Reusable systems in the ToGo business - Which reusable system is suitable for whom?

There's probably nothing more frustrating for restaurateurs than realizing that their restaurant isn't performing as well as they had hoped. But what do you do when customers aren't coming or revenue isn't enough to cover costs? Don't panic! Even in difficult times, there are strategies that can help get your restaurant back on track . In this article, we'll explore possible causes of poor restaurant performance and ways to address them.

Understanding the causes – What’s going wrong?

First, the causes of poor business must be analyzed. There are many reasons why a restaurant might not perform as well as it should. Some common reasons include the following:

Lack of visibility

If your restaurant is located in a low-traffic area or lacks sufficient marketing, potential customers may simply not find you. Competition is fierce, and without targeted advertising, it's difficult to build a loyal customer base.

What can you do?

• Initiate advertising measures: Increase your use of social media or local newspaper advertisements
  
• Run event promotions or special offers: Happy Hours and discount campaigns get around
• Optimize your website: Without a good website that is also searchable via search engines, potential guests will have a hard time finding you

You can find more tips to increase your brand awareness here .

Inadequate menu or pricing

If the menu doesn't fit the overall concept or the prices are too high, it can deter customers. Perhaps the dishes are too unusual or too simple to appeal to the relevant target groups.

What can you do?

• Adapt menus: Review prices and dishes and make sure you serve different target groups (e.g. vegans, allergy sufferers, etc.)
• Introduce trendy dishes: Offer new, trendy dishes that arouse guests’ curiosity and put your business in the spotlight
• Introduce special menus: Combinations with attractive value for money such as lunch menus or other specials attract guests

Bad service or bad staff

Unfriendly staff, inattentive waiters, or unprofessionally trained chefs can drive away guests. A restaurant isn't just about good food, it's also about an outstanding hospitality experience.

What can you do?

• Introduce training and education: Customer orientation and service quality should be regularly reviewed
• Gather feedback: Listen to your guests’ opinions – both online reviews and direct feedback help identify weaknesses
  

Satisfied employees are good employees – you can find tips for increasing employee satisfaction here .

Lack of differentiation from the competition

If your restaurant is located in a competitive area and you don't have a clear brand identity or unique selling points, it's difficult to stand out from the crowd.

What can you do?

• Develop uniqueness: Think about what makes your restaurant special – a special theme, unique dishes, an original ambience or exclusive service
• Improve customer experience: Create an inviting ambience that matches your concept – think of special events such as live music or tastings

React: What can you do to improve the situation?

Once you've identified the cause(s), you should take concrete and coordinated measures. In addition to the ideas already listed, here are some proven strategies to boost any restaurant:

Intensify advertising and promotion

One of the first reactions should always be to increase your restaurant's visibility with targeted advertising measures. Use social media to promote specials and new dishes. Influencer marketing or local collaborations also help attract new guests.

Bind guests

It's easier to win back existing customers than to constantly attract new ones. Offer loyalty programs or discount promotions that encourage guests to come back regularly. A stamp card for regular guests or vouchers for future visits are tried-and-tested methods.

Actively collect and implement feedback

Listen to your guests and take them seriously. Customer satisfaction is the most important factor in your restaurant's success. If guests provide negative feedback, try to resolve the issues promptly. Good communication and the ability to improve make a huge difference.

You can find further quality criteria for a good restaurant here .

Don’t give up – there is (almost) always a solution

If your restaurant isn't doing well, it doesn't automatically mean the end. There are many ways you can turn things around. An honest analysis , identifying weaknesses, and taking concrete measures are key. Creativity, flexibility, and continuous improvement can once again turn your business into a successful and popular place where guests enjoy coming. Every setback is an opportunity to learn from mistakes and further optimize your restaurant—analyze the causes and take targeted action.