Hospitality and SMS: How to improve bar, cafe or restaurant operations with SMS
It's been tough for the hospitality industry throughout the global pandemic. The shift to online services has skyrocketed due to social distancing and local restrictions. Yet, businesses have been able to pivot their offerings to accommodate their customers and community.
Food delivery apps, contactless takeaway options and online bookings and menus have empowered bars, restaurants and cafes to continue service.
Still, communication with patrons remains essential. Utilising direct channels should be practical and cost-efficient—this is where SMS shines bright. SMS has a 98% open rate, with 90% of all text messages read within three minutes of delivery. Short, sharp messaging that reach recipients in the palm of their hand.
A robust business platform with SMS solutions can streamline processes with automated text messages. Send SMS notifications and text message marketing for cafes, restaurants and bars:
- Deals and promotions
- Dine-in menu and contactless service
- Online bookings and orders
- Food delivery and takeaway
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Hospitality SMS promotions and deals
Did you know that 82% of smartphone owners read every SMS they receive? This is why enterprise SMS is still a top choice when it comes to effective marketing channels.
Utilise this SMS promotion template for your campaign:
"{*Name*}, it's your birthday! Present this SMS to receive $10 off as a gift from {*Company*} to you. TCs apply, offer expires in 30 days. Reply STOP to opt-out."
Related article: Understanding the World of SMS Promotions and Mobile Coupons [TEMPLATES]
Dine-in menu and contactless service with SMS
When you head to a venue for something to eat or drink, you expect to see a menu when making your choice. But with the novel coronavirus still prominent, hygiene must be prioritised.
Now that online solutions are available, handling menus are a thing of the past. Not only that, with specific software, patrons can order, assign their table and pay online, all contactless!
Receive payment receipts and order confirmations via SMS:
"Thanks, your order for table {*Number*} has been placed. Please allow {*Time*} for all food orders. Tax invoice: {*Link*}"
Related article: Top 5 industries that have adapted to COVID-19 seamlessly
Text reminders for online bookings and orders
Where capacity regulations and social distancing are implemented, bookings may be necessary for bars, restaurants and cafes to function fluidly.
Use text reminders to confirm online bookings and ordering:
"{*Name*}, you have a booking at {*Company*} for {*total*} ppl at {*Time*} on {*Date*}. See you then! Call us on {*Number*} to reschedule. Reply STOP to opt-out."
Related article: SMS Appointment Reminders: 7 Tips to Achieve Higher Booking Rates & Revenue with Text Messages
Food delivery and takeaway SMS alerts
Whether you utilise a food delivery app or choose to call your local pizza joint, SMS alerts keep customers updated on their order.
Implement SMS alerts for delivery and takeaway orders:
"Thanks, your order {*Number*} has been placed. Please allow {*Time*} for all food orders. Tax invoice: {*Link*}"
Related article: 60 must-know SMS & mobile statistics in 2021
