Ecommerce for Restaurants: Build Your Restaurant Webstore

eCommerce for restaurants refers to the online purchasing and selling of goods and services related to the restaurant service industry. It involves using digital platforms, restaurant POS systems, websites, and apps to enable customers to place orders, make reservations, and conduct transactions without physically visiting the restaurant. 

Restaurant ecommerce solutions for restaurant businesses typically include online menus, a food ordering system, table reservation management, delivery or pickup options (via Uber Eats or other third-party option), inventory management, and payment gateways. This trend has gained significant momentum as technology continues to reshape the way customers interact with and patronize restaurants. 

It allows an account manager or business owner to extend their reach, increase convenience for customers, share their latest products and dishes, and streamline operations with restaurant automation processes related to ordering, payment, and customer engagement.

Examples of eCommerce restaurants include:

• Pizza Hut: Pizza Hut’s online ordering platform allows customers to customize their pizzas, choose toppings, and complete their orders for delivery or pickup through their website or mobile app.
• Domino’s: Domino’s has a robust eCommerce system that allows customers to build their own pizzas, track their orders in real-time, and make payments online.
• McDonald’s: Almost every McDonald’s site offers online ordering and delivery options through their mobile app, allowing customers to place their orders and have them delivered to their doorstep, without having to wait in line.
• Starbucks: Starbucks allows customers purchase their favorite drinks and food items through their app for pickup or delivery, with the option to customize orders, get support,  and pay digitally.
• Panera Bread: Panera Bread’s online ordering system enables customers to check prices,  customize and place orders for bakery items, soups, salads, and sandwiches for both pickup and delivery.

Yes, this industry is a significant part of eCommerce. Online commerce refers to the buying and selling of goods and services over the internet, and food is one of the categories that is widely sold and purchased through online platforms. 

With the rise of technology and digital platforms, such as restaurant marketing tools, online ordering platforms, and restaurant reporting options, the food service industry has seen a significant shift towards eCommerce, allowing customers to order food online, and business owners to manage things with just a few clicks. 

This includes ordering restaurant meals for delivery or pickup in store, purchasing groceries from online marketplaces, and even subscribing to meal kit delivery services. The convenience of online commerce has made it easier for consumers to access a wide range of products without the need to visit physical stores.

Yes, e-commerce for restaurants can be profitable for your restaurant or online store when implemented effectively. E-commerce offers restaurants the opportunity to expand their customer reach, manage sales, promote their brand, and improve overall efficiency – all at an affordable price. 

Here are some ways in which e-commerce can contribute to restaurant profitability:

1. Increased Sales: E-commerce allows restaurants to reach a larger audience beyond their physical location. Online ordering, delivery, and takeout services can attract more customers and generate additional revenue.
2. Higher Average Ticket Value: Online ordering platforms often provide opportunities for upselling, suggesting additional items or combos to customers during the ordering process, which can increase the average order value.
3. Reduced Overhead Costs: With online ordering, restaurants can streamline their operations and reduce labor costs associated with manual order-taking. This can lead to increased profitability as efficiency improves.
4. Improved Customer Loyalty: E-commerce platforms often offer customer loyalty programs, discounts, and promotions. These initiatives can encourage repeat business and customer loyalty, leading to sustained profitability over time.
5. Data-Driven Insights: E-commerce systems provide valuable data on customer preferences, ordering behavior, and sales trends. Restaurants can use this data to make informed decisions about menu offerings, pricing, and marketing strategies.