How to Win Over Holiday Shoppers with Quick Service Options

The holiday season is here, and with it comes a flurry of activity for shoppers. People are out juggling gift-buying, festive errands, and end-of-year tasks. For quick service restaurants (QSRs), this represents a golden opportunity to cater to time-starved customers looking for fast, convenient, and high-quality options.

So, how can you position your business to capture the attention (and loyalty) of these holiday shoppers? Let’s explore strategies to make your QSR the destination of choice this season.

1. Prioritize Mobile Ordering and Payments

Busy shoppers don’t have time to wait in long lines. By enabling mobile ordering and payments, you make their experience as frictionless as possible. Whether through your own app, website, or third-party platforms, giving customers the ability to place orders ahead of time ensures a smoother process for both them and your staff.

Why it works:

• Reduces time spent at the counter.
• Increases customer satisfaction by offering a sense of control.

Pro Tip: Incentivize mobile ordering with discounts or holiday-themed offers. For example, offer a “skip-the-line” perk for app users during peak hours.

2. Craft a Festive, Grab-and-Go Menu

Holiday shoppers are often on tight schedules and prefer quick, portable options. Curate a menu featuring items that are easy to carry and enjoy while on the move. Seasonal touches—like peppermint-flavored drinks, cranberry sauces, or gingerbread cookies—can make your menu stand out.

Examples of what to offer:

• Limited-edition holiday drinks, such as eggnog lattes or hot cocoa with festive toppings.
• Snack bundles like “Holiday Grab Bags” featuring mini sandwiches, a drink, and a treat.

Pro Tip: Offer exclusive deals on combo meals for shoppers who purchase during lunchtime rushes. This encourages them to plan their stop at your restaurant.

3. Optimize In-Store Speed with Self-Service Kiosks

Efficiency is key during the holidays. Implement self-service kiosks to speed up the ordering process and free up staff to focus on preparing orders quickly. Kiosks not only reduce wait times but also provide a chance for upselling through dynamic recommendations.

Why this matters:

• Studies show kiosks can reduce order times by up to 30%, giving customers more time to continue their shopping.
• Dedicated kiosks paired with a streamlined pickup system ensure minimal customer frustration.

Bonus Idea: Add holiday visuals to your kiosk interface to create a festive and welcoming experience.

4. Deliver Holiday Cheer to Their Doorsteps

Not all holiday shoppers want to eat on the go. Many will appreciate the convenience of delivery, especially as the season becomes more hectic. Partner with delivery services like Uber Eats, DoorDash, or Grubhub—or offer your own delivery options—to cater to this demand.

Ideas to stand out:

• Offer a “Holiday Feast” package designed for families or workplace celebrations.
• Add an element of surprise by including festive napkins or a handwritten “Happy Holidays” note with every order.

Pro Tip: Encourage customers to order delivery by offering free delivery for orders over a certain amount during the holiday season.

5. Use Digital Channels to Promote Your Quick Service Edge

Your digital presence plays a critical role in attracting holiday shoppers. Use social media, email marketing, and your website to communicate your unique holiday offerings and convenience-driven services.

How to use digital effectively:

• Share real-time updates on wait times or exclusive deals through Instagram stories.
• Create carousel posts that highlight your festive menu or speedy service.
• Email your loyal customers with coupons or rewards for visiting during peak shopping times.

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to incorporate hashtags like #HolidayQuickEats or #FestiveFuel to reach a wider audience online.

6. Offer Perks for Busy Shoppers

During the holidays, even small perks can make a big difference. Create special promotions designed to alleviate some of the stress shoppers face.

Ideas to attract more customers:

• Provide a free drink with any meal purchase during specified hours (e.g., “Happy Hour for Shoppers”).
• Partner with nearby retailers to offer discounts or deals for mutual customers.
• Provide free Wi-Fi and charging stations to attract shoppers who need a quick break.

Pro Tip: Host a “Holiday Pit Stop” where customers can enjoy complimentary samples while they wait for their order.

Why Quick Service Restaurants Thrive During the Holidays

The demand for fast and convenient dining peaks during the holiday season, and QSRs are perfectly positioned to meet that need. By implementing these strategies, you can:

• Capture the attention of time-conscious shoppers.
• Drive higher foot traffic and repeat visits.
• Build goodwill and loyalty during a season when customers are making dining decisions on the go.

The holidays are not just about increasing sales—they’re an opportunity to show your customers that you understand their needs and are ready to deliver.

What strategies are you implementing this holiday season to attract busy shoppers? ?? Share your thoughts in the comments, and for more insights like these, subscribe to The Restaurateur’s Digest.