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[Smarter Takeout]

Internet technologies are effectively used in restaurant business and online ordering is a hot topic for restaurant owners these days. So I thought it would be helpful to give some facts concerning online ordering and also destroy some myths about this technology.

First, here are some facts that may be interesting for those restaurant-owners who are looking into integrating an online ordering system into their business.

- Nearly 70% of Americans have experience with making online retail purchases.

- 60% of adults between the ages 18 – 34 claim to be more interested in home delivery than dining in the restaurant. (The National Restaurant Association Survey)

- Half of the consumers said they would take advantage of a delivery service from their preferred restaurants if it were available. (The National Restaurant Association Survey)

- 35% of people said they have or would order online from their favorite restaurant if they offered the service. (The National Restaurant Association Survey)

- Nearly 40% people say that they would like to receive an e-mail daily from their favorite local restaurant to know what the specials are for that day (The National Restaurant Association Survey)

- Nearly 20% of quick-service restaurants provide their clients with an online ordering option.

-Most popular restaurant chains get about 25% of their orders through online and mobile ordering.

Now let’s dispel two basic myths about online ordering:

Myth 1: I have a website with an online menu, so there’s no need for online ordering.

Many restaurants have their own websites that they use for providing online menus and promotions. These may help to bring in customers to your restaurant, but you may be missing out on all those customers who are only looking for easy take-out. Your website must not only represent you, but it should also work for you. Online ordering is a convenient service your customers want you to have!

Myth 2: Online ordering is too complex and expensive.

Actually, the process of integrating online ordering into a modern restaurant that is at least equipped with an electronic POS, is very easy. Up-to-date online ordering solutions are simply integrated into your point-of-sale and you are ready to go. Customer experience improves dramatically: no waiting on hold to place an order, no standing in lines, no order mistakes. Customers simply visits a restaurant’s website, place an order through the online ordering portal, pay directly with their credit card…and pick up the order. It’s as simple as 1,2,3.

Additionally, online ordering integration typically pays for itself with just a few takeout orders per month, so there is no need to worry about additional monthly business expenses.

Visit the Smarter Takeout demo website to get a clear view of the online ordering process.

I hope this will be helpful!