Online ordering is an effective way to add extra value to your business, by making it easier and more convenient for customers to make purchases. Done effectively, online ordering can boost sales for just about any business, from restaurants to retail stores and more.
Here are the main ways that online ordering can improve your company’s bottom line:
Added convenience for you and your customers
One of the simplest ways you can increase sales is by taking away any obstacles that stand in the way of your customer making a purchase. For example, if someone has to drive out to your store to make a purchase, that’s one obstacle that can be removed by implementing online ordering.
People will choose your business over your competitors if purchasing your products is more convenient. Any sign of hassle, and many potential customers will simply walk away. Online ordering also makes the process more streamlined on your end, helping you reduce your labor costs and improve efficiency.
Increased control
One of the advantages of online ordering is that there are more opportunities to control the process. Using various online tracking tools, you can chart the customer’s experience from awareness to final purchase and beyond. Armed with analytic information, you can make improvements that give you huge gains.
Broader reach
If you are a traditional brick and mortar business, then you can probably benefit from a broader reach. Online ordering allows you to increase your pool of potential customers beyond the borders of your town, ultimately turning you into a global business!
Paired with digital marketing tools and strategies, online ordering can become a powerful new platform for you to grow your business.
Unlimited customization
With many advanced platforms for online ordering, it’s easy to create a customizable experience for individual customers. For example, with the help of online profiles and shopping carts, you can tailor each customer’s profile to cater to his or her needs. You can also respond to customer feedback and complaints with lightning speed, helping to enhance their experience even further.
Take advantage of mobile
The smart phone has forever changed how people interact with companies, products, and brands. If you aren’t taking advantage of mobile marketing and online ordering, then you’re behind the curve.
Online ordering, as long as it is designed to work for mobile, can increase your customer base substantially. Without a mobile presence, then you could also turn off thousands of potential customers.
Integrate social media
Social media can be a powerful tool to market your business, and online ordering is a way to bridge the gap from social to purchase. Since social media is such a huge part of mobile as well, the power of online ordering is only magnified.
Social media icons and buttons can be integrated within your online ordering system, making the buying process more social for your customers. This way, their purchase can serve as its own marketing tool, and your customers become your “brand ambassadors.”
With advances in technology, online ordering is increasingly becoming the norm for all kinds of businesses. Don’t stay behind the curve—open your online marketplace today!