Boost January Sales With These 5 Fun Promotions

No one wants to stop celebrating on January 2nd. There are several reasons to kick up sales while guests celebrate during the busy season.

Data from the National Restaurant Association shows more than 1 in 3 restaurateurs said their business was not profitable in recent years. More than 4 in 10 say industry competition is increasing.

But it seems like advertising switches over to resolutions, diet plans, and back-to-business themes everywhere we turn in the new year.

It’s as if consumers are encouraged to pay for their holiday sins and overcompensate for letting loose in the previous months. Well, they’ve paid enough, and it’s up to restaurants, hotels, bars, and pubs to make the most of the season of celebration.

Give guests the freedom to celebrate in January. Here are a few ways to let them know the holiday fun (and spending) doesn’t stop just because the calendar says it should.

Continue serving holiday specials

Why must the gingerbread lattes and roast turkeys cease to exist come January? Don’t stop serving crowd favorites. Extend holiday specials all month long and watch as guests come to enjoy what they wait all year for. Now, they can wait less in between homemade favorites and fall spices. After all, it’s still winter. Keep that hot cocoa coming.

Host a “Second Holiday” party

Host and promote a sequel holiday party that embraces the winter season. Themes are always fun, especially in colder climates. Provide ambiance like faux (or real) fireplaces and tinsel galore. Guests will love the opportunity to celebrate – again. What about those who were ill or missed get-togethers because of canceled flights? Now they have a chance to enjoy the holiday all over again.

Offer a discount for a resolution

The New Year’s resolution may feel played out, but when it’s rewarded with a discount, guests can’t resist. Create a resolution station where guests can write down their hopes for the coming year and then display the best of the best. Not only does this create a sense of community and a nice personal touch, but it also inspires guests to come back. Deals can range from free desserts to a grand prize one-night resort stay.

Update your website and social media

Does your online presence need a revamp? This may not sound fun, but ensuring your internet persona aligns with your brand vision is integral to the guest experience. Add components that enhance the user experience. Create contests on social media so guests can post about their positive experiences with a photo and caption or create an original hashtag.

Establish your own holiday

Make it your company’s day to celebrate – you! Employees can get in on the fun and help plan the festivities. Feature trademark dishes or create brand-new drinks. Shine a spotlight on this unknown holiday, especially if it’s your first time celebrating: Social media will be a must. Hire a DJ or utilize a music-loving employee. Go all out with decor specific to your brand (be consistent with color, font, and logos). Does your company have a mascot? They can make a surprise cameo, pleasing guests while showing major company pride.

January is a great opportunity to satisfy guests who don’t want to end the holiday season. Guests will more likely enjoy the winter-like summer break if you keep up the fun, celebratory energy.

The holidays are what we make it. People seek joy and togetherness all year round, not just in November and December. Keep the holiday magic in the air and make January the hottest month.