Up, Up and Away - The Restaurant Marketing Podcast

What happens when a viral influencer campaign meets the reality of in-store operations? How do you ensure the digital promises you make are flawlessly delivered in the physical world? In this episode, we bridge that gap with a truly unique guest: Peter Wiley, Director of Marketing & IT at Hothead Burritos. As both a corporate strategist for an 87-location brand and a hands-on franchisee for 11 of those stores, Peter lives at the intersection of high-level tech strategy and on-the-ground reality. Tune in to hear a masterclass in building a cohesive, omnichannel experience that works for both your brand and your franchisees, including: ‣ The #1 question you MUST ask every tech vendor before signing a contract (Hint: it’s all about the POS). ‣ The ongoing debate: The pros and cons of requiring an app download versus embracing app-less loyalty. ‣ Why a Customer Data Platform (CDP) is the key to understanding the 70% of your guests who aren't in your loyalty program. ‣ Practical strategies for personalizing offers that actually increase visit frequency.

'Limited Time Offers' are a staple in every restaurant's playbook, but too often they are a costly gamble that fails to produce a meaningful return. How do you move beyond the hype and into profit? Join marketing strategist Anna Tauzin Neave as she pulls back the curtain on what it takes to create LTOs that don't just generate buzz, but build the bottom line. Discover why measuring an LTO's success purely on sales is a massive mistake, and finally settle the debate: are LTOs an acquisition tool or a powerful retention powerhouse? This is your guide to turning LTOs into a predictable engine for engagement.

Acquiring new guests can feel like a gamble. So, we brought in a true heavyweight, Brian Siemienas, who has led marketing for giants like Hard Rock and Darden. He joins Rev Ciancio and Arun to break down where restaurants waste the most money and shares scrappy, high-impact strategies that actually work. Stop guessing and start growing. #RestaurantMarketing #CustomerAcquisition #MarketingStrategy #Hospitality #Qubriux

That one-star review for missing ketchup just did more damage than you think. Rev Ciancio and Qubriux CEO Arun break down how to build a bulletproof online reputation. Discover AI-powered strategies to analyze feedback, predict operational issues, and turn your worst reviews into loyal fans. #RestaurantMarketing #ReputationManagement #CustomerFeedback #Hospitality #Qubriux

Being "okay" at ten marketing tasks is killing your growth. It's time to be awesome at two. Outsourcing isn't about giving up control; it's about gaining the leverage to focus on what truly moves the needle. In this episode, Rev and Arun break down the strategic framework for deciding when to hire an agency versus when to use tech, and reveal the core marketing functions you should never hand over. Tune in to discover what to outsource and what to own. #RestaurantLeadership #MarketingTips #Outsourcing #Focus #Qubriux

Your email list is the one marketing channel you truly OWN. Are you using it to its full potential? In this episode, get the complete playbook for mastering restaurant email marketing. Rev and Arun cover everything from the psychology of a great offer to the data behind smart segmentation. Learn why email is the hero of retention marketing and get the actionable tips you need to transform your strategy today.

Rev Ciancio & special guest Cherryh Cansler (FastCasual.com / Networld Media Group) are serving up the real talk: why focused marketing workshops are your ticket to serious restaurant growth. This isn't theory; it's about actionable tactics (inspired by the #RestaurantMarketingWorkshop in Indy, June 2-3 – Qubriux is a proud sponsor!). Tune in to hear why this is a non-negotiable. #RestaurantMarketingTips #Podcast #LoyaltyStrategy #AIforRestaurants #Qubriux  

Texts & WhatsApp for your restaurant: Incredible power, serious peril. 💥 With 90% open rates, it's tempting to go wild. But screw it up? You're digital toast. Rev & Arun are decoding how to use these direct channels like a pro – from consent and frequency to smart segmentation and avoiding that "creepy stalker" vibe. Learn how to make direct messaging your secret weapon. #RestaurantPodcast #MarketingStrategy #SMS #WhatsApp #Qubriux

Understanding the right technology infrastructure is vital for restaurant success in today's competitive environment. In Episode 16 of Up, Up and Away, the restaurant marketing podcast, the focus is on the concept of a consolidated tech stack for restaurants. We delve into the essential systems and the critical need for integration to improve efficiency and gain valuable insights. Join us for a discussion on building a more streamlined and effective technology foundation for your restaurant.

