As fall approaches, make the most of the month with by tapping into events, holidays and special celebrations both expected (football season) and unexpected (National Singles Week).
To take advantage of the football fanfare about to begin, check out In Season, a new feature from Nightclub & Bar that showcases successful operator and supplier programs for NFL and college football season, here.
Beyond football, your guests will appreciate the creativity — and value — you can deliver with promotions built around these events suggested by Patrick Henry Creative Promotions:
Sept. 1-30 – National Organic Harvest Month
September is “National Organic Harvest Month.” Many food-and-beverage partners offer a variety of organic items. Tap into the feel-good theme by featuring organic wines and cocktails made with organic spirits and ingredients, or host a dinner pairing organic fare with organic libations.
Sept. 10 – Kick-off of Regular NFL Season
If football viewing parties are part of your marketing plan, add value to game days by providing specials on stadium-style munchies and draft beers. Target Fantasy Football leagues and team fan clubs and provide reserved seating and appetizers for their groups. Tie in local retailers to give away items such as sporting goods gift cards, recliners, ice chests, grills and more. If space allows, acquire permits to promote tailgating parties with outdoor beer booths and smoked BBQ. Host a burger-eating contest and award the winner with tickets to see a professional game.
Sept. 20-26 – National Singles Week
One of the main reasons guests visit bars and nightclubs is to mix and mingle with other singles. Partner with a national online dating service, local matchmaking company or “Five Minute Dating” to invite singles to make a connection at your establishment during this week that is dedicated to them. Book popular morning show DJs from the top-ranked radio station to host your event and talk about “hook ups” on their show. Provide “Date Night” prizes such as dinner for two, movie tickets, limousine service, gift cards to a hot fashion retailer, brunch for two, concert tickets and more.
Sept. 20-26 – Great American Dine Out
Share Our Strength, a national organization founded in 1984 that works to ensure no child in America goes hungry, is promoting the one-week “Great American Dine Out,” Sept. 20-26. The event is designed to engage every segment of the restaurant industry and participation is flexible; operators can get involved in ways that best fit their their businesses. Examples include donating a percentage of sales, promoting and donating proceeds from a specific menu category or signature item and tying in the Great American Dine Out with a menu promotion. Restaurants have access to a multitude of support materials by registering online at www.greatamericandineout.org.