Do Table Tents Increase Ticket Size at Restaurants

Restaurant owners and managers are constantly seeking ways to increase ticket size, and one strategy that has come up repeatedly is the use of table tents. Table tents are those small, freestanding promotional pieces placed on dining tables that display menu items, specials, or other offers. Many have asked whether these simple marketing tools can make a tangible difference, and the answer is a resounding yes. Table tents have been proven to increase ticket sizes at restaurants by effectively encouraging customers to add more items to their orders. In this post, we’ll explore how and why table tents are a valuable tool for boosting sales.

Why Do Restaurants Use Table Tents

Restaurants use table tents for a simple reason: they are highly effective at catching customers’ attention when they are most receptive to making purchasing decisions. When diners sit down at a restaurant, they are often looking for something to read or look at while waiting for their food. A strategically placed table tent can introduce them to new menu items, specials, or add-ons they might not have otherwise considered. This subtle but impactful form of advertising can encourage diners to order more than they initially planned.

Beyond their eye-catching appeal, table tents serve as a low-cost, high-reward marketing tool for restaurants. Rather than relying solely on servers to upsell or on printed menus that may be overlooked, table tents can highlight high-margin items such as appetizers, desserts, or drinks that increase ticket size. Restaurants that use table tents regularly report an uptick in sales for the promoted items, as customers are more likely to make impulsive decisions when given the right visual prompts.

Table Tent Sizes

The size of the table tent plays a crucial role in its effectiveness. Table tents come in various sizes, and the right one depends on the restaurant’s ambiance, table space, and the message being conveyed. Smaller tents, usually around 4×6 inches, are perfect for tables where space is limited or when the goal is to subtly promote items without overwhelming the customer.

Larger table tents, such as those measuring 5×7 or 8.5×11 inches, can be used in larger spaces or for restaurants looking to make a bold statement. These sizes are ideal for promoting larger or more complex offers like meal bundles, holiday specials, or seasonal promotions. Choosing the right size is essential to ensuring that the tent is visible without disrupting the dining experience.

In addition, using double-sided or even tri-fold tents can maximize the available promotional space without increasing the footprint on the table. This gives restaurants more room to promote multiple items, thus increasing the likelihood that customers will order additional food or drinks.

What to Promote Using Table Tents

One of the keys to successfully increasing ticket size with table tents is selecting the right items to promote. High-margin menu items, such as appetizers, desserts, and drinks, are excellent choices. Restaurants can also highlight seasonal or limited-time offers that create a sense of urgency, encouraging customers to try something new before it’s no longer available.

Upsell opportunities such as meal add-ons, like extra sides or premium ingredients, can also be effectively promoted with table tents. For example, a steakhouse might use a table tent to promote add-ons like lobster tail, premium sauces, or wine pairings. These suggestions can entice customers to upgrade their meal, resulting in a higher overall ticket size.

Another powerful option is promoting loyalty programs or special deals for future visits. If customers see a table tent offering a discount on their next meal if they order dessert or sign up for a rewards program, they are more likely to take advantage of it. This not only boosts ticket size in the moment but can also encourage repeat business.

Calls to Action to Include on Table Tents

The effectiveness of a table tent can be greatly enhanced by including a clear and compelling call to action (CTA). Phrases like “Try Our New Dessert Special!” or “Add a Cocktail for Just $5” make it easy for customers to act on the suggestion. CTAs that emphasize limited-time offers, such as “For a Limited Time Only!” or “Only Available This Weekend!”, can create urgency, prompting customers to make a decision quickly.

Additionally, interactive CTAs such as “Ask Your Server About Today’s Special” or “Upgrade Your Meal with Our Chef’s Recommendation” can further engage customers, prompting them to inquire about options they may not have initially considered. The key is to make the action simple and desirable, encouraging diners to increase their order without feeling pressured.

In short, table tents are an effective tool for increasing ticket sizes at restaurants. By strategically using these small but impactful promotional pieces, restaurants can highlight high-margin items, drive upsells, and encourage customers to take action. When done correctly, table tents can make a significant difference in boosting sales and enhancing the overall dining experience.

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