Every fall, foodservice brands pour billions into football-season marketing — from “Big Game” ads to limited-time “game day” menus. But you don’t need a massive media budget to compete. With the right strategy, operators can capture hungry fans and boost sales all season long. Consumers crave quick, craveable, and affordable food before, during, and after the big game—and foodservice operators are perfectly positioned to deliver. The key is using a tested playbook, then adapting it for your environment.
1. Know your Most Valuable Diners
Football season brings high-frequency snackers, families, and fans on the go. These customers visit more often and spend more per trip.
Action Step: Promote combo deals and group-friendly options—like pizza bundles, handheld snacks, or meal-and-drink pairings. Highlight shareability and value in your displays (“Feed the team fast”).
2. Keep Value Front and Center
With budgets tight, “value” is the ultimate play.
Action Step: Offer Game Day Meal Deals or “Two-for” specials on fan favorites. Bundle food with beverages for visible savings, and promote them through digital screens or forecourt signage.
3. Extend the Win Beyond Sunday
Fans don’t just eat on game day—they snack all week.
Action Step: Rotate themed offers: “Victory Deals” on Mondays, “Tailgate Specials” on Thursdays. Tie into local rivalries and keep messaging active so fans see you as their go-to stop all season long.
4. Track what works – then adjust
The best brands constantly test and refine.
Action Step: Track which items and deals move fastest, adjust placement or pricing weekly, and refresh signage to spotlight what’s hot. Even small tweaks can make a big impact. You don’t need an enormous budget to win game-day sales. Focus on value, visibility, and consistency – and make your brand the local favorite for every fan, all season long.
If you’re curious how OLM can improve your foodservice game, reach out to us. We’d love to chat.
