To say we live in “unprecedented times” doesn’t do justice to the severe challenges our nation faces.  As we all pull together to weather the Covid storm, let’s take solace in knowing we are an exceptional and resilient country with the best and brightest working diligently to guide us safely to other side. And on that other side, there will be valuable lessons learned and tremendous growth for us as individuals and a nation.

Embrace Survival Mode

In the meantime, small businesses and their hard-working employees are focused on survival and making it day-to-day. Restaurants, in particular, have been hit extra hard during the crisis. For many, their entire business model has been turned upside down in order to stay in business. Take-out or delivery, once a minor fraction of their sales, has become their lifeline. With overall sales taking a hit, a natural impulse might be to pull back on advertising. In some situations that may be the prudent choice, but for most, advertising provides a vital means of communication to the public. It offers a chance to let your customers know that you are compliant with all Covid-19 safety regulations and very much open for business.

Postcards – a Top Choice for Restaurants 

Direct mail remains an excellent choice for restaurants.  It’s less costly than other options, like television, billboards, and radio.  Plus, as a tangible, physical product, direct mail pieces are touched and saved which reinforces retention and familiarity.

Solo postcards offer an ideal advertising platform for restaurants.   On the front, you highlight your offers and key features, while using the back for your menu.   With postcards, you deliver a clear message straight to your best customers.

Five Key Reasons that Postcards Bring It

1. Many Americans will receive stimulus money and added unemployment benefits in the coming days. Undoubtedly, they will buy more take-out and delivery.
2. Consumers are staying home and reading their mail more than ever.  Now’s the time to get in front of them with a postcard.
3. Consumers are tired of grocery shopping and cooking at home.  Families are ready for a break! Be their first choice when they decide to order.
4. Loyal Americans want to support struggling restaurants.  Let them know you are open for business and ready for orders.
5. Many restaurants have pulled back on advertising. This allows you to stand out with limited competition.

As you wrestle with the urge to hold back and hunker down, understand that a little bit of proactive promotion today leads to a much bigger payoff tomorrow.

When this terrible crisis has passed – and it will – may we all be in a better place to face the next challenge and work together toward a stronger, more resilient future.