During 2020, restaurants, catering services, and other food-related services were met with considerable challenges and changes. The pandemic altered some of the logistics of the foodservice industry but overall, the industry accepted and adapted to the many challenges. Despite some declines last year, food delivery and take out have seen an increase in sales. Now that 2021 has begun and businesses are reopening or reinventing their scope of services, there is some good news within the industry. Is it time for a restaurant revamp?

The American Journal of Transportation (AJOT) estimates that online food delivery markets will continue to see a rise, with approximately $151.5 billion in revenue expected this year. “Many restaurants also added delivery during the pandemic, and plan to continue investing in the service,” AJOT reports. “In 2019, revenues of the global restaurant-to-consumer delivery segment amounted to $53.6 billion. This figure jumped by 22.5% to $65.7 billion in 2020. The increasing trend is set to continue in the following years, with revenues rising to $85.5 billion by 2024.” 

Keeping this in mind, it is a good time to look at your restaurant space with a new set of eyes. A renewed space can help customers feel more excited about visiting – and employees will feel energized by the improvements and upgrades. Customers want to be reminded of the parts of their routines that are still enjoyable, dependable, and comforting. 

Here are some ways restaurants can revamp their signage and branding in 2021.

·         Welcome patrons back with a variety of signage that promotes sales, curbside pickup, food delivery services, and updated menu options. Flags, banners, sidewalk signs, and yard signs are great options for this.

·         Implement a customer rewards program if you haven’t done so yet. This is a great way to show appreciation, but also an effective way of connecting with your customers with data and history. Make sure you promote this with signage throughout the restaurant.

·         Utilize floor decals to direct customers. Well-designed floor decals can remind patrons about social distancing protocol and they can guide them when they aren’t sure where to go.

·         Add a new layer of signage to attract passersby - window graphics are great for seasonal, informational, directional, and emotional messages. They are versatile, affordable, and long-lasting. Customers are drawn to businesses that keep them informed. Window signage is simple yet packs a lot of power.

·         Menu signs add to the restaurant’s signage and decor. They are functional and can enhance your restaurant’s branding whether your customers venture into your establishment, or if they utilize outdoor dining and food pick-up. Adding digital menus eliminates the need to disinfect menus and the waste of using paper menus, while giving you the flexibility you may need now more than ever.  You run out of an item during the day, remove it before the customer even knows it is missing.

·         Digital signage works 24/7, so even if your business is operating on limited or reduced hours, your message can be seen. Highlight any changes that you feel your customers should be aware of, recognize an employee, or say “thank you” to the customers that have remained loyal during the pandemic.

Contact your local Signarama’s sign experts for all of your restaurant and foodservice industry signage needs. Our experienced team of designers can take you from concept to installed by bringing your vision to life. We have a wide array of ideas we can share with you if you need help figuring out what fits your brand and budget best. 

We are here to help you create the signage that will help your restaurant get noticed in 2021.