Technological innovations are driving new consumer behaviors, and the restaurant sector has no choice but to adapt. The restaurant of the future must combine proximity and technology, and demonstrate originality to transform potential customers into real ones. With this in mind, many restaurants are using digital tools (order kiosks, QR codes), offers (loyalty programs) or online delivery and reservation services to attract consumers, by focusing on human value and personalized experience. What solutions are available to manage restaurant reservations online and at the table?
The advantages of offering online reservations in your restaurant
Here are the advantages of online booking for both managers and customers:
- Efficient reservation management: Online reservation systems enable restaurateurs to manage bookings more easily, adjusting availability in real time and forecasting the number of covers in advance (and thus helping to reduce food waste).
- Reduced phone calls: no more ringing in the middle of a rush! Online reservations reduce the workload associated with managing telephone calls to take reservations, freeing up time for higher value-added tasks: customer reception, service and cooking.
- Better customer experience: The development of the web has given rise to new demands, both in terms of service and immediacy of purchase. Customers want to book when they want, from where they want. Increasingly connected, they appreciate the ability to book online: they can reserve at any time, even outside restaurant opening hours, increasing flexibility without the risk of getting an answering machine or a busy line. Online booking saves them time,gives them the choice of booking time and provides instant confirmation.
- Increased bookings, and therefore sales: The online visibility of your restaurant and the 24/7 online booking facility lead to an increase in the number of bookings. According to Overfull, " nearly 26% of reservations are made during times when you are not available. In fact, 7.24% are made between 00:00 and 9:00 and 18.74% between 15:00 and 18:00."
- Reducing no-shows: Some online reservation systems cansend reminders to customers, reducing the number of no-shows. In the event of a no-show, customers can easily cancel their reservation with just a few clicks. Some online reservation software even offers to take your customers'bank prints, to discourage them from cancelling at the last minute.
- Customer data collection: Online reservation systems can collect customer data, which can be used to personalize service, send special offers and build customer loyalty. Via online booking, your customers can notify you of their expectations, allergies, table preferences, and so on. The online reservation management tool stores all this valuable information, which you can use to increase customer satisfaction!
- Data analysis: thanks to the data collected, you can analyze booking trends, better plan operations and adjust your offer accordingly.
Solutions for setting up online reservations
Here are the solutions you can implement in your restaurant to manage online reservations.
Manage your restaurant's reservations from your website
The ability to integrate reservation management tools directly into your website simplifies planning and operational organization. With a reservation system integrated into your website, you receive reservations 7/7 and 24/24, commission-free! You can centralize and manage your online and telephone reservations from your computer, tablet or cell phone.
Restaurant CRM software enables you to collect data on your customers' consumption habits, so you can set up personalized offers and promotions to keep them coming back for more!
Adopt a reservation management software or application
On the booking software or application interface, your customers choose the day, time and number of guests, then submit their booking request.
If they wish, they can add information about their preferences, food allergies, etc. The application automatically sends a booking confirmation by e-mail or SMS to the customer.
Booking details are also stored in the system. From the dashboard, you have access to all current reservations. You can approve, modify or cancel reservations as required. Reservations are synchronized in real time, allowing you to manage availability precisely. Of course, you have the option of customizing the tool, according to table availability for each service (lunch, dinner, etc.), closing days, your needs, etc.
Online reservation management simplifies the work of your team members, as reservations are automatically entered into an online reservation system, reducing the risk of human error.
Another significant benefit of some reservation management software or apps is that your customers are encouraged to leave positive reviews for your restaurant. Some apps or widgets also generate reports and analyses on booking trends, so you can better plan your operations, adjust opening times and make informed decisions.
Top 3 online booking sites
- The Fork: €2 commission per place setting
- Reserve with Google: commission depends on partner
- TripAdvisor: between €25 and €100 per month
- Zenchef: customized quotes
Do you want as many customers as possible to benefit from your online reservation system?
👉 Going further: How to promote on your social networks to boost your bookings and reach more customers!
Assign a person to manage online tracking
The restaurant reservation management system automates much of the process. This helps reduce staff workloads, but it's still important tohave someone dedicated to overseeing the restaurant reservation system. This person can :
- manage online restaurant reservation requests,
- answer e-mails and calls,
- ensure that tables are allocated correctly,
- communicate information with the rest of the team.
Delivering an optimal customer experience
In short, implementing online booking in a restaurant can improve operational efficiency, customer experience and online visibility, while reducing the number of no-shows and offering benefits for customer loyalty.
Online booking gives your restaurant a modern, professional image, contributing to its overall success!
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Did you like these tips? Don't hesitate to consult our articles on our blog to help you develop your business!
Innovorder is the leader in digital solutions for commercial and institutional foodservice. Our team supports restaurateurs in their digital transformation with an all-in-one solution (cash register, kiosk, online ordering, KDS).
