And what if the design and organization of your terrace this summer could earn you considerable additional sales? The proof? Adding an outdoor patio to your restaurant in summer can increase your gross profits by up to 65%, depending on the budget you invest in the extension (source: ideesdefrance.fr). For example, a 200,000 euro investment in an outdoor dining area could generate a gross profit of 500,000 euros...
So what are the advantages of having a terrace when you're a restaurateur?
- Let your customers take advantage of the warm summer weather, enjoying their meals in the sun.
- Increase capacity and seating capacity
- Attract a different clientele from those who prefer to eat in & set yourself apart from the competition
- Create a relaxing, friendly and festive atmosphere: you can add outdoor decorations, lighting and music to create a pleasant, relaxed atmosphere.
In this article, you'll find all our advice on how to optimize the preparation of your terrace this summer!
#1 Create an attractive space
Appropriate lighting in the evening, the possibility of beingsheltered from the sun for those who want it, careful decoration (cushions, candles, plants ...), relaxed music, effective protection against mosquitoes with natural products, free wifi... Think about every detail so that your customers have a successful experience in your establishment.
Of course, such a haven of peace (or celebration!) shouldn't remain confidential. Post photos on all the channels at your disposal: social networks, website, various referencing directories... Make your new customers dream and share the positive opinions of your regulars.
#2 Offers a table reservation module
We know from experience that the time it takes to take a reservation over the phone is much longer than over the web. Often, you have to call several times to get someone on the line. The younger generation doesn't like making phone calls, and there are even failures: the waiter misspells your name and can't find you in the reservation list, it's a rush and your staff are less friendly on the phone...
In short, making it easier to take reservations saves you invaluable time, for the benefit of your customers! No need for a dedicated employee to take reservations, no more missed bookings - discover our commission-free online reservation module that integrates with Google Widget.
#3 Opt for pay-at-table and optimize your table rotation
It's summer and your restaurant is packed! How can you streamline your service? Offer your customers payment at the table and save time with our application! Your customers can pay directly at the table, by scanning their QR Code at the end of the meal, via their cell phone. They pay by credit card, and can choose to divide the bill between guests or leave a tip. The customer experience is enhanced: they no longer have to wait, they feel free to use the time they spend in your restaurant, and are under less pressure.
#4 Equip your servers with remote controls
Ultra-powerful, sturdy, lightweight remote controls that enable your staff to be mobile, more autonomous and more reactive - especially in the rush between terrace and interior! Orders are processed in real time, transmitted directly to the kitchen, and dishes are ready more quickly... Orders are taken and paid for on the same terminal. The Eftpos terminal authorizes traditional and non-traditional payments: cash, chip and PIN cards, with or without signature, contactless, QR Code...
Discover your remote control here
#5 Encourage dematerialized tips and more attractive remuneration for your servers
In summer, sun - heat - summer atmosphere - vacations ... Customers are more likely to tip when they are satisfied with the service! Contactless payments and mobile payment applications are becoming increasingly popular. Customers often prefer to use their cell phone to pay for their meal, rather than taking out their wallet and giving cash (when they have it!). Dematerialized tips are therefore becoming increasingly popular in summer, giving restaurant waiters more attractive remuneration.
Discover dematerialized tipping
#6 Offers a 'special summer' menu
Fresh & seasonal products, that's what all our customers want! When the sun is shining and the heat is on, your customers expect freshness on their plates.
What are the star food trends of 2023? Plant-based: products without animal proteins (to suit everyone's dietary habits); organic, local and non ultra-processed products: less sugar, fat, salt, fewer additives. But be careful! According to a Kantar study, 71% of French people associate the contents of their plates with pleasure, so you need to be inventive when putting together your menu... Taste pleasure without cutting corners on the healthy trend: customers are looking for home-made products, with real transparency as to the quality and origin of the ingredients that make up their dish.
The best part? The digital menu! So, as soon as your customers are seated, they can access the menu and choose their dishes, completely independently. The digital menu takes the form of a QR Code, displayed on the table and synchronized with your menu.
In conclusion, filling your restaurant terrace in summer can be an excellent way of attracting the public to your establishment and boosting your sales. But be careful! Before you start setting up your terrace, you need to obtain permission from the town hall to occupy public space with your furniture. Make sure you respect the rights of pedestrians by not blocking their path, and by using only the floor space you've been granted. If you wish to extend your terrace or carry out any work, remember to submit a special request to the town hall. Finally, don't forget that terrace service requires special attention to food safety and parking!
