Direct-to-consumer can be defined as a sale of goods or services directly to the customer, without wholesalers, retailers, and other intermediaries. 

Suppose you are currently a business owner trying to increase online sales or just opening a shop. In that case, restaurant, or laundry service, D2C online platform is something to consider. 

A few years ago, it seemed like online selling was only reserved for the big industry players, like Uber Eats or Amazon. 

However, the technological advancements are so quick that anyone who owns a business can have an on-demand D2C delivery platform without paying a large commission to a wholesaler. 

The key to developing a successful online website or application for your delivery services is finding the right provider. Having a high-tech application does not necessarily equal a significant investment. 

For example, if you are a flower shop owner, going online is an excellent way to take your services to the next level and expand your hyper-local scope of customers. 

What tools do you need to start selling D2C? 

Customizable application 

You'll need a high-quality Native or Progressive Web App with a fast loading time, simple user interface, and a sleek design. Furthermore, the entire ordering experience should be relatively short, and the software should allow users to reorder. 

From a design standpoint, you want your app to properly represent your brand visually, which involves controlling extensions, changing color, graphics, app information, and other complex customizations, and being compatible with all screen sizes.

Reliable order management system

Since D2C is usually more locally oriented, you will need to be on top of your game regarding order management. You should consider that the third-party platforms are very reliable in their delivery and transparency. 

To become a D2C platform of the same caliber, you should invest in a good order management system that provides a clear overview of your incoming and pending orders, ensuring that you minimize mistakes. 

Payment options and timely delivery 

The number one element that will keep customers from abandoning the cart is a quick checkout process. Choose a system that accepts various payment methods, such as credit cards, PayPal, cash, card-on-delivery, or other unique payment methods. 

In this manner, you can be confident that the payment option that your target market prefers will be offered to you instantly.

Choose software that allows you to track the order status and follow the driver in real-time. 

Make sure your clients can communicate with the driver throughout the delivery process, and set up personalized notifications to keep them up to date on the status of their order. 

Customers will feel engaged, and your credibility will grow throughout the customer journey due to the regular connection.

Why is it a good idea to implement a D2C platform? 

More control of profit margin 

As opposed to paying a large portion of your revenue to third-party platforms, having a D2C website and application gives you the freedom to determine your prices and keep all profits within the company. 

In addition to that, it provides you with more opportunities to implement special offers, discounts, and package offer to loyal customers. 

The third-party retailers are not big on loyalty programs, as they want to display and distribute the products equally. However, selling D2C leaves you with endless possibilities for branding, customization, and special offers. 

In-depth knowledge of your customer 

Another significant benefit of going D2C is getting to know your customer better. To launch an application or a website requires you to think more thoroughly and evaluate what you currently know about your customers. 

For example, let's say that you own a small Italian restaurant, and you are pretty popular in your neighborhood. Going online would mean that you have to evaluate your scope of visitors and determine what other areas in the city would share a similar customer profile? What are their favorite dishes? What days of the week are they more likely to order online? 

Knowing your customer very well allows for more successful sales online and improving the current strategy for your stationery store. 

Are you ready to launch your D2C business? 

Whether you're just getting started with your on-demand food ordering business or you're a seasoned pro seeking to expand, there's a lot of planning ahead of you!

Everything will appear to be a breeze with the correct system in place. Ordering, for example, has plans that allow you to ultimately build up your website and app in less than a week, with no coding or developer expertise required.

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