Although no one can know for certain what mobile developments will emerge in 2014, one thing is for sure: mobile technology isn’t going away. In fact, in 2014 there are predicted to be over 2 million smartphones globally! What does this mean for your bar or restaurant? You need to be aware of mobile trends coming your way in 2014. Here’s how a few big trends will affect you:
Paying by phone will become more popular.
It’s easy to see the benefits of allowing customers to pay via their smartphones. It’s quick and convenient! Starbucks reported that mobile payments passed 10% of in-store purchases. Expect that number to go up in 2014. As more customers come to expect this, it’s smart to look into making it a reality for your business.
Mobile will become a necessity.
Many restaurant websites are not easily viewable on phones, but in 2014, mobile sites will become a necessity. It’s important to be sure that customers looking up your restaurant on their phones are able to get full use of your website. Customers’ first (and possibly only) impression of your bar or restaurant might happen on their mobile device, so you want to be absolutely sure that you measure up.
Customers will own more mobile devices.
Not only do you have to make sure your website looks good on one screen…you have to make sure it looks good on any screen a customer could be using. In 2014, customers will be using even more mobile devices than ever, and it’s important to keep that in mind when designing a site.
Analytics will be bigger.
Mobile technology makes it easier than ever to collect information about your customers…and, in turn, analyze that information. Analyzing your customers’ orders and preferences will allow you to make your advertising much more personal.
Traditional marketing and advertising will continue to decline.
Coupons and “traditional” advertising aren’t a thing of the past yet, but they’ll be declining in 2014. What does that mean for your bar or restaurant? You should focus on social media to facilitate real relationships with customers. This will become far more effective than regular advertising.
Location-based advertising.
How would you like to advertise to customers who you know are right next to your restaurant? With location-based marketing, you can do that.
Narrowcasting will become popular.
Social networking sites like Twitter and Facebook are known for their ability to reach tons of people. But what if you don’t want to reach such a broad group? Enter narrowcasting, which will give you the ability to target your messages to the people who can actually use them.
We can’t predict what 2014 will bring for your bar or restaurant, but by keeping these mobile trends in mind, you can be ahead of the curve!
Article provided by Buzztime.
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Trusted by over 3,200 bars and restaurants in North America since 1985, Buzztime integrates trivia, card and sports games with in- and out-of-venue messaging and communication tools. With over 4.2 million player registrations on the Buzztime platform and over 52 million games played each year, Buzztime players spread the word and invite friends and family to their favorite Buzztime location to enjoy an evening of fun and competition.
