In today’s digital age, having an online ordering mobile app is a powerful tool for restaurants. It provides convenience for customers, streamlines orders, and boosts sales. But simply launching the app isn’t enough—you need to actively promote it to drive downloads and usage.
Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to successfully promote your restaurant’s mobile app:
1. Highlight the Benefits
Customers are more likely to download your app if they understand what’s in it for them.
✅ Convenience: Emphasize how easy it is to browse the menu, order, and pay—all from their phone.
✅ Exclusive Deals: Offer app-only discounts, such as a percentage off their first order or free delivery for app users.
✅ Loyalty Rewards: If your app includes a loyalty program, make sure customers know they can earn points or rewards with every order.
2. Use In-Store Promotions
Leverage your physical location to promote your app to customers who are already visiting your restaurant.
✅ QR Codes: Display QR codes that link directly to the app download page on counter signs, to-go bags, receipts, or table tents. Include a call-to-action like “Download Our App for Exclusive Deals!”
✅ Staff Recommendations: Train your staff to mention the app when customers place orders or pick up food. For example, “Did you know you can order faster through our app and earn rewards?”
✅ Digital Screens: If you have digital menu boards or screens, display app download prompts.
3. Promote Through Social Media
Your social media platforms are a perfect channel to reach customers where they already spend time online.
✅ Create Eye-Catching Posts: Share videos or images showing how the app works and highlighting its benefits.
✅ App-Exclusive Offers: Promote limited-time specials that are only available through the app.
✅ Stories and Reels: Use Instagram Stories, Facebook Reels, or TikTok to show a quick demo of how easy it is to order via the app.
4. Leverage Email Marketing
Your email list is one of your most valuable tools for direct communication.
✅ Announce the App Launch: Send an email blast introducing your app with a strong call-to-action and direct download links.
✅ Exclusive Incentives: Include an app-exclusive promo code or discount in the email to motivate signups.
✅ Follow-Up Reminders: Periodically remind subscribers about the benefits of using the app, especially during busy seasons or special promotions.
5. Collaborate with Influencers and Partners
Partner with local influencers or businesses to increase your app’s visibility.
✅ Influencer Promotions: Have them share their ordering experience through your app and offer their followers an exclusive discount code.
✅ Cross-Promotions: Partner with nearby businesses (like coffee shops or retail stores) to distribute flyers or promo cards encouraging app downloads.
6. Incentivize App Downloads
Offer meaningful rewards to motivate customers to download and use your app.
✅ First-Order Discounts: Provide a discount for the first order placed through the app.
✅ Loyalty Points or Freebies: Give extra loyalty points, free sides, or desserts with the first few app orders.
✅ Contests: Run a contest where app users can win gift cards, free meals, or merchandise.
7. Use Paid Advertising
Boost your app’s visibility with targeted ads.
✅ Google and Facebook Ads: Run ads specifically targeting your audience with a call-to-action to download the app.
✅ App Store Optimization (ASO): Make sure your app is easy to find and has positive reviews on both the Apple App Store and Google Play.
✅ Retargeting Ads: Show ads to people who visited your website or social media but didn’t download the app.
8. Provide a Seamless Experience
Ensure your app delivers on its promises so customers continue to use it.
✅ Fast and Easy Ordering: The app should be user-friendly, intuitive, and fast.
✅ Reliable Performance: Minimize bugs and crashes.
✅ Clear Communication: Keep customers informed about order status and estimated pickup or delivery times.
The Bottom Line
Promoting your restaurant’s online ordering app requires a mix of in-store marketing, digital promotion, incentives, and great service. By clearly communicating its value, offering exclusive deals, and leveraging social media and email campaigns, you can boost app downloads and increase online orders, creating a loyal customer base that prefers to order directly through you.
💡 Ready to take your restaurant’s online ordering and promotions to the next level? Contact our sales team at sales@zaytech.com to learn more about our comprehensive packages that handle everything—from promotions to managing your online ordering interface.