Why Tabletop Strut Cards Are Key to Higher Restaurant Sales

In the bustling world of restaurants and hospitality, attracting customer attention and encouraging additional purchases is essential to boosting sales and enhancing the dining experience. One surprisingly effective yet often underutilised tool in this endeavour is the tabletop strut card. Compact, versatile, and visually appealing, these small displays can make a big difference in how customers engage with your menu and promotions.

In this blog, we’ll explore why tabletop strut cards are key to driving higher restaurant sales, highlighting the role of high-quality strut card printing and durable foamex materials in creating displays that stand out. Whether you run a cosy café or a large dining establishment, understanding how to use tabletop strut cards effectively will help you maximise revenue and improve guest satisfaction.

What Are Tabletop Strut Cards?

Tabletop strut cards are small, free-standing promotional displays shaped like a tent or “A-frame.” Typically made from materials like Foamex or sturdy card stock, they are designed to sit on restaurant tables, counters, or bars. Their double-sided format allows them to display offers, menus, or messages clearly and attractively from multiple angles.

These strut cards are perfect for highlighting special dishes, drinks, events, or loyalty programmes without overwhelming customers with too much information at once.

Why Tabletop Strut Cards Influence Restaurant Sales

1. Capture Guest Attention at the Point of Decision

When diners are seated, they spend time scanning menus and their surroundings before placing orders. Tabletop strut cards capitalise on this moment by showcasing tempting specials, limited-time offers, or drink pairings right at the table, encouraging guests to try new items or upgrade their orders.

2. Increase Average Spend per Customer

By promoting upsells such as desserts, cocktails, or sharing platters, strut cards can nudge customers to spend more. Even subtle prompts like “Ask about our dessert specials” or “Perfect with your main course” can influence ordering behaviour.

3. Enhance Customer Experience with Clear Communication

Tabletop strut cards provide an easy way to communicate important information—be it allergen warnings, upcoming events, or contactless ordering instructions. This transparency builds trust and makes guests feel cared for, improving their overall experience.

4. Cost-Effective Marketing Tool

Compared to digital screens or large banners, tabletop strut cards offer a low-cost method of promoting your restaurant’s offerings. They are easy to produce, update, and replace as needed, ensuring your marketing stays fresh without breaking the bank.

The Importance of Quality Strut Card Printing

Not all strut cards are created equal. The impact of your tabletop displays depends heavily on the quality of strut card printing you choose. Crisp images, vibrant colours, and sharp text attract attention and reflect the professionalism of your establishment.

Why Choose Foamex for Tabletop Strut Cards?

Foamex is a rigid PVC foam board that’s become popular for high-quality strut cards due to its durability and premium finish. Unlike standard paper or thin card, Foamex offers:

• Robustness: Resistant to bending, creasing, and spills common in restaurant environments.
• Smooth Surface: Ideal for detailed printing, enhancing the vibrancy and clarity of graphics.
• Longevity: Maintains its appearance over time, even with frequent handling and cleaning.

By combining Foamex with advanced strut card printing techniques such as UV printing or digital printing, restaurants can produce attractive, long-lasting displays that elevate their brand image.

Designing Effective Tabletop Strut Cards

To fully harness the power of tabletop strut cards, thoughtful design is key. Here are some practical tips:

1. Keep Messages Simple and Focused

With limited space, focus on one clear message per card. Whether it’s a special offer, a new dish, or an upcoming event, avoid overcrowding with too much text.

2. Use High-Quality Images

Visual appeal drives appetite. Including professional photos of your featured dishes or drinks can entice customers to order.

3. Make Calls to Action Clear

Prompt customers to take action with calls like “Try it now!”, “Limited availability,” or “Ask your server.” Clear prompts improve engagement.

4. Reflect Your Brand’s Style

Ensure fonts, colours, and logos align with your restaurant’s branding to maintain a consistent look and feel.

5. Consider Double-Sided Design

Take advantage of the double-sided format to convey complementary information, such as pairing drinks on one side and desserts on the other.

Placement and Maintenance Tips for Maximum Impact

Where and how you place your tabletop strut cards matters:

• Position them centrally on each table where they are visible but don’t obstruct conversation.
• Rotate designs regularly to highlight seasonal or new offerings.
• Use non-slip bases or coatings to prevent cards from tipping over.

Measuring Success with Tabletop Strut Cards

Track the effectiveness of your strut cards by:

• Monitoring sales data for promoted items before and after introducing cards.
• Gathering feedback from servers on customer responses.
• Testing different designs or messages to see which perform best.

Adjust your strut card strategies accordingly to maximise results.

Why UK Restaurants Should Invest in Foamex Strut Cards

Foamex strut cards combine durability and aesthetics to deliver a professional touch that resonates with discerning customers. Their robust nature means they withstand the wear and tear of busy establishments, maintaining a polished look even after repeated handling, spills, or frequent cleaning. This resilience ensures that your marketing materials look fresh and inviting throughout their use, which is essential in high-traffic restaurant environments.

Moreover, advances in strut card printing technology allow for fast turnaround times and cost-effective production, helping restaurants keep promotions timely and relevant. This agility means that eateries can quickly update menus, highlight daily specials, or promote seasonal offers without incurring significant delays or costs. The ability to refresh your marketing materials regularly keeps customers engaged and encourages repeat visits.

Additionally, Foamex strut cards offer excellent print quality, with vivid colours and sharp images that catch the eye and complement your restaurant’s branding. Their lightweight yet sturdy build makes them easy to place and reposition on tables or counters, adding flexibility to your in-house promotions. Investing in Foamex strut cards not only enhances the guest experience by providing clear and attractive information but also supports your business growth by encouraging upselling and increasing average spend.

Conclusion

High-quality strut card printing paired with durable foamex materials ensures your promotional messages are vibrant, professional, and long-lasting.

By thoughtfully designing, placing, and maintaining these compact displays, UK restaurants can encourage upselling, enhance the dining experience, and ultimately increase revenue. For expert advice and superior strut card printing solutions that elevate your restaurant’s marketing, the Board Printing Company offers tailored services to help your business thrive.