The food and beverage franchise landscape has become more competitive than ever this year, and franchisees need more than cookie-cutter marketing strategies to stand out. Digital-first consumers expect personalization, convenience, and relevance, whether they’re ordering a latte or looking for a lunch spot. That’s where smart and modern franchise marketing comes in.
At Three29, we help franchises implement scalable marketing strategies that convert. It doesn’t matter if you’re managing 5 locations or 500, here are five high-impact growth marketing for franchise tactics every food and beverage brand should be testing in 2025.
#1. Geofencing Ads to Target Foot Traffic
Why it works: Geofencing uses GPS, Wi-Fi, and mobile data to create a virtual “fence” around specific locations such as competitor restaurants, shopping centers, or event venues. When someone enters that area, they can receive targeted ads via apps or mobile websites.
This tactic has exploded as a food and beverage marketing strategy because it allows franchises to reach hungry customers at the exact moment they’re deciding where to eat. According to Forbes Agency Council, hyperlocal targeting is one of the most powerful digital trends for franchise marketing in 2025.
Example: A smoothie franchise near a gym can serve mobile ads offering $2 off a post-workout drink to users who’ve just left the fitness center. The ad can direct them to the closest franchise location with directions and click-to-order functionality.
Expert Tip: Combine geofencing with first-party data (such as loyalty app behavior) to retarget users who’ve previously interacted with your brand.
#2. AI Tools for Personalization and Content Generation
Why it works: AI is no longer a buzzword but a practical tool that helps franchises personalize promotions, automate content, and optimize marketing performance. The International Franchise Association (IFA) notes that AI-driven data analytics and automation are becoming absolutely essential to drive revenue growth.
From automating customer responses to generating social media content at scale, AI tools can help small marketing teams make a big impact.
Tools to explore:
- ChatGPT or Jasper for assistance writing social captions or developing blog outlines.
- Seventh Sense for optimizing email send times based on individual behavior.
- Persado or Phrasee for AI-powered ad copy that drives higher conversion rates.
- Yext or ChatBot.com to power intelligent chat on your franchise website.
Example: A taco franchise could use AI tools to dynamically generate multiple LTO (limited-time offer) headlines based on audience segment, creating one version for college students, another for busy parents.
Expert Tip: Use AI to test different versions of email subject lines, push notifications, or ad headlines. Small tweaks can actually lead to major lifts in engagement.
#3. SMS Campaigns with Built-In Offers and Urgency
Why it works: SMS open rates remain impressively high, often above 90%, which makes it one of the most direct and effective ways to connect with local customers. In a mobile-first world, franchises that prioritize texting will get a leg up on their competitors.
As Shout About Us highlights, messaging platforms like Podium, Birdeye, and Skipio help franchises scale their communications while staying compliant with SMS marketing laws.
What to send:
- Daily lunch specials
- Loyalty reward alerts
- Flash sales
- LTO expiration countdowns
- Store grand opening promotions
Example: A pho chain could text subscribers: “2-for-1 pho today only! Show this code at checkout: BOGOPho”
Pro Tip: Don’t over-send. Stick to 1–2 messages per week, and always include an opt-out option. Personalization (using first names or order history) can also help to boost response rates.
#4. Optimizing Google Business Profiles for Local Reach
Why it works: Most consumers searching for “coffee near me” or “pizza open late” won’t scroll past the top Google results. That’s why Google Business Profiles (formerly Google My Business) are one of the most critically important tools in franchise marketing.
According to Shout About Us, well-optimized local profiles with strong reviews and current information drastically increase foot traffic, especially when paired with Google’s Local Services Ads.
Franchise Growth Tip: Give each location its own fully optimized profile. Here’s what you should include:
- Up-to-date hours
- High-quality photos of food and interior
- Menu links
- Customer Q&A responses
- Geo-tagged location tags
- Google Posts (with LTOs, coupons, events)
Example: A acai bowl franchise could post a “Buy One Get One Free” deal every weekend to show up in search results and draw in families.
Expert Tip: Encourage local store managers to reply to reviews and upload location-specific photos. This increases authenticity and signals active engagement to Google.
#5. Drive Urgency with LTOs (Limited-Time Offers)
Why it works: LTOs create FOMO (fear of missing out). When customers believe a delicious item or deal will disappear soon, they’re more likely to act fast. The Forbes Agency Council report states that well-timed LTOs tied to seasons, events, or viral trends are essential for 2025.
When it comes to growth marketing for franchises however, it’s not enough to launch an LTO. You also have to promote it aggressively across multiple channels.
Promotion checklist:
- Add to website and app homepage
- Share on social media (with countdown timers)
- Text your SMS list
- Include in local digital ads
- Feature in-store signage
- Post in Google Business Profiles
Example: A pizza franchise might launch a “March Madness Pizza” only available during the NCAA tournament. Try adding urgency with phrasing like “Only through Final Four Weekend!”
Expert Tip: Use AI-generated creative to test multiple images or headlines for LTO campaigns. You can track which versions convert best and then replicate the top performers in future offers.
Franchise Growth Is Local, Data-Driven, and Agile in 2025
The strongest food and beverage franchises in 2025 are those that act fast, can adapt based on data, and deliver hyperlocal experiences.
Here’s a quick recap of the five franchise marketing tactics you should be testing right now:
- Geofencing ads to intercept foot traffic near your locations or competitors.
- AI tools for scalable content, personalization, and analytics.
- SMS campaigns to connect directly with mobile-first consumers.
- Optimized Google Business Profiles to boost local visibility and trust.
- LTO promotions to drive urgency and conversions.
As noted by the IFA’s 2025 report, revenue growth will come from adopting scalable technologies while still maintaining a personal touch at the local level. This is one area where Three29 can help whether you need a complete marketing overhaul or just better support for your regional campaigns.
Work With a Franchise Marketing Partner That Understands Growth
At Three29, we’re are a food and beverage franchise strategic partner in building campaigns that move the needle. Our team has extensive experience and helps food and beverage franchises develop and execute customized marketing roadmaps that are rooted in results.
If you want to build brand equity while increasing your foot traffic, let’s talk about how we can optimize your food and beverage marketing strategy for long-term growth. Contact us at Three29 today to book your free franchise marketing consultation.
