Think of limited-time offers (LTOs) like the build-up to the premiere of the next big movie or show — this sometimes kitschy marketing tactic can be designed to generate buzz, boost revenue, and show off something dramatic and new!
Much like the anticipation for the new Wicked movie (I still see pink and green everywhere) or the upcoming season of Stranger Things (bring back Eddie!), or anything featuring rising star Glen Powell (oh, hello), LTOs should create excitement that draws in a crowd and piques interest.
LTOs are powerful tools for driving traffic — according to research, 7 in 10 restaurant-goers have tried an LTO in the past month, and operators have reported traffic and revenue increases of up to 25% during successful campaigns. The power lies in the planning. With a well-planned strategy, you can harness this same momentum and turn your seasonal specials into fan-favorite, must-try offerings.
The Plot Thickens
Take it from somebody who loves planning, prepping, and creating schedules: Here’s a quick guide for planning and managing enticing marketing initiatives that will have your guests eager to stop by. Formulating an annual LTO calendar entails timing, creativity, and alignment with key trends and events — consider looking to pop culture for some inspiration.
Start by breaking out the year into a quarterly schedule, then map out major holidays, seasonal peaks, and any industry-specific events that lend themselves to special promotions (ex: city-sponsored restaurant weeks). Consider consumer habits and local happenings to keep your initiatives timely and trendy.
Be sure to diversify the types of LTOs you’ll be offering throughout the year — balancing food and beverage options, price points, and themes to maintain customer interest. Remember to build in flexibility, allowing you to adapt offers to emerging trends or unexpected opportunities.
Trial & Success
Running LTOs is an excellent way to let chefs explore and experiment with new food trends, flavors, and ingredients. It provides a low-risk opportunity to test creative dishes and gauge diner responses before adding them to your menu long term.
You can also tailor this approach to fit your restaurant’s unique style. For example, if your specialty is sandwiches, consider crafting a seasonal LTO menu. Offer a selection of fresh, tasty sandos packed with fruit spreads and veggies to celebrate the start of summer or hearty, comforting gravy-coated options to welcome the winter months. Plate these offerings with a fan-favorite side that can stand strong on your menu year-round — Simplot Conquest® Delivery+® Clear Coated Straight Cut Fries, for example, are expertly crafted to provide your plate with crispness, flavor, and versatility.
For more ideas like these, and to make LTO planning seamless for 2025, Simplot has introduced a printable LTO Calendar. This calendar serves as both a planning guide and a source for menu inspiration and supports every stage of crafting successful limited-time offers, complete with seasonal product recommendations. Packed with recipe ideas, expert tips, and stats, the printable format makes it tailor-made for displaying in your restaurant — keeping essential insights at your fingertips and ensuring your campaigns stay on track.
Love at First Bite!
Studies show an impressive 85% of guests who enjoy an LTO are likely to return, and 75% will share their experience, amplifying your reach through word-of-mouth and social media. According to research, consumer interest in LTOs is especially high for appetizers, meat entrées, desserts, and beverages like smoothies, shakes, and slushies.
Valentine’s Day is a quintessential occasion to showcase seasonal specials, so get ahead of schedule and look to promote romantic desserts or cocktail garnishes featuring Simplot Simple Goodness™ Fruit Raspberry Crumbles. The adorable drupelets are naturally sweet with bright color, packed with flavor, and are the perfect partner for a love-inspired LTO. Position these as toppings to a “Sweetheart Special” to create a memorable dining experience that guests will fall for.
Full Spend Ahead
Maximizing the success of LTOs starts with a strategic approach — begin by reviewing the LTO Calendar to map out seasonal opportunities and plan ahead. Promote your LTOs effectively through social media, email marketing, and in-store signage to generate buzz. Finally, track sales, online campaigns, and customer feedback to refine and adapt future offerings.
With the right tools, strategies, and planning, you can elevate offerings and wow guests — every season is an opportunity to bring enticing flair while inspiring orders!
**Content provided in collaboration with Simplot.
