Foodbooking.uk Review

Based on checking the website, Foodbooking.uk appears to be a legitimate online food ordering system designed for restaurants, pubs, takeaways, cafes, and shops.

It aims to provide an alternative to commission-based delivery platforms like Just Eat, Deliveroo, and Uber Eats by offering a zero-commission model for unlimited orders.

The platform focuses on helping businesses transform their existing websites or Facebook pages into efficient online ordering and table booking systems, with additional features like contactless at-table ordering and marketing tools.

Here’s an overall review summary:

• Service Legitimacy: Appears legitimate, offering a comprehensive suite of tools for online food ordering and restaurant management.
• Commission Structure: Promotes a zero-commission model for basic usage, with optional paid add-ons and plans.
• Target Audience: Primarily caters to food businesses looking to reduce reliance on high-commission third-party delivery apps.
• Key Features Highlighted: Online ordering system, contactless at-table ordering, autopilot selling, online payments, food pre-ordering, table reservation, real-time reporting, missed order alerts, restaurant promotions, multiple delivery zones, food ordering app, website generator, offline payment options, first-time order promo, and Google My Business sync.
• Integration Capabilities: Easily integrates with existing websites including popular builders like Wix, Webflow, Site123, Squarespace and Facebook pages. Offers solutions for businesses without a website.
• Customer Support: Reviews on the homepage suggest responsive and helpful customer support.
• Ethical Considerations: The service itself provides tools for businesses to manage their orders and customers directly, which is a permissible and ethical business operation. There are no inherent features that promote or facilitate any haram forbidden activities. The platform is a utility that enables food businesses to operate, and the permissibility of the food sold by a particular business using the service would be the responsibility of that business.

The platform positions itself as a cost-effective solution, enabling businesses to retain more of their revenue by cutting out commissions.

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This direct approach empowers businesses to manage their customer relationships and marketing efforts more effectively.

While the core offering is robust, potential users should delve into the specifics of the paid plans and add-ons to understand the full cost implications beyond the “free” basic system.

The emphasis on direct customer engagement and commission savings is a strong selling point for many establishments in the food industry.

Here are some of the best alternatives for businesses looking for ethical, non-edible digital solutions for online ordering and business management:

• Square Online

  • Key Features: E-commerce website builder, online ordering for pickup/delivery, inventory management, integrated POS system, marketing tools, appointments.
  • Average Price: Free plan available. paid plans start from $29/month.
  • Pros: Very comprehensive ecosystem, easy to use, excellent for small to medium businesses, strong integration with Square hardware.
  • Cons: Transaction fees apply even on paid plans, some advanced features might require higher-tier plans.

• Toast POS

  • Key Features: Restaurant POS system, online ordering, delivery management, loyalty programs, inventory, payroll, and reporting.
  • Average Price: Varies based on features. typically starts with hardware costs and monthly software fees.
  • Pros: Tailored specifically for restaurants, robust and reliable, strong reporting and analytics, excellent customer support.
  • Cons: Can be more expensive for smaller operations, requires Toast hardware, less flexible for non-restaurant businesses.

• Clover POS

  • Key Features: Point-of-sale system, online ordering integrations, loyalty programs, inventory management, analytics, customer management.
  • Average Price: Starts with hardware costs e.g., Clover Go from $49 and monthly software plans e.g., from $14.95/month.
  • Pros: Versatile and scalable, wide range of hardware options, extensive app market for customization, good for various business types.
  • Cons: Can get costly with multiple apps and hardware, transaction fees can add up, some users report occasional glitches.

• ChowNow

  • Key Features: Custom branded online ordering system, commission-free model, marketing tools, customer data ownership, delivery management.
  • Average Price: Flat monthly fee, typically starting around $149/month.
  • Pros: Focuses on helping restaurants build direct customer relationships, no per-order commissions, strong marketing support.
  • Cons: Higher upfront monthly cost compared to commission-based models, delivery logistics might still be managed by the restaurant unless integrated with third-party delivery.

• GloriaFood

  • Key Features: Free online ordering system, website widget, mobile apps, promotion engine, order taking app, table reservations.
  • Average Price: Free for basic online ordering. paid add-ons for online payments, marketing, etc.
  • Pros: Excellent free tier, easy to set up, good for small businesses on a budget, straightforward interface.
  • Cons: Advanced features are paid add-ons, less customizable than other platforms, limited integrations compared to larger POS systems.

• WordPress with WooCommerce and Food Ordering Plugins

  

  • Key Features: Highly customizable website and e-commerce platform, vast plugin ecosystem for food ordering, delivery, reservations, and marketing.
  • Average Price: Varies widely. WordPress is free, hosting costs e.g., $5-30/month, WooCommerce is free, premium plugins e.g., $50-200/year.
  • Pros: Ultimate flexibility and control, no recurring commissions, ownership of all data, scalable for any size business.
  • Cons: Requires more technical knowledge to set up and maintain, can be complex to manage, security and updates are the user’s responsibility.

