If one thing’s for sure, we love our takeaway meals here in the UK. In fact, almost half of Brits are getting a takeaway every week – so it’s a pretty big market to tap into.

As a food business owner, maximising your takeaway sales can significantly boost your revenue and help you to reach a wider customer base. If you want to make the most of takeaway sales this year, here are 12 expert-approved strategies that will help your business grow.

1. Optimise your online channels

A strong online presence is essential for attracting takeaway customers. Ensure your website is mobile-friendly, easy to navigate, and clearly displays your menu, pricing, and ordering options.

Leverage social media platforms to showcase your food, share mouthwatering images, and engage with your customers. Make sure you have good relationships with the big food delivery platforms like Deliveroo, Uber Eats and Just Eat to expand your reach and convenience for customers.

1. Offer a variety of payment options

Make it easy for customers to pay for their orders. Offer a variety of payment options, including cash, card, contactless payments, and mobile wallets. This flexibility will cater to different customer preferences and increase your chances of securing sales.

1. Prioritise packaging and presentation

The way your food is packaged and presented can significantly impact customer satisfaction and perception. Investing in high-quality packaging not only keeps food hot, fresh, and visually appealing but also reinforces your brand identity and creates a memorable experience.

Consider using branded packaging materials that reflect your business's unique style and values. This can help to create a sense of consistency and recognition among your customers. Additionally, choose packaging that is practical and functional, ensuring that food stays hot or cold and is easy to consume.

From investing in takeaway bags to your tamper evident stickers, all of your branding should be consistent and instantly recognisable. 

1. Offer value-added deals and promotions

To attract new customers and encourage repeat business, consider offering a variety of value-added deals and promotions. Discounts, combo meals, and loyalty programs are effective ways to incentivise customers to choose your takeaway service over competitors.

Discounts can be offered on specific menu items, during off-peak hours, or for large orders. Combo meals can bundle popular items together at a discounted price, providing customers with a convenient and affordable option. Loyalty programs reward repeat customers with points, discounts, or free items, fostering a sense of loyalty and encouraging them to return.

You can promote your deals on your food packaging, too to encourage take up and create a buzz. Add stamps to your branded coffee cups, or shout about your new deals on the printed greaseproof paper used to wrap hot foods.

1. Provide excellent customer service

Exceptional customer service is crucial for building a loyal customer base. Train your staff to be friendly, helpful, and efficient. Respond promptly to customer inquiries and address any issues promptly.

1. Optimise your menu for takeaway

Design your menu with takeaway in mind. Include options that are easy to eat on the go, such as sandwiches, wraps, and salads. Consider offering family-sized portions or meal deals to cater to larger groups.

1. Offer convenient pickup options

Make it easy for customers to pick up their orders. Provide clear instructions on how to place orders and where to pick them up. Consider offering a dedicated pre-order pickup counter or drive-thru options for added convenience. Don’t forget that takeout containers present a unique branding opportunity. Choose custom burger boxes and printed food trays to reinforce your branding.

1. Leverage local partnerships

Partner with local businesses, such as offices, schools, or event venues, to offer catering services or group discounts. This can help you tap into new customer segments and increase your revenue.

1. Make the most of technology

Invest in technology that can streamline your takeaway operations. Consider using online ordering systems, kitchen display systems, and mobile payment solutions. 

These tools can improve efficiency, reduce errors, and enhance the customer experience. They may involve an upfront investment but, when used effectively, they can lead to cost savings further on down the line.

1. 10.Focus on speed and accuracy

Time is of the essence when it comes to takeaway orders. Ensure your staff is trained to prepare orders quickly and accurately. Implement systems to track orders and ensure timely delivery or pickup.

You should ensure that you kitchen staff are well-trained and efficient when preparing orders. You can do this my implementing standardised procedures and checklists to streamline the process. But it also means investing in high-quality equipment that can handle large volumes of takeaway orders.

1. 11.Gather customer feedback

Seek feedback from your customers to identify areas for improvement. Use surveys, social media, or in-person interactions to gather insights. Implement changes based on customer feedback to enhance their experience.

You can do this through:

• Surveys: Create surveys or questionnaires to collect specific feedback on your food, service, and overall experience.
• Social media: Monitor your social media platforms for comments, reviews, and direct messages from customers.
• In-person interactions: Engage with customers directly to gather feedback. Ask them about their experience, their thoughts on your menu, and if there's anything you could improve.
• Loyalty programs: Use loyalty programs to collect customer data and gather feedback through surveys or personalised communications.

1. 12.Focus on sustainability

In today's eco-conscious world, customers are increasingly concerned about sustainability. Consider using eco-friendly packaging materials, reducing food waste, and supporting local suppliers. 

By focusing on sustainability, you can differentiate your takeaway business from competitors, appeal to a wider range of customers, and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Unlock the power of takeaway this year

By implementing the 12 strategies that we’ve discussed, you can effectively maximise your takeaway sales. 

You’ll be able to spread the word quickly, stand out from your competitors, all while still delivering the same quality of food that your customers have come to expect from you.

Remember, like any new venture in your business, it’s important to continuously evaluate your approach and make adjustments as needed if you want to stay ahead of the competition. At the end of the day, making your customers happy is the most important thing, so keep checking in on the progress of your takeaway business to make sure your customers are satisfied. 

Tags: fast food, food packaging, food business, marketing tips, small businesses, business growth