As we increasingly move towards a more “normal” life, it is important to consider what your café or restaurant should focus on as you enter the summer season. With this in mind, let’s take a look at how your business can be successful this summer.
Walk Up and Carryout Business
With this in mind, one of the best things you can do is increase staffing as needed. While this has been particularly difficult in the restaurant industry recently, any help – even part-time – will make a difference. Also make sure you have enough supplies on hand such as branded carryout containers, carryout bags, and custom safety seals.

Outdoor Festivals and Events
While the numbers may be limited, it seems increasingly likely that there will be outdoor festivals and events this summer. A good sign is the fact that even some large-scale outdoor music festivals like Bonnaroo and Lollapalooza are expected to go forward. It’s likely that many smaller, community-oriented festivals and events will take place as well.
Consider experimenting with special menus for events. Maybe feature a refreshing cocktail or create a special item that blends with the festival theme. This is a great way to draw in business and will provide additional variety for your regular customers. Looking at industry trends can help fuel your creative aspirations.
Open-Air Markets

Taking advantage of open-air markets as a vendor is a great way to introduce your business to customers that may not see your typical advertising. This can land repeat customers while serving as an option to increase your immediate revenue stream. With farmer’s markets often occurring weekly, participation can be easier than organizing simply for a once a year festival.
Outdoor Seating
If you’re wondering how you can enhance your outdoor seating, here are a few tips. First, ensure that your layout allows customers and staff to easily navigate the floor plan. Secondly, ensure that the atmosphere you create reflects your brand. Enhancing outdoor aesthetics will greatly improve the customer experience.

Summer Seasonal Businesses
If you operate a seasonal summer business, you are undoubtedly excited to see your customers again. For this type of business, planning to make the most of the summer season is even more important. Fortunately, there are a number of things you can do to be successful.

Another important aspect of establishing success this summer involves your current staff. Get them excited about their work while focusing on instilling how to best represent your brand in the service provided. Employee enthusiasm blending with customer excitement will be a win-win situation for everyone. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, be sure to inventory your supplies and ensure you are well-stocked throughout the season.