How to get new customers

Getting new customers for your pizzeria is key to growing your business. While your regulars keep you going, customer acquisition is essential to long-term success. 

Here are some effective ways to acquire new customers:

Leverage social media

Social media is a powerful tool for customer acquisition. Use platforms like Instagram and TikTok to share short, engaging videos of your tastiest food and the pizza-making process. Engage with your followers by responding to comments and running fun contests.

Offer online ordering

Make it easy for new customers to try your pizzeria by offering convenient online ordering. Ensure your website and app are user-friendly and showcase your full menu. Consider offering a first-time order discount to encourage new customers to give your pizza shop a try.

Partner with local businesses

Team up with nearby businesses for cross-promotions. For example, you can partner with a video gaming lounge, offering discounts to their customers when they order from your shop. 

You could even cross-promote with local restaurants that serve a different style of food. Let’s say there’s a cafe that mostly does breakfast. They could give cafe customers a $5 off coupon for your pizzeria and vice versa. 

Host community events

Turn your pizzeria into a neighborhood hotspot by hosting fun events. Try a pizza-making class for kids, a trivia night, or even a "create your own pizza" contest. These events bring people together and create lasting memories associated with your shop, encouraging attendees to become regular customers.

Optimize for local search

Keep your Google My Business accurate with your menu, photos, and hours. This includes any special holiday hours or closures — your customers need to know if you’re closing early on Christmas Eve or open late for the big game.

Use local keywords on your website to improve your Google and Bing rankings for pizza searches. This will help your shop tremendously when people search for "pizza near me."

Encourage word-of-mouth marketing

Happy customers are your best advertisers. Encourage satisfied diners to share their experiences on social media or review sites to draw new customers. Consider mini giveaways on Instagram — tag five friends, win a free appetizer.

Participate in local events

Get involved in community events like food festivals, little league games, farmers markets, and street fairs. This gives you a chance to showcase your pizza to a wider audience and build brand awareness in your local area.

Create a loyalty program

While a loyalty program primarily benefits repeat customers, it can also attract new customers. Promote your program's benefits to potential customers, highlighting the rewards they can earn by choosing your pizzeria over competitors.

Offer unique menu items

Stand out from other pizzerias by offering unique specialty pizzas or menu items. This could be a pizza with unconventional toppings, a fusion dish that combines pizza with another cuisine, or a standout dessert. Promote these unique offerings to attract curious food lovers looking for fresh experiences.