How to Gently Move Regular Guests From Marketplaces to Direct Ordering

Some of your most loyal guests probably order through a marketplace out of habit, not preference. Every one of those orders costs you a commission, and you never really get to know the person behind it. You cannot force anyone to switch, and you should not try. But you can make ordering directly the easiest, friendliest option.

Start where your guests already are

The best moment to mention direct ordering is when a guest is already enjoying your food. A few low-key touchpoints work better than a loud campaign:

• A small printed insert in every delivery bag: a thank-you, the name of your website and a QR code to your menu.
• A QR code on every table, so dine-in guests discover they can order the same dishes from home later.
• The same QR code on receipts and takeaway packaging.
• A short line from staff at the counter: “Next time you can also order directly on our website.”

Give a reason to try the first direct order

A welcome offer helps people change a habit. Keep it simple and limited: a modest discount or a free side on the first direct order, valid once per guest and above a sensible minimum. It costs you once, while the commission you save repeats on every future order.

Keep prices consistent and fair

Guests notice when the same dish costs very different amounts in different places, and it can feel like a trick. Many restaurants keep direct prices equal to or slightly below marketplace prices. Whatever you choose, check the terms of your marketplace contract, and never let the direct menu feel like the worse deal.

Make your own site the better experience

A direct order should feel at least as smooth as an app. Nobody returns to a slow page or a confusing checkout. Check the basics on a phone:

1. The menu loads quickly and shows photos, portions and extras clearly.
2. Adding to the cart and checking out takes only a few taps.
3. Guests can track their order and see their order history in their account.
4. Contact details and opening hours are easy to find.

QR Menu Manager adds a food-focused checkout to WooCommerce, with a mini cart, side cart, order tracking and an account page, inside your own WordPress and your own theme.

Keep marketplaces for discovery

You do not need to leave marketplaces. They remain useful for reaching new guests who have never heard of you. Think of them as your shop window and your own site as the place where regulars come back. The goal is a healthier mix, not a sudden switch.

Start this week: print a simple bag insert, place QR codes on tables and receipts, create one welcome coupon and test your own ordering flow on a phone. Then watch how many first direct orders turn into second ones.