In today's digital age, online platforms have become a vital avenue for food businesses to reach a wider customer base and increase sales. However, with that comes extreme competition. Whether you run a restaurant, a bakery, or a food delivery service, optimizing your online presence is essential to thrive in the competitive market. To help you sell better online, here are seven tips to consider:

Create an Appealing Online Store

Times have evolved and that doesn't mean just a website. Websites can be costly and intimidating. It also takes more time for the average customer to find your site. Instead of investing solely in a website, create an In-App store inside the world's favorite apps like Facebook, Viber, and GCash. Consider them the digital face of your food business. Create a thoughtful storefront and showcase high-quality images of your food offerings on a Live Catalog. In-App stores are also sure to be mobile-friendly and easy to navigate. Customers can access all relevant information such as your full menu, pricing, and even make an order directly in your messaging thread. With ChatGenie, you can streamline the customer (and merchant!) experience.

Leverage Social Media

Social media platforms are powerful marketing tools for food businesses. This is where In-App stores tie in your marketing and operations. Create engaging content featuring food images, behind-the-scenes footage, and customer testimonials. Develop a consistent posting schedule and engage with your audience by responding to comments and messages promptly. Don't forget to include your store link in your content, especially when investing in Facebook ads. ChatGenie merchant Marikina Bakery does this perfectly! You'll find mouthwatering photos of their classic Filipino baked goods on their Facebook page, along with reminders to make orders from their online store - on Messenger and Viber. You can also collaborate with influencers or food bloggers to reach a wider audience and gain credibility. The ChatGenie Dashboard allows you to create unique and trackable codes for them to share.

Instant Online Food Ordering System

You no longer need to rely on third-party delivery platforms to implement easy online ordering. Offering your own online ordering provides convenience to customers and increases accessibility to your food, especially since you're finding customers where they already are. You can ensure that the ordering process is seamless, has customizable options, and gives multiple payment methods. You can also offer pre-order and pickup with In-Store Commerce.

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Highlight Unique Selling Points

Differentiate your food business from the competition by emphasizing your unique selling points. Whether it's using locally sourced ingredients, offering a diverse menu, or catering to specific dietary preferences, clearly communicate what sets you apart. Highlight any awards, certifications, or positive reviews to build trust and credibility with potential customers.

Utilize Email Marketing

Build an email list of interested customers and send regular newsletters to keep them informed about new menu items, promotions, and special events. Personalize your emails and segment your audience to provide targeted content based on their preferences. You can create customer segments directly on the ChatGenie Dashboard or even reach out to them with the Broadcast Manager. Offer exclusive discounts or rewards for subscribers to incentivize engagement and repeat business. Create promos, codes, and exclusives with a press of a button on the dashboard as well.

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Create a CommunityImprove your online accessibility by selling inside one of the country's favorite messaging apps, Viber. Sell directly to your customers with an In-App store and create a Viber Community to get in touch with them in an instant. You can also get verified on the app easily with ChatGenie's assistance.

Encourage Customer Reviews

Positive customer reviews can significantly impact your online reputation and attract new customers. Encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews on platforms like Google or Facebook. Respond to both positive and negative reviews promptly and professionally to show your commitment to customer satisfaction. Utilize customer testimonials on your social media to build trust and credibility.

Selling better online for food businesses requires a strategic and customer-centric approach. By implementing these seven tips, you can enhance your online presence, engage with your target audience, and ultimately increase sales. Remember to adapt and evolve your online strategy based on customer feedback and emerging trends to stay ahead in the competitive food industry.

Make online selling easier with In-App Commerce. Sell inside the world's biggest apps and visit chatgenie.ph now!