• Ordering.co

  • Key Features: White-label online ordering solution, marketplace builder, delivery management, customer and driver apps, multi-store support.
  • Average Price: Subscription-based, often starts from $99/month for basic plans, with higher tiers for advanced features.
  • Pros: Comprehensive solution for building a full delivery platform, highly customizable, suitable for single restaurants or multi-vendor marketplaces.
  • Cons: Can be complex to implement initially, higher price point, requires significant setup and customization.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Foodbooking.uk Review & First Look

Based on looking at the website, Foodbooking.uk presents itself as a robust and compelling online food ordering system designed to empower restaurants, pubs, takeaways, cafes, and other food businesses.

The core value proposition revolves around offering an alternative to the often costly commission structures of major food delivery platforms like Just Eat, Deliveroo, and Uber Eats.

The site emphasizes a “zero monthly commissions” model for unlimited orders, which is a significant draw for businesses looking to maximize their profit margins.

Initial Impressions and Value Proposition

The website’s landing page immediately highlights its key benefits: unlimited orders with ZERO monthly commissions. This direct answer to a common pain point for food businesses—high commission fees—is strategically placed and highly effective. The site positions itself as “The cheaper food delivery app alternative,” aiming squarely at a market segment frustrated with existing third-party platforms.

Target Audience and Usability

Foodbooking.uk clearly targets a wide range of food service establishments, from small takeaways to larger restaurants. Kreativegrowthmedia.com Review

The emphasis on “easily add to any website” and solutions for businesses without an existing online presence e.g., “instant website generator” and “website builder” suggests an inclusive approach, catering to various levels of technical proficiency.

The promise of turning “website visitors into regular customers” and automating marketing efforts via an “autopilot selling addon” appeals to businesses seeking growth and efficiency.

Contactless Ordering and Modern Features

A prominent feature highlighted is the “contactless, at table ordering” system, which utilizes QR codes for customers to scan and place orders directly from their mobile phones.

This aligns perfectly with post-pandemic operational needs and customer expectations for safety and convenience.

The mention of “Real Time Order Confirmation” and an intuitive interface underscores the platform’s focus on streamlining the ordering process for both businesses and customers, aiming to eliminate common frustrations like busy phone lines or misheard orders. Roodlebag.com Review

Foodbooking.uk Pros & Cons

Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of any digital solution is crucial before adoption.

Foodbooking.uk, while offering a compelling proposition, also has aspects that businesses should consider carefully.

Key Advantages Pros

The primary benefits of Foodbooking.uk largely center around cost-efficiency and operational control for food businesses.

• Zero Commission Model: This is arguably the biggest selling point. Unlike major platforms that charge hefty commissions often 15-35% per order, Foodbooking.uk’s basic system is free to use with zero commission. This allows businesses to retain significantly more revenue from their online orders. For example, a restaurant doing £10,000 in online sales might save £1,500-£3,500 monthly by switching from a commission-based platform.
• Direct Customer Relationship: The platform helps businesses build and maintain direct relationships with their customers. By processing orders directly through their own website or Facebook page, businesses collect valuable customer data, which is crucial for loyalty programs, targeted marketing, and personalized service. This contrasts sharply with third-party apps where the customer often belongs to the platform, not the restaurant.
• Enhanced Brand Control: Businesses maintain full control over their branding, menu presentation, and customer experience. This allows for a more consistent and professional representation of their establishment online.
• Comprehensive Feature Set: Beyond just online ordering, Foodbooking.uk offers a suite of features including:
  • Contactless At-Table Ordering: Essential for modern dining, ensuring social distancing and faster service.
  • Autopilot Selling Addon: Automates email and SMS marketing campaigns, promoting deals and specials with “ZERO EFFORT.”
  • Online and Offline Payment Options: Flexibility for customers to pay in advance or upon pickup/delivery.
  • Table Reservation System: Streamlines booking processes.
  • Real-Time Reporting: Provides insights into promotions and operational efficiency.
  • Website Generator/Builder: Offers solutions for businesses without an existing website, from instant templates to custom WordPress designs.
• Integration with Existing Systems: Compatibility with popular website builders like Wix, Webflow, Site123, and Squarespace means businesses can easily integrate the ordering system into their current online presence.
• Mobile Order Taking App: A dedicated app for Android and iOS devices ensures businesses can manage orders efficiently, receiving instant push notifications and confirming orders with customizable pickup/delivery times.

Potential Limitations Cons

While the advantages are significant, potential users should be aware of certain aspects that might require additional consideration or effort.

