Hospitality Doctor
Max Hitchins
AI’s focus on Father’s Day
of innovation, AI, and creativity.
1. Dad’s Digital Roast — Powered by AI Create a fun and personalised “roast” experience using AI. Invite guests to submit a few fun facts or quirks about their Dad when they book. On the day, surprise him with a light-hearted, AI-generated “Dad Biography” or “Top 5 Dad Moments” read aloud by staff or printed at the table.
Father’s Day (Sunday, September 7) is the perfect opportunity for hospitality venues to fill tables, create lasting memories and generate meaningful revenue. But with competition high and customer expectations rising, how can you stand out? In 2018, I saw a great idea in a Surrey (UK) pub. Fuller’s Pubs in the UK launched a creative Father’s Day promotion called “My Dad’s Pub”. It offered one lucky Dad the chance to have his own pub for the day. This unique campaign aimed to celebrate Fathers in a memorable way and engage customers with a heartfelt experience. How the Promotion Worked The competition invited family members to nominate their Dad by uploading a photo and a brief explanation - limited to 140 characters - on why their Dad deserved to win. The prize transformed the winner’s local Fuller’s pub into a personalised venue for Father’s Day. Click here to read about the winner: fullers.co.uk • Renaming of the Pub: The establishment was temporarily renamed in honour of the winning Dad, featuring a custom pub sign with his portrait.
Idea: Include a QR code on the menu linking to a digital copy he can share on social media.
2. Father’s Day Pub Passport Design a Pub Passport Card (using AI) offering Dad a special deal for the day. e.g. a free beer, whisky taster, or snack platter. Stamp the card and encourage them to return over the next few weeks for added perks. It’s a clever way to turn a one-day visit into ongoing loyalty. 3. Live Music with a “Dad Request Hour” Book a live band or solo artist and offer a Dad’s Request Hour. Let dads pre-request their favourite tunes when booking. Combine this with table shout- outs and drinks specials during their song to create a memorable moment. 4. Ultimate Dad Trivia + Tap & Win Run a Father’s Day Trivia Brunch or Dinner. Include “Dad’s Greatest Hits” questions—pop culture, footy, dad jokes, old Aussie ads. Use QR codes or an app to collect answers. Winners get drinks, meals, or merch.
• Customized Menu: The menu included the Dad’s favourite dishes and drinks.
• Private Celebration: A complimentary meal was provided for the Dad and up to 20 family members and friends.
Idea: Use AI to generate custom trivia questions!
Final Tip: Market Early & Often
Start promoting at least 3-4 weeks out. Use email, social media, posters, and your website. Tease the fun with dad-themed videos or reels. And make bookings easy - especially for larger family groups. With the right mix of technology, humour, and heartfelt moments, your venue can make Father’s Day 2025 a celebration to remember - and a financial success.
Max Hitchins HospitalityDoctor.com.au max@hitchins.com.au
With the above in mind, I asked ChatGPT for more ideas to chew on, allowing you to combine the power
61 Tasmanian Hospitality Review June/July Edition
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