In today's fast-paced world, the convenience of food delivery apps has made them an essential part of the daily lives of millions of people. As of 2023, over 60% of consumers in urban areas use food delivery services at least once a week, signaling a booming market for new entrants. This is a great signal to create online ordering app. We at Red Rocket have put together a full 10-point guide for you to build online ordering platform.
Popular food delivery apps overview
There are already quite a few shining examples of what food apps should look like. We'll tell you about three apps you're no doubt using.
Bolt Food
Known for its user-friendly interface and quick service, Bolt Food has rapidly expanded across Europe and beyond. Bolt stands out by offering lower delivery fees and a commitment to sustainability, appealing to eco-conscious consumers.
Uber Eats
As a segment of the global ride-sharing giant Uber, Uber Eats leverages the company's vast logistics network to offer fast and reliable food delivery. Uber Eats food delivery app is known for its broad restaurant selection and innovative features like order scheduling and integrated restaurant reviews.
Deliveroo
Originating in the UK, Deliveroo has made a name for itself with its premium service that includes high-end restaurants and exclusive offerings. It operates on a hyper-local model, which ensures that deliveries are swift, maintaining food quality and customer satisfaction.
10 steps to create a food delivery app
We come to the most important part of the article, where you can find the answer to the main question - how to create a food app?
Step 1. Conduct Market Analysis
Obviously, any business project starts with conducting an analysis on the market. Discover what potential customers like and analyze competitors' applications.
Step 2. Identify What Makes You Unique
Every idea has a unique proposition. Think about how you will be different from your competitors.
Step 3. Select The Best Business Model
Think about how your business will work. You may be partnering with a number of restaurants, or you may be cooking and delivering your own food.
Step 4. Choose Food Delivery App Development Company
Pay special attention to this stage, because the success of your future app depends on such a company. Take your look at our food or grocery delivery app development company Red Rocket. We will approach your project individually to make all your dreams come true.
Step 5. Outline Essential App Features
Every app is different not only in design but also in features. Come up with additional features for the app based on your unique offering.
Step 6. Determine the Technology Set
Select the right set of technologies that will support the app's functionality and scalability.
Step 7. Design and Development Phase
The interface should meet all the requirements and expectations of potential customers. Do not use difficult elements to simplify the process of using the software.
Step 8. Quality Assurance and App Testing
Thoroughly test the app to ensure it is bug-free and operates smoothly across different devices.
Step 9. Introduce Secure Payment Tools
The issue of secure payment is one of the most important for customers. Make sure that payment in your app is smooth and secure for your users.
Step 10. Launch and Promote the Application
Promote your app through targeted marketing strategies to attract initial users and gain traction.
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Food delivery app business models
We have already written above that before you start developing an app, you need to choose one business model. And so, what are the business models of a food app in 2024?
Ordering Only Model. This kind of application functions as a marketplace that links customers with local restaurants. Customers use the app to find eateries, place orders directly with the restaurant, and either pick up the orders themselves or use the restaurant’s own delivery services.
Ordering and Delivery Model. This more comprehensive model involves the app not only facilitating the ordering process but also managing the delivery of food. Here, the application acts as an intermediary that takes orders from customers, forwards them to the appropriate restaurants, and then handles the delivery through its own network of couriers.
The first model is much simpler, but the ordering and delivery model can provide you more profit. Today, it is the second model that is more popular among investors.
Must-have features of food delivery application
Each app is an individual project that differs in some way, all apps should have a basic set of features. What necessarily has to be here?
Ability to track your order online.
Several options for order payment.
Support «in chat».
Ratings and Reviews.
Without these things, your app will not be able to achieve the desired success. However, you should not limit yourself to these features. Add to your app what you think will make it better.
How much does it cost to develop a food delivery app?
Such a question is very difficult to answer immediately. The cost varies based on features, complexity, and region but generally varies from $10,000 to $80,000. Key factors include app design, backend development, and integration of advanced features like AI and machine learning.
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Conclusion
The food delivery market is growing upward every year because the demand for delivery is constantly increasing compared to what is offered. This is the niche that will allow you to earn a steady income using even the simplest business model. Whether you aim to create a niche food delivery app for small business or a comprehensive platform like the app for Uber Eats, the potential for success is substantial.