Win the Local Delivery Game: How Your RDS Can Outshine the Big Guys

 

The big third-party delivery platforms—DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub—may have national reach, but your RDS has something they can’t compete with: local roots. As a community-based service, you have a unique opportunity to offer better experiences, build stronger relationships, and keep more revenue in your market. Here’s how you can use your local advantage to beat the competition.

1. Build Relationships with Local Restaurants

Big platforms treat restaurants like numbers. You can treat them like partners.

  • Personal Outreach: Take the time to visit restaurants in your area, introduce yourself, and understand their needs. By offering a direct line of communication and local support, you become a trusted partner—not just another delivery service.

  • Tailored Solutions: Customize delivery fees or offer flexible promotions based on individual restaurant goals. This level of service is something third-party giants simply can’t match.

Pro Tip: Host an informal networking event for local restaurant owners. It’s a great way to build relationships and position yourself as a local advocate.

2. Partner with Community Events

While national platforms focus on scale, you can focus on connection. Get involved with local events to promote your marketplace and create brand loyalty.

  • Sponsor Food Festivals or Farmers' Markets: Offer delivery discounts for event attendees or collaborate with local vendors to promote both your services.

  • Support Charity Events: Partner with local nonprofits for fundraising initiatives, showing that your RDS is invested in the community.

  • Partner with Local Colleges: Partner with a local college to engage the ideal younger demographic to gain loyal and active customers.


Pro Tip: Offer a promo code tied to the event, such as “LOCALFEST10” for $10 off an order, to drive new customer sign-ups. Check out Zuppler Shop to order your print materials. 


3. Highlight “Local First” in Your Marketing

Customers love supporting local businesses. Leverage this by making your local ties a key part of your messaging.

  • Showcase Your Partners: Use social media to highlight the restaurants on your marketplace. Share photos, customer stories, and special deals.

  • Emphasize Local Impact: Promote how ordering through your RDS keeps money in the local economy, supporting neighborhood restaurants and drivers.


Pro Tip: Include testimonials from local restaurant owners who benefit from partnering with your marketplace—it adds authenticity and trust.


4. Prioritize Customer Service and Reliability

One of the biggest complaints about national delivery platforms is their lack of customer support. Your RDS can stand out by being responsive and reliable.

  • Local Support: Offer direct customer service with fast response times.

  • Driver Consistency: Build a team of familiar, reliable drivers, which creates a better experience for both customers and restaurants.


Pro Tip: Add a “Meet Your Driver” feature on social media to highlight your local team and build customer trust.


Your Local Edge Is Your Biggest Strength

While third-party delivery giants rely on scale, your RDS can win with service, relationships, and community connection. By building strong partnerships, getting involved locally, and promoting your authentic ties to the area, you can stand out—and drive more business—all while keeping profits in your community.


Want more tips on growing your RDS? Check out more strategies here!

 
Katy Boyer