Maple Leaf Canadian and Family Owned

Blog

Drive Traffic with Value Offers & Other Proven Strategies

Server with Tacos and a shirt that reads you had me at tacos

Drive Traffic with Value Offers & Other Proven Strategies

 

In the current economic climate, restaurant operators need to employ creative strategies to attract guests while providing outstanding value. Diners are more discerning with their spending, seeking experiences that offer both enjoyment and affordability. Here are some savvy strategies to create value-driven promotions that can help draw guests in and keep them coming back.

 

Loyalty Programs

A well-designed loyalty program can be a significant draw for repeat customers. Implement a system where guests earn points for each visit or spend, which can be redeemed for discounts, free meals, or exclusive offers. It can be as simple as a buy one, get one for their next visit with an appetizer or dessert item. This not only encourages repeat business but also fosters a sense of appreciation and connection with your restaurant.

 

Chicken snack wrap

 

Value Menu

Many big chains have embraced the concept of a value menu for a reason—it effectively caters to budget-conscious diners. Even in tighter times, people love dining out, but they seek more bang for their buck. Consider reviewing your menu to find opportunities for a value menu, perhaps by offering a smaller version of a popular sandwich or wrap that keeps your customers happy without breaking the bank.

 

Bundle Deals

Bundle deals offer a complete dining experience at a reduced price, providing perceived value to guests. Consider creating bundle options that include an appetizer, main course, and dessert, or offer a family-style meal kit that customers can enjoy at home. You could start with something straightforward like a soup and sandwich combo or offer a more sophisticated option where guests pick from a selection of three appetizers and three main courses for a fixed price. Just ensure that each appetizer and entrée is priced similarly in terms of food cost to maintain balance. This approach not only draws in deal-hunters but also highlights the diverse offerings on your menu.

 

A couple enjoying date night at a restaurant

 

Themed Nights

Hosting themed nights can create excitement and draw in crowds. Consider offering a "Taco Tuesday" with discounted tacos or a "Wine and Dine Wednesday" featuring a special wine pairing menu for people going out on a date. Don’t forget to promote your theme, for example use a photo of a couple enjoying a night at your restaurant, creating a moment in time can capture people’s attention on social media when they are scrolling (bonus: most mealtime decisions are made the day of so make sure you regularly post).

 

Partnerships with Local Businesses

Partnering with local businesses can elevate your promotions and widen your audience. Consider teaming up with nearby breweries for a beer-tasting event or collaborating with themed attractions like escape rooms to offer a combined package where guests enjoy the escape room experience followed by a dinner at your restaurant.

 

Flash Sales and Limited-Time Offers

Create urgency and excitement with flash sales or limited time offers. Announce these promotions on social media or through email newsletters to generate buzz and drive immediate traffic. Whether it's a weekend brunch special or a weekday dinner discount, these offers can fill seats during slower periods.

 

Understanding Customer Needs and Preferences

Tailoring promotions to meet the specific needs and preferences of your customer base is crucial. Use surveys or feedback forms to gather insights into what your guests value most. Whether it's healthier menu options, kid-friendly meals, or special dietary accommodations, understanding these preferences allows you to customize promotions that resonate with your audience.

 

Focusing on customer needs, getting creative with your deals, and engaging with the community can lead to increased patronage and loyalty. Embrace these strategies to ensure your restaurant remains a top choice for diners seeking both value and quality.

 

 

 

 

Flanagan Foodservice at 1:52 PM
RSS icon Facebook icon Twitter icon LinkedIn icon

2024 Food Show Product Recap

Flanagan Foodservice Annual Spring Show

2024 Food Show Product Review

 

The 2024 food show was our best yet! There was so much energy in the building, we are so grateful that our customers, suppliers and employees put so much effort to make the day as wonderful as it was. If you weren’t able to come, here were some of our favourite products of the day:

 

 

Carve Premium Ontario Beef Inside Round on a sandwich

Carve Beef AAA Inside Round

Carve Premium Ontario Beef: Elevate your menu with the local pride of Ontario—Carve Premium Ontario Beef, where AAA quality meets hometown glory. This isn't just beef; it's a celebration of local farming, delivering a taste so rich and succulent, it'll have you questioning why you ever looked elsewhere (sorry, Alberta!). Our showstopper? The Carve Inside Round, perfectly paired with caramelized onion and a bold horseradish spread, served on a soft bun.

