If your restaurant isn’t using TikTok, you’re missing out on the opportunity to reach a huge demographic of potential diners on a platform that isn’t completely bogged down by other advertisers. Here’s what you need to know about TikTok marketing for restaurants, so you can get ahead of the game.
What is TikTok?
TikTok is a free social media app that allows users to share and watch videos up to three minutes long on any topic.
Who Uses TikTok?
According to HubSpot, TikTok has over 69.5 million monthly active users in the US, with 48% of US adults between 18-29 using TikTok. And with the average daily user spending 89 minutes per day on the app, there’s plenty of time to reach this younger demographic with TikTok marketing for your restaurant.
TikTok Marketing Tips
Thinking about trying out TikTok marketing for your restaurant, but not sure how to start? These TikTok marketing tips can help you start creating high-quality content to get more eyes on your business.
See What’s Out There
Before you try to infiltrate the market, start by doing some TikTok research. Download TikTok, fill in your interests, and start watching. Keep a special eye out for other restaurants and brands like Voodoo Donuts and Chipotle who are creating engaging content that drives diners to their locations.
Engage Your Staff
If you don’t ever engage with TikTok, you’re probably not the best person to be planning or creating videos. Reach out to young, creative members of your staff and get them involved in the process.
Promote Your Menu
Do you have a popular appetizer, entrée, dessert, or cocktail on your menu? Start by promoting that menu item on TikTok. Not only can you post an appetizing video of the item, but you can also have staff members talk about how it’s made, how it sells, what to pair it with, etc.
Take Advantage of Current Trends
The secret to the success of your TikToks is keeping your finger on the pulse of what’s popular. If, for example, there’s a popular TikTok dance going viral, have your staff reenact it at the start of their shift. Just don’t wait too long. You don’t want to be clinging on to fading fads.
Connect with Influencers
Keep an eye out for local influencers who could help you get some extra eyes on your business. Foodiesnitch, for example, covers a wide range of restaurants, bars, and food carts in Portland, Oregon.
Need some help with your restaurant marketing? McDonald Wholesale offers marketing and menu development services in addition to our foodservice distribution. In the meantime, check out our blog where we cover everything from how to sell more gift cards for your restaurant to the best restaurant patio ideas for winter.