Curious to discover how Zenchef can help your restaurant effectively prevent last-minute cancellations? In this article, we explore several strategies you can use to reduce last-minute cancellations and ensure a full house for your restaurant.
When it comes to battling late cancellations, prevention is key. Statistics show that approximately 20% of restaurant reservations end up being canceled with little or no notice. Here are some proactive steps you can take to minimize this number for your restaurant:
Ask for a credit card guarantee or prepayment
Among the most effective Zenchef tools to mitigate no-shows are the credit card guarantee and prepayment.
With a prepayment, guests are required to pay either a portion or the entire price of their dinner’s cost during the reservation process. In the event of a late cancellation or no-show, this prepaid amount covers a portion of the associated expenses.
Similarly, a credit card guarantee operates by collecting credit card information during the reservation process. Guests are informed that a specified amount will be charged to their card if they fail to fulfill their reservation.
The beauty of these tools lies in their flexibility. You have the freedom to customize the amounts charged and determine which services warrant such measures. By implementing these measures, you not only safeguard against no-shows but also ensure a fair and efficient reservation system for your restaurant.
When I decided to start using prepayments, I thought we’d lose a lot of reservations. But in reality, I think that those who aren’t willing to prepay don’t really want to come; you’re like a Plan B for them. I’m not a plan B. The ones who are open to prepayment are your best guests, the ones who really love your brand.
Bruno Verjus, Table Bruno Verjus
Don’t Forget Your Cancellation Policy!
Did you know that with both credit card guarantees and prepayments, you have the option to include a cancellation policy? By setting a clear deadline for cancellations without penalty, you not only inform guests upfront but also prevent any potential misunderstandings or disputes later on.
A transparent cancellation policy benefits both you and your guests. It sets expectations upfront and avoids misunderstandings about when cancellations are penalty-free.
Automatically send your guest a reservation reminder
With Zenchef, you can effortlessly send automatic reconfirmations to your guests, ensuring that no one forgets about their reservation with you. This not only serves as a gentle reminder of their scheduled visit but also prompts them to confirm their attendance once more, reaffirming their commitment.
Similar to prepayments and guarantees, you have the flexibility to customize this feature. You can choose which services, if not all, warrant a reminder. Additionally, you can specify how far in advance the reminder is sent and how much time guests have to reconfirm before their spots become available to other diners.
Spread awareness of the impact of late cancellations or no-shows
An often overlooked but highly effective strategy is open communication with your guests regarding the impact of last-minute cancellations on your business. Consider incorporating a brief explanation in your online reservation widget or confirmation email.
In our experience, many guests are unaware of the ripple effect caused by their cancellation. They may opt for spontaneity, deciding on their plans at the last moment, including where to dine. Many even make reservations at two restaurants, only to decide which one to visit on the evening itself.
Highlighting the repercussions of a late cancellation or no-show not only educates guests about your restaurant’s situation but also reveals the human side of the business. It fosters understanding and builds mutual trust by demonstrating the efforts and resources invested in preparing for their visit.
