Does Your Restaurant Need Online Ordering?
Online ordering is no longer optional. Here's how to add it to your restaurant website - and stop giving 30% to delivery apps.
The Delivery App Problem
Deliveroo, Just Eat, and Uber Eats charge 15-35% commission per order. On a £30 takeaway, that's up to £10.50 going to the platform instead of your business.
Why Online Ordering is Essential in 2025
of restaurant orders now come through digital channels
of customers prefer ordering direct when given the option
increase in average order value for direct online orders
in commission fees when customers order through your website
Delivery Apps vs Your Own Ordering
| Factor | Delivery Apps | Your Website |
|---|---|---|
| Commission | 15-35% per order | 2-3% (payment fees only) |
| Customer Data | App owns it | You own it |
| Branding | Their app, their rules | Your brand, your way |
| Menu Control | Platform limitations | Complete flexibility |
| Repeat Customers | They market competitors | Direct relationship |
The Real Cost of Delivery Apps
On a £30 Order:
That's £8.13 more per order going into your pocket instead of the platform's.
What a Restaurant Ordering Website Needs
Digital Menu
Photos, descriptions, prices - easy to update
Order Cart
Add items, customise, review before checkout
Online Payment
Card payments, Apple Pay, Google Pay
Collection/Delivery Times
ASAP or scheduled pickup times
Order Notifications
Instant alerts when orders come in
Mobile-First Design
Most orders come from phones
Options for Restaurant Ordering
Option 1: All-in-One Website Builder
Build your entire website with ordering built-in. Simplest approach.
Cost: £8-50 one-time or £5-20/month
Option 2: Add Ordering Widget
Keep your existing website, embed an ordering system like Gloria Food or Square.
Cost: Free-£30/month depending on features
Option 3: Hybrid Approach
Stay on delivery apps for discovery, but push regulars to your direct ordering.
Use apps for new customers, website for repeats
How to Get Customers Ordering Direct
- QR codes on tables - Link to your online menu
- Flyers in delivery bags - "Order direct next time for 10% off"
- Social media promotion - Post your ordering link regularly
- Google Business Profile - Add ordering link as action button
- Loyalty program - Reward direct orders with discounts
Build Your Restaurant Ordering Website
Stop giving 30% to delivery apps. Get your own ordering website and keep more of what you earn.
Start Building Now