The convenience of food delivery has become a game-changer for both customers and restaurants.
Did you know that 61% of Canadians order delivery at least once a month? That’s a hungry audience eager for delicious options at their fingertips!
Adding delivery services to your online ordering can be a fantastic way to reach new customers, boost sales, and stay competitive. But for beginners, the process can seem daunting. Fear not! This guide will walk you through the steps of adding delivery to your restaurant.
1- Decide on your delivery method
There are two main options to consider:
- Offer your own delivery service: This gives you complete control over the delivery experience, from pricing to driver training. However, this requires additional investments in hiring drivers, managing deliveries, and ensuring efficient logistics.
- Partner with a first-party delivery service: This involves integrating companies like Uber Direct or DoorDash Drive into your existing online ordering platform. With the UEAT online ordering system, everything is taken care of, from the integration to the delivery itself.
2 – Adapt your delivery menu, don’t skip on packaging & presentation
- Ensure your online menu is delivery-ready, which means offering menu items that can travel well to your customers so they get to savor your food the way it’s meant to be. Make sure to separate the raw from the piping hot and the saucy from the crispy.
- Invest in sturdy and attractive packaging that can withstand travel without compromising the quality of your food.
- Make sure your food arrives fresh. Consider using tamper-proof seals and attractive presentation boxes.
- Comply with laws and regulations, and choose environmentally friendly options. Your customers will notice and appreciate your effort.
3- Pricing and Promotions
- Determine your delivery fees. Consider offering free delivery for orders above a certain amount to incentivize customers and get them coming back week after week.
- Offer special promotions and discounts during the initial launch to attract new customers and create loyalty.
4- Online presence
- Update your website and your Google Business Profile with information about your delivery services, including minimum order amounts, delivery areas, and any delivery fees.
- SPREAD THE WORD! Announce your new delivery services on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram.
5- Track and Analyze
- Monitor your delivery performance via your delivery system.
- Analyze data, customer feedback, order volume, and delivery times to identify areas for improvement.
And remember! Customer service is key! Ensure a smooth delivery experience by responding promptly to inquiries, addressing issues efficiently, and maintaining communication.
Delivery can be a powerful tool for growth, but it requires ongoing effort and optimization. Embrace a continuous improvement mindset and adapt your strategy based on data and customer feedback.
Continue reading here for more insights on innovative solutions for restauranteurs.
