The Digital Transformation of Dining
The restaurant industry has undergone a massive transformation. Online ordering has gone from a nice-to-have to an absolute necessity. Here are five compelling reasons why your restaurant needs an online ordering system.
1. Meet Customers Where They Are
More than 60% of restaurant customers now prefer to order online rather than calling. They want to browse your menu at their convenience, see photos of dishes, customize their order, and pay online — all without picking up the phone. An online ordering system provides this experience and meets the expectations of modern diners.
2. Lower Your Costs
Every online order that comes through your own website saves your staff time. No more answering phones during the lunch rush to take orders. No more misheard orders or transcription errors. Your team can focus on preparing food and serving in-person customers. Additionally, using your own online store means you avoid the 15-30% commission fees charged by third-party delivery platforms.
3. Own Your Customer Relationships
When customers order through third-party platforms, you don't own that relationship. The platform owns the customer data. With your own online store, every customer who orders becomes part of your database. You can send them marketing messages, offer loyalty rewards, and build a relationship that keeps them coming back directly to you.
4. Increase Average Order Value
Online stores naturally increase average order value. Customers can take their time browsing your full menu, discover items they might not have considered, and add extras or upgrades. Features like "recommended items" and combo suggestions further boost order values.
5. Operate 24/7
Your online store never closes. Customers can browse your menu, plan their order, and schedule it for later — even when your restaurant is closed. This is especially valuable for lunch orders placed in advance or catering orders planned days ahead.
Getting Started with 999mart
999mart's online store is ready to go out of the box. It supports custom web addresses, mobile app installation on smartphones, and integrates seamlessly with your POS system. Orders placed through your online store appear instantly in your kitchen — no manual entry required.
Ready to launch your online store? Start your free trial — no credit card required.