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Building Your Bridge to Holiday Off-Premise Success
With the growing appetite for convenience, the demand for holiday takeout solutions has reached new heights. For foodservice operators, this presents a prime opportunity to expand revenue streams, build loyalty, and elevate your reputation as a destination for memorable, stress-free celebrations. Strategic off-premise programs such as Thanksgiving meal packages not only answer today’s consumer needs but also lay the groundwork for sustained sales success throughout the year.
Understanding the Thanksgiving Takeout Trend
Recent data shows 87% of pickup users and 81% of delivery users expect to keep up or increase their off-premise dining*. Thanksgiving takeout has quickly evolved from a practical solution to a seasonal staple, as more families seek restaurant-quality feasts without the kitchen hustle.
Smart operators are turning this shift into a competitive advantage, offering complete Thanksgiving meals for pickup or delivery, which delight families with tradition and convenience in every bite. The result? New revenue today and customer relationships that last.
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Why Thanksgiving Takeout Works
Thanksgiving takeout works because it meets consumers where they are, families pressed for time and savings turn to restaurants for stress-free solutions, with off-premise sales surging during the holidays and 64% of hospital foodservice operators reporting higher sales last year thanks to stronger menu options.* Digital ordering platforms further fuel this trend, enabling operators to capture orders well in advance for smoother prep and greater customer convenience. At the same time, thoughtfully crafted menus featuring comfort foods done right not only boost holiday sales but also help turn one-time orders into repeat business.
Creating Holiday Meal Packages that Sell
Creating holiday meal packages that sell starts with emphasizing comforting classics and stress-free solutions, highlighting beloved dishes like turkey, mashed potatoes, and gravy elevated with fresh ingredients or unique sides for a gourmet touch. Equally important are practical entrées that travel well and reheat beautifully, ensuring guests enjoy a restaurant-quality experience at home without sacrificing flavor or presentation. To maximize appeal, balance tradition with variety by offering packages that satisfy both customers craving familiar holiday favorites and those seeking lighter, festive options, making the menu feel special yet approachable for everyone.
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Tips for Marketing & Promotion
Effective marketing and promotion of Thanksgiving meal packages starts with early awareness, begin promoting at least three weeks ahead using social media, email newsletters, and in-store signage, while adding countdowns or early-bird specials to create urgency. Share the story by highlighting the convenience, quality, and seasonal ingredients through appetizing photos, testimonials, and messaging that helps customers picture a stress-free yet memorable holiday at home. Finally, cater to groups of all sizes with customizable packages for couples, families, and larger gatherings, while also showcasing catering options for corporate clients and community events to expand your reach.
Thanksgiving takeout represents more than a seasonal revenue opportunity, it’s a chance to build lasting customer relationships while showcasing your kitchen’s capabilities. By focusing on familiar flavors, operational excellence, and strategic marketing, operators can create holiday programs that drive immediate sales and long-term growth.
The combination of growing off-premise demand, digital ordering convenience, and consumer desire for restaurant-quality comfort foods creates ideal conditions for holiday success. Operators who act now to develop comprehensive Thanksgiving packages will be positioned to capture this lucrative market segment.
Ready to transform your holiday season? Start planning your Thanksgiving takeout menu today, and discover how strategic off-premise offerings can become your bridge to sustained sales success throughout the year and beyond. From helping to develop signature menu items to delivering on-site product training, our talented culinary team is always ready to help you elevate your menu and maximize participation as you continue Building Your Bridge to Local Sales Success.
*Source: Datassential