The restaurant franchise industry has adopted a number of different techniques and strategies for weathering the economic turbulence over the last few years, all of which have allowed them to survive and flourish as we continue through 2023. It’s a testament to the robust nature of the restaurant franchise model, and one that St. Louis Bar & Grill has helped pioneer as we have expanded out of Canada during one of the most challenging economic climates in decades.
The industry has weathered the storm, and franchises are prepared to keep going despite an inflationary spiral and a less-than-stellar economic projection over the next five years. The key strategy involves adapting and overcoming, while paving the way for a glorious return to form once things settle down and get back to normal. In the meantime, existing and would-be St. Louis franchisees should take note of particular industry trends as they move forward, so they can be at the top of their game.
CONTACTLESS DELIVERY
The Covid-19 pandemic brought a new awareness to the hidden potentials of using contactless delivery methods to survive in an era of prolonged lockdown and social distancing measures. Doing so allowed restaurant franchises to capitalize on an entirely new delivery model, which proved quite successful with a frightened public eager to dine on a bit of comfort food. The strategy worked beautifully, blending the use of touchless payment methods and QR code menus with mobile wallet apps, curbside pickups and third-party delivery services.
Things are relatively back to normal, but restaurant franchises, including St. Louis, continue to maintain the use of contactless delivery as yet another means to satisfy our happy customers. The cost is negligible, the convenience is unparalleled, and the opportunity for growth is exemplary. Plus, it makes restaurant franchises look wonderful, especially if the food and service are great, and the delivery is prompt.
SMART RESTAURANT TECH
The integration of technology in the restaurant world is nothing new, and has been gaining steam since at least 2005. That technology has continued to refine itself over the years, eventually culminating in the widespread adoption of apps that allow restaurants to streamline operations and provide quicker and more efficient service. Nowadays, it’s practically a mainstay that refuses to go away, and for good reason.
Within the kitchen, this technology can provide a major boost to operational efficiency by reducing or eliminating human error. The more automated the order system is, the more clear and precise the kitchen and serving staff can be, allowing customers to receive food quicker, while drastically reducing mistakes.
Smart restaurant technology doesn’t just tighten up the overall efficiency of the kitchen; it can also fill gaps left by labor shortages. This tech can be used in the interim, or permanently, depending on the short or long-term goals of the restaurant. At the very least, it can take a huge amount of pressure off of kitchen and serving staff by automating orders and deliveries in a robust and convenient manner. That means better service, better food, and happier patrons.
RETHINKING BRAND LOYALTY
Everyone has their favorite restaurants they go to when they’re feeling hungry, or looking for a great night out. However, the smartest franchises know the value of building an even stronger rapport with their patrons as we move into a post-Covid world. Customer engagement and loyalty is a big thing, and it can have dramatic effects for first-time franchisees looking to accelerate their entrepreneurial goals, or experienced franchisees looking to maximize their profits.
These can take the form of loyalty programs and incentives, special deals, rewards and subscriptions, and that’s just scratching the surface. Beyond the obvious incentive structure is a simple truth – patrons return to restaurants that provide a great experience. The human factor is returning to the world of franchising, and that’s a good thing. Restaurant franchises have incentive to deliver the best food, drinks and service to their patrons, who in turn are more likely to recommend the restaurant to friends, family or co-workers through word-of-mouth, or social media reviews. All it takes is for franchisees to strive for the best at all times.
Smart franchisees also remember the importance of the community as it relates to their specific location. They aren’t just another company renting out a space and selling food. Rather, they’re an integral part of the community culture, and it pays to get involved. Whether it’s hosting birthday or corporate parties, getting involved in local events, or sponsoring noble causes, restaurant franchisees have a wealth of opportunities to build up their business, while feeling happy in knowing that they’re giving back to the community at large.
CONCLUSION
St. Louis Bar & Grill has a longstanding tradition of focusing on the best possible restaurant experience, and that has allowed us to remain at the forefront of new developments in the digital age. As a result, we have grown exponentially across Canada, while breaking new ground in the United States for the very first time. We’ve accomplished this despite the setbacks and challenges of the pandemic, and the economic turbulence that has followed in its wake.
We’re not going to stop, and neither should you! If you’re interested in joining the St. Louis franchisee family, there’s no better time than now. The opportunities are many, and our model helps entrepreneurs fast-track their franchisee goals, while being part of a culture revolving around fun, family and friends. What’s stopping you? Contact us today!
