Did you know that 82% of consumers trust print ads more than any other form of advertising?
Meanwhile, businesses are pouring cash into TikTok and Instagram, chasing trends and engagement metrics. And hey, digital ads work—but they’re also easy to scroll past and forget. Print advertising, on the other hand? It sticks. When done right, it cuts through the noise and stays in people’s hands (literally).
Let’s break down how to make print ads that actually grab attention—without looking like something from a bygone era.
1. Flyers That Don’t End Up in the Trash
Most restaurant flyers are straight-up boring. If yours looks like a generic “Come Try Our Specials” ad, congrats—it’s going straight to the recycling bin. Instead, try this:
- Make it interactive → Add a QR code that leads to a secret menu, discount, or a limited-time offer.
- Use high-quality paper → A flyer that feels premium is less likely to be tossed.
- Give people a reason to keep it → Turn it into a scratch-off discount or a punch card.
- Put them in smart places → Hotels, coffee shops, coworking spaces—anywhere with hungry people.
Pro tip: Work with a quality print shop like FMC Printing so your flyers don’t look like they came out of an office copier.
2. Table Tents That Actually Get Read
Table tents are free real estate, but most of them get ignored. Instead of another generic drink special, try:
- FOMO marketing → “If you haven’t tried our margaritas yet, are you even living?”
- A challenge or game → “Flip a coin. Heads = a free appetizer. Tails = you pay double. Feeling lucky?”
- Customer reviews → “This burger changed my life—no exaggeration.”
- Regular updates → Switch them out frequently so regulars actually look at them.
3. VIP Cards That Make Customers Feel Important
People love exclusive perks. A VIP card can create instant customer loyalty, but only if done right:
- Make them feel earned → Give them to regulars, high spenders, or those who ask.
- Use premium materials → No flimsy business card paper. Go for thick cardstock or even wood.
- Personalize them → Printing a customer’s name on their card makes it feel special.
4. “Lost Pet” Guerrilla Posters
Sounds weird, but stick with me. Imagine a missing pet poster, except instead of a cat, it says:
MISSING: The Best Tacos in Town
Last seen at [Your Restaurant Name]. Approach with caution—they’re highly addictive.
- Make it look legit → Laminate it, add tear-off tabs, and post it where people will actually read it.
- Keep it hyper-local → Stick it on community boards at laundromats, coffee shops, and gyms.
- Add a mystery element → A QR code that leads to your menu instead of an address.
5. Coasters That Do More Than Sit There
People pick up and play with coasters constantly—so make them work harder:
- Turn them into coupons → “Show this coaster at the bar for a free shot.”
- Add humor → “This coaster is judging you for ordering another drink.”
- Make it collectible → Different coasters have different designs—collect them all for a prize.
6. Receipts That Keep Customers Engaged
Receipts don’t have to be boring. Try:
- Hidden discounts → “Flip this over—you might have a secret discount.”
- Funny customer reviews → “I came in hangry, and now I love everyone. 10/10.”
- Social media challenges → “Tag us in a pic of your meal, show this receipt, and get a free dessert.”
7. Business Cards People Actually Keep
Most business cards are forgettable. Instead, make yours:
- Useful → Print a mini-menu or a QR code linking to your online ordering.
- Memorable → Die-cut designs (pizza slice, sushi roll, etc.) stand out.
- Multi-purpose → Double as a loyalty punch card: “Buy 5 drinks, get your 6th free.”
Final Thoughts: Print Marketing Isn’t Dead—It’s Just Underused
Print ads work because they’re different. While digital ads are getting ignored, a well-done flyer, coaster, or VIP card is tangible, personal, and memorable.
Next time you think about dropping another $500 on Facebook ads that get ignored, maybe try something that people can actually hold onto. And if you need quality printing? FMC Printing has you covered.
(Need proof that print is still alive and kicking? Check out this take on it from FMC Printing.)
Now go get people talking about your restaurant—for all the right reasons.
