A Christmas Reflection: Gratitude, Giving, and Growth
Merry Christmas, friends!
As we wrap up another year, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on what this season—and this year—has meant to me, to our team at Restaurant Marketing That Works, and to the incredible community of restaurant owners we’re privileged to serve.
Christmas is more than just a holiday; it’s a reminder of what matters most—family, gratitude, and giving back. And if there’s one thing I’ve learned as the “Chief Energy Officer” (CEO), it’s that the principles that make this season special are the same ones that fuel successful businesses and happy lives.
The Spirit of Gratitude
2024 has been an unforgettable journey.
From hundreds of conversations about restaurant marketing to thousands of miles logged on airplanes and even a cross-country drive from NKY to Las Vegas to deliver a new van for America’s Best Restaurants. While I’m not 100% happy with the results we got from our 2024, I’m endlessly grateful for the hard work my team put in and the trust many of you placed in our company.
As I look back on the year and consider what matters, it’s not winning; it’s taking the swings that we did. As I told a restaurant owner the other day, you’re still in business, and you outpaced the market by 9%, so while you’re only up 1%, you still won!
I’ve learned as much from you as you’ve gained from us. Every email, every phone call, and every campaign we’ve worked on together has been a lesson in creativity, resilience, and the power of connection. Thank you for trusting us to be a part of your success.
The Power of Giving Back
Christmas is a season of giving, and for me, that extends beyond personal life into business. Whether it’s helping a local pizzeria grow its social media following or encouraging restaurants to engage their communities through creative campaigns, giving back is at the heart of what we do. This blog and my daily podcast are my biggest attempt every day, every week, every month to GIVE BACK to you with nothing expected in return.
Actually, I do expect something in return: ACTION! I expect you to take MASSIVE ACTION and regain control of your restaurant’s marketing.
Growth and Goals for 2025
As we enter 2025, I’m excited about what’s ahead. The restaurant industry is dynamic and ever-changing, but our mission is to help you survive and thrive.
We’ll keep innovating, learning, and sharing effective strategies. I’ll keep wearing my orange shirts, pouring energy into every project, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible for restaurant marketing.
A Christmas Wish for You
To all the restaurant owners, entrepreneurs, and hardworking teams: I wish you a Christmas filled with joy, peace, and time spent with those you love most. Take a moment to savor the little things—the laughter, the memories, and maybe even a slice of pizza.
Thank you for being part of this incredible journey. Here’s to a Merry Christmas and a New Year filled with energy, success, and growth.
With gratitude and a little extra energy,
Matt Plapp
Chief Energy Officer
Restaurant Marketing That Works
