Are you a restaurant owner looking to attract more customers? One of the most effective ways to do this is by hosting a Happy Hour—a period during the day when you offer discounted food and drinks. Happy Hour is a popular method to draw in customers during slower times and can also attract social media influencers. However, it’s not enough to simply host a happy hour. You need to promote it, and what better way to do that than with text messages?
What Exactly Is “Happy Hour”?
Happy hour is a time of day when restaurants and bars offer discounted drinks and appetizers to customers. It typically occurs during a slower time of day, like late afternoon or early evening, which benefits both businesses and customers.
Watch Our Video: The Benefits of Happy Hour and Text Marketing for Restaurants
Learn how Happy Hour promotions and text marketing can work together to boost your restaurant's success.
For businesses, Happy Hour is a great way to:
Attract customers who might not otherwise visit during regular hours.
Increase revenue and profits during off-peak times.
Build a loyal customer base, and drive social media influencers to your restaurant.
Differentiate your business from your competitors.
For customers, Happy Hour provides a chance to:
Enjoy discounted food and drinks.
Socialize with friends and co-workers.
Unwind after a long day at work.
A recent survey found that 79% of consumers are more likely to visit a restaurant during happy hour. Why not take advantage of this by utilizing SMS marketing to get the most out of your promotion?
Why Restaurants Should Send Happy Hour Text Messages
As a restaurant owner or manager, you understand how important it is to get customers in the door. Hosting a Happy Hour isn’t enough if no one knows about it. To truly capitalize on the opportunity, you need to promote it effectively, and one of the most efficient ways to do that is through text message marketing.
Check Out Our Infographic: Why SMS Marketing Works for Restaurants
Discover the key benefits of text message marketing in our infographic, perfect for busy restaurant owners looking for quick insights.
5 Reasons to Use SMS for Promoting Happy Hours
Immediate and Personal: SMS messages are quick and customized, making customers feel valued.
High Open Rates: SMS has an open rate of over 98%, ensuring your message gets seen.
Direct Communication: Most people always have their phone with them, allowing you to reach them instantly.
Cost-Effective: SMS is affordable and accessible to businesses of all sizes.
Encourages Foot Traffic: SMS campaigns can effectively bring customers into your restaurant during Happy Hour.
Here are some other benefits of SMS marketing.
10 Happy Hour Text Marketing Templates to Boost Engagement
Let’s dive into the art of writing engaging happy hour text messages, providing you with 10+ expertly crafted templates to maximize your outreach and boost engagement in your restaurant.
01. Happy hour text messages with specifying the time frame
It's crucial to convey the immediacy and allure of the event by using keywords such as "happy hour," "text message," and "join us today".
Specify the time frame and mention appealing deals to create a sense of urgency and entice recipients to visit your establishment and take advantage of the offers.
02. SMS templates that offer value to customers
To maximize your happy hour promotions, it's essential to offer value to your audience.
Also, choose the time slots where you expect low customers entering to your restaurant, and offer happy hour during this time.
03. Attention grabbing text messages
To grab attention, be personal and friendly. Start with a warm greeting and ask them to drop a “text message" to spark curiosity. Making it interactive and encouraging direct engagement. By doing this, you boost involvement, create a special feeling, and connect with customers on a personal level.
04. Happy hour SMS messages for Fridays
Everyone loves Fridays, so why not leverage that excitement in your text message invitations? Use the keywords like "TGIF" and "start your weekend" to create anticipation.
You can tap into the collective desire for relaxation and enjoyment of customers. This motivates recipients to visit your restaurant and indulge in the delightful offerings.
05. Happy hour invitation text messages for Mondays
Monday blues are a universal experience, making them a perfect target for your text message invitations.
Use negative emotions associated with Mondays and offer a solution through your happy hour message, connect with recipients on an emotional level and leave their Monday worries behind.
06. Happy hour SMS for Wine lovers
If your restaurant has a noteworthy wine or drinks selection, highlight them in your invitations. Give customers a sneak peek of the happy hour menu, with descriptions of the dishes and drinks that are available.
07. Happy hour invitations for weekdays
Weekdays are the perfect opportunity to attract the after-work crowd. Mentioning exclusivity through a VIP invite, creates a sense of privilege, encouraging recipients to engage with your restaurant.
08. Lunchtime happy hour text messages
Expanding your Happy Hour beyond traditional evening hours can be a unique selling point. By highlighting the convenience and enjoyment of a midday Happy Hour, you tap into a different customer segment and differentiate your restaurant with other competitors.
09. Weekend happy hour messages
Weekend Happy Hours are a great way to attract customers looking to celebrate and unwind. Adding a special surprise, you can increase their curiosity and engagement.
10. Happy hour SMS templates for unique occasions
Creating themed happy hours adds an extra layer of excitement and draws in customers seeking a unique experience. By offering an island-inspired cocktail on the house, you provide an enticing incentive that sets your Happy Hour apart.
Encouraging customers to text for the complimentary cocktail further engages them and encourages their participation.
Want more inspiration?
Have a look at the below presentation.
This comprehensive presentation provides further insights and strategies on how to create impactful Happy Hour text messages for your restaurant.
Tips for a Successful Happy Hour SMS Campaign
Announce Theme Nights: Trivia nights, live music, or ladies’ nights can make your Happy Hour stand out. For example, “Live karaoke tonight! Sing your heart out and enjoy a free shot!”
Send Flash Deals: Surprise your audience with a limited-time offer. “Flash Sale! 20% off all drinks for the next hour. Text BACK to claim!”
Engage Your Audience: Run contests or mini-games in your texts for fun and interactive engagement. “Guess tonight’s cocktail special for a chance to win a free drink!”
Best Practices for Happy Hour SMS Marketing
Don’t Overdo It: Keep SMS frequency to a weekly or bi-weekly schedule to avoid overwhelming your customers.
Opt-In is Essential: Ensure customers know how to opt in and opt out. This builds trust and loyalty.
Track Your Success: Use analytics to see which offers perform best and adjust your campaigns accordingly.
Raise a glass to the power of SMS marketing! With creativity and personalization, your Happy Hour can become the highlight of your customers’ week. Remember to keep your text messages timely, relevant, and enticing.
Cheers to buzzing bars and clinking glasses!
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