• Requires Business Self-Marketing: While the platform offers marketing tools, businesses are primarily responsible for driving traffic to their own website or Facebook page. They won’t benefit from the built-in marketplace audience that large platforms like Just Eat or Deliveroo provide. This means a strong online presence and active marketing efforts are crucial for success.
• Delivery Logistics: Foodbooking.uk provides the ordering system but explicitly states, “You would need to take care of the delivery yourself.” This means businesses must either have their own delivery fleet, use third-party logistics partners which might incur separate costs, or operate solely on a pickup model. This could be a significant hurdle for smaller businesses without established delivery infrastructure.
• Tiered Pricing for Advanced Features: While the basic system is free, advanced features like online payments, branded mobile apps, and certain marketing tools are offered as “optional paid addons” or require higher-tier plans. Businesses need to scrutinize the pricing page to understand the total cost based on their specific needs. This might negate some of the “cheaper alternative” claims if many essential features are locked behind paywalls.
• Learning Curve for New Systems: While designed to be user-friendly, integrating a new online ordering system and potentially a new website builder might involve a learning curve for business owners and staff, especially those less tech-savvy.
• Dependency on Internet Connection: The system relies on a stable internet connection for real-time order confirmation and alerts. While it offers “Missed Order Alerts” calling the business if an order is missed due to internet loss, this still highlights a potential vulnerability.
• Limited Direct Marketplace Exposure: Businesses using Foodbooking.uk operate as standalone entities online. They won’t appear in the aggregated search results or discovery features of major food delivery apps, which often bring in new customers who are simply browsing.

Foodbooking.uk Alternatives

When seeking an online ordering system, especially one that aligns with ethical business practices and provides comprehensive tools, exploring alternatives is a wise move. Fastdoing.com Review

The options range from integrated POS systems to dedicated online ordering platforms and customizable e-commerce solutions.

Integrated POS Systems with Online Ordering

Many modern Point-of-Sale POS systems now offer robust online ordering capabilities as part of their ecosystem, providing a unified solution for both in-house and online operations.

• Square for Restaurants

  • Overview: Square offers a comprehensive suite for restaurants, including POS, online ordering, delivery management, kitchen display systems KDS, and loyalty programs. It’s known for its user-friendly interface and integrated payment processing.

  • Key Features: Customizable online store, QR code ordering, integrated payment processing, loyalty programs, inventory management, detailed reporting.

  • Why it’s a strong alternative: Offers a holistic approach, simplifying management by having all operations under one system. Its online ordering is seamless with its POS, making order fulfillment efficient. Square’s strong reputation and widespread adoption in the US provide reliability. Rustvendor.com Review

  • Overview: Specifically built for restaurants, Toast is a powerful cloud-based POS system that includes online ordering, delivery, and a suite of tools designed to optimize restaurant operations.

  • Key Features: Branded online ordering, Toast TakeOut app integration, delivery services, loyalty programs, gift cards, kitchen display systems, inventory management.

  • Why it’s a strong alternative: Its deep restaurant-specific functionalities make it highly efficient for managing complex operations. While it might have a higher entry cost, its robust features and industry focus can lead to significant operational savings and improved customer experience.

Dedicated Online Ordering Platforms

These platforms specialize in providing online ordering solutions, often with a focus on commission-free models, similar to Foodbooking.uk.

*   Overview: ChowNow focuses on helping restaurants build and manage their own branded online ordering systems, emphasizing a commission-free model and ownership of customer data.
*   Key Features: Custom branded mobile apps and web ordering, marketing services, delivery dispatch tools, customer data analytics.
*   Why it's a strong alternative: Directly competes with the commission-based model by offering a flat monthly fee. It provides strong support for marketing and aims to help restaurants build direct relationships with their customers, much like Foodbooking.uk.

*   Overview: Known for its free online ordering system, GloriaFood provides a straightforward solution for restaurants to accept orders through their website or Facebook page.
*   Key Features: Free basic online ordering, website widget, mobile apps for customers and order-taking, promotion engine, table reservations.
*   Why it's a strong alternative: Its free tier makes it highly accessible for startups and small businesses. While advanced features are paid add-ons, the core functionality is robust enough for many operations, offering a cost-effective entry point.

Customizable E-commerce Solutions

For businesses seeking maximum flexibility and control, building a custom solution using a content management system CMS with e-commerce capabilities can be a viable option. Ogilvy.com Review

• WordPress with WooCommerce

  • Overview: WordPress is a versatile CMS, and WooCommerce is a powerful e-commerce plugin that turns any WordPress site into an online store. Various plugins can then extend its functionality for food ordering.
  • Key Features: Highly customizable, vast ecosystem of plugins e.g., for restaurant menus, table reservations, delivery management, full control over data and design, no recurring commissions beyond hosting/plugin fees.
  • Why it’s a strong alternative: Offers unparalleled control and customization. Businesses can build exactly what they need, integrating specific food-ordering plugins like Restaurant Menu for WooCommerce or Food Online for WooCommerce to create a tailored experience. This approach provides the most ownership and long-term flexibility.

• Shopify with food ordering apps

  

  • Overview: Shopify is a leading e-commerce platform that, while not specifically designed for restaurants, can be adapted using various apps from its app store to support online food ordering.
  • Key Features: User-friendly interface, robust e-commerce features, secure payment processing, numerous apps for specific functionalities e.g., GloriaFood Online Ordering for Restaurants, Orderable.
  • Why it’s a strong alternative: Shopify offers a complete e-commerce solution with excellent scalability and reliability. For businesses that also sell non-food merchandise or want a highly polished online store, adapting Shopify with relevant apps can be very effective.

Choosing the right alternative depends on a business’s specific needs, budget, technical expertise, and desire for control over their online presence and customer relationships.

