Ditch the Fees, Keep the Clicks: How to Increase Direct Orders vs. Third-Party Apps

Let’s be honest: third-party delivery apps are a double-edged sword for restaurants. They offer exposure and convenience, but those hefty commissions can seriously eat into your profits. You’re working hard to create delicious food and a great dining experience – shouldn’t you reap the rewards?

The good news is, you can take control and increase direct orders. It’s all about building your brand, making it easy for customers to order directly from you, and offering incentives that make them choose your website or app over those third-party giants.

This blog post will dive into actionable strategies to help you understand how to increase direct orders vs. third-party apps, so you can boost your bottom line and build stronger relationships with your customers. Let’s get started!

Why Focus on Increasing Direct Orders?

Before we jump into the “how,” let’s solidify the “why.” Why is it so important to prioritize direct orders over those coming from third-party apps?

• Higher Profit Margins: This is the big one! By cutting out the middleman, you keep a significantly larger percentage of each sale. Those commissions you pay to third-party apps can quickly add up, especially for popular items.
• Direct Customer Relationships: When customers order directly from you, you gain valuable data and insights into their preferences. This allows you to personalize marketing efforts, build loyalty, and create a more meaningful connection with your audience.
• Control Over the Customer Experience: You control every aspect of the ordering process, from the online menu presentation to the delivery experience. This ensures a consistent and positive experience that reflects your brand values.
• Brand Building: Direct orders reinforce your brand identity. Customers are interacting directly with your website, your app, and your team, strengthening their connection to your restaurant.

Think of it like this: third-party apps are like renting space in a crowded marketplace. Direct orders are like owning your own storefront – you have complete control and get to keep all the profits!

Key Strategies: How to Increase Direct Orders vs. Third-Party Apps

Okay, so you’re convinced. Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. Here are some proven strategies to help you increase direct orders:

1. Optimize Your Online Presence

• A Stunning Website is Non-Negotiable: Your website is your digital storefront. It needs to be visually appealing, easy to navigate, and mobile-friendly. Ensure your online menu is up-to-date, accurate, and enticing. High-quality photos of your dishes are a MUST.
• Claim and Optimize Your Google Business Profile: This is your free listing on Google Maps and Search. Make sure your information is accurate, complete, and includes plenty of photos. Encourage customers to leave reviews, as positive reviews significantly impact your visibility and credibility.
• Master Local SEO: Research relevant keywords that potential customers are using when searching for restaurants in your area (e.g., “pizza near me,” “best sushi in [city]”). Incorporate these keywords into your website content, Google Business Profile, and online listings.

2. Make Ordering Directly a Breeze

• Online Ordering System: Implement a seamless and user-friendly online ordering system directly on your website. Consider using a platform like MyQuick.Menu, which offers a streamlined digital solution to consolidate your menu, delivery options, and social media presence into a single, mobile-optimized link. This makes it incredibly easy for customers to order directly from you on any device.
• Mobile-Friendly is Essential: The vast majority of online orders are placed on mobile devices. Ensure your website and online ordering system are fully optimized for mobile viewing and usage.
• Simple Checkout Process: Minimize the number of steps required to complete an order. Streamline the checkout process by offering guest checkout options, accepting multiple payment methods, and providing clear delivery instructions.

3. Offer Irresistible Incentives

• Direct Order Discounts: Offer exclusive discounts or promotions for customers who order directly from your website or app. For example, “10% off your first order,” or “Free appetizer with orders over $30.”
• Loyalty Programs: Reward repeat customers with a loyalty program that offers points, discounts, or exclusive perks for every direct order they place.
• Free Delivery for Direct Orders: This is a powerful incentive, especially in competitive markets. Consider offering free delivery for all direct orders, or for orders that meet a certain minimum threshold.
• Exclusive Menu Items: Offer special menu items or limited-time offers that are only available to customers who order directly.

4. Promote Direct Ordering Everywhere

• Social Media Blitz: Regularly promote your direct ordering options on social media. Use eye-catching visuals and compelling copy to encourage followers to order directly from your website or app.
• Email Marketing: Build an email list and send out regular newsletters with exclusive offers, promotions, and updates. Remind your subscribers about the benefits of ordering directly.
• In-Store Promotion: Place signage in your restaurant encouraging customers to order directly online. Include your website URL and QR code on menus, flyers, and receipts.
• Partner with Local Businesses: Cross-promote your restaurant with other local businesses, offering discounts or promotions to each other’s customers.
• Update your voicemail to encourage direct ordering: When people call add a voice prompt to encourage ordering directly.

5. Leverage Data and Analytics

• Track Your Results: Monitor your website traffic, online order volume, and customer behavior. Use analytics tools to identify what’s working and what’s not.
• Understand Customer Preferences: Analyze your order data to gain insights into your customers’ favorite dishes, ordering habits, and dietary restrictions. Use this information to personalize your marketing efforts and improve your menu.
• Optimize Your Offers: Experiment with different incentives and promotions to see what resonates best with your target audience. Track the results of each campaign and adjust your strategy accordingly.

MyQuick.Menu provides comprehensive analytics to help you understand customer behavior, optimize your offerings, and increase conversion rates from digital visitors to paying customers.

MyQuick.Menu: Your Partner in Direct Order Success

Speaking of streamlined solutions, MyQuick.Menu offers a comprehensive platform that helps restaurants increase direct orders and build stronger customer relationships. With flexible pricing options starting at just $9 monthly for the base plan and $14/mo for our Pro plan with advanced analytics and automatic menu sync, MyQuick.Menu offers the perfect balance of sophistication and simplicity for restaurants of any size. Your first week is free!

The Takeaway: Reclaim Your Profits and Control Your Brand

Increasing direct orders vs. third-party apps is not just about saving money; it’s about taking control of your brand, building stronger customer relationships, and creating a sustainable business model. By implementing the strategies outlined in this blog post, you can reduce your reliance on third-party apps, boost your bottom line, and create a thriving online presence.

Ready to ditch the fees and keep the clicks? Start implementing these strategies today and watch your direct orders soar!