Customer Perceptions of Electronic Food Ordering

Abstract

A survey of 470 internet users found that slightly under half of them have ordered food online by mobile app, or with a text message. The chief reason for electronic ordering given by those have ordered (users) is that they gain convenience and control. The major factor that inhibits those who have not ordered via an electronic channel (non-users) is a desire for interaction (although technology anxiety is also a factor). Users are on balance younger than non-users, and users generally patronize restaurants more often than non-users. Italian food, particularly pizza, is far and away the most commonly ordered category. The single most important attribute of electronic ordering is order accuracy. That is followed by convenience and ease of ordering. Despite the availability of the internet and phone apps, the most common ordering channel is still the telephone call (53.7 percent). Electronic ordering is growing, though, as the users said they place a little over 38 percent of their orders on the restaurant?s website or app. A chief implication is that restaurateurs must ensure that their ordering systems must give users perceptions of control and also be convenient. One other consideration is that customers who order food online prefer restaurants that offer delivery.

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