How to Cancel Foodbooking.uk Subscription

Based on the information available on the Foodbooking.uk homepage, details regarding the precise process for canceling a subscription or account are not immediately visible. Lizamoversuae.com Review

Typically, for online service providers, this information is found within a dedicated “Help” or “FAQ” section, often under topics like “Account Management” or “Billing.”

General Steps for Canceling Online Subscriptions

In the absence of explicit instructions on their main page, the cancellation process for Foodbooking.uk, and similar online service providers, generally follows a standard procedure:

1. Log In to Your Account: The first step is always to log into your Foodbooking.uk administrative dashboard or client portal. Most subscription services manage cancellations directly through the user’s account settings.
2. Navigate to Billing or Account Settings: Once logged in, look for sections labeled “Settings,” “Account,” “Billing,” “Subscription,” “My Plan,” or similar. These sections typically contain options related to your current service plan, payment methods, and cancellation options.
3. Locate the Cancellation Option: Within the billing or account settings, there should be a clear option to “Cancel Subscription,” “Manage Plan,” or “Close Account.” This might be a prominent button or a link buried within the text.
4. Follow On-Screen Prompts: The system will usually guide you through a series of prompts. This may include asking for feedback on why you’re canceling, offering alternatives like pausing the subscription, or confirming your decision. It’s crucial to follow these steps carefully to ensure the cancellation is processed correctly.
5. Confirm Cancellation: After completing the steps, look for a confirmation message on the screen, an email confirmation, or an update in your account status indicating that your subscription has been successfully canceled. Keep this confirmation for your records.

Contacting Support for Cancellation

If you cannot find a clear cancellation option within your account dashboard, or if you encounter any issues, the next best step is to contact Foodbooking.uk’s customer support.

• Look for “Contact Us” or “Support”: The Foodbooking.uk website should have a “Contact Us” page, a support email, or a help desk section.
• Prepare Your Account Information: When contacting support, have your account details ready, such as your registered email address, business name, and any account ID numbers.
• Clearly State Your Intent: Clearly communicate that you wish to cancel your subscription. Be specific about your plan type and the effective date you desire for the cancellation.

Important Considerations for Cancellation

• Billing Cycles: Be aware of your billing cycle. Many services bill monthly or annually, and canceling mid-cycle might not result in a refund for the remaining period, but rather access until the end of the current paid term.
• Data Export: Before canceling, consider if you need to export any data, such as customer lists, order history, or sales reports. Once an account is closed, data might become inaccessible.
• Terms of Service: It’s always advisable to review the Terms of Service or User Agreement, as they contain the official policies regarding subscription cancellations, refunds, and data retention.

How to Cancel Foodbooking.uk Free Trial

Foodbooking.uk states, “Try out our online food ordering system for free.

No commitment, no setup fee.” This indicates a free trial or a freemium model. Aakaar.com Review

Canceling a free trial typically involves a simpler process than a paid subscription, especially if no payment information was collected upfront.

Understanding the Free Trial Model

Often, free trials are designed to automatically expire or revert to a basic potentially limited free plan if no action is taken to upgrade. If payment information was provided during sign-up for the trial, then it’s crucial to cancel before the trial period ends to avoid automatic charges.

General Steps for Canceling a Free Trial

The process for canceling a free trial for Foodbooking.uk would likely mirror the steps for a paid subscription, with an emphasis on preventing any charges if payment details were provided.

1. Check for Automatic Conversion: First, determine if the “free trial” requires credit card details upon sign-up.
   • If no payment details were provided: The trial will likely simply expire after the designated period, or revert to a free, limited version of the service, with no charges incurred. In this case, no explicit cancellation action might be necessary to avoid billing.
   • If payment details were provided: You must take action to cancel the trial before its expiration date to prevent automatic conversion to a paid subscription and subsequent billing.
2. Log In to Your Account: Access your Foodbooking.uk account dashboard.
3. Navigate to Billing/Subscription Section: Look for sections such as “Billing,” “My Plan,” “Subscription,” or “Account Settings.”
4. Find Trial Management or Cancellation Option: Within these sections, there should be an option related to your free trial. This might be a button like “Cancel Trial,” “Manage Trial,” or “Do Not Convert to Paid Plan.”
5. Confirm Cancellation: Follow any on-screen instructions to confirm your decision. Look for an email confirmation or a notification within the dashboard that your trial will not convert to a paid subscription.

Key Aspects to Verify for Free Trial Cancellation

• Trial End Date: Be absolutely clear about when your free trial ends. Mark this date on your calendar. Canceling even one day late could result in a charge.
• Payment Information on File: Re-verify if any payment details credit card, PayPal were provided during the free trial sign-up. This is the most critical factor determining whether active cancellation is needed.
• Terms and Conditions: Review the terms and conditions of the free trial. They will explicitly state the auto-renewal policy and cancellation procedures.
• Data Access After Trial: Understand what happens to your data e.g., menu items, customer lists you imported once the free trial ends, especially if you decide not to continue with a paid plan. Some services retain data for a grace period, while others delete it immediately.

