Running a successful taproom isn’t just about brewing great beer…well, that’s a big part of it, but it’s more than just beer. You need to create an experience that keeps customers coming back. Having and keeping quality staff is hugely important, and training them to not just do their job but to do it in a way that’s going to help increase sales can make or break a brewery’s success. No one likes a pushy bartender, but making genuine recommendations and providing top-notch service naturally encourages more sales.
Here are 10 simple but effective strategies to boost revenue while keeping customers happy.
Beers to-go can be a great way to increase your sales. It’s easy for customers to forget they can take beer home with them. Before closing out a tab, train staff to ask, "Would you like to grab a 4-pack of that IPA to take home?" This simple prompt can work wonders, with some studies showing that it can raise the rate customers buy packaged beer by as much as 90%!
If a guest is raving about a particular beer, mentioning that they can take some home to enjoy later could lead to an easy additional sale.
Instead of having customers crowd the bar for every round, consider staffing 1-2 team members to provide table service. It keeps customers seated, ordering more, and enjoying their experience.
When the taproom is packed on a weekend night, having a server check on tables means guests don’t have to fight for a bartender’s attention—leading to higher sales and better customer satisfaction.
A clean taproom is an inviting taproom. Regularly bussing tables not only keeps things tidy but also gives staff an opportunity to chat with customers and offer refills.
If a guest’s glass is empty while you’re clearing the table, a quick “Another round?” makes it easy for them to say yes.
People love to feel like regulars, even on their first visit. A simple introduction makes a lasting impression.
Greeting guests with a warm, "Hey, I’m so and so, what’s your name?" creates a friendly atmosphere and makes them feel like part of the family. This helps turn them from simply customers, into regulars or even evangelists for your brand.
Customers love a good story—especially when it’s about what’s in their glass. Little tidbits that may seem boring to you could make your customer’s day. If your staff can share insights about the brewing process or fun facts about a beer, it makes the experience more memorable.
If a seasonal release was inspired by a local ingredient or a funny mishap in the brewhouse, sharing that story makes the beer more special and more likely to be ordered again.
No one wants to pull out their card every time they order a drink. Starting a tab encourages guests to stay longer and order more.
If a customer is on their second beer, suggesting, “Want me to start a tab for you?” makes it more convenient for them to keep ordering without interruptions.
A little generosity goes a long way. If someone’s on the fence about a beer, offering a small taste can lead to a full pour—and maybe even a to-go purchase.
When a guest is stuck between two options, giving them a quick sample helps them decide and builds trust in your recommendations.
Flights are another option for letting customers discover their new favorite beer, one small pour at a time. And they are often willing to pay more per ounce for those smaller pours, which helps keep your margins healthy.
Repeat customers are the backbone of any taproom. The majority of business at a brewery is going to come from loyal customers. A loyalty program is a great way to incentivize guests and keep them coming.
Inviting guests to join a loyalty program with exclusive perks gives them another reason to keep choosing your taproom over others. Loyalty apps also give you the ability to understand what your most important customers actually want and enjoy, letting you build your business around them with confidence.
Even if you don’t have a full kitchen, suggesting a snack that pairs well with a customer’s beer keeps them in their seat longer and increases check averages.
If you don’t have a kitchen, partnering with a food truck can be a great way to support your community and increase ticket sales.
Implementing the right software can streamline your operations and make your brewery more efficient.
Plus Beer30 now integrates with GoTab which means faster inventory management, fewer errors, and time saved each week!
If you implement these strategies and leverage the right software, your taproom can create a welcoming, engaging, and profitable environment.
Remember, the best sales don’t come from pushy tactics—they come from creating great experiences.
If you’re interested in learning about Beer30 and the newest integration with GoTab POS, schedule a demo today and learn how you can start saving money at your brewery.
Cheers to more happy customers and higher sales!
