Boost Conversions by 30% with These Essential Menu Features
Enable Menu Deals, First-time User Discounts, and Advanced Ordering and Start Boosting Conversions Today!
Introduction: The Power of Optimized Menus
Online ordering is more competitive than ever, and restaurants that optimize their menus with strategic features see significant increases in conversions. In fact, studies show that restaurants using menu promotions and advanced ordering options can boost conversion rates by 15-30%. Customers are more likely to complete their orders when they see added value—whether through exclusive deals, first-time discounts, or the ability to schedule meals in advance.
Let’s explore three must-have menu features that can help you drive higher order values and keep customers coming back.
Menu Deals: Drive Larger Orders & Repeat Business
How It Works
Menu deals allow restaurants to create special promotions, such as bundled meals or discounts on high-value orders. These can be easily customized to encourage customers to meet specific order minimums.
Why It Works
Customers are 60% more likely to add extra items when presented with a deal that offers free or discounted add-ons. Here’s a tutorial on how to set this up in Zuppler Chef.
Restaurants using menu deals see an average 20-25% increase in order size.
A well-placed deal, such as “Spend $30, Get a Free Dessert,” creates an incentive for customers to add more to their cart. Learn how you can easily set this up here.
Pro Tip:
Use frequently ordered items in your deals to ensure customers reach the minimum spend. For example, offering a free kid’s meal with a $40+ purchase encourages families to place larger orders. Read more about how Zuppler Reports can help you make these decisions even easier.
First-Time User Discounts: Turn New Customers into Repeat Buyers
How It Works
Restaurants can set up a first-time user discount in two ways:
Automatic Discount: Applied at checkout for all new customers who create an account. Check out how to set one up here.
Promo Code Discount: Customers enter a code to receive the discount. Learn how to set up your first-time user discount here.
Why It Works
A 10% discount for first-time users can increase conversions by up to 22%.
70% of first-time customers who redeem an initial discount are more likely to return and join a loyalty program.
Lowering the first-purchase barrier helps restaurants capture new customers who may have been hesitant to place an order.
Pro Tip:
Use first-time discounts strategically with a follow-up email encouraging customers to join your rewards program for ongoing savings.
Advanced Ordering: Capture More Sales with Pre-Orders
How It Works
Advanced ordering allows customers to place orders for pickup or delivery at a later time, making it easier for them to schedule meals around their busy lives.
Why It Works
50% of customers prefer ordering ahead to avoid long wait times.
Workday lunch pre-orders can lead to a 30% boost in midday sales as customers lock in their meals before a rush.
Pre-ordering eliminates uncertainty, giving customers peace of mind that their meal will be ready exactly when they need it.
Pro Tip:
Target office workers or busy parents with messaging like, “Skip the Lunch Rush—Order Ahead and Pick Up When You’re Ready!”
Conclusion: Small Changes, Big Results
Optimizing your online menu with these simple but powerful features can have a major impact on conversions and customer retention. Whether you’re encouraging higher order values with menu deals, attracting first-time customers with discounts, or offering flexible ordering with advanced scheduling, these features can increase conversions by up to 30%.