This is very beneficial for the entire community and is also lots of fun. It not only makes the children aware of your restaurant, but also every parent and teacher.
By promoting to and assisting a school close to your restaurant, it shows that you are a responsible corporate and caring member of your community. You are getting the restaurant's name and credibility out to areas of your community that might not otherwise be aware of you.
Here are some ideas to consider:
1. Reward Outstanding EffortI am not just talking about good grades. The very best students generally always do well. I believe it is important to reward a student that has really excelled according to their capability. Talk to the Headmaster/mistress and teachers and get them to nominate students according to effect and diligence. You can offer free meals, deserts or even parties. You can also issue certificates.
2. Sponsor School ActivitiesAll schools have different academic programs and sports teams and other extra-curricular activities that need sponsors. They often have to travel long distances. You will probably even be asked to join in as a volunteer giving you further opportunities to connect with people and businesses from your local community.
3. Do a Cooking Show at the SchoolThis can be educational and lots of fun. You can include any of your cooks or other staff too. Get teachers and students to participate on stage. Make things that are fun and colourful, where you can incorporate some nutrition, food and safety information.
4. Form a Strategic Alliance With Another Business And Share the Profits with the SchoolYou can form a partnership with another retail store or even another restaurant. Then you get students to distribute coupons to family, parents, co-workers and neighbours. For every coupon that is redeemed at the restaurant, a percentage (maybe 10 or 20%) of their purchase will go back to the school. It is great for increasing business for slow times.
5. Sponsor Funding The Purchase of a Piece of EquipmentSchools are always after more equipment, books or sports uniforms. Your customers can join in too! Some of them might have kids going to that school next year!
6. Coupon Fund-RaisersTry to get as many opportunities to participate in these as possible. Schools generally sell coupon books to raise many for all sorts of needs. Your involvement is a great source of advertising without the normal expense.
Look for other opportunities that are presented from time to time.
Copyright: Copyright © 2006-2008 Ian Macdonald
About the Author:| Ian Macdonald as founder and owner of Macdonald's Gourmet Burgers combines his passion and knowledge of food, wine and nutrition with savvy business tactics. He is also the MD of a corporate consulting firm that advises on strategic negotiation, dispute resolution and workplace change. Clients are mainly from top 100 corporations. For lots of free resources from their extensive website go to: http://www.MacdonaldsGourmetBurgers.com
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