Screen Strategy Part 3: Big Box Restaurant Entertainment Spaces

Part 1: Introduction to Screen Strategy As a Concept for Big Box Restaurant Entertainment

In the world of big box entertainment, screens are an essential component of the customer experience. Whether you run a bar or restaurant, screens can be used to create an immersive atmosphere, keep patrons engaged, and even promote specials and events. However, simply installing a few TVs or projectors is not enough. To maximize the impact of screens, you need a screen strategy - a thoughtful and intentional approach to using screens to achieve your goals.

So, what are your goals when it comes to screens? Perhaps you want to create a lively and social environment where people can gather to watch sports or play games. Maybe you want to showcase your venue’s latest promotions and events in an eye-catching way. You may want to create a calming ambiance with calming visuals or music videos. Whatever your goals, a well-executed screen strategy can help you achieve them.

Part 2: The Set Up Process

Once you have identified your goals, it's time to start building your screen strategy. The first step is to physically set up your screens. Depending on the size of your space and the number of screens you plan to use, you may want to consider building a video wall. A video wall is a large display made up of multiple smaller screens, which can create an impressive and immersive visual experience. Interested in learning more about setting up a video wall? Read more here.

Next, you'll want to think about how to hide wires and cables, so they don't detract from the visual impact of your screens. One option is to use raceways or conduits to enclose cables and run them along walls or ceilings. For the latest options, consult with your installer or AV pro.

Check out how some of our clients have used screens in their venues:

Pictured: Lobster and Beer

Pictured: YardHouse

Part 3: Creating Digital Signage (+ Free Tools)

With your screens set up, it's time to create signage that will capture the attention of your patrons. There are many free tools available online that can help you design attractive and effective signage, even if you have limited design experience. Canva, for example, offers a wide range of templates and graphics that you can use to create everything from menus to event flyers. PosterMyWall and Adobe Spark are also excellent tools for creating high-quality signage and promotional materials. Other tools including Fiverr and Upwork, can help you to find experienced freelance workers to create your digital signage for you.

When creating your signage, keep in mind the principles of effective visual communication. Use bold, easy-to-read fonts, and high-contrast colors to make your message stand out. Incorporate visuals, such as photos or graphics, to help convey your message quickly and memorably.

Signage can be used to highlight special offers, discounts, and promotions that are available at the time. This can help to promote limited-time deals, happy hour specials, or seasonal promotions that will increase sales and attract customers. Big box entertainment venues host events including live performances, concerts, or sports screenings. Signage can create awareness of certain events by showing the dates, times, and where to buy tickets. This can help produce excitement amongst customers and can encourage attendance.

Loop has widgets that can display real-time sports scores or weather updates. This can be engaging for customers in sports bars or entertainment centers with multiple screens. Customers can stay updated on games and events while enjoying their time at the venue. To enhance customer engagement, signage can incorporate interactive elements such as quizzes or participation in games. Loop has a feature to allow customers to play trivia depending on a category that interests their customers. This will create an interactive environment and keep customers coming back for the multitude of features that Loop offers.

Part 4: Selecting Entertainment 

Finally, you'll want to carefully consider the entertainment you display on your screens. Music, in particular, can have a significant impact on the atmosphere of your space. According to ResearchGate, studies have shown that music tempo can affect how quickly patrons consume food and drink, with faster tempos leading to faster consumption. The genre of music can also influence the mood of your patrons, with classical and jazz music promoting a more relaxed atmosphere and pop or rock music promoting excitement and energy.

When selecting music, consider your audience and the atmosphere you want to create. You can also use visualizers or music videos to add a visual component to your entertainment. Whatever you choose, make sure it aligns with your overall screen strategy and supports your goals for your space.

In addition to the aforementioned signage elements, big box entertainment venues, especially bars, can incorporate non-music content to further enhance the customer experience. If the big box venue caters to families, signage should include kid-friendly content. Ideas can include displaying animated characters, educational content, or interactive games.

You can also display funny fails, blooper reels, or viral videos that Loop offers. This type of content can create a light-hearted atmosphere that will encourage laughter and positive interactions among the customers. Entertainment should also change with the natural rhythms of your business. During slower hours, you can display engaging content like trivia questions or interesting facts that will captivate customers’ attention. However, during peak hours signage should promote the venue’s specials or events to encourage attendance.

It is important that the content displayed should be regularly updated to maintain customer interest. Big box entertainment venues should curate a diverse range of content and music to cater to different customer preferences so that their entertainment will encourage engagement.

Part 5. Screen Strategy Costs

When it comes to digital screen content, costs can run the gamut. One exceptionally cost-effective option is using Loop TV. Loop TV offers a full suite of digital signage tools, as well as over 200 channels of fully-licensed, curated content for businesses. Whether you opt for music videos, fashion and lifestyle content, jaw-dropping drone footage, or kids' content, Loop TV offers something for every business’ vibe. All at no cost to businesses.