Why Zomato Should Introduce an Online Order System: Benefits and Opportunities
Zomato, the popular food discovery platform, has a strong presence in the online food delivery market. However, many consumers and businesses alike have raised the question of why Zomato does not offer an online ordering system for different restaurants. This article explores the reasons behind this decision and discusses the potential benefits of introducing such a feature.
The Current Scenario
Zomato currently charges a commission ranging from 15 to 25 percent on each order. While this may seem beneficial for Zomato, it can be a financial burden for restaurants that have their own online ordering systems. By accepting orders directly, these restaurants can bypass the commission fees.
A reader pointed out that the situation is quite different with platforms like Justdial, which offer free food ordering services without charging any commission to the restaurants. This raises questions about the fairness and competitiveness of Zomato's business model.
Challenges and Concerns
Several individuals have shared their experiences and concerns regarding the lack of an online ordering system on Zomato. For instance, a restaurant owner mentioned that he was passed multiple contracts within a span of three days, indicating that Zomato might not be fully ready to launch such a service.
Potential Benefits of an Online Ordering System
Introducing an online ordering system on Zomato could bring numerous benefits to both consumers and businesses. Here are some reasons why Zomato should consider this:
Enhanced User Experience
Consumers would benefit from a seamless ordering process within the Zomato app. According to the article, many people, including users of other platforms like Justdial, are seeking a more integrated solution for food ordering. By offering an online ordering system, Zomato can keep its users engaged and loyal to the platform.
Potential to Increase User Base
Including features like Thatched Table or Urban Spoon could help Zomato attract more users. Although these platforms have their own merits, integrating them into Zomato's ecosystem could lead to a significant increase in user engagement and activity.
Enhanced Data Analysis and Insights
Zomato could leverage the vast amount of data generated through its online ordering system to provide valuable insights to restaurants. Analyzing customer behavior and preferences could help restaurants optimize their inventory management, tailor deals, and improve overall service. For instance, Zomato could provide data on the most popular dishes or food items based on location or time of day.
Personalized Offers and Recommendations
An online ordering system on Zomato could enable personalized food deals for users. The platform could use machine learning algorithms to suggest personalized offers based on a user's previous orders, preferences, and social media interactions. This could include recommendations for new restaurants, deals on specific dishes, and information about when and where to eat.
Improve Competitive positioning
By not offering an online ordering system, Zomato may be missing out on a significant opportunity to enhance its competitive position in the market. Platforms like Justdial are gaining traction because they offer free food ordering services. Zomato needs to reconsider its strategy to stay competitive and meet the evolving needs of both users and restaurants.
Conclusion
Zomato has a unique opportunity to revolutionize the food ordering market by introducing an online ordering system. This feature could enhance user experience, increase user base, provide valuable data insights, and offer personalized recommendations. By carefully considering the potential benefits and addressing the challenges, Zomato can position itself as a leader in the online food delivery industry.
Involve Zomato in the discussion! Share your thoughts on why Zomato should introduce an online ordering system and how it can benefit the platform and its users.