How to Market Your Online Ordering Website for Convenience Stores

So, you've launched the online ordering website for your convenience store—congratulations! But as one store among 152,000 other US convenience stores, how do you ensure potential customers find and engage with your brand when every individual consumer has hundreds of daily options? 

We’re going to show you proven website marketing strategies tailored for convenience stores. This is your introduction to transforming your website into a click magnet, winning new customers and boosting your online orders with simplicity. 

OPTIMIZE YOUR CONVENIENCE STORE WEBSITE 

Making it easier for convenience store customers to find your website requires a strategic approach to SEO. Targeting local transaction-driven keywords such as "convenience store delivery" and “convenience grocery store” should be the foundation of your on-page optimization efforts. Remember to conduct technical SEO changes like title tag optimization, internal linking, and product page optimization, as well. 

Since mobile users have surpassed desktop users since 2016, a mobile-friendly site design is a must-have for the following reasons: 

• 96.2% of US Internet users go online with mobile devices 
• Google places higher priority on mobile devices for SEO rankings 
• Product designers prefer starting with mobile because it’s easier to iterate and expand on features later 

It’s also wise to integrate a user-friendly loyalty program on your convenience store website to incentivize repeat business and gather valuable customer data. Loyalty members tend to spend about 12% more than non-loyalty members, which immediately adds to your bottom line.

INCLUDE AN INTERACTIVE MENU ON YOUR WEBSITE 

Firsthand, high-resolution photos and videos allow customers to visualize your offerings better. However, improving user experience (UX) on your website involves more than just visual appeal. Use an online ordering system that allows item customization or ingredient filtering, providing options for customers to tailor their orders based on their preferences and dietary restrictions. 

Offer real-time availability information to manage customer expectations effectively. Providing a dynamic and interactive menu with features like "Build Your Own" options for freshly prepared items incentivizes customer engagement. 

DEVELOP A CONVENIENCE STORE APP 

First, prominently display links to your store’s app on your official website and social media platforms to promote downloads, especially if it’s a new launch. Continue attracting users by offering exclusive in-app promotions and prompt satisfied customers to share positive reviews on app stores, simultaneously building credibility and capturing the attention of potential customers. 

Second, optimize your c-store app for quick navigation and ease of use for a fast, convenient, mobile ordering experience. Integrate your loyalty programs and rewards within the app to encourage repeat business and the use of in-store pickup and delivery options. 

Case study: Using the Paytronix Platform, Pump N Pantry created a points-based loyalty program and a convenience store app to provide a fast, hassle-free customer experience. Rewards points were redeemable for food, snacks, and other merchandise, as well as access to exclusive discounts and deals. In just over a year, 6,000 members had joined the program.  

RUN LOCALLY TARGETED ADS AND CLAIM YOUR LOCAL BUSINESS PROFILES 

Local engagement is crucial for the success of your convenience store. Thousands of brands throughout the United States have a community page dedicated to local business associations and their involvement in their neighborhoods. By including your local community in your marketing and branding efforts, you can build a loyal customer base and strengthen your presence in the neighborhood authentically for years to come. 

Start by running targeted ads on social media platforms and search engines, making it easier to track the ROI of hyperlocal campaigns. Also, you’ll want to build relationships by partnering with media outlets like newspapers, magazines, and TV stations. Sponsoring and leading community events like fundraisers, parades, and non-profit events are another ideal way to drive brand visibility and early product adoption. 

Be sure to claim and regularly update your business profiles on platforms like Google Business Profile and Yelp for Business for increased local visibility. These are free, powerful tools for reaching potential customers in the same channels they’re already familiar with. With that said, consider paying for these platforms’ marketing and advertising options, especially if you have the time, money, and bandwidth to do so. 

EFFECTIVE MARKETING SETS THE FOUNDATION FOR REVENUE  

Effectively marketing an online ordering website requires dedication and data-driven optimization. By implementing the strategies outlined above, you can transform your restaurant or convenience store website into potential customers’ first choice, growing your bottom line on semi-autopilot. 

Key takeaways: 

• Optimize your website for both mobile and desktop users, prioritizing mobile use 
• Offer a user-friendly menu and seamless checkout process 
• Integrate your loyalty programs to reward repeat customers 
• Leverage the power of social media marketing and targeted search advertising 
• Partner with popular delivery apps and offer exclusive deals 
• Claim your local business profiles and run locally targeted ads 

THE POWER OF WORD OF MOUTH 

While online marketing is crucial, word of mouth’s power remains unparalleled, with 92% of global consumers trusting recommendations from family and friends above all types of advertising (Nielsen). Satisfied customers can and should become your most effective brand evangelists, spreading the word about your online ordering website. 

To harness the power of word of mouth, consider the following: 

• Encourage satisfied customers to leave positive reviews on your social media profiles like Google Business Profile, Facebook, and Yelp 
• Implement a referral program, rewarding existing customers who bring in new ones 
• Host events or promotions that encourage customers to bring friends and share their experiences 
• Foster engagement on social media by responding to customer comments and encouraging user-generated content 
• Provide exceptional customer service to create memorable experiences that customers want to share 

READY TO ATTRACT MORE CUSTOMERS AND ORDERS? 

Paytronix offers a comprehensive suite of solutions designed to help you optimize your online ordering website and marketing efforts. Explore our solutions or download our free resources to learn more about: 

• Developing a user-friendly online ordering platform 
• Crafting targeted marketing campaigns 
• Integrating with popular delivery apps 
• Leveraging customer data for actionable insights 

By partnering with Paytronix, you can unlock the full potential of your online ordering website and turn clicks into loyal customers.