Venues are betting on freebies, combos and standout service to attract customers this coming Sunday (15)
Consumer Day, celebrated on March 15, has been gaining ground on the calendar of bars and restaurants in Brazil. For those who enjoy leisure time out of the house, the date can be anopportunityto find promotions, freebies and special experiences at different venues.
Just as happens in retail, many food service businesses have come to see Consumer Day as an opportunity to reward customers and attract new audiences. The strategy includes discounts, promotional combos and freebies that make the experience more appealing.
The push also comes at a time of greater pressure on companies' cash. An Abrasel survey shows that, in January, 23% of food service businesses operated at a loss, an increase of seven percentage points compared with December. In the same period, thepercentageof venues turning a profit fell from 47% to 41%.
Promotions to celebrate the date
In Manaus, Ancho Steak Burguer decided to double down on a strategy it had already tested last year. At the time, customers who bought a burger received a side of fries on the house. The promotion's good reception encouraged the restaurant to prepare a new campaign for 2026.
“The success of last year's campaign showed that the customer values a direct benefit. For this year, we decided to evolve the strategy. On top of the freebie, we're going to offer an exclusive combo and step up personalized service”, says owner Gabriel Geraldo.
According to him, the goal is to increase the value the consumer perceives during their visit to the restaurant.
“We want the customer to feel that the whole experience is worth it, from the service to the quality of the product”, he explains.
The date helps drive restaurant traffic
For those who like discovering new places or taking advantage of special offers, Consumer Day can become a good moment to try out new venues.
According to Gabriel, promotional dates usually generate a significant increase in traffic.
“At Ancho, we see an average increase of 15% to 20% in the flow of customers compared with ordinary days. It's an opportunity for more people to get to know the restaurant”, he says.
Beyond attracting new customers, the date also strengthens the relationship with the regulars.
Sunday should draw families
This year, Consumer Day falls on a Sunday, a factor that may influence the profile of the crowd going out to celebrate.
Weekday promotions tend to attract groups of friends or happy hour customers. Sunday, on the other hand, tends to bring together families and longer gatherings at the table.
“Sunday changes the dynamic. We expect to host more families and bigger groups, since it's a day when people usually go out together for lunch or dinner”, says the owner.
The restaurant expects heavy traffic throughout the day.
“We're ready with reinforced inventory and a full team to make sure everyone is served quickly and well”, says Gabriel.
For those who like taking advantage of good offers and discovering new flavors, Consumer Day can become an opportunity to get friends or family together and enjoy the special campaigns that bars and restaurants have prepared for the date.
