Creative Email Marketing Ideas for Restaurants, Cafes, and Takeaways This January: A Guide by Collectifi

5 January

As the festive season fades away and people embrace the New Year, January can often feel like a slow month for restaurants, cafes, and takeaways. However, it’s the perfect time to engage your customers with smart, targeted email marketing campaigns. Here are some fresh ideas to kick-start your January email marketing strategy and keep your tables and order books full.

1. New Year, New Menu

Highlight new dishes or seasonal specials that cater to customers seeking fresh experiences or healthier options after the indulgences of December. Use enticing photos and descriptions to whet their appetite, and consider offering an introductory discount or exclusive tasting event for subscribers.

Subject Line Idea: “Start the Year Right: Discover Our New Menu Creations!”

2. Healthy Eating and Veganuary

January is synonymous with resolutions, and many people opt for healthier lifestyles or try Veganuary (a month-long vegan challenge). Showcase your vegan and healthy menu options, or create limited-time dishes to attract health-conscious diners.

Subject Line Idea: “Delicious Vegan Treats Await You This Veganuary!”

3. Loyalty Programme Promotions

Reward your loyal customers by offering double points on your loyalty scheme throughout January. Alternatively, introduce a new loyalty programme to entice repeat visits or orders.

Subject Line Idea: “Double Points All January for Our Loyal Foodies!”

4. Beat the January Blues

Encourage customers to treat themselves with comforting meals or sweet treats during the dreary winter months. Use language that emphasises warmth and indulgence.

Subject Line Idea: “Chase Away the Chill: Warm Up with Us This January”

5. Dry January Mocktail Menus

Many customers participate in Dry January by abstaining from alcohol. Share an email featuring your best mocktails, alcohol-free drinks, or special offers on non-alcoholic beverages to attract this audience.

Subject Line Idea: “Raise a Glass to Dry January: Try Our Mocktail Specials!”

6. Exclusive Discounts and Offers

Everyone loves a good deal, especially after holiday spending. Offer exclusive discounts, free delivery for takeaways, or a special “2-for-1” dining deal to tempt customers back.

Subject Line Idea: “Save This January: Exclusive Deals Inside!”

7. Event-Based Marketing

Leverage January events like Australia Day or Burns Night to create themed menus or promotions. Tailor your email campaign to highlight these celebrations and attract customers looking for unique dining experiences.

Subject Line Idea: “Celebrate Burns Night with Our Special Scottish Feast!”

8. Customer Appreciation Emails

Thank your customers for their support over the past year with a heartfelt message and a special gift, like a discount code or a free dessert.

Subject Line Idea: “Thank You for a Wonderful Year – Here’s a Little Treat!”

9. Winter Comfort Food Campaign

Emphasise the comforting nature of your menu items, from hearty soups and stews to rich desserts, perfect for cold January days.

Subject Line Idea: “Cosy Up with Our Winter Comfort Menu”

10. User-Generated Content Contests

Encourage your customers to share their dining experiences or favourite dishes on social media for a chance to win a gift card or free meal. Feature these in your emails to create a sense of community.

Subject Line Idea: “Your Dish Pics Could Win You a Free Meal!”

Tips for Success:

Segment Your Audience: Tailor your emails to different customer groups.

Keep It Short and Sweet: Make your message clear and actionable with a compelling call-to-action (CTA).

Invest in Visuals: High-quality images of your dishes or drinks can significantly boost engagement.

Track Results: Use your email platform’s analytics to monitor open rates, clicks, and conversions, and refine your approach accordingly.

By implementing these ideas, your January email campaigns can not only drive footfall and orders but also strengthen your brand’s relationship with customers. Here’s to a successful start to the New Year!