Convenience is key reason for using online ordering

Findings from a new survey commissioned by hospitality supply chain and procurement expert iTradeNetwork has discovered that ‘convenience’ is the most important reason for hospitality operators to use online purchasing.

Over 450 hospitality operators from across the food, beverage and hospitality sector were surveyed with the aim of discovering how technology had changed their habits. With hospitality managers able to order from suppliers online at any time of day and from any location, it would seem that much like the consumer shopping experience the internet provides a greater level of convenience and flexibility than traditional methods.

Alex Walters, european sales director of iTradeNetwork said “Online ordering means operators can place their orders at a time convenient to them, which is a key point in an industry where working unsociable hours is commonplace,” he adds. “And when they do speak to suppliers, they can spend their time more efficiently, such as discussing new products and promotions.”

Convenience was given as the most important reason by almost half of respondents, while around a fifth said increased levels of information and control was the most important. These benefits help to explain why there is a growing appetite among hospitality operators who haven’t tried online ordering to give it a go.

Over half (58 per cent) said they would consider it if it was offered to them. Over three-quarters also said they rate their online systems as ‘good’ or very good’ but there is still room for improvement with the top changes operators would like to see being more product information and also exclusive promotional deals.

iTradeNetwork is a leading provider of internet-based supply chain and purchasing technology to the hospitality, foodservice and retail industries. It supports businesses across the food supply chain including distributors, manufacturers, operators and retailers.