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Vicki Ni’s restaurant journey began with a simple idea — to bring classic hibachi and sushi to her community. Together with her partners, Ni opened the doors to Bluefin in October 2023. Despite initial rave reviews, Bluefin found themselves faced with several operational challenges. Two of their main challenges were reservation management and low customer traffic. These issues caused seating errors, long wait times, loss of customers, and difficulties in attracting new customers. Bluefin quickly needed a more streamlined system to not only handle their reservations but also improve customer retention.
To address these challenges, Bluefin implemented Front Waitlist and Reserve, which provided several key solutions:
With the introduction of Front Waitlist and Front Reserve, Bluefin customers could now join a digital waitlist, which reduced human errors associated with manual booking. This helped streamline Bluefin’s waitlist process, making it easier for customers and staff to seat and serve guests. Front Waitlist and Reserve systems also enable automated text message notifications to notify waiting guests that their table is ready or to confirm online reservations.
Bluefin faced challenges in maximizing table management and maintaining a steady flow of guests. With Front Waitlist and Reserve, powered by the Front Tab back office, Bluefin transformed its approach to seating and notifications. This all-in-one system allowed staff to view and manage tables in real-time, coordinate guest seating, and optimize arrangements. As a result, Bluefin saw improved table turnover and a more streamlined front-of-house experience, creating a welcoming atmosphere that maximized efficiency and guest satisfaction.
Struggling with low customer foot traffic, Bluefin needed a way to drive more business. To address this, Front Waitlist and Reservations feature prompting customers to sign up for text notification when registering for the waitlist or making a reservation. Allowed them to send targeted promotional offers and marketing updates directly via text. This approach not only improved communication with existing customers but also attracted new ones. By leveraging this tool, Bluefin successfully increased foot traffic, enhanced customer engagement, and built stronger loyalty, ultimately driving business growth.
After just 5 months of using Front Waitlist and Front Reserve, Bluefin experienced impressive improvements in both operational efficiency and customer satisfaction:
- 93% of customers opted to use the Front Waitlist and Reserve system, reducing seating errors and streamlining the seating process, resulting in faster and more accurate table management.
- 94% of customers reported a more enjoyable dining experience, highlighting optimized seating arrangements and smoother guest flow management.
- Total orders increased by 16.47%, driven by more effective customer marketing campaigns and an increase in both new and existing customers.
By adopting the Front Waitlist and Front Reserve system, Bluefin overcame its operational challenges and positioned itself as a top sushi restaurant in its area. The system not only streamlined their reservations process but also increased customer engagement. Ultimately, boosting business growth. With these solutions in place, Bluefin has overcome its initial struggles and established itself as a top destination for diners in the community. By leveraging technology to optimize operations and connect with customers, Bluefin is well-positioned for continued success.
To learn more about Front Waitlist and Front Reserve, explore how these systems can transform your restaurant’s operations.