Public Relations (PR) plays a vital role in the success of any business, especially in the dynamic food and beverage industry. We’re diving into how PR can lead to the success of your brand. From working with influencers to events and community engagement, we’re breaking it down for you. 

Craft a Compelling Brand Story

With any industry, you need to craft an authentic and compelling story, which is key to helping make connections with your audience and build trust and loyalty. Share what makes your brand unique, and ask yourself what story you want to tell. Take the time to highlight your passion for the product you make or the people who bring it to life. Does your company have values to highlight? Maybe your company focuses on sustainability or volunteering – it’s all part of your story.

Experiment with Events

Events can often go on the back burner when considering the next steps in your PR strategy moving forward but should be top of mind. Events allow the opportunity to engage with your audience face-to-face and attract new audiences. There’s nothing quite like creating buzz for your business than participating in or hosting an event. Whether it’s a wine and food pairing or participating in a local food festival, it provides the opportunity to not only showcase your product but also showcase what makes your brand stand out. 

Build Relationships with the Media

Building and nurturing meaningful relationships with the media is crucial for any brand.  Sending out press releases or hosting exclusive media events or tastings can help keep your food or beverage brand top of mind for the media. Don’t forget to look past traditional media coverage. Cultivating connections with food bloggers and industry influencers is just as important for spreading the word about your brand.

Send Samples

To spread the news on your product, get your product in front of reviewers and influencers as part of your outreach. It’s always a good idea to send media samples of your product. Samples are a great way to increase the visibility of your brand and introduce it to a much broader audience. You’re more likely to earn coverage when they have the opportunity to taste it for themselves.

Also, don’t forget to keep important editorial times of the year in mind. For example, it may only be the beginning of August but many are already looking for content for their December issues. Is your product giftable for the holidays? Now is the time to reach out when they’re looking for gift ideas.

Crises do Happen 

Even in the food and beverage industries negative press or situations happen. Getting a negative review might feel like the end of the world, and honestly negative reviews or press can make or break a brand. That’s why it’s important to have a crisis plan in place and we recommend a dedicated PR pro to address the concerns. 

The good news is that PR addresses the criticism head on rather than hiding from it. Taking the time to monitor reviews on Google and Facebook, addressing negative press, or simply having open conversations with your customers can turn a potential PR nightmare into an opportunity to re-establish trust and growth.

Engage with Your Community 

Actively engaging with your community (on and offline) is an important aspect of building awareness, and enhancing your reputation and customer loyalty. This is an opportunity to revisit your brand’s values and choose a local initiative to support, sponsor an event, or donate your product to a local charity organization. Not only can you feel good about your actions, it’s a great opportunity to generate positive PR coverage. You’re helping create a sense of community, which often resonates with customers. 
If you’re ready to implement these tactics for your business but you don’t know where to start or don’t have the time, you may be in need of a PR agency such as Novatur PR  to manage and handle all of your PR needs. If you’d like to take your first steps in your PR journey, then let’s talk about it over a Discovery Call or consultation.