 

222816 CARVE BEEF INSIDE ROUND AAA FRESH - 2/11KG


 

 

 

 

Pickeral fish pan fried with rice and bok choy

Grille and Galley Pickerel Fillet

Grille and Galley Pickerel Fillet: Get ready to reel (sorry-had to go for the pun) in some compliments with our Pickerel Fillets, fresh from the waters of Lake Erie. Local is not just about the taste and freshness; it's about building a narrative for your restaurant that resonates with diners seeking authentic, sustainable, and regionally focused eating experiences. The Great Lakes often remind Ontarians of long summer days spent with family and friends, evoking these memories helps you connect with your guests. Stay tuned – soon we'll have some Fresh Yellow Perch from the Great Lakes!

 

230125  GRILLE PICKEREL FILLET S-ON 8-16 OZ  - 1/4.54KG


 

 

 

Tandoori Chicken Skewer

D & D Poultry Tandoori Chicken Skewer

Hailing from an Ontario family-owned business, they embrace the flavours of tandoori seasoning, and they are Halal. Super popular and super tasty!  Serve with basmati rice, warm naan bread and cucumber raita (This cooling yogurt-based dip with cucumber, mint, and sometimes garlic, offers a refreshing contrast to the spices in Tandoori skewers).

 

164923  D&D  CHICKEN BREAST SKEWER TANDOORI - 1/5KG

 


 

 

Gulab Jamun Dainty Cake

 

Wow Factor Gulab Jamun Dainty Cake 

I must admit, I had no idea what to expect with this dessert. It’s a dough ball, soaked in rose syrup, nestled within creamy cheesecake, and topped with a delicate rose water mousse sprinkled with pistachios. This masterpiece is an East Indian delicacy that's capturing hearts and trending for all the right reasons.

 

105775 WOW    CHEESECAKE GULAB JUMAN - 30/5.08OZ


 

 

 

Mike's Hot Honey in a squeeze bottle

Mike’s Hot Honey

Spice up your menu! Originally created as a pizza topping, this versatile ingredient is only available at Flanagan’s. Four bottles per case (each one is 24oz), the applications for this are endless. Add it to a chicken sandwich, grilled cheese, wings and more. First, it’s all "mmm" with the sweetness, then bam – the spice kicks in!

 

358743 MIKES HONEY HOT ORIGINAL - 4/24OZ


 

 

 

Chicago Dill Pickle Fries

Chicago Dill Pickle Fries

Pickle fries served on top of French Fries with a dill pickle ranch dressing? Sign me up! Dill pickle flavour has long been a crowd-pleaser, and its popularity is now reaching new heights, popping up in the most unexpected places. Flanagan’s takes the lead by being the first distributor to showcase the Chicago Pickle brand.

 

234271 CHIPCO PICKLES DILL FRIES - 1/18.9LT

 

 

 

High Liner Blue Cod

High Liner Blue Cod

Always on the crest of innovation, High Liner has launched new blue cod offerings that are not only delicious but also priced to woo even the most wallet-weary customers. This whitefish is like the Swiss Army knife of seafood - incredibly versatile. Jazz up a po-boy, tossing it into wrap or mix it into a salad.

 

134090  HILINE COD BLUE FILLET IQF 3OZ - 1/4.54KG

134092  HILINE COD BLUE FILLET IQF 4OZ - 1/4.54KG

134116  HILINE COD BLUE FILLET IQF 5OZ - 1/4.54KG

134791  HILINE COD BLUE PAN SEAR CITRUS&HERB - 1/10LB

134793  HILINE COD BLUE POTATO CRUSTED 3.5OZ - 1/10LB

   

 

Beef Short Ribs with gravy on a plate

Boneless, Cooked Beef Short Ribs

Succulent boneless short ribs, already cooked to perfection in an au jus sauce. It is tasty, easy to prepare and offers consistency for your guests while taking it easy on your labour costs. Serve with mashed potatoes, make a sandwich or toss them in bowls where the possibilities are endless.

 

158812  PACKER BEEF SHORT RIB AA BNLS COOKED - 5/900GM


 

 

 

Maple Leaf Hot Dog Sizes

Maple Leaf Hot Dogs

Maple Leaf is famous for dishing out crowd pleasing food. In the face of rising inflation, it's prime time to tweak your tactics and lure folks in with budget-friendly eats. Enter the humble hot dog, a summertime hero, sporting an attractive price tag that leaves room for some seriously upscale embellishments (pulled pork anyone?).

