Duffy's Bucks Downward Economic Trend
Some restaurants are actually doing well despite the economic downturn; Duffy's Sports Grill just opened a Deerfield branch and is planning to expand to Delray Beach. So while lots of other chain restaurants are seeing red (RJ Gator's just shut two more locations, one in Port St Lucie and another in Okeechobee), Duffy's has managed to not only stay in the black but expand. Pretty impressive.
What makes Duffy's thrive while Steak & Ale, Bennigan's and others are shutting down?That 40 percent off deal is a great one; If I worked nearby, I'd eat a late breakfast and then head over for lunch at 2 p.m. Granted, the food is likely not exciting, but sometimes you just need a burger.Buying failed locales at bargain rates. Negotiating hard with suppliers for low prices. And focusing on value for clients, especially through its frequent-diner program, restaurant experts say.
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Perhaps the chain's greatest innovation is borrowing tools from airlines to adjust prices for peak and slow times and to reward loyal clients.
For example, Duffy's offers 40 percent off all food weekdays from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., when tables tend to be empty. To qualify, diners must sign up for its MVP frequent-diner card. Cardholders also get a $10 credit for every $100 of purchases, among other rewards and benefits.
About 70 percent of sales come from more than 200,000 MVP cardholders, who mainly live or work near Duffy's outlets. Many retirees come in weekdays just before 4 p.m. to order cut-rate dinners and then, buy "2 for 1" drinks at happy hour that starts at 4 p.m.
Restaurant chain serves up a profit in tough times [Sun-Sentinel]
Duffy's Sports Grill [Official Site]
