The average LTO can boost sales by 20 percent. And 81 percent of consumers are more likely to visit a restaurant with LTOs.
People hate to miss out on something — especially food lovers. Throughout spring, restaurants can optimize that feeling with creative limited-time offers. They are a low-risk way to introduce new items while driving traffic, boosting sales, creating brand buzz, and excitement. To stand out from the competition, we’ve put together this spring playbook to level up your LTO game.
Easter Experiments
Guests want more than just good food and great service. Turn your LTOs into an Easter experience. Try a build-your-own charcuterie or nacho board, or a sampling of international spices/sauces are all easy and fun LTO options. Stealth Fries® Potato Dippers® with a trio of dips like harissa aioli, wasabi ranch, and honey BBQ is a perfect Easter treat for the kids. Mini dessert parfaits would also be an eye-catching, yet cost-effective option.
Center-of-Plate
COP can be a tricky proposition for the LTO. Don’t try to be everything to everyone. Look at current and emerging trends, what fellow independent restaurants are doing and how your core business can fit into that. Keep your target demographic in mind with LTOs that reflect your brand.
Burgers and pizza are where consumers are most comfortable trying something new (55% and 64%). Consider testing out a new burger with Asian flare or a Tex-Mex patty with a side of Seasoned® Seashore-Style® Flats Skin-On fries. Pizza places can easily introduce an LTO with a “pie of the day” featuring seasonal ingredients or trending flavors like chili crisp, togarashi, and garam masala.
Brag About It
Social media is your best friend for spreading the word on LTOs. A hi-res photo of a vibrant Easter cocktail, sports team-themed app, or pretty much any dessert will draw guests into your business. Add in a “while supplies last” or “first come first serve” to the caption and you’ve got a recipe for LTO success that doesn’t cost you a dime. Partnering with influencers, bloggers, or local small business owners can also help maximize your LTO marketing while minimizing costs.
LTO To-Go
While dine-in guests are more likely to order LTOs apps and desserts, off-premise is here to stay, so ensure your LTOs can travel well. Consider adding Crispy on Delivery™ Fries, which are great for delivery/takeout for people to build their own and can be tacked onto orders easily. Test out new desserts like a slice of cake, pie, or cookies with your brand logo on it at a discounted price to encourage customers to add to their orders.
ROI
This is the most crucial part of the strategy. Measuring the success of your LTOs to see what works and what doesn’t is vital to your marketing plan and bottom line. Tracking sales is hugely important, so be sure to measure spikes in traffic from new diners, frequency from regular customers, customer surveys, social media feedback and impressions, and reviews to gauge success.
