Why your restaurant should offer delivery or pickup services

It may appear that people are eating out less than before. That doesn’t mean however that people are cooking more, it just means more opportunities for restaurants who offer delivery and pick up services. People are saving gas money by staying at home, but some still don’t want to cook or don’t have the time too and would rather order food from their favorite restaurant.

Offering delivery and pickup services gives your restaurant more exposure. Delivery and pick up is basically advertising for your restaurant directly in someone’s home or office! Your food is being presented and enjoyed outside of your restaurant, which will only bring more customers back to you. If people enjoy your food and services, they’ll tell their neighbors, friends, family or coworkers and those people will consider your restaurant the next time they’re having an event or want to dine from home.

If you’re new to delivery and pick up, try to start small in the beginning. Take a good look at your menu and decide what your best dishes and what can stay fresh the longest. Even if you have excellent cheese fries, if they won’t be good re-heated, save it for the restaurant only. Offer free delivery to local charity or community events at first so your staff can get some practice and you can work out any kinks. If you only offer dinner, try partnering with a local dessert business so you can share equipment and have a larger pool of customers.

Don’t forget to advertise the fact that you offer pickup and delivery as well! Send out emails or fliers to your best customers. Add it to the bottom of receipts or have your server mention it when giving guest their bill. If you’re using social media, advertise this fact through those channels as well. Have a drawing for a free or discounted catering event to get customers to try your services. Once you get the word out, your food and service will speak for itself!