With Freshers' Week around the corner, businesses near universities across the UK have a unique opportunity to connect with new students. Whether you're a pub, café, or venue, this is the ideal time to attract young customers and make a lasting impression. Here are some top tips to get your business ready for Freshers' Week.
Students are known for being budget-conscious, and you can capitalise on this by offering attractive food and drink deals if you work in the hospitality sector. Rather than slashing prices to unsustainable levels, aim for affordable yet enticing options. For example, a sandwich, burger, or baguette paired with chips and a soft drink for under £5 can be a crowd-pleaser. Affordable doesn’t mean cheap drinks; instead, focus on reasonable pricing that encourages responsible consumption. This way, your business gains a reputation for being student-friendly while also promoting a positive experience.
From themed nights to pub quizzes and fancy dress parties, students love activities that allow them to socialise and have fun. Try hosting events specifically designed for students once or twice a week. For a unique touch, invite student musicians to perform if your license allows or sponsor a local university sports team. Heading to the local university's Freshers' Fair to promote your business or offer exclusive discounts can also be a direct way to attract students to your venue.
Why limit your student-friendly approach to evenings and weekends? Many students are looking for a convenient, affordable breakfast option to start their day. Offer simple breakfast deals like coffee and a barm cake or a classic fry-up at a reasonable price, and you’ll quickly become a favourite morning spot. A comfortable seating area with reliable business broadband powering free Wi-Fi can add to the appeal. Your venue will become an ideal place for students to study, catch up with friends, or simply relax between classes.
Tip: Connect with local universities to include your breakfast deals in their Freshers' Week welcome packs or discount vouchers handed out on campus.
Knowing your student customers and understanding their needs can set your business apart. Take note of frequently asked questions like the nearest cash machine location, public transport options, or the best nearby spots to visit. When students see your business as a local guide, it adds value to their experience and increases the likelihood of repeat visits.
Ensuring students feel safe and welcomed at your establishment is essential. Simple gestures such as providing a water station at the bar, offering a free phone for taxi services, or keeping a first aid kit on hand can make a difference. A friendly, approachable bouncer and attentive staff also add a layer of safety that students and their parents will appreciate, fostering loyalty among your younger clientele.
Tip: Keep a tank of fresh water at the bar with slices of cucumber or lime. It’s a small addition that enhances the guest experience and shows you care about their well-being.
Why not engage students to help promote your business? Offering temporary part-time roles for student-led marketing, like handing out flyers or managing your social media, can be a win-win. Not only does this give students a chance to earn extra cash, but it also creates a personal connection to your venue, likely leading to more student patrons and increased visibility among the campus community.
Owning a licensed or non-licensed business like a pub, restaurant, or hotel means taking on specific risks, from potential theft to accidental damages. Ensuring you have the right business insurance tailored to your organisations' needs can be crucial.
As a business owner, you can understand the importance of having the right insurance package to mitigate risks. We can help you get the cover you want with less hassle.
Compare quotes from leading insurers, all in one place
Prices from £4.74 a month*
In partnership with Simply Business
*The price is for up to £2 million of public liability insurance – 10% of customers paid £4.74 or less annually between 1st Jan - 31st May 2024. Equivalent to £56.82 a year (and excludes the extra costs for paying monthly). If you complete a quote, more types of cover will be available and these all have additional costs.
Keep students connected with reliable Wi-Fi in your business.
Safeguard your student-friendly space. Find the right coverage.
Make payments easy and quick for students. Find your solution.