Text Message Marketing 101 for Bars and Restaurants

With more consumers embracing technology and mobility than ever before, it only makes sense that tech-savvy marketers want to target this growing demographic. Email marketing used to be the most innovative way to connect with consumers — now marketers are tapping into other channels, like SMS messaging, to get their message across.

At Monte Cristo Gaming, our mission is to help the bars, restaurants, and taverns we partner with stand out and attract more business. Here’s a rundown of SMS marketing so you can reach out and connect with more of your customers.

How does SMS marketing work? SMS marketing, also known as text message marketing, is a great way to tap into today’s mobile market. The premise is simple: your business delivers a carefully crafted SMS message to a series of mobile phone numbers, and ideally the recipients open it, read it, and respond. Studies show a majority of mobile users actually prefer SMS advertisements over email ads and phone calls — so why not reach them through their preferred method?

Starting a bulk texting campaign. There are multiple ways your business can begin a bulk SMS campaign, depending on the purpose. For personalized interaction between a team member and a customer, direct text messaging is your best choice. For messages targeting hundreds or thousands of recipients, you’ll need specialized software — options like Zingle, Avochato, Tatango, and Trumpia each offer unique features, so take some time to compare before deciding.

Staying compliant. Like all forms of marketing, SMS marketing is tightly controlled by laws and regulations. Text marketers aren’t required to follow the CAN-SPAM Act that governs email, but they are expected to abide by the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA).

A few dos and don’ts. Make it easy for users to unsubscribe by texting STOP. Avoid sending multiple messages in a row — keep each one short and sweet. End each text with a clear call to action. Never send a text without prior permission, since doing so can carry serious legal consequences. And don’t treat the platform as a one-way street — invite customers to reply.

Curious how a video gaming terminal could fit into your bar or restaurant’s marketing mix? Connect with Monte Cristo Gaming to learn more.