Introduction
In recent years, online ordering has become an increasingly popular method of purchasing goods and services. With the rise of e-commerce platforms and delivery services, consumers now have the convenience of ordering products from the comfort of their own homes. However, along with the growth of online ordering, several myths and misconceptions have also emerged. In this blog, we aim to bust some of the most common online ordering myths and provide you with a clearer understanding of the reality behind this popular trend.
Myth #1: Online ordering is difficult to set up.
This myth is also not true. The cost of setting up an online ordering system can vary, but it’s often much more affordable than you might think. There are a number of affordable online ordering platforms available, and many of them offer free trials so you can test them out before you commit. Most online ordering platforms are very easy to set up and use. In fact, many platforms can be integrated with your existing restaurant POS system, making it even easier to get started.
Myth #2: Consumers are fine with PDF menus online
This is a myth that has been around for a long time, but it is simply not true. In fact, a recent study by Popmenu found that 49% of consumers will move on and order from a different restaurant if they encounter a PDF menu on a mobile device.
There are a few reasons why PDF menus are so unpopular. First, they are difficult to use on mobile devices. Second, they don’t allow customers to interact with the menu in a meaningful way. Third, they don’t provide any information about the restaurant or its dishes, such as photos or reviews.
If you want to attract customers to your restaurant’s online ordering platform, you need to make sure that your menu is easy to use and informative. A dynamic menu is the best option, as it allows customers to view the menu and place an order without having to leave the website.
Myth #3: It’s ok if your online menu doesn’t have pictures or reviews
Another common myth about online ordering is that it’s okay if your online menu doesn’t have pictures or reviews. This is not true. In fact, a study by Square found that dishes with photos receive 2x as many online orders as dishes that don’t, and dishes with reviews receive 4x as many orders. The solution: Include photos and reviews of your dishes on your online menu. This will help consumers to visualize the dishes and see what other people have to say about them.
Myth #4: Consumers like to order from third-party delivery sites
Third-party delivery sites like Grubhub and DoorDash have become very popular, but they can also be expensive for restaurants. In fact, a study by the National Restaurant Association found that restaurants pay an average of 15% commission to third-party delivery sites.
The solution: Offer your own online ordering and delivery service. This will allow you to keep more of the profits from your online orders.
Myth #5: Consumers will still order if they have to call a restaurant instead of placing an order online
This is another common myth about online ordering. Many restaurants believe that they can still get away with making customers call in their orders. However, this is becoming less and less true. In fact, a study by Technomic found that 70% of consumers prefer to order online.
The solution: Offer online ordering and make it easy for customers to place orders. This will help you to capture more orders and improve your customer satisfaction.
Myth #6: Consumers are not willing to pay online ordering fees on restaurant websites
A common misconception among businesses is that customers are unwilling to pay online ordering fees when placing orders through restaurant websites.
However, this myth fails to acknowledge the value and convenience that online ordering brings. Customers are often willing to pay reasonable fees for the added convenience, time saved, and improved user experience that online ordering provides.
It is crucial for businesses to communicate the benefits of online ordering and ensure that the fees are transparent and justified. Offering incentives like exclusive deals or discounts for online orders can also help customers see the value in paying these fees.
Myth #7: Online ordering is only for big restaurants.
This is simply not true. Online ordering is a great way for any restaurant, regardless of size, to reach more customers and increase sales. In fact, a recent study found that restaurants with online ordering capabilities saw a 20% increase in sales.
Myth #8: Online ordering is too expensive.
Another widespread myth is that online orders are always more expensive than purchasing items in-store. While it’s true that there may be additional costs associated with online ordering, such as delivery fees or shipping charges, it’s essential to consider the bigger picture.
Online platforms often offer exclusive discounts, promotions, and loyalty programs that can help offset these extra costs. Additionally, online shopping allows for easy price comparison across multiple retailers, helping you find the best deals available. When taking all factors into account, online ordering can often result in savings compared to traditional in-store shopping.
Myth #9: Customers don’t trust online ordering.
This myth is slowly starting to fade, but it’s still one that many businesses believe. The truth is, customers are increasingly comfortable with online ordering. In fact, a recent study found that 72% of consumers are comfortable ordering food online.
Myth #10: Online ordering doesn’t improve customer service.
This is the myth that I hear the most often. But it’s simply not true. Security concerns are often cited as a reason why some individuals are hesitant to engage in online ordering. However, the reality is that reputable online platforms invest heavily in security measures to protect customer information and ensure safe transactions.
This includes encryption protocols, secure payment gateways, and robust privacy policies. Additionally, many platforms offer buyer protection programs and guarantees to further enhance consumer confidence.
While it is essential to exercise caution and choose trustworthy platforms, online ordering, when done through reputable channels, can be as secure as traditional methods of shopping.
Online ordering can actually improve customer service in a number of ways. For example, it can allow you to provide customers with real-time updates on their orders, and it can give you a way to collect feedback from customers.
Myth #11: Online Orders Take Longer to Arrive
One misconception that frequently discourages people from trying online ordering is the belief that it takes longer for items to arrive. However, this myth is not universally true. While delivery times can vary depending on various factors such as location, product availability, and shipping method, many online retailers and restaurants prioritize speedy deliveries to meet customer expectations.
In fact, online platforms often provide estimated delivery times upfront, allowing you to choose options that suit your needs. With the rise of same-day and next-day delivery services, the gap between online and in-store shopping times continues to narrow.
Conclusion
I hope this blog post has helped to bust some of the myths about online ordering. If you’re a restaurant owner, I encourage you to consider setting up an online ordering system. It’s a great way to reach more customers, increase sales, and improve customer service.
By embracing the truths and leveraging the power of dynamic online menus, engaging visuals, customer reviews, direct ordering platforms, and transparent fees, businesses can unlock the full potential of online ordering and establish themselves as leaders in the digital marketplace.
Here are some additional tips for businesses that are considering online ordering:
- Make sure your online ordering system is easy to use and navigate.
- Offer a variety of payment options.
- Provide real-time updates on orders.
- Collect feedback from customers.
- Promote your online ordering system through your website, social media, and other marketing channels.
By debunking common myths about online ordering, we can better appreciate the benefits it brings. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or a novice, online ordering platforms provide user-friendly interfaces, robust security measures, and personalized experiences. With reliable delivery services and an extensive product selection, online ordering continues to enhance the way we fulfill our needs and desires in the digital age.
