Online food delivery has revolutionized the dining experience, offering customers unmatched convenience and variety. With platforms like Grubhub leading the charge, trends in food delivery and takeout are evolving rapidly. For restaurant managers, staying ahead of these trends isn’t just about keeping up—it’s about thriving in a competitive marketplace.
Here’s what the latest Grubhub insights tell us about food delivery and how your restaurant can adapt to meet customer expectations while driving growth.
Delivery vs. Takeout: Understanding Customer Preferences
The growing preference for takeout over delivery is clear:
- 58% of customers prefer picking up their orders to save on delivery fees.
- However, delivery remains popular, with customers valuing its convenience on busy days.
How to Adapt
- Offer Pickup Options: Streamline the pickup process through online ordering platforms like Grubhub.
- Incentivize Delivery: Periodically offer discounts or promotions for delivery orders to appeal to cost-conscious customers.
- Leverage Grubhub+: Encourage customers to subscribe to fee-saving services like Grubhub+.
7 Key Online Food Trends for 2024
Let’s explore how these trends are shaping the industry and what your restaurant can do to stay competitive.
- Convenience Delivery – Beyond meals, customers now expect quick delivery of essentials like snacks and groceries. If your restaurant has a retail section, consider offering same-day delivery for these items through Grubhub.
- Social Media Marketing – Social media platforms remain critical for engaging customers:
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- Gen Z prefers TikTok for discovering restaurants.
- Over 36% of diners use social media to evaluate dining options.
Tip: Use high-quality images and videos to showcase your menu, advertise specials, and promote delivery options. Grubhub’s Canva templates make this easy.
- QR Code Ordering – The simplicity of QR code systems benefits both dine-in and takeout:
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- Reduced labor demands
- Faster service for customers
- Higher order accuracy
Add QR codes to your marketing materials that link directly to your Grubhub page, making ordering seamless for takeout and delivery.
- No-Contact Delivery – Flexibility in delivery options is now expected. Offering no-contact delivery appeals to customers who value convenience and customization.
- AI Integration (ChatGPT) – Artificial intelligence can transform your restaurant’s operations:
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- Use AI for personalized upselling based on customer order history.
- Automate customer service with AI chat tools to reduce workloads and improve response times.
- Analyze operational data for smarter decision-making in staffing, inventory, and marketing.
- Alcohol Delivery – If regulations in your area allow, adding alcohol to your delivery menu can boost average order values by $15 or more.
- Food Photography – Great visuals drive sales. Investing in professional food photography enhances your online menus and social media presence, giving your dishes the attention they deserve.
Adapting to Trends Without Compromising Operations
Implementing these trends doesn’t have to disrupt your daily operations. Here’s how:
- Start Small: Test new services like alcohol delivery or QR code ordering in select markets.
- Partner with Experts: Platforms like Grubhub offer resources to help you navigate these trends seamlessly.
- Streamline Operations: Use AI and automation to reduce the strain on your staff while enhancing the customer experience.
Sustainability and Mopac’s Role
At Mopac, we understand that today’s customers also value sustainability. By partnering with us for used cooking oil recycling, your restaurant not only contributes to a healthier environment but also aligns with the eco-conscious values of modern diners. Together, we can make sustainability part of your value proposition while supporting your operational needs.
Final Thoughts
The food delivery landscape is evolving, and restaurants that embrace these trends will be better positioned for success in 2024 and beyond. Whether it’s leveraging social media, improving delivery options, or adding new services like alcohol delivery, staying proactive is key.
With Mopac by your side, you can focus on delivering exceptional food and experiences while we handle your cooking oil recycling and sustainability needs. Ready to take your restaurant to the next level? Let’s talk!
