dishes based on the customer’s order. This can help increase the average order size and boost overall sales.
How Can Restaurants Adopt Technology Strategies?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Every restaurant is different and will need to tailor its tech strategy to fit its specific needs and goals.
According to a 2020 survey, drive-through availability and contactless mobile payment were essential technologies for restaurant guests in the United States. However, a few general tips can help any restaurant get started.
It’s vital to choose the right technology for your restaurant. There are many different options available, so it’s essential to do your research and select the tools that will work best for you. Once you’ve chosen the right technology, it’s crucial to implement it in the most effective way for your business. Make sure to consider your budget as well as the needs of your customers when making your decision.
Keeping up with the latest trends will help you identify new opportunities to use technology to boost sales. This can help you stay ahead of your competition and ensure that your restaurant always provides the best possible experience for its customers.
The bottom line is that social media and technology can be powerful tools for restaurants looking to boost sales. By using these tools, restaurants can create a more engaging and interactive customer experience, build customer relationships, streamline the ordering and payment process and save on marketing and advertising costs. With the right strategy, social media and technology can help any restaurant stand out from the competition and attract new business.
Are You Ready to Adopt the Right Tech Strategies for Your Restaurant?
When it comes to technology, Business Sound and Communications is your technology resource for a heightened customer experience providing personalization and convenience. We are family owned and operated and have served Houston and surrounding areas for over 25 years. This gives us a competitive edge in sales and service of drive-thru communications, digital menu boards, POS systems, timers, scent marketing, surveillance equipment, and more.
We are a long-term solution for drive-thru operations, quick-serve restaurants, fine dining, and hospitality industry businesses. We are here to help your operations run efficiently, accurately, and timely, resulting in delighted customers. Brands we represent are Panasonic, HME, PAR, MoodMedia, and ICRealtime. You can call us at (281) 590-3400.
Works Cited
Total Food Service. “5 Reasons Why Restaurants Should Care about Social Media Presence.” Total Food Service, 29 Apr. 2019,
totalfood.com/5-reasons-restaurants-social-media-presence/.
Rathi, Amaiya. “14 Effective Social Media Marketing Tips for Food Industry in 2022.” RecurPost, 20 Aug. 2022,
recurpost.com/blog/food-marketing-strategy/.
