Transformation from Traditional to Digital Marketing: A Case on Facebook Marketing for Micro Foodservice Brands

Abstract

This study analyses the transformation of marketing strategies from traditional to 'digital' and finds out the efficacy of 'Facebook' marketing for small or micro-enterprise brands; in the case of the restaurant industry. The study looks for the answers to questions such as How ‘Facebook' has changed the means of marketing in the case of small restaurant brands. Two restaurant brands were considered for the study. A qualitative case approach was adopted for the study. Major findings of the study have revealed that Facebook marketing is the direct, easiest and economical mode of communication with current and potential customers through 'Facebook page', to disseminate information regarding brand and services through 'Facebook posts', 'Comments' and 'chats'; besides, to maintain rapid feedback service to customers' queries. In addition, through 'Facebook' activities i.e., an instance of 'Likes', 'Reviews', 'Check-ins', and' Share' customers, themselves ensue as a source for promoting the brands. Nevertheless, for these small or microbrands' Facebook Marketing' per se, it is an inexpensive technique for effective marketing; additionally, it fosters mutual relationships and increases the level of customer engagement.