How to attract customers to your venue

As you put the finishing touches on your café, from the chic decor to the tantalising menu, you're likely pondering a critical question:

How will you draw more people through your doors?

The truth is, there’s no single way to boost foot traffic, but there are a few constants all new café owners must understand before opening up their doors.

In this guide, we look at some of the simple, effective ways you can transform your café into a bustling hub that keeps your customers coming back.

 

Consistency

In the recent HubSpot Customer Service Report, nearly half of Australian customers said they have stopped their relationship with a brand due to poor customer experience over the past year.

From day one, it’s crucial to set your standards high and consistently maintain them across every aspect of your café. This includes:

• Spotless dining and work spaces.
• Uniform dish sizes and flavours.
• Quick, spot-on service times.
• Friendly, helpful staff.

Before you open, define what stellar service means at your café. Write it down as your gold standard and use it to regularly gauge your performance. If things start to slide, you'll know it's time for a tune-up. Remember, consistency isn’t just nice to have – it’s a must.

Customers come back because they know they can count on the same great experience every visit.

 

Staff

Great staff transform a café visit into a memorable experience. It’s not just about having skilled chefs; it’s the friendly team that makes your café stand out. They clarify the menu, smooth out the service, and bring warmth to every interaction. With the right staff, you can also build loyalty and long term connections with customers, something we’ve seen really take hold over at our friends and SilverChef Ambassadors, JAX Burger Shack  as they began their new restaurant venture.

Focus on hiring for attitude as well as skill. Look for team members who are naturally patient and eager to please, because they turn good service into an unforgettable visit.

Remember, good vibes spread fast; when customers feel cared for, they'll not only return, they'll bring friends.

 

Value

Creating a little extra value for customers can go a long way for your café.

Got some extra or unique seasonal ingredients? Turn them into a one-off special that surprises your guests and keeps inventory moving.

How about a loyalty program? With 91% of Australians being part of at least one loyalty program, these programs make regulars feel valued and reward them for something they love – dropping by your café. Something as simple as a coffee card (buy five, get one free) can keep your customers happy and coming back.

And don’t miss out on celebrating special occasions. Use a customer database to remember birthdays and other milestones, then send personalised offers. It’s a thoughtful touch that turns visits into celebrations, creating memorable experiences and strengthening the relationship between you and your amazing customers.

 

Marketing

Thanks to online channels and social media, marketing is more precise and effective than ever before.

Are you hanging out on the same platforms as your target market? If your café sits in a family-centric neighbourhood, make sure your ads aren’t shouting youth slang. Speak directly to the folks you want in your seats.

Staying sharp with online trends and visuals will also come in handy. Why not whet appetites with a slick, on-brand Instagram feed? With almost 12 million active Instagram users in Australia, a professional photoshoot of your menu and space can do wonders.

Remember, your online presence is often your first impression – make it count!

 

Storytelling 

Customers are drawn to your café for reasons that can be as simple as a mouthwatering photo on Instagram or as deep as your commitment to sustainability. To strengthen this connection, it's all about sharing your brand's story.

Use every channel – your website, social media, your team, and your café's vibe – to tell who you are and what you stand for. Why this cuisine? Who are the wizards in the kitchen? What values guide your service?

A strong brand story not only attracts first-timers but also turns them into regulars. Let your story be the reason they choose you again and again.

 

Convenience & customisation

How can you make the customer experience seamless?

How flexible is your menu for dietary needs or budget constraints?

It’ll take some time, but addressing these questions widens your appeal, attracting more patrons.

In the crowded hospitality scene, it's crucial to develop a brand that stands out as both welcoming and innovative. Once you draw in new customers, the next step is to turn them into regulars. Stay creative and keep your ear to the ground in your community. Understanding local preferences helps you stay relevant and beloved in your neighbourhood.

 

Ready to turn your dream café into a reality? With SilverChef’s flexible hospitality financing options, you can make it happen.