Text Message says my table is ready...

I know that nobody wanted it to happen, but it is officially here.  I constantly hear from small business owners and consumers for that matter who constantly complain about their cell phones being used to distribute marketing.  I have mentioned before how soon consumers will be able to walk up to a coke machine (could be Pepsi machine but I live in the south) and hit a few keys and a drink will drop down to you. 

On a post by textually.org it speaks of software that will now allow restaurants to either send their VIP customers offers, or allow them to let people know how the wait is.  This can significantly increase sales if used correctly.  Do keep in mind that the 1 thing most people have near them is their cell phone.  Mine normally is within 5 feet of me at all times.  If it is not, than something is wrong...drastically wrong. It even mentioned of drastically increased sales for a client.

I know that there is probably an opt-in process for this, but do people want to be marketed to over a cell phone?  Even though everyone seems to be on a cell phone for many hours during the day, it is still sacred and many people do not want to give out the number or be bothered. 

I am just speaking on behalf of it being out there.  Just be prepared when Ruby Tuesday lets you know that there is only a 15 minute wait so you better come now, that you asked for it in the long run.

Comments

[Tim]

Check out QLess at http://qless.com for a product that does all of this and more. The marketing is indeed opt-in, so customers will only receive text messages (after they've been seated) if they ask for them.