 

179179 JMS WIENER 6" 6CT RG FZ - 1/5.44KG

179205 JMS WIENER 6" 10CT FZ - 1/5.44KG

179218 JMS WIENER 7" 4CT RG FZ  - 1/5.44KG

179233 JMS WIENER 7" 5CT RG FZ  - 1/5.44KG

179257 JMS WIENER 7" 8CT RG FZ - 1/5.44KG

179260 JMS WIENER BEEF 7" 8CT FZ  - 1/5.44KG

179265 JMS WIENER BEEF 7" 5CT FZ -  1/5.44KG

179272 JMS WIENER 5" 12CT RG FZ -  1/5.44KG

179283 JMS WIENER 11" 6CT RED HOTS FZ  - 1/5.44KG

179287 JMS WIENER BEEF 12" 2CT FOOT LONG - 1/6KG


 

 

 

Bridor Peach Danish

Bridor Peach Danish

Not only does it catch the eye with its meticulously crafted appearance, but it also wins hearts with its commitment to purity - boasting a clean label and all-natural ingredients. Plus, it's ready to bake, transforming your kitchen into the sweetest spot on the block in no time.

 

108076 BRIDOR DANISH PEACH RTB - 42/90GM

 


 

Rich's Chicago Style Pizza

Chicago Style Pizza Dough

A Fresh Twist on Tradition! Out of Rich’s oven and into yours, this dough goes from frozen to fabulous in just 9 minutes. Choose how to cook: bake it in a pan for that iconic, deep-dish Chicago style experience, or go pan-less for a crust that’s delightfully focaccia-esque. Either way, you’re guests in for a treat.

 

126180 RICHS  PIZZA CRUST DETROIT STYLE GTF - 20/100PC

 


 

 

 

BBQ Cheese Curds

Flavoured Cheese Curds

Pountine just keeps getting more and more innovative. Elevate your menu to new heights with Alain Royer's ingeniously flavoured cheese curds. It's time to get imaginative and add some zest! From tangy orange curds, smoky BBQ curds, to the spicy kick of 3-pepper curd - can the world of cheese get any more exciting?

 

116008 ARC CHEESE CURD ORANGE  - 2/5KG

116156 ARC CHEESE CURD BBQ  - 20/500GM

116157ARC CHEESE CURD 3 PEPPER - 20/500GM


 

 

 

Good Leaf Greens

Good Leaf Greens

My biggest surprise of the day! Who knew greens could taste this good? A local treasure that's bursting with flavour, Good Leaf Greens has truly outdone itself. Thanks to vertical farming, these leafy wonders are available all year round, ensuring fresh, delightful bites every time. And talk about pristine quality - not a single human hand touches these greens until they grace your restaurant.

 

283031GOLEAF NORTHERN SWEET & SPICY MICRO - 4/1.5LB

283039 GOLEAF SPICY MUSTARD MEDLEY  - 8/50GM

283041 GOLEAF SPRING NORTHERN BLEND  - 4/1.5LB

283043 GOLEAF NORTHERN FIESTA PREM BLEND - 4/1.5LB

283050 GOLEAF SPRING NORTHERN BLEND - 2/680GM

283052 GOLEAF NORTHERN FIESTA PREM BLEND  - 2/680GM

283053 GOLEAF NORTHERN SWEET & SPICY MICRO - 2/680GM


 

 

 

Made Good Oat Bar

Made Good Blueberry Oat Bars

The ultimate snack for on-the-move moments. Made with care, these bars are a beacon of organic goodness, free from allergens, gluten-free, and proudly wearing the vegan badge. With a commitment to clean ingredients and the functional benefits that come from real food, Made Good Bars not only tick all the health-conscious boxes but also get the green light as a school-friendly treat.

 

364619 MADEGD BAR OAT MORNING BLUEBERRY GTF - 30/30GM

 


 

With hundreds of innovative products to see and an array of delicious samples to taste, the Flanagan Show truly showcased the best of what the food industry has to offer. For those who couldn't make it this year, we missed having you with us and sincerely hope you'll be able to join the excitement next time. I may be biased (okay, I am definitely biased), but the Flanagan Show stands unrivaled as the premier foodshow in Ontario. Here's to hoping we see you next year!

 

 

Jackie Oakes at 11:12 AM
RSS icon Facebook icon Twitter icon LinkedIn icon

SEO Basics for Restaurants: A No-Nonsense Guide to Boost Your Online Presence

Laptop open with drawing of rocket skip taking off with more drawings of business strategy

SEO Basics for Restaurants: A No-Nonsense Guide to Boost Your Online Presence

 

In the digital age, a restaurant’s success doesn't just depend on the quality of its food but also on its online visibility. Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is a key ingredient in your marketing strategy, enhancing your online presence and ensuring that hungry diners find their way to you. Whether you're a new restaurant owner looking to establish an online presence or a seasoned pro aiming to revamp your SEO efforts, understanding these basics can significantly impact your online success.

