The restaurant industry has seen a significant shift in recent years with the rise of online ordering systems. These systems have revolutionized the way restaurants operate and have brought new levels of convenience and efficiency to both customers and businesses alike. In this article, we will explore 20 benefits of using online ordering systems for restaurants, supported by relevant case studies and statistics where necessary.

 

Increased Revenue

One of the most significant benefits of using online ordering systems is the potential for increased revenue. With online ordering, restaurants can reach a wider audience and offer customers a convenient and easy way to place orders. According to a study by Toast, restaurants that implemented online ordering saw an average increase in revenue of 30%.

For example, Panera Bread, a popular American bakery-cafe chain, implemented online ordering in 2012. According to the company’s CEO, Ron Shaich, online ordering has been a significant driver of growth, with online sales accounting for 26% of total sales in 2017.

 

Improved Efficiency

Another key benefit of using online ordering systems is improved efficiency. With online ordering, customers can place orders at any time, without the need for staff to take phone orders. This can free up staff time and reduce the likelihood of errors in order taking.

Online ordering systems also often include features such as real-time inventory management, which can help restaurants avoid stockouts and over-ordering. This can help restaurants reduce waste and improve their overall profitability.

 

Enhanced Customer Experience

Online ordering systems can enhance the customer experience by providing convenience and flexibility. Customers can place orders at their own pace and at any time, without having to wait on hold or in line. This can be particularly appealing for busy customers who may not have time to visit a restaurant in person.

Additionally, online ordering systems often include features such as order tracking and delivery notifications, which can help customers stay informed about the status of their orders. This can help build customer loyalty and improve overall satisfaction.

 

Increased Marketing Opportunities

Online ordering systems can provide restaurants with increased marketing opportunities. By capturing customer data such as email addresses and order history, restaurants can use targeted marketing campaigns to promote special offers and encourage repeat business.

Furthermore, online ordering systems often include social media integration, which can help restaurants reach a wider audience and increase brand awareness. For example, by encouraging customers to share their orders on social media, restaurants can tap into the power of word-of-mouth marketing.

 

Greater Flexibility

Online ordering systems can provide restaurants with greater flexibility, as they can accommodate a wide range of order types and customization options. For example, customers can easily customize their orders and make special requests, which can help to improve satisfaction and build customer loyalty.

 

Improved Accuracy

With online ordering, the chances of miscommunication and errors in taking orders are significantly reduced. Customers can input their orders directly into the system, which reduces the need for staff to manually take orders. This can help to improve order accuracy and reduce the likelihood of order errors.

 

Streamlined Operations

Online ordering systems can help streamline restaurant operations by reducing the need for staff to take phone orders and process payments. This can free up staff time and allow them to focus on other important tasks, such as food preparation and customer service.

 

Increased Productivity

With online ordering, restaurants can process orders more quickly and efficiently, which can lead to increased productivity. This can help to improve the overall efficiency of restaurant operations and reduce the time it takes to fulfill orders.

 

Reduced Wait Times

By using online ordering systems, customers can avoid long wait times on the phone or in line. This can help to improve customer satisfaction and reduce the likelihood of customers leaving the restaurant due to long wait times.

 

Improved Order Accuracy

Online ordering systems can help to improve order accuracy, as customers input their orders directly into the system. This reduces the likelihood of errors that can occur when staff manually take orders. Additionally, online ordering systems can include features such as mandatory order confirmation and review, which can further reduce the chances of order errors.

 

Enhanced Upselling Opportunities

Online ordering systems can provide restaurants with enhanced upselling opportunities. By displaying menu items and suggested add-ons during the ordering process, restaurants can encourage customers to purchase additional items, which can increase revenue and improve profitability.

According to a study by Upserve, 46% of customers say they are more likely to order add-ons or special deals when ordering online.

 

Improved Inventory Management

Online ordering systems often include real-time inventory management features that can help restaurants manage their inventory more effectively. By tracking sales and inventory levels, restaurants can avoid stockouts and over-ordering, which can help reduce waste and improve profitability.

For example, a study by Lightspeed found that restaurants using its online ordering system saw a 25% reduction in food waste.

 

Increased Efficiency in Delivery Operations

Online ordering systems can help to increase efficiency in delivery operations by providing drivers with detailed order information and delivery instructions. This can reduce the likelihood of delivery errors and improve the overall delivery experience for customers.

Additionally, online ordering systems can include features such as real-time order tracking and delivery notifications, which can help customers stay informed about the status of their orders and provide them with a better overall experience.

 

Improved Customer Data Collection

Online ordering systems can provide restaurants with valuable customer data, such as order history, preferences, and contact information. This data can be used to create targeted marketing campaigns, improve customer service, and gain insights into customer behavior and preferences.

 

Enhanced Branding Opportunities

Online ordering systems can provide restaurants with enhanced branding opportunities by allowing them to customize their online ordering platform to reflect their brand. This can help to improve brand awareness and build customer loyalty.

Additionally, online ordering systems often include features such as customer reviews and ratings, which can help to improve brand reputation and attract new customers.

 

Increased Order Volume

Online ordering systems can help restaurants increase their order volume by providing customers with a convenient and easy way to place orders. According to a study by Toast, restaurants that implemented online ordering saw an average increase in order volume of 20%.

For example, in 2020, Domino’s Pizza reported a 16% increase in online sales, which accounted for over 75% of its total sales.

 

Improved Staff Efficiency

Online ordering systems can help to improve staff efficiency by reducing the need for staff to take phone orders and process payments. This can free up staff time and allow them to focus on other important tasks, such as food preparation and customer service.

 

Reduced Labor Costs

Online ordering systems can help restaurants reduce labor costs by automating tasks that would otherwise require staff time, such as taking phone orders and processing payments. This can help to reduce the need for staff and improve profitability.

 

Increased Customer Loyalty

Online ordering systems can help to increase customer loyalty by providing a convenient and easy way for customers to place orders. By offering a seamless ordering experience, restaurants can build customer trust and encourage repeat business.

According to a study by Upserve, 82% of customers say they would order from a restaurant more frequently if online ordering was available.

 

Improved Profitability

Overall, the benefits of using online ordering systems can help to improve restaurant profitability by increasing revenue, reducing costs, and improving efficiency. By streamlining operations and providing customers with a convenient ordering experience, restaurants can improve their bottom line and grow their business.

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, the benefits of using online ordering systems for restaurants are clear. From increased revenue and improved efficiency to enhanced customer experience and branding opportunities, online ordering can help restaurants to improve their business in a variety of ways. By adopting an online ordering system, restaurants can stay competitive in a rapidly changing industry and provide a convenient and seamless ordering experience for their customers.

Case studies and statistics demonstrate the effectiveness of online ordering systems in improving restaurant operations and increasing profitability. By leveraging the latest technology and features, restaurants can optimize their operations, reduce costs, and drive revenue growth.

However, it is important for restaurants to choose the right online ordering system that best meets their needs and integrates seamlessly with their existing operations. By selecting a reliable and user-friendly platform, restaurants can ensure a smooth transition to online ordering and provide a positive customer experience.

As the restaurant industry continues to evolve, online ordering systems are becoming increasingly essential for restaurants to remain competitive and meet the changing needs of their customers. By embracing this technology and leveraging its many benefits, restaurants can improve their operations, grow their business, and enhance the customer experience.