How to Increase Restaurant Takeout Orders with Online Marketing

Apr 1

If you're an independent restaurant owner, you're likely facing increased competition and fluctuating dine-in traffic. Boosting your takeout orders through online marketing can significantly enhance your revenue streams and provide stability in uncertain times. But where should you begin?

In this guide, we'll explore actionable online marketing strategies to effectively increase takeout orders at your restaurant.

Why Should Restaurants Focus on Increasing Takeout Orders?

Takeout and delivery options have become an essential part of many restaurants' revenue. Customers increasingly prefer convenience, speed, and minimal contact. Independent restaurants that adapt to these preferences by optimizing their takeout services are better positioned for long-term success.

How Can I Make It Easy for Customers to Order Takeout Online?

Ease of ordering is crucial for boosting takeout orders. Here’s how you can streamline the process:

User-Friendly Website: Make your menu easy to find with clear pricing and dietary information.
Online Ordering System: Integrate direct online ordering through platforms like ChowNow, Toast POS, or Square.
Mobile Optimization: Ensure your website is mobile-friendly since most customers order from their phones.

Takeaway: The simpler it is to order from your restaurant, the more likely customers will choose you over competitors.

How Can Google Maps and Google My Business Help Increase Takeout Orders?

Google My Business (GMB) is a powerful, free tool for independent restaurant owners. Here's how it helps:

Visibility: Enhances your visibility in local searches and Google Maps, making it easier for customers to find you.
Order Integration: Add direct ordering links or popular apps like DoorDash or Uber Eats directly to your Google profile.
Regular Updates: Keep your profile updated with current menus, promotions, photos, and accurate operating hours.

Takeaway: A well-maintained GMB profile directly contributes to increased takeout orders by improving local search visibility.

Can Social Media Marketing Boost Restaurant Takeout Orders?

Absolutely! Social media platforms are highly effective for engaging your community and promoting takeout options. Consider the following:

Visual Content: Regularly post appealing photos and short videos of your dishes.
Exclusive Offers: Use Instagram Stories or Facebook posts to share special promotions for takeout customers.
Customer Interaction: Engage with followers by responding to comments, sharing user-generated content, and creating polls or contests.

Takeaway: Regular and engaging social media content keeps your restaurant top-of-mind and boosts customer orders.

Should My Restaurant Use Email Marketing to Increase Takeout Orders?

Yes, email marketing remains highly effective for driving repeat business and increasing takeout orders:

Regular Communication: Send weekly newsletters highlighting special dishes, offers, or loyalty programs.
Personalized Offers: Use customer order history to send personalized promotions or discounts on favorites.
Easy Ordering Links: Include prominent buttons in emails linking directly to your online ordering platform.

Takeaway: Personalized, consistent email communication builds customer loyalty and consistently boosts takeout orders.

What Role Do Reviews and Ratings Play in Increasing Restaurant Takeout Orders?

Online reviews significantly influence customer choices. Improve your restaurant's reviews by:

Encouraging Reviews: Politely ask satisfied customers to leave reviews on Google, Yelp, or Facebook.
Responding Quickly: Address negative reviews professionally and quickly, showcasing excellent customer service.
Showcasing Reviews: Share positive reviews across your website and social media to build trust.

Takeaway: Positive online reviews and professional responses build credibility and drive more takeout orders.

SEO Best Practices for Increasing Restaurant Takeout Orders

Improving your website’s SEO ensures customers find you easily online. Focus on:

Keyword Optimization: Use keywords like “increase takeout orders” and “restaurant marketing” naturally within your site content.
Localized Content: Include local keywords (e.g., "best pizza takeout in Austin") to boost visibility in local search results.
Blogging: Create useful blog content around takeout tips, recipes, or customer favorites.

Tools and Platforms Recommended for Increasing Takeout Orders

To successfully execute your takeout strategy, leverage these tools:

Ordering Platforms: ChowNow, Square, Toast POS
Social Media Management: Hootsuite, Buffer, Canva
Email Marketing: MailChimp, Constant Contact, Klaviyo

FAQs

Q: How quickly can I see results from online marketing for takeout orders?
A: Typically, you’ll notice results within a few weeks of consistent implementation.

Q: Can small restaurants compete with bigger chains through online marketing?
A: Absolutely. Small restaurants often stand out by offering personalized customer experiences and unique local flair.

Q: Is paid advertising worth it for increasing takeout orders?
A: Paid ads can be effective, especially on platforms like Google Ads and Facebook Ads. Start with a small budget and analyze results before scaling.

Ready to Boost Your Restaurant’s Takeout Orders?

Explore our blog for more actionable insights or reach out today for a personalized marketing consultation. We're here to help you grow your restaurant business online.

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Thiago Ferraz