Whilst great food and service are essential, there’s nothing that drives restaurant growth more than developing a successful brand.
The F&B industry is already crowded with so many different choices for customers to choose from. So what will make your restaurant stand out from the rest?
If you’re looking to open your own restaurant, or are looking for ways to help your existing restaurant/cafe takeoff, then there’s one tried and tested way that’s sure to get you noticed – successful restaurant branding.
Read on for the ultimate guide on branding for your restaurant or cafe.
What is a brand
A brand is how you want your customers to perceive your business. Branding is important as it not only makes a memorable impression on customers, but also educates them on what to expect from your business.
For example, when people think of McDonald’s, what automatically comes to mind is convenient fast food.
In order for your restaurant or cafe to stand out from the crowd, having a recognizable brand is crucial!
How to create your own F&B brand
1. Think about your brand values
Nail down exactly what your brand is about. Consider who you’re targeting, what you’re trying to achieve, and WHY you are trying to do it.
The way you answer these questions will determine the foundation of your brand’s value, purpose, and beliefs – all of which are core outlines of your brand.
2. Create a mission statement
Your restaurant’s mission statement should highlight your brand values AND what you hope to achieve.
Think about what you can provide to customers that they can’t find anywhere else. Use mission statements as an opportunity to create a connection with all your stakeholders, such as prospective customers, internal staff, and even potential investors.
3. Develop a brand voice
As your brand voice is how you communicate with the public, it’s important to showcase your brand’s personality through the way you speak, write, or interact with customers.
For example, if you’re trying to establish yourself as an expert in all things Matcha, your tone of voice would come across in a more educational manner as compared to a brand that is going for something bold and fun.
4. Position your brand in the market
Where does your brand fit in amongst the competition?
Take the time to map out where your business fits and how you can differentiate yourself from all the other options there are in the market.
Consider the:
- Price – will your restaurant menu pricing strategy be competitive or will you stand out by being more affordable/expensive?
- Product – What are you serving that will get customers coming to your store instead of the cafe/restaurant next door? This goes beyond just the food/drink item itself, it can even be the excellent customer service that you provide
- Promotion – How are you marketing your restaurant to attract and retain customers?
- Place – Where is your shop located and what target audience are you attracting in that area? Aside from that, what does your store layout look like and how does the ambiance fit with your overall brand?
5. Design a fitting logo
Your restaurant logo is the first visual element that customers will recognize about your brand.
It may be as simple as your name or initials in an expressive font.
It’s important to remember that your logo should be consistent with your brand in terms of the color palette and feel. Think about how the font choice, color palette, and design that complements your brand as a whole.
6. Social media marketing
To create brand awareness, it is advisable to start up social media accounts to help build visibility within your local community and prospective customers.
For example, Candid Coffee thrives on a strong social media presence that goes beyond beautifully curated photos. They also create a lot of funny, engaging, and trendy reels that hook in loyal followers of avid coffee lovers!
Your turn!
Your brand as a whole (purpose, positioning, voice, look) along with good quality food and outstanding service is what makes up a memorable experience that attracts customers and keeps them coming back.
So what’re you waiting for? Start building a brand that excites you by putting these tips into action today!
Recent Comments