The fireworks are over. The pumpkins have been packed away. The mince pies are in the shops …
Yes, it is officially time to mention the C-word. The Countdown to Christmas has well and truly started! After the difficulties and restrictions of the past couple of years, it feels as if we are all ready to celebrate once again and to really make the most of ‘The Most Wonderful Time of the Year’.
As the manager or owner of a pub, bar or restaurant, you’ll be especially aware of the importance of the next few weeks. Not only is Christmas a time of celebration, it is a critical trading time that has the potential to transform your bottom line.
We know you’ve been planning for this for months now, but in the spirit of giving, we’re sharing some of our top tips to get the most of the festive season in your hospitality business.
Deck the Halls
Take a look at your Christmas decorations. If they have seen better days it might be time to invest in some new ones. Places like The Range, B&M and Home Bargains have a great selection of affordable lights and decorations. Outdoor lights will make your venue look warm and inviting, and add a touch of sparkle that will really get your clientele into the Christmas spirit. And don’t forget the Christmas playlist – you might be sick of it by December 25th but your customers will love it.
Take Stock – of Everything
From wine glasses to napkins, menus to till rolls … make sure you have plenty of everything to see you through peak trading. If you have a new Christmas menu make sure you have no supply issues with any ingredients. Familiarise yourself with your suppliers’ delivery dates and holiday periods to make sure you don’t get caught out. Check whether your systems supplier provides out of hours support over the festive period (Langley Business Systems provides holiday support – just email: sales@langleybusinesssystems.co.uk).
‘Tis the Season to be Jolly
Use social media to have some fun in the build up to Christmas. Post seasonal pictures, funny memes, your new winter menu, pictures of Christmas cocktails … this a great way to communicate with your customers and engage with them during the holiday season. Perhaps run a competition, make a charitable donation or set up a visit from Santa for local children? Your customers will love it.
Promote Yourself
Are you holding any events over the festive season? Perhaps a Christmas or New Year Disco, or a music night? Make sure everyone knows about it. Use social media to keep everyone up to date, or create a Facebook event for people to join. Use local marketing tools such as https://guide2.co.uk/ to list your business or market your event for free on www.pinswarm.co.uk
Santa’s Little Helpers
If you have taken on seasonal staff, make sure they are well trained and can cope with the added pressure. Ensure you have plenty of staff available for peak periods, with back-ups if needed. Try and prepare as much as you can in advance – such as pre-ordering from the Christmas menu or ordering wine in advance.
Open All Hours?
Make sure you communicate your Christmas trading hours well in advance. Do you have any cut-off dates for Christmas orders? Are some events tickets only? When are you closed? You can share this information on social media or on a poster in your venue.
And finally … Enjoy Yourself!
Christmas can be a very stressful time in hospitality, so our final, and most important, tip is to take time to enjoy it. Make sure you plan in some downtime for you and your staff and that you get the chance to relax and have a little fun. After all – it will be January before you know it!
If you are looking for support for your pub, bar or restaurant, why not get in touch? Our EPOS systems seamlessly take care of payments, orders and stock leaving you time to focus on what matters. Giving your customers a great time!
For more information please email: sales@langleybusinesssystems.co.uk.
