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With hospitality reopening, and the feeling of summer upon us, customers want to enjoy the fresh air and soak up vitamin D. With the weather now warming up, it is the ideal time to get the most from your outdoor space – or perhaps it’s the only way at the minute to get your business back up and running.
See our top 5 tips for adding appeal to your patio or beer garden.
Alfresco table service is always a winner. One problem with outdoor dining is that customers can find it difficult to get the server’s attention. Investing in CST’s call buttons will allow guests to order extra food and drink without having to leave their table. Customers are happier, service is faster and your profits are higher.
When the sun gets hot, many customers will want to relax under a cool shade (or in Great British fashion, the rain, where we’re now seeking shelter from getting drenched). There are plenty of imaginative ways you can add shade (or shelter) to your outdoor space. Innovative ideas include covering most of the beer garden with a large tepee and decorating it with twinkling fairy lights. Or offering cosy beach huts in your beer garden for shelter.
On a beautiful summer evening, a fun atmosphere and experience are just as important as the food. Summer provides the perfect opportunity to bring in some live music such as a band or acoustic guitar for a relaxed ambience. And if a live band isn’t workable, consider trying to play live music into your venue. Music will encourage your customers to keep returning to your restaurant throughout spring and summer.
Cleanliness is key for outdoor spaces. Ensure your alfresco dining area is tidy and presentable with no rubbish or wonky tables. Placing potted trees, flowers on tables or hanging baskets outdoors will also make customers feel like they’re enjoying nature.
The school holidays mean a rise in the number of families visiting your restaurants. Parents will base their decisions on where to eat depending on the family-friendly nature of each restaurant. You can capitalise on this with plenty of enjoyable family entertainment.
