How Food Ordering and Tracking Software Changing the Industry
In recent years, the food delivery industry has experienced a dramatic shift. The need for convenience and the advancement of technology have made meal ordering and tracking software indispensable for both consumers and companies. Food delivery is projected to generate $96,864.4 million in sales worldwide in 2024, according to a Statista analysis. This expansion demonstrates how much of an influence internet meal delivery services have on the sector.
Two Tiers of Online Food Delivery
Online food delivery services can be categorized into two main types:
Aggregators: These platforms act as intermediaries between customers and local restaurants. They provide a marketplace where customers can browse menus from various restaurants and place orders directly. Aggregators typically do not handle the logistics of delivery but rely on the restaurants to manage it.Ex. .Zomato, Swiggy, and Uber Eats
New Delivery Platforms with Logistic Support: These platforms offer a more comprehensive service by not only providing a marketplace but also handling the logistics of food delivery. They employ their own fleet of delivery personnel to ensure timely and efficient delivery.
Features of Food Ordering and Tracking Software
Modern food ordering and tracking software come with a range of features designed to enhance the user experience and streamline operations. Some of the key features include:
Search and Menus
Users can easily search for restaurants or specific dishes and browse through digital menus. This feature often includes filters for cuisine type, dietary preferences, and more.
Secure Payment Integration
To ensure safe and seamless transactions, these platforms integrate secure payment gateways. Customers can pay using various methods,s such as credit/debit cards, digital wallets, or cash on delivery.
Accurate Time of Food Delivery
One of the most critical aspects of food delivery is timing. These platforms provide accurate estimates for delivery times, allowing customers to plan accordingly.
GPS Tracking
Real-time GPS tracking enables customers to monitor the status of their orders from preparation to delivery. This transparency helps build trust and improves the overall customer experience.
Examples: Zomato and Blinkit
Two notable examples of how food delivery and grocery apps have revolutionized the industry are Zomato and Blinkit.
Zomato: Originally an aggregator, Zomato has evolved to include logistics support, offering a hybrid model. During the pandemic, Zomato played a crucial role in ensuring people had access to food despite lockdowns and restrictions. By leveraging their extensive network of restaurants and delivery personnel, Zomato was able to provide timely deliveries, even when dining out was not an option.
Blinkit: Formerly known as Grofers, Blinkit is a grocery delivery app that has seen tremendous growth, particularly during the pandemic. The convenience of having groceries delivered to one’s doorstep became a necessity for many households. Blinkit’s robust tracking features and efficient delivery system helped them meet the surge in demand, making grocery shopping safer and more convenient.
Conclusion
The pandemic has fundamentally changed the way we perceive the food and grocery business. The convenience, safety, and efficiency offered by food ordering and tracking software have become indispensable. As the industry continues to grow, we can expect further innovations and improvements that will enhance the customer experience and drive even greater adoption of these technologies.