A new year is here, which means it’s time to think about how to attract more customers and get them to spend more money in your establishment. But, as restaurants look ahead, they face a fast-changing marketing landscape and uncertain economic times. Rising costs, fluctuating consumer confidence, and tighter margins will make it harder for restaurants of all types to invest in growth while staying profitable.

At the same time, diners are becoming more demanding, expecting personalized experiences that align with their values. Restaurants also face increased competition from delivery platforms and subscription dining models. Navigating this mix of economic volatility and shifting expectations requires creativity, as well as leveraging smart, data-driven technology.

Let’s take a look at some marketing ideas for 2026 that will help you overcome these obstacles and make the next year profitable.

Digital Discovery & Engagement

In 2026, being easy to find online will be just as important as the food on the plate. Diners increasingly rely on local search, voice assistants, and social platforms to decide where to eat, which means restaurants must sharpen their digital presence.

Optimising Google Business Profiles and local SEO ensures customers can locate you quickly, while short-form video content on TikTok and Instagram Reels can help build visibility with younger audiences.

At the same time, technology is reshaping how restaurants interact with guests: QR menus streamline ordering, AI chatbots handle reservations and questions, and EPOS integrations with delivery platforms create a smooth experience across channels. Together, these tools make discovery and engagement feel natural, helping restaurants stand out in a crowded market.

Loyalty & Personalisation

In a year marked by economic uncertainty, building customer loyalty will be one of the most reliable ways to sustain growth. Generic promotions don’t cut it as much as offering personalised experiences  where diners can expect offers that feel tailored to their habits and preferences.

Smart EPOS systems make this possible by tracking purchase patterns and enabling personalised rewards, whether it’s a discount on a favourite dish or early access to new menu items. Data insights also help shape menus, spotlighting popular choices and guiding upselling opportunities. When paired with authentic communication, personalised emails or SMS messages that speak directly to the customer turn occasional visitors into regulars, strengthening both revenue and relationships.

Experience & Community

In 2026, restaurants will need to go beyond visibility by offering experiences that diners want to share online and communities they feel proud to support. Immersive touches such as AR menus, themed nights, or pop-up collaborations with local creators can set a venue apart. Sustainability storytelling—highlighting eco-friendly sourcing or zero-waste initiatives—adds credibility and appeals to socially conscious audiences. Local partnerships, from sponsoring events to working with charities, reinforce authenticity and deepen customer loyalty. These strategies can turn a ho-hum dining into a larger narrative, one that strengthens both brand identity and customer connection.

Future-Proofing Your Restaurant

The pace of change in 2026 means restaurants can’t afford to stand still. Subscription dining models are gaining traction, offering customers predictable value while giving dining establishments steady revenue streams. Predictive analytics powered by AI will help restaurants anticipate demand, adjust menus, and optimise staffing before problems arise.

At the same time, agility is key. Testing new marketing formats, experimenting with digital campaigns, and monitoring emerging trends ensures restaurants stay ahead of trends rather than react to them. By blending creativity with technology, operators can build resilience and position themselves to thrive in an unpredictable market.

You might be surprised to learn that your EPOS system can play a key role in developing and deploying your marketing plan in 2026. Want to learn how? Contact our EPOS specialists to discuss your restaurant’s challenges and how your EPOS can work harder to help you find success and profitability.