The pandemic has underscored the importance of providing a contactless transactional experience for restaurant patrons. However, it's clear that the demand for contactless delivery and curbside pickup is here to stay. To encourage customers to place direct orders from your restaurant, it's crucial to offer a seamless ordering process. In this blog post, we'll explore three strategies for restaurant owners to increase their direct online orders.

1. Embrace the Advantages of Online Ordering

Implementing online ordering offers numerous benefits for your employees, your clients, and your bottom line. For customers, the convenience of placing orders at their own pace is invaluable. For instance, restaurants equipped with platforms like KloudEats allow clients to schedule orders for future dates and times. Moreover, customers can track the progress of their online orders in real-time, making them feel connected to the process.

For your workforce, online ordering frees up valuable time, allowing them to focus on other essential tasks. As the order volume increases, so does your revenue. The trend towards direct orders is on the rise, with customers preferring to interact directly with restaurants rather than relying on third-party apps, primarily due to the high fees charged by these platforms.

2. Make the Ordering Process Seamless

In today's highly competitive, interconnected world, customers demand nothing less than a flawless dining experience—from the moment they visit your website to the instant the food touches their lips. To deliver superior experiences efficiently, consider implementing restaurant-specific technologies. These technologies provide user-friendly online ordering, improved kitchen and staff management, and intelligent messaging that promotes customer satisfaction and loyalty.

3. Leverage Consumer Preference for Direct Ordering

According to research by Squareup, a significant 67% of consumers express a preference for placing orders directly with their favorite restaurants rather than using third-party apps. Both restaurant operators and customers are aligned with the trend towards greater direct online ordering. Given the current balance of supply and demand, it's an opportune time for restaurateurs to prioritize and enhance their direct online order capabilities.

Tips for Increasing Direct Orders:

Simplify Third-Party Service Interfaces

Managing multiple third-party service requests can be challenging for restaurant owners. Simplify the process by consolidating all third-party services into a single interface using practical software like Dash.

Implement a Virtual Loyalty Program

Modernize your loyalty program by going digital. Digital loyalty programs are more convenient for customers and allow restaurants to send promotions, share updates, offer discounts, and build brand loyalty. Dash makes it easy for restaurants to launch and manage virtual loyalty programs.

Enhance Your Menu with Images

Update your menu with high-quality images to entice customers. Appetizing food photography not only enhances the customer experience but also boosts online sales and your restaurant's reputation. It doesn't have to be expensive; great food photography can be achieved affordably.

KloudEats Solution:

Restaurants can now streamline direct orders through KloudEats, eliminating the need for third-party intermediaries. When customers visit the restaurant's website, they can easily place orders through the restaurant's exclusive online ordering system. This platform is dedicated exclusively to that restaurant and its customers, ensuring a personalized experience.

Additionally, KloudEats provides built-in marketing assistance for restaurant owners. Our platform promotes the restaurant and encourages additional orders, helping businesses grow their customer base.

By implementing these strategies and utilizing platforms like KloudEats, restaurant owners can enhance their direct online ordering capabilities and thrive in the evolving landscape of the food industry.