Limited-time offers (LTOs) used to be all about seasonal options, but now, they’re used strategically for so much more. LTOs can be a way to test new items, gather consumer feedback, and ensure that profit- focused items are front-and-center. While value is getting a lot of hype (and it is indeed a key feature of many LTOs), generally, operators report that only 10% of their LTOs are value priced, while 64% are average priced, and 26% are premium priced (Datassential’s LTO Keynote Report). Across the board, it’s important that LTOs be craveable and new, but not so new that patrons fear they won’t like them. Desserts, appetizers, sides, and bowls are categories where consumers crave new offerings but are currently underleveraged by operators. Safe experimentation within these item types can lead to profitable LTOs that are winners for all parties.
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