Delivery apps are convenient but expensive. Here is an honest look at online ordering vs third-party apps for Australian cafes and restaurants.
Third-party delivery apps brought a flood of orders to Australian hospitality — but at a steep cost. With commissions often taking a large slice of every order, many cafes and restaurants are asking whether their own online ordering makes more sense. Here is an honest comparison.
The case for third-party apps
They offer reach, a ready audience, and delivery logistics handled for you. For discovery and convenience, they are hard to beat — especially when you are starting out.
The downside
- High commissions eat into already-thin margins.
- You do not own the customer — the app does.
- Limited branding and control.
The case for your own online ordering
Ordering built into your own website means you keep the margin, own the customer relationship, and control the experience and branding.
The trade-off
You need to drive your own traffic and may need to arrange delivery or focus on pickup. But for loyal regulars, this is far more profitable.
The smart answer: often both
Many successful venues use apps for discovery while steadily moving their regulars to direct ordering — capturing new customers and protecting margins on loyal ones.
Make direct ordering easy
A fast, mobile-friendly website with simple ordering and a prominent "Order Direct" button gives customers a reason to skip the apps and order from you.
Acroxcreation builds websites with direct online ordering for Australian cafes and restaurants — so you keep more of every order.
