There has been a remarkable shift in customer preferences with the introduction of the online ordering system by various restaurants. According to a recent survey by the National Restaurant Association, more than half of all restaurant sales are takeout. With more than 70% of US population preferring to go online for retail purchases, online sales of restaurants expect to play a crucial role in expanding the business. Online ordering systems utilize the latest technologies for integrating sales, inventory and other relevant software. This helps in improving productivity, lowering costs and optimizing profitability.

Here are few reasons that may inspire you to introduce the online ordering option in your restaurant.

Business rationale

More and more consumers looking for restaurants are exploring the online option. In fact, as high as eight among 10 people are looking to eat out, and are searching for good restaurants online. Most of these consumers going through the websites of restaurants are searching for the menu card. A majority of such consumers, and the number is increasing everyday, say that they prefer ordering online. If you can tap into this lucrative opportunity to expand your business you should not delay. An online ordering option fully customizes a restaurant so you receive the order by phone, fax or email. Online sales prove to raise average sales because people tend to overestimate their hunger.

Benefits for consumers

You may be wondering if consumers would respond well to such an offer. You need to show them what a convenience this provides and the benefits they will gain from using this service. First, by placing an online order in advance, they will not wait for food in busy lines. The customized software helps in storing past order history of frequent customers. Just by saying “as usual”, they can complete their regular orders. This is a great way to retain the loyalty of busy customers. By adapting this system, you provide your customers ample time to plan and order their food. There is no need for them to get in a rush to compare the prices of different items. Customers view the full menu while the prices are on display and calculated while they are selecting their food. Customers planning to place large orders for parties may benefit most from this option. They can try different combinations before settling with the one that most suits their needs.

Benefits for restaurants

There are certain benefits that you may enjoy after introducing the online ordering option for your restaurant. The main benefit is the average increase of sales. According to a Marketing Director of a renowned fast food chain, consumers tend to order more when they order online. Probably because they order when they are hungry and overestimate their hunger or want to be sure there is enough food in order to avoid embarrassment. The process of procuring the order will streamline, increasing the overall output. With online orders, there are fewer chances of mistakes.

The Online ordering option has presented restaurant owners with an exciting opportunity to expand their business. By adopting this system, they not only can increase their profitability, but also serve their clients better.

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