Unlock the Power of Online Orders: How to Build Customer Loyalty and Boost Your Restaurant’s Sales
As a restaurant owner, you’re always looking for ways to increase your revenue, and let’s face it—online services have skyrocketed, especially after COVID-19. The shift toward delivery platforms is not just a trend; it’s a massive change that can make or break your business. If you’re not tapping into the full potential of online ordering systems like DoorDash and Grubhub, you’re leaving money on the table. Let’s dive into why you should care, and how you can turn these platforms into your secret weapon.
The Rise of Delivery Services: A Game Changer for Restaurants
First, let’s talk numbers. DoorDash and Grubhub—two of the biggest players in the food delivery game—have revolutionized how restaurants interact with their customers.
- DoorDash, founded in 2013 by Tony Xu, Andy Fang, Stanley Tang, and Evan Moore at Stanford University, quickly became the go-to delivery app for millions across the U.S. With a network of independent drivers and features like “DashPass” (a subscription offering free delivery and discounts), it’s no wonder DoorDash now covers a vast majority of U.S. cities and continues to expand its footprint.
- Grubhub, born back in 2004 in Chicago by Matt Maloney and Mike Evans, initially set out to connect local restaurants with customers for easy online ordering. Fast forward to today, Grubhub boasts a massive selection of restaurants, giving your business the ability to reach people you wouldn’t otherwise reach.
Both platforms saw incredible growth during the pandemic, as customers were desperate for a safe and convenient way to get food delivered right to their doorsteps. This is where your opportunity lies. Online delivery services are a key part of the new restaurant economy. But here’s the thing—being on these platforms isn’t enough. You have to master how to engage and retain those customers.
10 Tips to Keep Your Online Customers Coming Back
With online orders skyrocketing, it’s crucial to ensure that your customers are not just one-time buyers. You want repeat business, and that requires building a loyal customer base. Here’s how you can do it:
- Instant Purchase Confirmation and Gratitude
Send an automatic confirmation email or text the moment the transaction is complete. Thank the customer for their order and include relevant details like order number and estimated delivery time. People love feeling acknowledged. - Personalized Experience
Use customer data (like previous orders or preferences) to tailor your communication. Personalized emails or promotions based on their favorites make them feel special—and more likely to return. A robust sales system will help with this. - Loyalty Program
Create a loyalty program that rewards repeat customers. Offer points for every purchase, which they can redeem for discounts or freebies. Everyone loves earning rewards! - Exclusive Content
Send out special content like recipes, cooking tips, or food news. Giving your customers something extra, beyond the food, helps to build a deeper connection. - Customer Feedback Surveys
After each order, send out a survey asking for feedback. Use this valuable input to improve your products and services. Incorporate easy-to-use tools like Athoz QR Code All-in-One Feedback, where you can collect and analyze feedback in one place, simplifying the entire process. - Targeted Offers
Use customer purchase data to send personalized offers—whether it’s discounts on their favorite items or complementary dishes to go with what they’ve ordered in the past. Your customers will appreciate the personalized touch. - Birthday and Special Occasion Offers
Send a little surprise on your customers’ birthdays or special anniversaries. A free dessert or a discount can go a long way in showing your customers that you care. - Constant Communication
Stay top-of-mind with your customers. Regularly update them on new menu items, events, or ongoing promotions through emails, texts, or push notifications. Keep them engaged! - Flawless Ordering and Delivery Experience
Ensure the online ordering process is seamless. If customers have an easy and reliable way to place their order, they’ll be more likely to come back. Efficient delivery is just as important—no one wants to wait too long for their food. - Outstanding Customer Service
Good service goes beyond the food. If a customer has an issue, respond quickly and resolve it. A simple act of kindness or making things right can turn a negative experience into brand loyalty.
Little Surprises Go a Long Way
Sometimes, it’s the unexpected extras that make customers remember you. Consider adding a free sample or small gift to an order. It’s a great way to create a delightful surprise that will keep them coming back.
The Power of Social Media and Building a Community
Don’t just limit your online engagement to your delivery platform. Build an active social media presence. Share behind-the-scenes content, engage with customers’ posts, and use Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok to interact with your community. When customers feel like they’re part of your restaurant’s “family,” loyalty grows.
The Bottom Line: Give Value, Always
The secret to customer loyalty is simple: value. Whether it’s offering personalized offers, making the ordering experience seamless, or building a community, always strive to give more than what’s expected. By consistently delivering value, your restaurant will foster long-term relationships with your online customers—and your revenue will reflect that.
Athoz: Simplify, Transform, and Maximize Your Restaurant’s Success.
By embracing these strategies, your restaurant doesn’t just survive the online ordering revolution—it thrives in it. Adapt, engage, and watch your restaurant grow.
With care,
Athoz
Automate, Simplify, Succeed.
Los Angeles, CA – Serving the United States
(786) 769-9308|Hablamos Español
info@athoztech.com support@athoztech.com
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