 

Local Keyword Research Is Your Best Friend

First things first, identify and utilize local keywords that potential customers are likely to use when searching for a place to eat. You're not just a restaurant; you're a local business that serves a specific community. Incorporate local terms such as your city, neighbourhood, or nearby landmarks into your website's content. For example, if you run a pizza restaurant in Whitby, it makes sense to include keywords like "Whitby pizza," "best pizza in Whitby," and "pizza delivery near [local landmark]."

 

Optimize Your Menu for Search Engines

Your menu is not just a list of dishes; it's a goldmine of keywords waiting to be discovered by search engines. When creating your online menu, ensure each item has a descriptive title with common keywords related to the dish. If you serve a unique dish not often found elsewhere, be sure to include that in your menu, too. Search engines love unique and specific content.

 

Local SEO Directories and Citations

Consistency in online listings across different platforms significantly impacts your restaurant's search rankings. Ensure that your business’ Name, Address, and Phone Number (N.A.P.) is consistent across all listings and directories. Explore local SEO directories like Google My Business, Yelp, and TripAdvisor. Regularly update this information, and don’t forget to add photos and keep your business hours current to stay relevant.

 

Leverage Customer Reviews for SEO Impact

Encourage reviews on Google My Business, Yelp, and other platforms to boost your online credibility. Positive reviews signal to search engines that your restaurant is popular and business worth promoting. Be sure to respond to reviews—both the positive and the less so—to show that you value customer feedback (Google, the most popular search engine, recommends responding to reviews to improve your local SEO).

 

Hand holding smart phone showcasing menu

 

Mobile Optimization is Non-Negotiable

In a world where mobile searches often surpass desktop, a mobile-friendly website is essential for SEO success. Mobile optimization ensures that visitors have a pleasant experience, which is a factor in Google's ranking algorithm. It's also important for users to find your restaurant easily on their phones, especially when they’re out and about looking for a place to eat. Do you need help with your website? Brand Points Plus members can use points to offset this cost plus get a discount. If you're not a member of Brand Points Plus click here.

 

Promote Local Events and Offers on Your Site

If your restaurant hosts events or has special offers, create web pages dedicated to these topics, and optimize them using local keywords. This can attract visitors looking for something to do or a good deal in your area.

 

On-Page SEO Tactics for Your Website

Once you have your local keyword and content strategy sorted, focus on traditional on-page SEO tactics:

 

Meta Titles and Descriptions: Craft compelling meta titles and descriptions that include local keywords and entice click-throughs from potential diners.

 

Header and Content Tags: Use H1, H2, and H3 tags to structure your content properly. Include keywords in these headers and throughout your content but remember, keep it natural.

 

Content Quality: High-quality, informative, and engaging content is key. Write blog posts about local food trends, behind-the-scenes looks at your restaurant, or staff profiles, all while integrating those local keywords.

 

Page Load Speed: Ensure your site loads quickly on desktop and mobile devices. Search engines like Google prioritize sites that provide a good user experience.

 

Internal Linking: Link related pages of your website together. For example, if you have a blog post about the best brunch spots in the area, link to your brunch menu. This not only helps with navigation but also improves SEO.

 

SEO may seem daunting but breaking it down into actionable tasks makes it more manageable, and most importantly, effective. You don’t need to reach for perfection, instead reach for progress. Happy optimizing!

 

 

Flanagan Foodservice at 11:50 AM
RSS icon Facebook icon Twitter icon LinkedIn icon

Waffle Wonderland

Waffle with bacon and egg

 

Waffle Wonderland:

Delightful Dishes for a Memorable Mother's Day Brunch

Maximizing efficiency while delivering exceptional culinary experiences is the key to managing the bustling energy of Mother's Day-one of the busiest days in a restaurant s calendar.

 

A delicious, time-saving suggestion that may work for your Mother's Day menu is pre-made Belgian waffles. They are more than just a time-saving convenience; they are the canvas for an array of unique and tantalizing toppings that will set your establishment apart. By using pre-made waffles, you significantly reduce preparation time and kitchen chaos, allowing your team to focus on crafting exquisite toppings and delivering impeccable service. Moreover, these waffles ensure consistency in both taste and presentation.

 

This Mother's Day, let these five waffle creations dazzle your clientele, leaving them with a memorable dining experience that they will fondly associate with your restaurant.