Why Foodbooking.uk Offers a “Free” Model

The “free to use” and “free trial” offers are common strategies for SaaS Software as a Service companies like Foodbooking.uk. They aim to:

• Lower Barrier to Entry: Encourage businesses to try the service without financial commitment.
• Demonstrate Value: Allow users to experience the platform’s benefits firsthand.
• Upsell to Paid Features: Convert free users to paying customers by offering advanced features and higher usage limits through paid add-ons or plans.

By understanding these nuances and meticulously following the appropriate steps, businesses can effectively manage their Foodbooking.uk free trial and avoid any unwanted charges. Focus-home.com Review

Foodbooking.uk Pricing

Foodbooking.uk positions itself as a cost-effective alternative to commission-heavy food delivery platforms.

Their pricing strategy is primarily built around a “zero commission” model for basic use, complemented by optional paid add-ons and premium plans for advanced features.

The “Free” Core Offering

The website prominently states: “The basic system is free to use and we charge ZERO commission on all orders.” This is the cornerstone of their appeal, aiming to attract businesses by eliminating the per-order fees that can significantly erode profit margins on platforms like Just Eat or Deliveroo.

• What’s included in the “free” basic system inferred from homepage:
  • Online food ordering system for website/Facebook integration.
  • Unlimited orders with no commission.
  • Mobile order taking app for Android/iOS.
  • Real-time order confirmation.
  • Contactless at-table ordering likely basic QR code generation.
  • Basic website generator instant template.
  • Offline payment options cash, card at pickup/delivery.

The “free” model is designed to get businesses onboard and experience the core functionality, allowing them to manage their own online orders without per-transaction costs from Foodbooking.uk itself.

Paid Plans and Optional Add-ons

While the core is free, the website also mentions: “We do however have paid plans and various optional paid addons. Cates.london Review

Please check the pricing page for more details.” This indicates a freemium model, where advanced functionalities or higher levels of service come with a cost.

Common types of paid add-ons or premium features in such systems often include:

• Online Payment Integration: Accepting credit card payments directly through the platform e.g., via Stripe, PayPal is frequently a paid add-on. This is a crucial feature for many businesses, as it reduces cash handling and “prank orders.” The website explicitly states, “If you want to accept payments online, this is available as an optional paid addon.”
• Branded Mobile App: While a free food ordering app is available for customers, the option for a “branded mobile app” e.g., with the restaurant’s logo and specific branding is typically a premium feature.
• Advanced Marketing Tools: Features like the “Autopilot Selling addon” for email/SMS marketing or advanced promotion modules might be part of higher-tier plans or separate paid add-ons.
• Enhanced Website Builder/Custom Design: While a basic “instant website generator” is available, more flexible “website builder” options or “custom WordPress website designs” are likely paid services, potentially tied to specific plans or offered as one-off development fees.
• Advanced Reporting and Analytics: More detailed insights beyond basic real-time reporting could be part of premium tiers.
• Priority Customer Support: While support is mentioned, premium plans often include faster response times or dedicated account managers.
• Integration with Third-Party Systems: Some deeper integrations e.g., with specific POS systems not natively supported might be part of paid plans or require custom development.

How to Evaluate the True Cost

For any business considering Foodbooking.uk, it’s essential to:

1. Visit the Official Pricing Page: The homepage explicitly directs users to “check the pricing page for more details.” This page will outline the specific tiers, what each includes, and the costs of individual add-ons.
2. Assess Required Features: List out all the functionalities your business absolutely needs e.g., online payments, advanced marketing, custom website.
3. Calculate Total Monthly/Annual Cost: Sum up the cost of the base plan if any plus all necessary add-ons to get a realistic estimate of your total expenditure.
4. Compare Against Commission Savings: Pit this total cost against the estimated savings from eliminating commissions from other platforms. For instance, if a restaurant pays 20% commission on £5,000 of monthly online orders, that’s £1,000 in commissions. If Foodbooking.uk’s paid plan and add-ons cost £150 per month, the savings are still substantial £850/month.

Foodbooking.uk’s pricing model aims to be transparent about its “free” core while monetizing through value-added services.

The key for businesses is to understand where their essential needs fall within this structure. Brunettethelabel.com Review

Foodbooking.uk vs. Competitors

When evaluating Foodbooking.uk, it’s crucial to compare its offerings against other prominent solutions in the online food ordering and restaurant technology space.

Foodbooking.uk’s Core Differentiator: Commission-Free Focus

Foodbooking.uk’s primary competitive advantage is its zero-commission model for unlimited orders on its basic system. This directly challenges the revenue models of aggregators like Just Eat, Deliveroo, and Uber Eats, which charge significant percentages per order.

Comparison with Major Aggregators e.g., Just Eat, Deliveroo, Uber Eats

• Foodbooking.uk:

  • Pros: Zero commission on basic orders, full control over customer data, direct branding, flexibility in delivery restaurant-managed.
  • Cons: Requires businesses to drive their own traffic, no inherent marketplace exposure, delivery logistics must be handled by the restaurant.
  • Best For: Restaurants wanting to cut commission costs, build direct customer relationships, and control their online presence.

