The COVID-19 pandemic has delivered a significant blow to the restaurant industry that can be seen in nearly every sector. A report has shown declines in revenue of an average 45 percent, with more severe effects felt for many sectors, such as up to 85 percent at fine dining restaurants.
Continuing to function during the pandemic has required restaurants and cafes to adjust on the fly and engage in unique advertising and service options in order to keep customer orders coming in. While the increasing availability of vaccines serves as hope that the light at the end of the tunnel may be within sight, the reality is that restaurants will have to continue to evolve post-COVID. Let’s take a look at some of the ways you can help your restaurant thrive after the pandemic.
1. Invest in Takeout & Delivery
Post-COVID restaurants can also get creative with their take home offerings. COVID has made cooking at home popular again. Take advantage of this trend by creating meal kits for your customers. This lets your customers make their favorite restaurant quality meals right at home with your ingredients, providing an additional revenue source.

2. Micro-Target and Engage on Social Media
Fortunately, social media provides a wealth of opportunities to better engage your customers. One method is micro-targeting. Social media networks allow for hyper-targeted advertising enabling you to get your restaurant in front of an optimal demographic.
Additionally, social media presents many opportunities to enhance your brand by touching base with customers. Consider hosting a live cooking class on YouTube or Facebook Live. Host a viral competition where patrons try to create your signature dishes at home. There are so many ways to distinguish yourself.
3. Remember to Say Thanks

There are plenty of creative ways to let your customers know you appreciate them. Effectively doing this can keep them coming back time and again.
4. Put Your Best Pic Forward
Food is incredibly visual, and one effective way to tempt your customers is to capture aesthetically pleasing and tasty food pics. Instagram is an excellent place to show off your top creations and specials.
5. Over Communicate
Finally, push new menu items in the same way. With some customers likely to continue to opt for takeout or delivery, highlighting specials and new additions to your menu via your social media channels is important for helping boost sales.
Final Thoughts