5 Common Denominators Behind the World's Most Efficient Restaurant Delivery Systems

It’s no secret that the concept of having food delivered has truly taken off during the last few years. Until last year, studies showed an annual increase of 20 percent for the food delivery industry. Last year, reports indicate that the sector skyrocketed by anywhere from 150 percent to more than 300 percent in some areas. Though unforeseen circumstances contributed to that unprecedented uptick, analysts don’t expect the numbers to drop during the years to come. Now that so many people have gotten a taste of the sheer convenience of having dinner brought to their doors, they want more.

What Does All This Mean for Restaurants?

In short, that means there are a few key takeaways for today’s restaurants. First of all, if your restaurant already offers delivery services, keep forging ahead. Secondly, if you’re not offering delivery at this point, you should be. Either way, in order to compete in the food delivery realm, you need to understand what it takes to succeed. Companies like DataDreamers are here to help you do just that.

Common Elements among the Most Successful Restaurant Delivery Systems

Some restaurants are excelling in the midst of the burgeoning delivery mania. Others are missing out on the opportunity altogether. Then, there’s a broad gap between the two extreme ends of the spectrum. It consists of restaurants that could be making a name for themselves in delivery, but it’s working against them rather than for them. If you’re in either of the two latter categories, consider using the following points to help foster your delivery services.

1) Facilitate the Online Ordering Process

Quite a few restaurants offer the option of online ordering either via their website or a dedicated app. That being said, many only allow over-the-phone take-out orders or don’t offer delivery at all. Consider having your own app created if you are interested in having your food delivered. Reports show that 90 percent of the population turns to the internet for products and services, and a recent string of surveys revealed that nearly 70 percent have taken to having food delivered. If you offer online delivery, they will order. Be sure your online ordering portal provides a smooth, seamless experience, though.

2) Keep Quality Consistent

Consumers have come to expect high-quality food and exceptional overall experiences from restaurants, but that doesn’t only hold true for in-house dining. They expect those traits to carry over into their delivery orders. Don’t let the quality of your food and service wane when it comes to delivery. Doing so could hurt your reputation and business just as much as if you fell short in your on-site dining area.

3) Use Technology to Your Advantage

An endless array of technological advancements have taken place over the years. Many of them could serve your restaurant well, especially when it comes to your delivery system. Find the right software, POS system, payment gateway, and other solutions to help you make the most of the digital age. You’ll benefit greatly, and so will your customers.

4) Accuracy Is Key

We’ve all had bad experiences with restaurant delivery services. Part of the food was missing or they forgot to send the extra sauce we requested. Mistakes like that may seem insignificant in the grand scheme of things, but they can actually ruin an entire meal. Be absolutely sure the orders you send out are accurate before allowing them to leave your restaurant.

5) Create Promotional Offers

Consumers flock to special deals and promotional discounts. You’re in a unique position to give them those offers. Extend free appetizers with the purchase of a certain number of meals or waive delivery fees after a specified number of delivery orders. You could extend any number of promotional offers to patrons. They’ll spend more money with you and be more likely to keep coming back for more.

Cash in on the Delivery Craze

There’s quite a bit of profit to be made through restaurant delivery services right now, and it’s only going to become more prominent during the years to come. At the same time, this is a wonderful opportunity to show consumers what sets you apart from the competition. Embrace the growing food delivery realm, and use these points to help you make the most of it.