• Just Eat, Deliveroo, Uber Eats:

  • Pros: Massive built-in customer base, handle delivery logistics if chosen, high visibility for new customers through marketplace browsing. Intensitysails.com Review

  • Cons: High commission fees 15-35% of order value, limited control over customer data, less direct branding, reliance on the platform’s rules and algorithms.

  • Best For: Restaurants focused on maximizing reach, gaining new customers without extensive marketing, or those without their own delivery infrastructure.

  • Key takeaway: Foodbooking.uk is an alternative to these aggregators, not a direct competitor in terms of marketplace exposure. It empowers businesses to “own” their online orders, rather than being one listing among many.

Comparison with Dedicated Online Ordering Platforms e.g., ChowNow, GloriaFood

*   Pros: Free basic system with zero commission, integrated website builder options, emphasis on contactless table ordering.
*   Cons: Pricing for add-ons might accumulate, relatively newer in the market compared to some, potentially less extensive marketing support than higher-tier platforms.

• ChowNow:

  • Pros: Flat monthly fee no commissions, strong focus on branded ordering custom apps, good marketing support, helps restaurants build customer loyalty.
  • Cons: Higher monthly fee for the full suite, doesn’t handle delivery logistics directly, not a “free” option.
  • Best For: Restaurants prioritizing brand control, data ownership, and willing to pay a flat fee for comprehensive features.

• GloriaFood: Linkgrand.com Review

  • Pros: Excellent free basic online ordering system, easy setup, mobile order-taking app, good for small businesses on a budget.

  • Cons: Paid add-ons for online payments and advanced features, less extensive customization than high-end solutions, primarily focused on ordering.

  • Best For: Startups and small businesses needing a quick, simple, and free way to get online orders, with options to upgrade later.

  • Key takeaway: Foodbooking.uk competes closely with GloriaFood on the “free” model. It differentiates itself with more explicit website building solutions and deeper emphasis on table ordering. ChowNow serves a similar purpose but generally targets businesses ready to invest more for a premium, branded solution.

Comparison with Integrated POS Systems e.g., Square for Restaurants, Toast POS

*   Pros: Specializes in online ordering without requiring a full POS overhaul, cost-effective entry.
*   Cons: Not a full-fledged POS system, requires separate solutions for in-house operations unless integrated via custom development, potential for fragmented data if not managed carefully.

• Square for Restaurants / Toast POS:

  • Pros: Unified system for front-of-house POS, back-of-house, online ordering, and delivery management. comprehensive reporting. specialized for restaurant workflows. Safetyletterbox.com Review

  • Cons: Higher overall cost hardware + software, can be complex to set up, designed as an entire ecosystem rather than just an add-on.

  • Best For: Restaurants seeking an all-in-one solution to streamline all aspects of their business, from ordering to inventory and payroll.

  • Key takeaway: Foodbooking.uk serves as an add-on to a restaurant’s existing operations, focusing specifically on online and table ordering. Square and Toast are complete operating systems for restaurants, offering a much broader scope of features, which can be overkill or too expensive for smaller businesses simply needing an online ordering solution.

In essence, Foodbooking.uk carved out a niche by offering a commission-free base for online orders, making it attractive for businesses looking to regain control and maximize profits without the heavy commitment of a full POS system or the high fees of major aggregators.

Its competitive edge lies in affordability and directness. Hourlyking.com Review

Foodbooking.uk Features

Foodbooking.uk boasts a comprehensive suite of features designed to empower restaurants, pubs, takeaways, cafes, and other food establishments to manage their online presence and ordering processes efficiently.

The platform aims to be a complete solution for direct customer engagement and commission-free ordering.

Core Ordering & Payment Functionality

• Online Food Ordering System: The central feature, enabling businesses to accept unlimited orders through their website or Facebook page. It acts as a digital storefront for their menu.
• Mobile Order Taking App: A dedicated application for Android and iOS devices that allows restaurant staff to receive, accept, or decline orders in real-time. This ensures immediate notification and response to customer orders.
• Real-Time Order Confirmation: Orders placed by customers are instantly pushed to the restaurant’s device. The restaurant can then confirm the order and provide an estimated pickup or delivery time, which is sent back to the customer, improving transparency and customer satisfaction. The system even includes an automatic cancellation feature if an order isn’t accepted within 3 minutes, prompting the customer to reorder.
• Online Payments: Available as an “optional paid addon,” this feature allows businesses to accept payments in advance for pre-orders, table bookings, delivery, and collections. This significantly reduces issues with prank orders or no-shows.
• Offline Payment Options: In addition to online payments, businesses can specify traditional payment methods like cash on delivery, credit/debit card payment upon pickup, or payment in the restaurant itself.

Customer Engagement & Marketing Tools

• Autopilot Selling Addon: This feature aims to automate email and SMS marketing. Businesses can use it to market deals and promotions to existing customers with minimal effort, transforming website visitors into repeat customers.
• Restaurant Promotions Module: A built-in tool that allows businesses to create various incentives and discounts for new or returning customers, such as “First Time Order Promo” to entice customers away from commission-based platforms.
• First Time Order Promo: A special Kickstarter promotion to offer a one-time discount to new customers, encouraging them to order directly.
• Branded Mobile App: While a free ordering app is available, the option for a branded mobile app with the restaurant’s own branding is offered, enhancing customer loyalty and direct access.