 

Rise n Shine Waffle Delight

For the traditional breakfast lovers, offer waffles topped with crispy bacon and a perfectly cooked over-easy egg. The rich, runny yolk adds an indulgent touch, turning a simple waffle into a hearty meal that will keep your guests fueled for their Mother's Day activities.

 

Waffles with Salmon and avocado

 

Seaside Brunch Waffle Delicacy

Elevate your brunch menu with this sophisticated take on the classic waffle. Start a layer of tangy cream cheese. Top with delicate slices of smoked salmon, adding a luxurious, smoky flavour that is irresistible. Add thin slices of avocado for taste and a pop of colour.

 

Waffles with bananas almonds and yogurt

 

Banana Bliss Almond Crunch Waffles

A light and refreshing option, this dish combines the sweetness of bananas with the tanginess of yogurt and the crunch of almonds. It is a healthy, satisfying choice that caters to the health-conscious guests and those seeking a lighter brunch option.

 

Waffles with chicken and syrup

 

Southern Charm Chicken Waffles

This Southern classic is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The combination of crispy fried chicken atop a waffle creates a delightful contrast of textures. Drizzled with a touch of honey or maple syrup, this dish offers a perfect balance of savoury and sweet.

 

Waffles with apples, nuts and honey

 

Orchard Harvest Honey-Nut Waffles

For a sweet end to the brunch, serve waffles topped with baked apples, a sprinkle of crunchy nuts, and a drizzle of honey. This dessert-like dish adds a festive touch to the menu, and the comforting flavours are a fitting tribute to the comforting presence of mothers.

 

 

 

 

Flanagan Foodservice at 11:44 AM
RSS icon Facebook icon Twitter icon LinkedIn icon

Score Big with a Super Bowl Celebration

 

Football surrounded by fries, onion rings and wings

 

Game Day Grub:

How to Score Big with a Super Bowl Celebration

 

The Super Bowl is not only a major sporting event but also an opportunity for restaurants to attract customers during a traditionally slow sales period. By creating a special atmosphere and offering a unique menu, you can capitalize on the excitement and drive traffic to your restaurant.


1. Create a Festive Atmosphere:
Transform your restaurant into a football haven by decorating with team colours, banners, and balloons. Encourage staff and customers to wear jerseys or team gear to create a lively and engaging environment.


2. Offer Special Game-Day Promotions:
Promote drink specials such as beer buckets, cocktail pitchers, and themed cocktails named after famous football players.


3. Build Excitement with Pre-Game Activities:
Host pre-game events like trivia contests or raffles to engage customers before the big game starts. Offer prizes such as local game tickets or restaurant gift cards to create anticipation and encourage early arrivals.


4. Design a Super Bowl-Themed Menu:
Create a special menu featuring popular gameday foods such as sliders, nachos, wings, and loaded fries. Offer a variety of flavours and sauces to cater to different preferences. Don’t forget vegetarian and gluten-free options to accommodate all customers.

 

 Loaded nachos with meat and cheese

 

5. Game-Time Snack Platters:
Offer sharing platters filled with an assortment of snacks and treats. Include items like mini hot dogs, chicken tenders, mozzarella sticks, and potato skins. These platters are perfect for groups of friends who want to enjoy the game together.


6. Big Screen Viewing Experience:
Invest in large-screen TVs and ensure unobstructed viewing from every angle of your
restaurant. Enhance the audio by providing surround sound to replicate the feeling of being in a stadium.


7. Game Predictions and Prizes:
Engage your customers by hosting a game prediction contest. Ask guests to predict the final score, MVP, or other game-related outcomes. Offer prizes such as discounts, free
appetizers, or gift cards to those who make accurate predictions.


8. Social Media Promotion:
Utilize social media platforms to create buzz and spread the word about your Super Bowl event. Share enticing photos of your special menu items, post live updates during the game, and encourage customers to tag your restaurant in their posts.

 

 

 

Flanagan Foodservice at 11:49 AM
RSS icon Facebook icon Twitter icon LinkedIn icon

Contributors

Flanagan Foodservice
Name: Flanagan Foodservice
Posts: 123
Last Post: September 24, 2024
Jackie Oakes
Name: Jackie Oakes
Posts: 3
Last Post: April 30, 2024

Latest Posts

Show All Recent Posts

Archive

Tags

Get Seasonal Ontario Ingredient Spotlight Maximize Profits Keep Up With Trends Marketing Your Restaurant Canada Environment Flanagan Food Show Cleaning Events Recipe Flanagan News COVID Resources Take Out Strategy