Soft launch before launching a food outlet

30 Sep Soft launch before launching a food outlet

A soft launch is a common practice in the restaurant industry that involves opening a restaurant to a limited audience before the official grand opening. This allows the owner and managers to test the operations, menu, and service while ironing out any issues before the big opening day. Here are few steps to keep in mind while planning for a soft launch.

• Defining the goals: Determine what you want to achieve with the soft launch. This could include testing your menu, training your staff, receiving feedback from customers, or generating buzz in the community.
• Set a date and duration: Choose a specific date and decide how long the soft launch will last. It could be a few days or a couple of weeks, depending on your needs.
• Invite a limited audience: Invite a select group of people to attend the soft launch. This could include friends, family, industry professionals, or local influencers. Consider offering them complimentary or discounted meals in exchange for their feedback.
• Prepare your staff: Ensure that your staff is adequately trained and prepared for the soft launch. This includes training them on the menu, service standards, and any specific procedures you have in place.
• Menu selection and pricing: Finalize your menu and determine the pricing for the soft launch. You may choose to offer a limited menu or a set menu to streamline operations during this initial phase.
• Test your operations: Treat the soft launch as a dress rehearsal for your restaurant. Test your kitchen operations, service flow, and point-of-sale systems to identify any areas that need improvement.
• Gather feedback: Encourage your guests to provide feedback on their experience during the soft launch. This can be done through comment cards, online surveys, or face-to-face conversations. Use this feedback to make necessary adjustments before the official opening.
• Build buzz: Leverage social media and other marketing channels to generate excitement about your upcoming restaurant. Share sneak peeks, behind-the-scenes footage, or special offers to attract potential customers.
• Evaluate and adjust: After the soft launch, review the feedback received and assess your restaurant’s performance. Make any necessary changes or improvements based on the feedback and observations during the soft launch period.
• Plan the grand opening: Once you have addressed any issues or concerns identified during the soft launch, you can confidently plan and execute your grand opening, knowing that you have already tested your operations and received valuable feedback.

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A soft launch is an opportunity to fine-tune your restaurant and ensure a smooth start. It allows you to identify and address any potential issues before opening to the general public, setting you up for success in the long run.