Think a single veggie burger covers dietary needs? 🙄 Wrong. This episode tackles how restaurants often fail at inclusive menus (allergies, keto, vegan, GF & more) and how YOU can fix it to win loyal fans. Learn the step-by-step framework to super serve these guests, find niche opportunities, market effectively, and crucially, avoid common mistakes like cross-contamination. Hosts Arun AV (Qubriux) & Rev Ciancio break down actionable strategies. Stop leaving money on the table! Watch now, share this with a restaurant owner who needs it, and give us a rating! #RestaurantMarketing #InclusiveMenu #DietaryRestrictions #Allergies #Vegan #GlutenFree #RestaurantTips #Podcast

In this episode, Rev Ciancio spills the beans on a TOP-SECRET meeting with a Meta Instagram Growth Advisor! He's sharing game-changing tactics – things he's personally tested and confirmed to actually work. This isn't your typical "influencer advice" – this is the real deal.

Tired of crickets chirping in your restaurant during the week? 🦗💰 We get it. Weekday slumps are a killer. In this episode of Up, Up, and Away, we're serving up the real strategies to boost sales when business is slow. No fluff, just actionable tips from Qubriux's Arun and hospitality guru Rev. Let's turn those slow days into payday! #qubriux #podcast #restaurantmarketing

Gift cards: a restaurant's best friend or a marketing flop? This episode dives into the world of gift card programs, exploring whether they're worth the effort for independent restaurants. A New York restauranteur shares their skepticism, prompting a deep dive into what makes a gift card program successful. The discussion covers ideal restaurant types for gift cards, essential program elements, POS integration (or lack thereof), digital vs. physical options, effective marketing strategies (beyond the "buy X get Y" promo), and the role of personalization and AI. Learn best practices from purchase to redemption and discover what to look for in a gift card provider.

Tired of shouting into the void with your restaurant marketing? 📢 This episode is for you! 💥 We're diving deep into the world of customer segmentation with the one and only Arun AV. 💥 Learn how to identify your ideal customers, tailor your marketing messages, and watch your restaurant thrive. 🎙️ Listen Now!

Online reviews: They can make or break you. ☠️ In this episode, we're spilling the tea on how to handle those brutal one-star rants, turn negative feedback into gold, and leverage positive reviews to attract new customers. ☕️ Listen Now!

Ever wondered how restaurants operate without a physical storefront? Join us as we delve into the world of cloud kitchens and virtual brands. We'll discuss the strategies to build brand awareness, attract customers, and drive sales for your virtual restaurant. From choosing the right business model to crafting effective marketing campaigns, we've got you covered. Tune in to Episode 8 discover the secrets to success in the digital age of food delivery.

Loyalty programs are all the rage in the restaurant industry. But are they worth the hype? In this episode, we dive deep into the world of loyalty programs, exploring the benefits, drawbacks, and best practices for implementing a successful program. We'll discuss: How to determine if a loyalty program is right for your restaurant. The different types of loyalty programs and their pros and cons. Tips for creating a loyalty program that drives customer engagement and repeat business. The importance of tracking and analyzing loyalty program data. The impact of points and freebies on customer loyalty. Join us as we unravel the secrets of building a loyal customer base and taking your restaurant to the next level.

Join us as we delve into the world of local SEO and discover how to boost your restaurant's online visibility. In this episode, Rev talks about the strategies and tactics to attract more local customers and drive sales.

Arun and Rev talk about strategies and tactics for successful marketing on food delivery platforms. Our special guest, Kelly Grogan, founder of CRUMBS, a leading firm specializing in boosting revenue for hospitality businesses, also shares her valuable insights and expertise. The Speakers in this episode: Arun AV: Founder and CEO of Qubriux, a leading provider of restaurant marketing solutions. Rev Ciancio: Hospitality marketing consultant, tech evangelist, and co-founder of Handcraft Burgers & Brew. Kelly Grogan: Founder of CRUMBS, a firm specializing in boosting revenue for hospitality businesses. Subscribe now to never miss an episode!

In this episode, Rev and Arun continue talking about the effects of Email Marketing. If you haven't listened to Part 1, then listen to the previous episode before listening to this.