Food for Thought
May 24, 2023

Alternatives to Just Eat: Navigating the Food Delivery App Landscape in 2023

As we cruise through 2023, the UK food service delivery market is revving up like a well-oiled machine, projected to reach a whopping £14.4 billion. That's a hearty 7.8% growth! But as the market expands, so does the smorgasbord of food delivery apps. So, how does a savvy restaurateur navigate this bustling landscape? Buckle up, we're about to take you on a culinary journey.

The Changing Tides of the Food Delivery Market

The pandemic has supercharged the UK's appetite for food delivery. From Just Eat to Uber Eats and Deliveroo, these apps have become a staple of our everyday lives. But as the cost-of-living crisis tightens its grip, will the love for takeout wane? Not quite. Our research shows that the hunger for a quick, tasty meal remains high, with nearly a third of consumers ordering at least one takeaway a week.

However, the market is maturing, and consumers are becoming more discerning. Value scrutiny is a crucial consideration in 2023, and delivery operators must prioritise value messaging, reward schemes, and subscription models to attract and retain cost-conscious consumers.

The Big Player: Just Eat

Just Eat, for those who've been living under a culinary rock, is a leading online food delivery platform. It's like a digital food court, offering a smorgasbord of restaurants and cuisines right at your fingertips. But as mouth-watering as Just Eat's offerings are, it's not the only player in the game.

Why Look for Alternatives to Just Eat?

Now, you might be wondering, "Why would I want to stray from my beloved Just Eat?" Well, as with any service, there can be limitations. Maybe you're a restaurant owner looking to cut down on commission fees, or you’re fed up with the lack of flexibility of the platform. Whatever your reasons, it's always good to have options.

The Other Big Fish: Uber Eats, and Deliveroo

Uber Eats and Deliveroo are the other big names in the UK food delivery market. They offer a wide range of restaurants and cuisines, and their services are widely available across the country. However, they come with their own set of challenges. High commissions, lack of data ownership, and saturated markets with too many restaurants are common issues with these platforms.

The Rising Star: storekit

Enter storekit, a refreshing alternative to the big players. Storekit is an affordable, fully-branded solution that can handle all ordering channels and creates a direct relationship with your customers. Unlike Just Eat, Uber Eats, and Deliveroo, storekit allows you to keep your profits and maintain control over your customer data - and most importantly, your business.

The Future of the Food Delivery Market

Despite the challenges, the future of the food delivery market is promising. With consistent growth at a CAGR of +5.3% from 2023 to 2026, the market is forecast to reach a total value of £17.0 billion in 2026.

As the market continues to evolve, it's crucial for restaurateurs to stay ahead of the curve. Understanding your customers, aligning with the right delivery app, and adapting to changing market conditions are key to thriving in this bustling landscape.

So, as we navigate the food delivery app landscape in 2023, remember: it's not just about surviving, it's about thriving. Bon appétit!

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Frequently asked questions

Do I need to hire more staff?

No, you will not need to hire more floor staff. Our clients find that they can serve more guests with the same team by removing unnecessary steps of service. Your guests get their food & drink quicker, and your staff can focus on providing a better service.

Do you charge commissions?

No, we do not charge commission costs. Only transaction fees, just as you would pay with PDQ machines.

Is my business too small or too big for this?

No matter the shape or size of your business, storekit is the right tool for your operation. We work with all kinds of hospitality businesses in the UK (& abroad) to increase their sales, control their costs & enable an exceptional customer experience.

Will it reduce customer interaction?

No, you will not lose out on customer interaction. By removing tasks for your staff, they can spend more time on what matters. Bar staff can focus on making the best drinks possible, rather than taking orders. Floor staff can focus on engaging with guests and serving with a smile.

Do my guests want to order from their phones?

Online ordering for restaurants lets your guests order what they want, when they want. They get their food & drink quicker, without the stress of paying the bill. Your staff get more tips & can focus on what they do best - providing the best quality customer experience. You'll make more money & save costs. It's a win-win for everyone involved.

How long does it take to get my money?

We send payouts daily, but the bank usually takes 2 days to process them. That means, the money that you earn on Monday will be in your bank account by Thursday morning. This is rolling - so you'll get paid daily.

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