The New Year (like any other time of the year) is a good time to implement strategies that can boost sales and profits. Don’t overlook opportunities with online ordering. In fact, it can be a great starting point. Consider adding a special dish only available online or try distributing ‘secret’ promotional codes with each receipt to drive repeat business from customers within a certain timeframe.

You can also start cultivating an ‘ownership’ of your online ordering system with your employees. Develop a short pitch employees can deliver when speaking with customers. It should be brief and upbeat:

“Are you familiar with our online ordering capabilities? You can order takeout from us online with your computer or smartphone. It’s easy. Just check out our website, click “Order Online”, and make your selections. You can even use your Facebook account to login.”

Remember - online ordering is not only a way to attract new business, but also a way to make good customers better ones. This year – resolve to make better customers!

Valentine’s Day Sales Tip - Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14, is a big day for restaurants. HOWEVER - not everyone wants to make a reservation and spend a ton of money. Think about offering a Valentine’s Day takeout special that includes an appetizer, dinner, and dessert for two. It’s a great way to get business from the sweethearts that want to spend the night at home!

With any takeout or delivery order, it’s important not only to get the order processed efficiently and accurately, but to also guard against committing the errors that irritate customers most often. 

 Last month, QSR Magazine published an article about a study on takeout trends done by Techther. Among other things, it noted some of the biggest pet peeves consumers harbor when it comes to takeout:

•    Leaking food or liquids (52%)
•    Deterioration of food taste or freshness (49%)
•    Food that doesn't stay hot or cold (46%)  
•    Missing condiments (46%)

Another interesting piece of information: "About 60 percent of consumers also say that they are willing to pay more for takeout packaging made with sustainable materials. Trends toward sustainable, recyclable materials for takeout containers are taking shape at several major restaurant brands."

As you operate your takeout and/or delivery business, consider the above findings.  NetWaiter is all about providing your customers the most convenient and enjoyable way to order.  As long as you give the customer what they want, they are happy to pay for it.  Make sure a customer’s online takeout experience is finished nicely by avoiding these costly errors.