As a restaurant owner, you may be thinking, how can I target potential customers that do not necessarily like to dine out?  There are millions of food lovers that are longing for a better food delivery option.  As the public tires of the common take out selection, it has created a potential financial boon for current restaurant owners.  The quality of food that can be delivered from a high end local restaurant can be much greater than your average take out facility.  That quality is what will drive the demand from people seeking a fresher, healthier meal.  Taking your menu to the customer can come in several forms, from simple meal delivery, to a full scale catering service.

Demographics

Restaurant delivery services are becoming more popular in today’s bustling society.  The convenience of being able to have a first class dinner delivered to your door can appeal to several different demographics.  For those with full time jobs and children, being able to have a healthy option that doesn’t take hours to prepare can be invaluable.  For couples seeking a quality meal without having to deal with restaurant crowds, having a dinner delivered can provide you with the desired privacy for your date night.  Those with health issues that don’t allow them to leave the house, truly appreciate the treat of a gourmet meal being delivered to their door step. 

Increased Revenue

The revenue generated from taking your product outside your restaurant walls to your customers dining room table can be significant.  In 2015 alone, American consumers spent $3.5 billion dollars on delivery food from independent restaurants.  This is not only a way for smaller restaurants to survive, but to compete with larger chains.  Having the ability to cater to those that don’t enjoy large crowds brings in a whole new revenue stream. 

Advertising

If you have an established restaurant, advertising to your current customer base will be easy.  The real money maker for your delivery service will be reaching beyond the normal dining crowd.  Consider hiring a seasoned marketer to spread the word about your new service.  This will help you to better reach your target audience.  There are several things you can do on your own to spread the word.  Giving out free samples is a great way to let potential customers know about your new service.  Include a flyer with your restaurant name and delivery number with each sample.  Once your delivery service is up and running, be sure to outfit your delivery vehicles with your brand and contact information.

Catering

For a larger scale delivery option, you may want to consider a catering service.  Your catering menu  can consist of house favorites and easy to prepare dishes.  This will allow you to expand your delivery to larger crowds and functions.  While adding this service can increase revenue, you want to be sure you do not take the focus off of your flourishing restaurant and its loyal patrons.  Organization will be key in balancing your current business with the newer challenges of catering. 

Staffing

You’ll want to have a dedicated staff to run your delivery service.  You don’t want to stretch your regular staff too thin with adding delivery responsibilities.   Having your staff remain separate will ensure focus and consistent quality.  You’ll need a manager to delegate tasks, delivery drivers and a cooking staff that is trained to be efficient and adept with your delivery menu.

Quality

Delivery can be fast paced and overwhelming.  Making sure you provide accurate delivery times is very important for retaining customers.  Timing and coordination between your cooking and delivery staff is of the utmost importance to maintaining the freshness of your product.  Remember, the reason customers are choosing to pay a little more is for the promise of a better quality meal.  To stand out in any aspect of the restaurant industry, the quality of your food needs to be on point. 

Funding your Delivery Service

Launching the delivery aspect of your business can be an expensive, but a rewarding venture to increase your restuarant revenue.  Quikstone Capital Solutions can provide you with a merchant cash advance to get your delivery service everything it needs to get rolling.