How does a foodservice business build the best experience for its customers? The answer is ever-changing, but one thing remains constant: foodservice businesses must be current on the latest trends in the industry.

One of the biggest trends is online ordering. Many foodservice businesses from small cafes to chain restaurants are shifting their focus to online orders and deliveries to capitalize on this growing trend. It has become a driving force that brings about increased sales and revenue for foodservice operators, especially as consumers have been getting used to ordering online more frequently due to the COVID-19 pandemic. With this in mind, we have compiled some best practices for online ordering.

Building the Best Online Storefront

Building a quality online storefront is important in establishing your business online. When associating with a food delivery application, you will need to have an active storefront with product images so that customers know what they are getting. If your business is new and unfamiliar to the locals, they will want to see what you have to offer.

For repeated success, your online storefront should have the following:

  1. Good User Experience: When customers visit your digital storefront, they should be able to see what they are getting through an easy-to-use design. Optimize your menu by adding clear images and product descriptions for each of your menu offerings.
  2. Order Customizations: Since everyone has their preferences, it would be beneficial to allow different ways for them to customize their orders. Add ons like syrups, sauces, specifications, and other customization options to your menu will give customers the feeling that they are getting a product that is unique to their tastes while generating extra revenue for your business.
  3. Business Information: Your online storefront should provide all of your important business information, such as your business name, contact information, website details, and hours of operation. You should also include the amount of time it will take to prepare each order and the hours that online ordering will be available.

Promoting Your Online Ordering Capabilities

Offering online ordering can open new opportunities for your business to expand its customer base, so it is important to get the word out about your online ordering capabilities. To promote online ordering, consider creating signage inside and outside your storefront for customers to see. With signage that informs customers how to order online, you can display the ease and convenience of ordering.

Another way to promote online ordering is through digital channels including your company website, social media, and within third-party platforms. Your website should be optimized to provide every available option your customers have to order from you. Whether that is ordering from your website, a third-party application, or by phone, you should offer information on the quickest and easiest way for them to order your coffee.

Here are a few simple ways to promote your online ordering capabilities:

  • Add call-to-actions on your website, such as an “Order Now” button on your homepage, that redirects users to the page to place their order;
  • Add an “Add To Cart” button on your website so that users can order straight from your online menu;
  • Use social media to spread the word about your online ordering capabilities or partnerships with third-party apps; and
  • Add banners to your website about deals and promos you are offering (both on your website and third-party apps).

Training Your Staff

When adding online ordering to your business, you need to ensure that your business is prepared so that the operation will be seamless. Train your staff to handle a high volume of orders during the busiest periods while still preparing that perfect cup of coffee. You want to be handing out orders at a constant rate and your staff needs to be prepared when the demand is high.

They should also ensure that they can maintain the quality of the product during rush hours. Quick order completion and fast delivery times are the hallmarks of a successful online ordering business. Additionally, if you choose to partner with a third-party food delivery app, make sure that your staff is well-versed in accepting orders and payments. Make sure to constantly train and monitor your staff to prevent incorrect orders or service delays.

Finding The Right Packaging

The taste and flavor of your coffee are important; however, with online delivery, you will have to test out how your coffee products travel during delivery. Investing in the right packaging is the best way to maintain the quality of your menu offerings.

Unlike other perishables, liquids are harder to transport as they are more susceptible to splashing or getting cold fast. Placing your coffee beverage in an air-tight, spill-proof, and most importantly insulated container can increase the quality of your product for delivery. What’s more, neatly designed packaging solutions can turn heads and are often appreciated by customers. Adding creative touches to your packaging can improve brand recognition too.

Key Takeaways

While online ordering is not anything new, it has evolved and has become the most convenient option for consumers. The growth in this sector is staggering and missing out can be detrimental to businesses, big or small. These points, if used correctly, can help you grow your business rapidly. In a post-COVID world, online ordering will allow you to operate efficiently and productively no matter the time or place.

Gaviña Coffee provides a wide selection of high-quality coffee and beverage solutions that suit every customer’s taste. We are committed to providing you with the best branding, training, and equipment solutions so that your online business can grow. Contact us today to learn about our services.