Customer Retention for Independent Restaurants: How to Keep Guests Coming Back
For independent restaurant operators, building a loyal customer base is more important than ever. In an industry where 50% of restaurants struggle with repeat customers, loyalty programs can be a game-changer. In fact, 41% of sit-down restaurant diners consider loyalty programs when choosing where to eat. Additionally, 61% of delivery customers say loyalty program membership […]
A Clean Restaurant Is a Profitable Restaurant: Why Hygiene Drives Guest Loyalty
Imagine this: A couple walks into your restaurant for the first time, excited to try your signature dish. The ambiance is inviting, the service is warm, and their order is placed. But as they sit down, they notice a sticky residue on the table. The menus have smudges, and a quick trip to the restroom […]
How Independent Restaurants Can Get Pricing Like the Big Chains
Independent restaurant operators are up against rising costs—95% of restaurants said food prices were a major challenge in 2024, and 95% of operators felt the squeeze of inflation. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to be a big chain to get big-chain pricing. With the right strategies and partnerships, independent restaurants can unlock […]
7 Ways to Boost Restaurant Traffic as a Dining Alliance Member
51% of restaurants reported declining traffic. This blog dives into the different ways you can boost restaurant traffic (and sales!) as a Dining Alliance member! For independent operators, finding innovative ways to bring customers back through the doors can be daunting. But as a Dining Alliance member, you have access to tools, partnerships, and strategies […]
10 Cost-Effective Strategies for Independent Restaurant Operators
With 47% of restaurant operators planning to use technology and automation to streamline costs and tackle labor shortages this year, cost management is more essential than ever. Operating an independent restaurant is a balancing act between the joy of creating memorable experiences and the challenge of managing rising costs. With tight profit margins, staying competitive […]
How to Boost Your Profits with Online Ordering
in partnership with CHOWNOW Online ordering becomes increasingly central to the dining experience, it presents a valuable opportunity for restaurants to grow profits and build stronger relationships with customers. For restaurants of all sizes, a well-optimized online ordering strategy can streamline operations, reduce overhead, and expand reach without relying heavily on third-party platforms. Our friends […]
How Independent Restaurants Can Stay Ahead of Supply Chain Disruptions
Waiting weeks for a fryer repair or scrambling to source serviceware for outdoor patio season? It’s a scenario many independent restaurants know all too well. Whether it’s a broken oven during brunch rush or missing takeout containers on game day, supply chain delays put serious pressure on your team, your timeline, and your bottom line. […]
How Restaurants Can Thrive with a Smaller Workforce
Labor shortages continue to challenge the restaurant industry, with 7 in 10 operators who incorporated more technology into their operations in the past two to three years reporting increased efficiency and productivity. Full-service operators (74%) have seen even greater benefits compared to limited-service operators (63%). However, independent operators can adapt by implementing strategies that maintain […]
45% of Restaurant Operators Need More Employees—Here’s How Dining Alliance Can Help
With 45% of restaurant operators saying they need more employees to meet customer demand, the restaurant labor shortage has become a pressing issue across the industry. Independent operators are feeling the impact more than ever, but instead of letting these challenges slow your business down, Dining Alliance offers powerful restaurant labor shortage solutions to help […]
5 Ways Idahoan® Can Help Your Restaurant Succeed
As an independent restaurant operator, you know that every decision you make can impact your bottom line and the success of your business. With rising food costs, labor shortages, and the need to keep your menu fresh, finding reliable partners who understand your challenges is more important than ever. Idahoan® Foodservice is here to help […]
