Food Delivery Apps Are Here to Stay
Takeout Whenever and Wherever You Want
We all know fresh and unique dishes can be delivered to our door through the click of a button. Apps like DoorDash provide instant access to great food, anytime and anywhere, while allowing restaurants to reach more diners. Apps continue to evolve alongside consumer cravings, offering incentives from exclusive offers to deals and gift cards – and we are here to eat it up.
In recent years, “delivery was among the most important pivots made by struggling foodservice operators”, notes Restaurants Canada’s Restaurant Online Ordering Trends Report 2022, and that, “total restaurant delivery revenues jumped to a record high of nearly $7 billion in 2021, representing a 90% increase over 2019 levels”. Foodservice sales are expected to grow to record highs next year thanks to a strong market and pent-up consumer demand, signaling that apps are now a fixture in culinary life. Apps such as DoorDash give diners control and freedom, whether they need a quick meal before the start of the workday, a stress-free way to entertain guests or are simply craving their favourite comfort dish. Whether working from home or returning to the office, consumers are continuing to take advantage of the additional benefits of these innovative apps.
Shilpa Arora, General Manager, DoorDash Canada says that it’s still all about #ComfortFridays where, “Friday night at 6 p.m. is the most popular time Canadians order delivery through DoorDash.” However, “breakfast and early morning orders (between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m.) saw a 3x increase between 2020 and 2021, as more people considered ordering food delivery for meals other than dinner.” So far in 2022, bakery was the most popular cuisine ordered on DoorDash highlighting our love for comfort foods and showcasing that diners utilize the app to fit their busy schedules.
Shilpa also points out that, “this year, DoorDash saw an increase in 27% of delivery and pickup orders in Canada compared to last year, with 23% more Canadians preferring ordering food delivery from a third party in 2022 versus 2021.” Canadians also love to be out and about in the summer and with pick-up orders becoming more popular, there is even more freedom and flexibility with how consumers get their takeout.
It’s obvious that apps like DoorDash continue to respond to consumer needs and trends. In 2018, for example, the team launched DashPass which brings added value to users by offering a membership service available for $9.99 a month, usually offered with a 30-day free trial. Members can take advantage of unlimited deliveries from thousands of eligible restaurants with $0 delivery fees, in addition to 5% back on pick up orders and multiple exclusive deals year-round. DashPass members can also enjoy exclusive member benefits including DashPass only promotions. These incentives allow users to discover new restaurants, experience exciting dishes and explore the culinary scene through the app.
We now hold inventive menus and comfort classics in the palm of our hand. DoorDash provides opportunities for both restaurants and consumers to connect over a delicious meal. Whatever the future holds, apps like DoorDash will ensure we have a food-map and are well fed as we navigate new culinary paths.
