Delivery is likely to remain a large share of business for operators, so it’s important for them to make sure their delivery operations are optimized to not only handle increased volume but create a better eat-at-home experience for their guests. Here are a few ways operators can keep up with delivery:

Prepare with care

92% of consumers expect delivery foods to be prepared with the same level of care as on-premise orders¹, so operators should take a moment to review their menu items to assess how best to assemble and package them so they hold up for delivery. A few tips include ensuring packaging allows for venting to minimize moisture build-up, packaging toppings and garnishes separately, and providing reheating instructions for guests.

Serve delivery-optimized foods

In addition to packaging to-go items properly, choosing the right products that maintain quality during the journey is just as important. Fries are a great place to start, since 46% of consumers order fries for delivery once a month or more, and 61% of consumers say they want restaurants to offer fries that hold up better for delivery.²

Coated and battered frozen fries can hold heat longer and exceed traditional hold times by staying crispy for up to 30 minutes. Plus, coated and battered fries are a great, versatile base for the innovative topped & loaded creations consumers crave since 75% of consumers are interested in ordering a topped & loaded french fry dish.² Frozen mashed potatoes are also perfect for takeout and delivery and have great reheating capabilities at home.

Offer items you’re known for

47% of consumers selected a restaurant to order delivery from based on craving specific foods³, so operators should make sure the most popular dishes their restaurant is known for are offered and optimized for delivery.

Set up subscription services

Operators can consider introducing a subscription service or loyalty program for their regulars who order delivery from their restaurant often to incentivize them to keep coming back. Subscription services create a steady revenue stream and help strengthen an off-premise presence. After all, 90% of consumers are interested in them to some degree, and 20% of millennials currently subscribe to a restaurant delivery program.⁴

In conclusion, operators who are looking to perfect their delivery services can do so by offering high-quality products that hold up to delivery, like crispy frozen fries, and staying up to date with the latest trends to keep guests satisfied.

Content courtesy of Lamb Weston

¹Datassential’s COVID Report August 2020
²Lamb Weston AmpliFRY Study 2021
³Datassential’s Food @ Home Keynote 2020
⁴Datassential’s Subscription & Membership Program Report March 2021