Smart Small Business Marketing Success Story

Let's face it, during tough economic times folks think twice about going out to eat anywhere much less indulge at a gourmet restaurant. During the past few years, fine dining establishments have felt the economic squeeze and managers were forced to focus marketing efforts on attracting locals.

Smart small business marketing is always a good business investment but it's even more critical when other businesses in your segment are closing its doors. When times are tough it's all the more reason to focus on strategy and innovative marketing. Here's one success story.

ABC is a small business fine dining restaurant in a quaint country-like suburb. On average, patrons travel 20-30 minutes to enjoy ABC's gourmet delights and fill the house weeknights and weekends. During the past three years, with many other area restaurants closing, ABC needed to re brand itself in a way to make it attractive to a larger audience and get customers coming back even when finances were tight.

By adding an economically-priced menu to their standard offerings and promoting 'buy 1 get 1' specials throughout the week, ABC opened their doors to a wider group of patrons - appreciative and most likely thankful for a delicious cost-conscious night out.

While ABC cut back on wait staff they increased spending on email marketing. Specials were unveiled on a weekly basis to their opt-in list - a list that has been steadily increasing despite the recession. With a notable increase in reservations and positive customer feedback, ABC continued to invest not only in email marketing but also in ongoing SEO.

As the economy started to improve, local marketing efforts expanded with a continued focus on increasing onsite and offsite catering. ABC continues to experience positive ROI from their small business marketing initiatives and has not only survived the economic slump but ha begun to thrive when so many others continue to struggle.