When the weather turns sour, many people opt to stay indoors, making it a prime opportunity for pizza businesses to thrive. For Hungry Howie’s franchisees, bad weather doesn’t have to mean bad sales.  

By leveraging digital tools, timely messaging, and comfort food appeal, you can not only weather the storm but boost your sales along the way. Here’s how Hungry Howie’s can shine when the skies turn gray. 

Leverage Online Ordering and Delivery 

In the era of convenience, online ordering and delivery are the backbone of weather-proofing your business. During bad weather, customers are far less likely to venture out for food. Here’s how Hungry Howie’s helps franchisees reach their customers: 

  1. Perfect the Digital Experience: 

Customers should be able to place their favorite orders in just a few clicks. At Hungry Howie’s, sizable investment in our mobile app and customer loyalty program is helping pizza enthusiasts order more quickly, highlighting customer favorites like the signature Flavored Crusts ® prominently to tempt browsers. 

  1. Highlight Delivery Options: 

Make sure customers know that Hungry Howie’s delivers right to their doorstep. Use social media and email campaigns to emphasize the convenience of staying warm at home while enjoying fresh pizza. 

  1. Promote Deals via the Hungry Howie’s App: 

Hungry Howie’s already partners with delivery platforms like DoorDash and Uber Eats in many locations. Plus, the Hungry Howie’s app is a great way to help customers ease their ordering and pick-up options.  

By prioritizing convenience, Hungry Howie’s can become the go-to choice for customers looking for comfort food without stepping outside. 

Engage Customers with Timely Messaging 

In moments of inclement weather, proactive communication can make all the difference. Engaging with your customers through weather-themed messaging not only keeps you top-of-mind but also positions Hungry Howie’s as the perfect solution for their cravings. 

  • Social Media Content: Use platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to post weather-related updates and promotions.  
  • SMS and Email Campaigns: Leveraging your existing customer database to send out targeted promotions when bad weather is in the forecast. A quick text like, “Stormy skies ahead? Warm up with our famous Flavored Crust® pizza. Order now and get free delivery!” can drive immediate orders. 
  • Real-Time Weather Tie-Ins: Create fun, weather-based promotions to keep customers engaged and encourage them to associate Hungry Howie’s with cozy weather relief. 

Upsell with Seasonal Comfort Foods 

People turn to comfort food when bad weather strikes to feel warm and satisfied. Hungry Howie’s already has an edge with its delicious pizzas and signature flavored crusts, but there’s more you can do to upsell during these times. 

  • Promote Hot and Hearty Sides: Items like oven-baked subs, Howie Wings®, and stuffed breadsticks are perfect for cold, rainy, or snowy days. Feature these items as add-ons during online checkout or through combo deals to increase ticket sizes. 
  • Feature Limited-Time Offers: Highlight limited-time menu items that cater to the season, such as a Pumpkin Spice Howie Bread® or a warm chocolate chip Howie Cookie®. Seasonal exclusives not only attract attention but also give customers a reason to order again before the promotion ends. And don’t forget about the Secret Menu.  
  • Bundle Deals for Comfort: Create family-focused bundles that include a mix of pizzas, sides, and desserts, marketed as “the ultimate bad-weather comfort package.” By bundling items together, you offer more value to the customer while increasing your average order size. 

Highlighting Convenience at Hungry Howie’s 

Finally, convenience is key when people are reluctant to leave their homes. Hungry Howie’s can lean into its strengths to make the ordering and receiving process as seamless as possible. 

  • Drive Traffic to Curbside Pickup: For customers who prefer picking up their orders but don’t want to brave the weather, curbside pickup is a game-changer.  
  • Streamline Payment Options: Bad weather can be stressful—don’t let clunky payment processes add to the hassle. Hungry Howie’s offers multiple payment options, including contactless payment methods, to make the experience quick and easy for customers. 
  • Enhance Delivery Convenience: Ensure your delivery service is as efficient as possible. Train drivers to navigate bad weather conditions safely and equip them with insulated bags to keep food hot. Use real-time tracking features to keep customers informed and reassured about their order’s arrival. 

Bad weather days don’t have to mean a drop in sales for Hungry Howie’s. By focusing on online ordering, engaging customer messaging, offering comfort-focused upsells, and emphasizing convenience, you can turn rainy or snowy days into some of your busiest. 

Remember, when the weather takes a turn for the worse, people want to feel warm, comfortable, and cared for. Hungry Howie’s is perfectly positioned to meet those needs with its beloved pizzas, signature flavored crusts, and a customer-first approach. 

So, the next time the forecast calls for storms, don’t sweat it—let Hungry Howie’s be the sunshine in your customers’ day. 

Contact us Today!

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