Restaurant Ordering in 2025

What's changing in 2025 for Customer Preferences?

Customers want convenience, but not just any convenience—they want a seamless, branded experience when ordering online. Did you know that more than 2/3rds of customers surveyed said they preferred to order directly from a restaurant rather than a 3rd party site?

Wondering if it really matters to them? The #1 reason given was to "Support their local Restaurant". Perhaps your customers can be more loyal than you think.

There are plenty of reasons why it benefits customers. Order accuracy and better prices to name a few. But customers are expecting more nowadays from technology, and your tech might need an upgrade.

Here a our top 8 reasons why the future of ordering is direct:

1. Control Your Brand and Customize the Customer Experience

Imagine a hungry customer looking to order your signature BBQ ribs. They jump online but are greeted with a bland, generic third-party app listing instead of your vibrant brand. Not the best impression, right?

With your own branded online ordering system, you control everything—your colors, your logo, your vibe. It’s not just about aesthetics (although that’s important). It’s about crafting a memorable experience that represents your brand from the moment a customer considers placing an order.

2. Increase Profit Margins and Keep More of What You Earn

Let’s talk profit. Third-party apps take a huge bite out of your revenue, with commissions sometimes reaching 30%. That’s a serious hit to your bottom line. With your own system, you keep more of the money you’ve earned.

Plus, when customers order directly from you, they tend to spend more. Why? Because you can upsell—suggesting that side of fries or decadent dessert directly in the ordering process. More orders, bigger totals, and no middleman—ka-ching!

3. Leverage Customer Data to Drive Growth

In 2025, customer data is the new currency. When you rely on third-party apps, they keep all that valuable information to themselves. But with your own system, you gain access to detailed customer insights.

What’s your top-selling dish? When are peak ordering times? How much do customers spend on average? This data is pure gold for creating effective marketing strategies, adjusting your menu, and driving growth.

4. Maintain Full Menu Control and Streamline Operations

Updating your menu on a third-party app can be a slow and frustrating process. But with your own system, you’re in total control. Sold out of today’s special? You can update it instantly. Want to run a limited-time offer? Done.

This level of flexibility ensures your customers are always seeing the most up-to-date menu. And when your system integrates smoothly with your point-of-sale (POS) software, it creates a streamlined experience for both your kitchen staff and customers.

5. Build Customer Loyalty with a Personalized Experience

Regular customers are the backbone of any successful restaurant. Your own online ordering system helps you nurture that loyalty with ease. Set up a digital rewards program—no more lost punch cards—and make your customers feel special every time they order.

By offering personalized experiences and rewards, you’ll turn one-time diners into loyal regulars who keep coming back.

6. Make Smarter, Data-Driven Decisions

With your branded system, you’re not just collecting orders—you’re collecting valuable data. Use it to identify trends, such as which dishes are popular, peak ordering times, and whether promotions are driving sales.

This data-driven approach helps you make informed decisions about staffing, inventory, and menu offerings. In short, it allows you to run a smarter, more efficient restaurant.

7. Boost SEO and Attract More Customers

Here’s an often-overlooked benefit: having your own online ordering system can significantly improve your search engine optimization (SEO). When customers search for terms like "best pizza in [your city]" or "late-night tacos near me," having a strong online presence can help your restaurant appear higher in search results.

A well-optimized ordering page increases your visibility, driving more traffic—and more orders—your way.

8. Get Direct Customer Feedback and Improve Service

Finally, your own system allows you to get direct, real-time feedback from customers. Add a simple feedback option and you’ll gain valuable insights into what’s working and what needs improvement.

This feedback loop helps you address problems internally and connect happy customers to their social media review site of choice.

The Future of Restaurant Ordering is Direct

In 2025, owning your digital presence is essential for restaurant success. By using a branded online ordering system, you’re not just taking orders—you’re taking control of your brand, your profits, and your customer relationships.

Ready to future-proof your restaurant? Explore your options for a branded online ordering system today and start reaping the benefits of direct customer engagement, higher profits, and loyal diners.

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