How To Boost Lunch Sales

Boosting lunchtime traffic is an effective way to increase restaurant sales. In fact, a recent study suggests that 90 percent of Americans buy restaurant lunches instead of packing their own. Within that 90 percent, 63 percent grab their midday grub from nearby restaurants. Tapping into that potential revenue stream is an excellent way for establishments to keep profits up and create a lasting customer base. 

Innovative Ways to Serve the Lunch Rush Crowd

The first step to bringing in more business is getting to know your neighborhood and customers. Are you close to a residential area or in the center of the bustling business district? Is your establishment out of the way or near busy streets? Do you have a large dining room perfect for corporate group luncheons, or is your old-school diner perfect for single patrons looking for a fast meal? Your layout and proximity to your lunchtime customer base can help drive your marketing strategies. With that in mind, here are 3 ways to increase customer traffic based on your unique situation:

1. Offer an Irresistible Lunch Special

Solo diners in a hurry to have a great meal during their limited break love a simple and cost-effective option that a daily special can provide. What makes a lunch special so popular is its perceived price break while offering something that feels special. The key here is to provide guests with one or two choices that change daily. Repeat customers can try something new every day and you can base menu specials around product availability and cost.

When looking at special menu item prices, it’s important to remember you want to give your customer a good deal, but not to the detriment of profit. Keep in mind portion sizes to help meet ideal food costs. Whenever possible, use bulk wholesale meat and seafood, like beef chuck roll and bone-in chicken to provide excellent flavor at cost-effective prices.

2. Consider Discounts for Groups

Businesses often host off-site lunch meetings or treat coworkers to birthday lunches. To entice companies in your area to use your restaurant as their next meeting space, offer discounts for group meals. You can develop a special prix-fixe menu just for them that makes it easy for your kitchen to prepare and allows you to get the food out right away without waiting for guests to order. Not only will this increase your lunch crowd, but it’s also a great way to reach potential new customers too.

3. Make Delivery and Takeout Effortless

Not everyone has the time to sit down and enjoy a quick lunch. Factors like traffic, parking, errands, etc., can cut into a person’s lunch hour, so many prefer to grab their meal to go. Tap into curbside and delivery income by streamlining your takeout menus and services:

• Utilize technology, like mobile ordering, to help guests order in advance and pick up at their convenience. 
• Design your own deli
• Delivery service that delivers lunch to businesses in the area. 
• Create a pared-down takeout menu that allows for a fast turnaround, ease of travel, and optimizes food costs.

You can also construct a quick grab-and-go section in the lobby of your restaurant with pre-packed meals. Double down on boosting your base by utilizing and promoting eco-friendly packaging, which has become a major selling point for the modern consumer.

Execute an Impeccable Lunch Menu and Save on Costs with Bulk Supplies

US Foods CHEF’STORE is your one-stop shop for all your lunch menu needs. We offer high-quality products at competitive prices, so you can create masterful dishes without complicating your food costs. We also stock sustainable to-go packaging, paper goods, and more! Stop by one of our locations today for all your restaurant essentials.