Operational Efficiency & Management

• Contactless At Table Ordering: A modern solution that allows customers to scan a QR code at their table and place orders using their mobile phone, adhering to social distancing guidelines and providing faster service.
• Food Pre-Ordering: Enables customers to place orders before they arrive, improving productivity for the restaurant and reducing wait times for customers.
• Table Reservation: Allows customers to book tables directly through the restaurant’s homepage or Facebook page, aiming to increase bookings.
• Real-Time Reporting Module: Provides visual reports and analytics to help businesses understand which promotions are performing best, identify areas for improvement, and track overall sales performance.
• Missed Order Alerts: A critical feature for reliability. If an online order is missed due to high business volume or internet connection loss, the system can be set to call the restaurant with an alert, enabling them to call the customer back.
• Multiple Delivery Zones: Businesses can define custom delivery zones on a map, each with its own delivery times, minimum order settings, and charges. This provides granular control over delivery logistics and pricing.
• Google My Business Sync: Automatically updates Google Business listings name, contact details, address, opening hours when modifications are made in the restaurant admin panel, ensuring consistency and accuracy across platforms.

Website & Integration Solutions

• Website Generator: For businesses without a website, the platform offers an “instant website generator” to create a simple, sales-optimized template quickly.
• Website Builder: For those desiring more creative control, a more flexible website builder is available.
• Custom WordPress Website Designs: Foodbooking.uk also offers custom WordPress website design services, integrating their system or other solutions like RestroPress.
• Add to Existing Website: The online food ordering system code can be easily integrated into almost any existing website, including those built with popular site builders like Wix, Webflow, Site123, and Squarespace.

These features collectively aim to provide a robust and versatile platform for food businesses looking to manage their online ordering independently and cost-effectively.

How to Get Started with Foodbooking.uk

Getting started with Foodbooking.uk appears to be a straightforward process, designed to quickly bring restaurants and food businesses online with their ordering system.

The website prominently features calls to action like “sign up for free,” “try Demo Site,” and “get access Today,” indicating a user-friendly onboarding experience. Xyzadvantage.com Review

Step 1: Explore the Demo Site

The first recommended action is to “try Demo Site.” This allows prospective users to experience the customer-facing side of the ordering system and potentially the back-end management interface without any commitment.

• Purpose: To familiarize yourself with the user interface, order flow, and overall functionality before committing to a sign-up. This is an excellent way to assess if the system meets your business’s needs.

Step 2: Sign Up for Free

Foodbooking.uk emphasizes its “zero monthly commissions” model and offers a basic system that is “free to use.” This means there’s a low barrier to entry for businesses.

• Process: Click on “sign up for free” or “get access Today.” You will likely be prompted to provide basic business information e.g., restaurant name, contact details, location and create login credentials.
• No Commitment: The “no commitment, no setup fee” promise during sign-up encourages businesses to explore the platform without immediate financial pressure.

Step 3: Set Up Your Menu and Business Details

Once signed up, the next crucial step is to configure your restaurant’s profile and menu within the Foodbooking.uk admin panel.

• Menu Creation: This involves adding all your food items, categories, descriptions, prices, images, and any customization options e.g., toppings, sizes.
• Business Information: Input your operating hours, delivery zones with specific times and charges, contact information, and address.
• Payment Options: Configure how you’ll accept payments—whether it’s cash on delivery/pickup offline options or if you opt for the paid add-on to accept online credit/debit card payments.
• Branding: Upload your logo and set up basic branding elements to match your restaurant’s identity.

Step 4: Integrate with Your Website or Create a New One

Foodbooking.uk offers flexibility regarding where your ordering system lives.

• Adding to an Existing Website: If you already have a website e.g., built with WordPress, Wix, Webflow, Squarespace, you can easily integrate the Foodbooking.uk ordering widget or code. The website mentions “Our online food ordering system code can be added to almost any website.”
• Using the Website Generator/Builder: If you don’t have a website, Foodbooking.uk provides solutions:
  • Instant Website Generator: For a quick setup, this creates a simple, sales-optimized template.
  • Website Builder: Offers more creative control for designing your site.
  • Custom WordPress Designs: They also provide services for custom WordPress sites, integrating their system.
• Facebook Page Integration: You can also add a “See MENU & Order” button directly to your Facebook page, making it interactive and allowing customers to order directly from social media.

Step 5: Install the Order Taking App

To manage incoming orders, you’ll need to install the Foodbooking.uk order taking app on your mobile device Android or iOS or a dedicated POS terminal.

• Functionality: This app receives instant push notifications when a new order is placed, allowing you to accept or decline it and send back confirmation with estimated pickup/delivery times.

Step 6: Promote Your New Ordering System

While Foodbooking.uk handles the technical infrastructure, driving customer traffic to your direct ordering platform is key to maximizing its benefits.

