Merch with a Mission: Creating Brand Ambassadors

"Merchandise is more than just a revenue stream -- it’s a way to deepen the connection with your customers and expand your brand’s reach."That's what Jason Cortellesso, Partner & Creative Director at Sport & Leisure, told Modern Restaurant Management (MRM) magazine when discussing the merch program at his latest estabilshment in East Greenwich, Rhode Island that is seeing people to line up before they open on drop days to get their hands on the items.

It's not just the merch on the menu that is driving traffic to the brand with a misison to create spaces that blend sports and leisure and offer innovative cocktails, next-level architecture and high-end designer decor with elevated bar bites, retro games, and exclusive event nights.

Here's some of Cortellesso's advice to other restaurant and bar operators on effective merch selections, brand alignment, staff engagement, collabs, promotion, and more. 

Where did the idea to include a…