Adapting to the Sharing Economy: A Restaurant’s Guide to Growth and Success

Reaching New Diners and Boosting Visibility:

• Delivery Platforms: Partnering with established names like DoorDash, Uber Eats, or Grubhub instantly connects you with a vast pool of potential customers who crave restaurant food but may not dine out frequently. Think of it as having your restaurant in hundreds of pockets! (Consider including an infographic showcasing the reach of major delivery platforms)

• Online Ordering Systems: Implementing an online ordering system on your website or mobile app allows customers to conveniently order food for pickup or delivery at their fingertips. This increases accessibility and can lead to more impulse purchases, especially during peak lunch or dinner hours.

Optimising Your Business and Maximising Profits:

• Delivery Platforms: While delivery platforms take a commission on each order, they can still be a net positive.Increased orders often outweigh the commission cost, leading to overall revenue growth. (Consider including a chart demonstrating the potential revenue increase even with delivery platform fees)

• Online Ordering Systems: Online ordering systems can streamline your ordering process, reduce errors, and free up staff for other tasks like focusing on customer service. Additionally, integrating online ordering with loyalty programs can incentivise repeat business and boost customer engagement.

Considerations for Success: A Roadmap to Smooth Sailing

• Maintaining Brand Identity: Partnering with delivery platforms requires careful menu curation. Ensure dishes travel well and represent your brand quality. After all, the first bite is just as important as the last!

• Delivery Fees and Minimum Orders: Delivery fees and minimum order requirements can influence customer behaviour. Strike a balance between profitability and affordability to attract customers. Consider offering free delivery above a certain order amount.

• Marketing and Visibility: Don't rely solely on the platform's marketing. Promote your online ordering options and delivery partnerships through social media, email marketing, and in-store signage. Let your existing customers know about the new convenient ways to enjoy your food!

• Data Analytics: Leverage data from online orders and delivery platforms to identify customer preferences, peak ordering times, and popular dishes. Use this data to optimise your menu, promotions, and staffing levels. Data is your friend - use it to make informed decisions and stay ahead of the curve!

Beyond Delivery: Exploring New Horizons

• Ghost Kitchens: Consider a ghost kitchen concept, a delivery-only kitchen with lower overhead costs. This allows you to test new menus or expand your reach without the investment of a full-service restaurant. Think of it as a laboratory to experiment with new ideas!

• Meal Kits and Subscriptions: Offer curated meal kits with pre-portioned ingredients and recipes for customers to cook at home. This can be a new revenue stream and a way to introduce your brand to a wider audience. Imagine busy professionals enjoying your signature dishes in the comfort of their own homes!

The sharing economy presents a golden opportunity for restaurants to thrive. By embracing delivery platforms, online ordering systems, and exploring innovative concepts, restaurants can reach new customers, boost revenue, and remain competitive in the ever-evolving food industry.

Ready to embark on this exciting journey? This guide provides a roadmap for success. However, the journey doesn't end here. Stay informed about emerging trends, analyse your data, and continuously adapt your strategy to stay ahead of the curve. Remember, the sharing economy is all about collaboration and innovation. Embrace it, and watch your restaurant flourish!