• In-Store Promotion: Place flyers especially for contactless table ordering QR codes, posters, and tent cards promoting your direct ordering link.
• Online Marketing: Share your direct ordering link on your social media channels, email newsletters, and Google My Business profile which Foodbooking.uk can sync with automatically.
• Leverage Promotions: Use the built-in promotion modules to offer incentives like the “first time order” promo to encourage customers to switch from third-party apps.

By following these steps, businesses can rapidly set up and launch their own commission-free online food ordering system with Foodbooking.uk.

FAQ

What is Foodbooking.uk?

Foodbooking.uk is an online food ordering system designed for restaurants, pubs, takeaways, cafes, and other food businesses, offering a zero-commission model for unlimited orders and aiming to be a cost-effective alternative to high-commission delivery apps like Just Eat or Deliveroo.

Is Foodbooking.uk free to use?

Yes, the basic system of Foodbooking.uk is free to use with zero commission on all orders.

However, there are paid plans and various optional paid add-ons for advanced features like online payments and branded mobile apps.

How does Foodbooking.uk make money if it’s commission-free?

Foodbooking.uk makes money through its optional paid add-ons, premium features, and higher-tier plans that unlock more advanced functionalities such as online payment integration, branded mobile apps, enhanced marketing tools, and custom website design services.

Can I use Foodbooking.uk with my existing website?

Yes, Foodbooking.uk states that its online food ordering system code can be easily integrated into almost any existing website, including those built with popular site builders like Wix, Webflow, Site123, and Squarespace.

Do I need a website to use Foodbooking.uk?

Yes, you need a website or a Facebook page to place the ordering widget on.

If you don’t currently have a website, Foodbooking.uk offers various solutions, including a free instant website generator and a more flexible website builder.

Does Foodbooking.uk handle food delivery?

No, Foodbooking.uk provides the solutions for taking online food orders, contactless table orders, and table bookings.

Businesses would need to take care of the actual food delivery themselves, whether through their own drivers or third-party logistics partners.

What is contactless at-table ordering?

Contactless at-table ordering is a feature where customers can scan a QR code placed on a table with their mobile phone to view the menu and place an order directly, without needing a staff member to take it.

This promotes social distancing and faster service.

What is the “Autopilot Selling addon”?

The “Autopilot Selling addon” is a feature offered by Foodbooking.uk that allows businesses to run automated email and SMS marketing campaigns, promoting deals and promotions to existing customers with minimal effort to encourage repeat business.

Can Foodbooking.uk integrate with Facebook?

Yes, businesses can easily add a “See MENU & Order” button to their Facebook page, allowing customers to place food orders directly from Facebook.

How do I receive orders placed through Foodbooking.uk?

When an order is placed through your website, Facebook, or mobile app, it is instantly pushed to your Android or iOS device via a dedicated order taking app.

You can then accept or decline the order and confirm pickup or delivery times.

What happens if I miss an order?

Foodbooking.uk includes “Missed Order Alerts.” If an online order is missed due to being too busy or a loss of internet connection, the system can be set to call the business with an alert so they can call the customer back.

Does Foodbooking.uk offer branded mobile apps for customers?

Yes, Foodbooking.uk offers a free food ordering app for customers, and they also offer the option for a dedicated “branded mobile app” which would feature the restaurant’s own branding likely a paid add-on.

Can I set up different delivery zones with different charges?

Yes, Foodbooking.uk allows you to create multiple delivery zones on a map, each with its own specific delivery times, minimum order settings, and delivery charges.

This offers flexibility in managing delivery logistics.

Does Foodbooking.uk support online payments?

Yes, Foodbooking.uk supports online payments as an optional paid add-on.

This allows businesses to take payments in advance for pre-orders, table bookings, food delivery, and collections.

What kind of reporting does Foodbooking.uk provide?

Foodbooking.uk offers a “Real-Time Reporting” module that provides visual insights into what promotions work best and where operational improvements can be made, helping businesses make data-driven decisions.

How does Foodbooking.uk help with Google My Business?

Foodbooking.uk offers Google My Business sync, which automatically updates your Google Business listing name, contact details, address, opening hours when modifications are made within your restaurant admin panel.

Can I offer promotions to new customers?

Yes, Foodbooking.uk includes a special “first time order” Kickstarter promotion that allows you to offer a one-time promo deal or discount to all customers on their very first order, aiming to entice them to order directly.

Is Foodbooking.uk suitable for cafes and shops, not just restaurants?

Yes, the homepage explicitly states it’s for “Restaurants, Pubs, Takeaways, Cafe’s, Shops & More,” indicating its versatility for various food and beverage businesses.

What if I don’t accept an order in time?

If a restaurant does not accept or decline an order within 3 minutes, the order is automatically cancelled, and the customer can try again.

This ensures prompt service and avoids customer frustration.

How does Foodbooking.uk compare to Uber Eats or Deliveroo in terms of cost?

Foodbooking.uk positions itself as significantly cheaper because its basic system charges zero commission on orders, unlike Uber Eats or Deliveroo, which typically charge high percentage-based commissions e.g., 15-35% on every order.

This means businesses can save a substantial amount on fees by driving direct orders through Foodbooking.uk.