OpenTable's 'OpenSeat' Lets People Share an Empty Spot at Their Table
Laura McQuarrie — September 28, 2018 — World
References: opentable & foodandwine
In partnership with Virginia Tourism, OpenTable is now offering a new feature in Virginia called OpenSeat that allows an open seat at a table to be shared with someone new. As an incentive for using this feature, users will be rewarded with an appetizer and potentially even make a new friend in the process.
Over 30 restaurants across Virginia will be participating in this new program so that solo diners making a reservation will be spared from dining alone if they so desire. To participate, a solo diner is able to write "OpenSeat" in the notes section of their reservation and if another party has opted to share an OpenSeat at their table, the diners will be paired with one another. The new OpenTable feature has the potential to appeal to locals and travelers alike who are looking to connect with people over a shared love of food—and at the same time, it helps restaurants fill up as many seats as possible with patrons.
Over 30 restaurants across Virginia will be participating in this new program so that solo diners making a reservation will be spared from dining alone if they so desire. To participate, a solo diner is able to write "OpenSeat" in the notes section of their reservation and if another party has opted to share an OpenSeat at their table, the diners will be paired with one another. The new OpenTable feature has the potential to appeal to locals and travelers alike who are looking to connect with people over a shared love of food—and at the same time, it helps restaurants fill up as many seats as possible with patrons.
Trend Themes
1. Connective Dining - OpenSeat presents an opportunity for businesses to create more social dining experiences that appeal to solo diners.
2. Shared Dining - The trend towards shared dining experiences provides innovative options for restaurants to increase revenue and attract new customers.
3. Incentivized Dining - The use of incentives such as appetizers can help promote new dining experiences and encourage customers to try out new restaurant features.
Industry Implications
1. Hospitality - OpenSeat presents an opportunity for restaurants and hotels to engage customers through unique dining experiences that promote social connections.
2. Tourism - The use of OpenSeat by Virginia Tourism presents an opportunity for tourism organizations to promote social experiences through their campaigns and encourage more travel.
3. Technology - The development of OpenSeat highlights the role of technology in creating more personalized and innovative dining experiences.
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