Boosting Your Boston Business: Attracting BU Students & Locals
Boston, Massachusetts - Boston University
Boston, Massachusetts, a vibrant hub of history and innovation, is home to Boston University's 18,000 undergraduates. This guide offers actionable marketing strategies for local businesses-bars, restaurants, coffee shops, retail, salons, music venues, gyms, and food trucks-to connect with this dynamic student population and the broader community. Learn how to leverage campus rhythms, major events, and digital tools to grow your customer base.
Harnessing the Boston University Semester Rhythm
Understanding Boston University's academic calendar is crucial for local businesses. The semester begins with significant influxes during move-in weeks, presenting prime opportunities for introductory specials on essentials, food, and social activities. Consider offering 'Welcome Back' deals for salons, coffee shops, or retail stores as students settle in. Throughout the semester, anticipate increased foot traffic during midterms and finals, when coffee shops and casual eateries see a surge in customers seeking study fuel. Plan promotions for these periods, such as late-night coffee deals or study-break snacks. Conversely, breaks and summer can see a dip in student presence, requiring businesses to pivot marketing efforts more towards local residents or specific tourist seasons. By aligning your promotions with the academic flow, you can consistently capture the attention of students and adjust your strategy effectively.
Leveraging Boston's Major Events and Campus Foot Traffic
Boston's calendar is packed with events that draw massive crowds, many directly impacting or near Boston University. The Boston Marathon, which runs through Kenmore Square, and the Head of the Charles Regatta, on the Charles River, create significant foot traffic and opportunities for businesses along the Commonwealth Avenue corridor. Game days, especially Terrier hockey at Agganis Arena and the Beanpot Tournament at TD Garden, are excellent times for bars and restaurants to offer themed specials. Think pre-game food and drink deals or post-game celebrations. Allston, Kenmore Square, and Fenway areas, with their density of bars, restaurants, shops, venues, and campus happenings, are natural hotspots. Be visible and vocal during these times with specific event-driven promotions to attract both students and locals attending these iconic Boston events.
Engaging the BU Student Social Scene: Nightlife and Dining
Boston University students actively explore the city's diverse social and dining landscape. The Kenmore Square and Fenway areas are key for nightlife, with establishments like The Bleacher Bar and Lansdowne Street clubs attracting significant student crowds. Allston is another major hub, known for its late-night spots and international dining options like Coreanos and JoJo Taipei. Businesses should consider student-friendly late-night hours and value-driven offerings, as student budgets are often a factor. Coffee shops near campus, competing with ubiquitous Dunkin locations, can differentiate themselves with unique brews or study-friendly environments. Highlighting specials on regional staples like clam chowder or roast beef sandwiches can also appeal to those experiencing Boston's culinary identity. Marketing these offerings directly to students where they socialize can greatly boost your visibility.
Beyond the Classroom: Daily Life, Shopping, and Live Music
Boston University students integrate into the city's daily life, shopping habits, and cultural offerings. Retail shops on Newbury Street or near the Prudential Center can attract students looking for fashion or unique items. For daily necessities, proximity to the Star Market in Packard's Corner indicates a student-dense area for businesses. Boston's live music scene, with venues like Paradise Rock Club and MGM Music Hall, is a significant draw. Restaurants and bars near these venues can benefit from pre- and post-show traffic. Salons and gyms can also attract students looking for personal care or fitness options. Promote amenities like free Wi-Fi, student discounts, or flexible hours to align with busy student schedules, encouraging repeat visits for bars, restaurants, shops, venues, and campus happenings.
Reaching Your Audience with CollegeTowns.LIVE
To effectively reach Boston University students and local customers, consider using CollegeTowns.LIVE. This platform allows small business owners to post daily promotions for their bars, restaurants, coffee shops, retail shops, salons, music venues, gyms, and food trucks. A unique feature is the promo day timing, running from 4:00 AM to 4:00 AM local time, ensuring your late-night specials don't cut off at midnight. You can book promotions from one day up to seven days at a time, providing flexibility for short-term deals or longer campaigns. While placement is typically ranked by bid, CollegeTowns.LIVE is currently offering free daily promotions through January 1, 2027. This is a significant opportunity to showcase your business and attract new customers without upfront marketing costs.