It is no secret that consumers are relying more and more on mobile devices to go about their everyday lives. In fact, mobile internet usage is predicted to surpass desktop internet usage in 2014 and 81% of all cell phones users will have smart phones by 2015. It’s clear that mobile devices are shaping the way people live, so restaurants must adapt to survive.
One way that Michigan restaurants are beginning to adapt to customer behavior is by launching mobile applications. Many establishments already utilize websites and social media; an app is another way for them to be where their customers are.
Data shows that restaurants aren’t just embracing mobile for customer convenience either. According to Restaurant App Engines, the average order increases up to 35% when customers purchase food online. In addition, 75% of customers return to use a restaurant’s online ordering feature. With this type consumer behavior, forward-thinking restaurants are quickly getting on-board with the mobile revolution.
Uncle Andy’s Pizza is one metro Detroit pizzeria embracing mobile. Uncle Andy’s Pizza, with locations in Berkley and Farmington Hills, recently launched an online ordering app for iPhone, iPad, and Android devices. The app allows customers to quickly and conveniently order from their portable devices. Order history is automatically saved, allowing repeat customers to quickly reorder their favorites.
“The main reason I wanted an app is because we live in a mobile world. I want to make ordering for our customers as easy and convenient as possible,” said Andy Nannoshi, owner of Uncle Andy’s Pizza.
Schnitz Deli of Grand Rapids also got in on the act earlier this year. The award-winning deli launched an Android app, complete with coupons and ordering capabilities. The app allows patrons to pay cash when picking up or prepay with their PayPal account.
While owner Brian DeVries points out that customers have been slow to start using the app, he’s confident that usage will pick up.
“We’re sticking with it and hope that, in the future, it will pay off,” he added.
Based on the ever-increasing reliance on mobile devices, it looks like that won’t be a problem.
