3 Simple ways to reach more customers for your hospitality business

If you're running a hospitality business in Canada, whether it’s a café in Calgary, a food truck in Toronto, or a neighbourhood pub in Vancouver, you know that standing out from the crowd is more important than ever. With tight margins, rising costs, and ever-evolving customer expectations, getting noticed by the right people can feel like a full-time job.

That’s why we’ve put together three practical ways to help boost your visibility and attract more customers without needing a marketing degree or a massive budget.

1. Be visible when customers are searching

Your potential customers are already searching online for where to eat, grab a coffee, or host a night out, so make sure they can find you.

“88% of consumers who conduct a local search on their smartphone visit or call a business within 24 hours.” (Google Consumer Insights, Canada)

Start by claiming and optimizing your Google Business Profile. This free tool allows you to appear in local searches and on Google Maps with your business hours, contact info, website, photos, and customer reviews. Make sure your details are up to date and regularly upload fresh photos of your space and menu items. Also, don’t forget to respond to customer reviews (good and bad)! Doing so can improve your business' visibility and trust, potentially boosting your ranking in Google search results.

Bonus tip: Encourage happy customers to leave a review. Even a handful of positive ratings can help increase your credibility online.

2. Use social media as a business tool

Social media is one of the most powerful ways to promote your business. The key is consistency and authenticity.

“78% of consumers say that social media posts by companies influence their buying decisions.” (Forbes, North America)

You don’t need to be on every platform! Pick one or two where your ideal customers spend time and commit to posting regularly. Behind-the-scenes clips, chef spotlights, menu features, daily specials, and customer shoutouts can all help create engagement on platforms like Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.

3. Use promotions strategically

Promotions can be a great way to drive foot traffic and grow awareness when used intentionally. Instead of constant discounts that can hurt your margins, think value-added offers.

“41% of Canadian diners say special promotions or deals influence where they choose to eat out.” (Restaurants Canada)

Consider limited time offers, happy hour menus, or bundling meals with drinks to increase average spend. You can also run promotions during slower hours to boost traffic when it matters most.

If you’re working with EconoLease as a dealer or equipment supplier, partnering with your customers on seasonal financing offers can also be a smart way to help them open sooner and with less financial pressure.

Helping Canadian hospitality businesses grow

At EconoLease, we don’t just provide equipment financing—we’re here to support the success of local restaurants, cafés, bakeries, and food businesses across Canada. That means sharing practical tips, real-world strategies, and flexible financing solutions that meet operators where they are.

Want to offer financing to your customers or find out more about our Rent-Try-Buy, lease and loan options? Get in touch with our team to learn how we can support your business today.