Let’s Start Simple: Have You Ever Sent a Customer a Text?

Let’s be real—most of your customers have their phones within arm’s reach

all day long. The average person spends over 5 hours a day on their mobile device. That’s not just screen time—it’s opportunity. So instead of hoping they see your post or open your email…

why not show up right where they’re already looking?
Text marketing is quickly becoming a go-to strategy for restaurants—not because it’s trendy, but because it works. It’s fast, personal, and exactly how your guests prefer to stay in the loop.

Let’s Start Simple:

Have You Ever Sent a Customer a Text?

Let’s be real—most of your customers have their phones within arm’s reach all day long. The average person spends over 5 hours a day on their mobile device. That’s not just screen time—it’s opportunity. So instead of hoping they see your post or open your email… why not show up right where they’re already looking?

Text marketing is quickly becoming a go-to strategy for restaurants—not because it’s trendy, but because it works. It’s fast, personal, and exactly how your guests prefer to stay in the loop.

Let’s Start Simple: Have You Ever Sent a Customer a Text?

Let’s be real—most of your customers have their phones within arm’s reach

all day long. The average person spends over 5 hours a day on their mobile device. That’s not just screen time—it’s opportunity. So instead of hoping they see your post or open your email…

So… Why Even Bother with a Text List?

Here's why...

Let’s face it—when most restaurant owners think about marketing, they jump to social media, email blasts, or maybe some flyers. Texting? It’s rarely the first choice. But maybe it should be.

Texts Feel Like You’re Talking To Them, Not At Them

The magic of texting is in how personal it feels. You can greet guests by name, send birthday wishes, or offer a surprise deal on their anniversary —all without lifting a finger after the setup.

But personalization isn’t just a nice touch.

It’s what people want.

In fact, 85% of consumers say they’d rather hear from a business by text than get a phone call or email. Even better?64% say it makes them feel like the business actually values their time. That kind of connection builds real loyalty—and word-of-mouth referrals.

It’s Perfect for Bringing Guests Back Again (and Again)

Your text list will mostly include people who’ve already visited. That’s gold.

A gentle nudge or exclusive offer could be all it takes to get them through the door again.

And here’s the kicker: research shows that boosting repeat visits by just 5% can increase your profits by up to 125%. Yep, that’s not a typo.

Big Results, Tiny Investment

Let’s talk numbers. If you're working with a tight budget (like many restaurants are), SMS gives one of the best returns out there. Some restaurants are getting $44 back for every $1 spent on texting campaigns.

That’s serious ROI—and it’s trackable. You’ll be able to see open rates, clicks, and responses, so you know exactly what’s working.

If you’re looking for a smart, simple, and budget-friendly way to stay top-of-mind with your guests… texting is the move.

Easy Ways to Start Building Your Guest Contact List

(No Tech Headaches Required)

You don’t need a complicated system or huge budget to start growing your restaurant’s text list. In fact, a few simple tweaks to what you’re probably already doing can go a long way. Here’s how to start, step by step:

1. Run a Giveaway—The Modern Way
Remember those old-school fishbowls where guests dropped in their business cards? Same concept, just updated. Offer a chance to win a free dinner, gift card, or invite to a VIP night. To enter? They give you their phone number.

That’s it. A win for them, and a growing list for you.

2. Add a Sign-Up Form to Your Website
Your website is already getting visitors—don’t let that traffic go to waste.

Add a simple form to your homepage or contact page asking for name and phone number. Make it easy. Make it required. And let guests know they’ll get first dibs on special deals by signing up.

3. Just Ask Your Guests

Especially when you’re starting out, nothing beats a personal ask. Train your team to mention the texting list to loyal customers: “Hey! We’re rolling out exclusive text-only specials for regulars—want in?” You’ll be surprised how many people say yes, especially if they already love your food.

4. Offer Perks They Can Only Get by Text

Want people to actually want to join your list? Give them a reason.

Let guests know that by signing up, they’ll unlock deals they can’t get anywhere else—like a free appetizer on their next visit, or access to limited-time menu drops.

Make it sound like a VIP club—because it is.

You don’t need to be a tech wizard or run a national chain to build a great SMS list. Just start small, stay consistent, and give people a reason to stay connected.

Built Your Text List? Here’s What to Do With It

Collecting phone numbers is just step one—now it’s time to actually put your list to work. And no, you don’t need to become a full-time marketer to do it.

If the word “marketing” makes you think of expensive ads or complicated strategies, don’t worry. SMS marketing is way simpler—and way more effective—than you might think. Here are some easy, high-impact ways to use your text list starting now:

🎉 Send a Welcome Gift

Someone just joined your list? Great—give them a reason to come in.

A simple “Thanks for signing up—show this text for 10% off your next visit!” works wonders to get them in the door sooner rather than later.

📅 Own a Day of the Week

Make your restaurant part of their weekly routine.
Try something catchy like #TacoTuesday, #WineWednesday , or #FridayFishFry

—then send a text reminder with the deal each week. Consistency = loyalty.

⚡ Drop Flash Sales
Nothing moves people like urgency. Send a morning text: “🔥 TODAY ONLY: $7 lunch combo from 11AM–2PM! Show this text to grab yours.”

It plays on FOMO (fear of missing out), and it works.

🎂 Celebrate Their Birthday

Ask for guests' birthdays when they sign up, and a few days before the big day, send them a special treat—a free dessert, drink, or discount. People love feeling noticed—and they usually bring friends.

🍽️ Show Off the Menu

Got a new dish or seasonal special? Snap a photo, add a quick description, and text it out. It’s an easy way to keep guests engaged and curious about what’s next.

Do You I need a Text Marketing Software?

Short answer? Yes.

You could try doing it manually—but that gets messy, fast.

The right SMS platform helps you:

Organize your contact list

Automate things like welcome and birthday texts

Track performance (so you know what’s working and what’s not)

Stay compliant with texting laws

And here’s the best part—we handle all of that for you. You focus on running the restaurant. We’ll write the messages, schedule them, and make sure your campaign is always on point.

📲Want to see how it works?

Let’s show you—book a free demo and we’ll walk you through everything, no pressure.

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