In the restaurant business, we often hear numerous talk on acquiring new customers.
But what if I told you that the secret to growing your restaurant’s revenue doesn’t lie in attracting a never-ending stream of new faces, but rather in focusing on something more attainable—your existing customers?
By increasing the average spend per customer, you can see a significant boost to your bottom line without the high costs associated with marketing to new clientele.
Here are five proven strategies to increase average spend at your restaurant:
1. Upsell with Purpose
When it comes to increasing average spend, one of the most effective methods is upselling.
But it’s not just about pushing more expensive items onto customers; it’s about making thoughtful, relevant suggestions.
Train your servers to subtly recommend higher-margin items or pairings that elevate the dining experience.
For instance, if a guest orders a steak, suggest a wine pairing or offer a premium cut of meat. By doing so, you’re adding value while also increasing the total bill.
Upselling isn’t about being pushy—it’s about enhancing the experience and guiding guests towards the items they didn’t know they wanted.
Related: How Restaurant Upselling Can Increase Turnover
2. Introduce Limited-Time Offers and Specials
Create a sense of urgency and exclusivity with limited time offers or seasonal specials.
These items, especially if presented in a way that feels unique to the restaurant, often encourage customers to spend more.
For example, a seasonal cocktail or dessert can entice diners to treat themselves to something they wouldn’t normally order.
The key is to make these offerings appear special—something they won’t be able to get once the season ends. When customers feel like they’re part of something exclusive, they’re more likely to indulge and increase their spend.
3. Enhance the Dining Experience
People come to restaurants for more than just food; they come for an experience.
By enhancing the overall dining atmosphere, you encourage customers to stay longer, enjoy more, and ultimately spend more.
Consider introducing entertainment, special events, or a curated ambiance that sets your restaurant apart from the competition.
When customers feel like they’re getting more than just a meal, they’re more likely to order extra drinks, appetizers, or dessert, which significantly boosts their total spend.
Related: How to Elevate Your Restaurant Dining Experience
4. Offer a Loyalty Program
Loyalty programs are an excellent way to encourage repeat business while also increasing average spend.
By offering rewards based on the amount spent or the frequency of visits, you create an incentive for customers to spend more during each visit.
For example, for every 10 meals a customer purchases, they could earn a free appetizer or discount on their next meal.
The added bonus of earning something tangible can encourage customers to opt for larger meals or higher-end items to reach the reward threshold.
It’s a win-win for both your customers and your restaurant.
Related: Customer Loyalty Programs – How to Attract and Retain Customers
5. Leverage Technology to Personalize Offers
Using customer data and technology can help you tailor offers and experiences that will encourage higher spend.
Many restaurants use point-of-sale (POS) systems or customer relationship management (CRM) tools to track spending habits and preferences.
By analyzing this data, you can create personalized offers or promotions based on a customer’s past orders.
For instance, if a customer frequently orders a specific wine, offer them a discount or upgrade on a similar item next time.
Personalization makes customers feel valued, and when they feel special, they are more likely to splurge.
A final word…
While it’s easy to get caught up in the chase for new customers, the real opportunity lies within your current clientele.
By implementing a few strategic techniques, such as upselling, creating exclusive offers, enhancing the dining experience, offering loyalty rewards, and using data to personalize interactions, you can increase your average spend without having to constantly look for new patrons.
Focus on your existing customers and watch your restaurant’s revenue grow—one satisfied diner at a time.
Looking to streamline your restaurant operations and cut costs? Ideal Software offers state-of-the-art POS solutions designed specifically for the hospitality industry. Start saving today! Contact us now for info on IdealPOS
Ian Said, founder of Ideal Software, a software company specializing in PointOfSale and InventoryControl designed exclusively for the Hospitality industry. Follow him on X @costofsale and @Ideal_Software
