Local pizza chains and independent pizzerias are passionate about supporting their communities. Whether through charitable events or food delivery apps, their efforts help strengthen the neighborhoods they call home.
There are many pizza traditions across the country, from San Francisco’s artisanal slices to Old Forge’s famous square cuts. Some are regional; others are more nationally celebrated.
Build Strong Relationships
The quality of your pizza and the kindness of your staff are essential to building solid relationships with your customers. Restaurants that make it a point to connect with their customers have greater loyalty and profit.
Create a customer email list and utilize it to send them remarketing offers. It is an excellent alternative to 3rd party marketplace loyalty programs that limit your access to customer information and have high marketing costs.
A website is an affordable way to create a professional image for your Crenos Pizza and build trust in your brand. Having a site will also allow you to share your menu items, events, and other important information in one place.
Find people in your community who have built an audience of pizza lovers and promote your business on their social media platforms. It is an effective form of word-of-mouth marketing and a great way to bring in new business. For example, you might partner with a local food blogger, celebrity chef, or newscaster with an audience of pizza lovers.
Create Community Events
Whether independent or franchised, local pizza places near me often participate in fundraiser programs for schools, churches, service organizations, and sports teams. By participating in these events, they gain visibility and generate buzz. They also allow customers to dine and donate simultaneously, increasing their average dinner check.
In addition to providing in-store promotions, local pizza restaurants can offer online marketing solutions that help drive engagement and boost customer loyalty. For example, a pizza restaurant can hold a “Pizza Selfie” contest where customers are encouraged to take creative pictures of their favorite slices and share them online with a specific hashtag. This promotional campaign is a fun and effective way to generate buzz and brand recognition.
Many local pizzerias are owned by community members, making them a familiar and inviting place to spend time with friends and family. This familiarity helps establish a strong reputation, ultimately leading to repeat business.
Encourage Community Volunteerism
During the current labor shortage, many pizza operators find that staying engaged with local communities is in their best interest. Whether hosting youth sports teams or volunteering in the classroom, pizza operators creatively support their community.
Build Strong Local Businesses
In addition to marketing pizzas, local pizzerias build strong businesses by establishing an established reputation, offering competitive pricing, and promoting their core values. Independent pizzerias need to compete against sizeable national delivery chains.
Pizzerias should also be creative with their promotions. For example, introducing limited-time specialty pizzas or collaborating with local artisan food producers can help set them apart and generate buzz. However, pizzerias should avoid discounting pizza to an extent that undervalues their product or creates a perception of “cheapness.”
Establishing an email list of loyal customers is an excellent way for pizza restaurants to stay top-of-mind and generate repeat business. Pizza shops can use their website to create a customer newsletter announcing new menu items, seasonal specials, and other updates. Pizzerias can also use Google My Business to post offers and updates directly to their local search results. It is a free and effective way to reach potential customers.
