Forums: Discussions for entrepreneurs and small business.

Hello  everyone!

I am wanting to start up a restaurant delivery service in my area. I would like some suggestions on how to go about getting started.  What special software is out there.  Can this be started from my home.  Any help or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. 

I don`t understand what`s a "restaurant delivery service?" Don`t restaurants who deliver hire their own delivery people? 

I think you have a ready market for this - think of all the chains that have begun "curb side" pick up in the last couple of years.   

When we lived in Colorado Springs a few years back, there was a start up company that did just what you propose.  The idea was excellent, consumer response was warm, but there was just not enough marketing or partnering with restaurants.  I remember that they had signed on the local Chili`s and a few other well known establishments. 

In today`s market, fuel prices will impact both your service area and your price point.  I think price point was a main problem with the company that attempted this in Colorado  Springs.  There is a market for this, but can you define that market and target it while providing the service at a price that will enable you to be both in demand and profitable.

Another issue is the `from home` aspect that you propose.  You certainly could begin such an endeavor from home, but you will need to ensure that you have enough staff to meet demand, which will be volatile while you establish yourself.  This could be a cash burner in the beginning....

You`ll want to check into local codes as well - will you need certain licenses, does your municipality charge tax on services, what about your local health dept? 

Best of luck - I think this is an excellent idea that has huge potential!

 

Hm...so this might be like a PeaPod service, but for ANY restaurant or fast-food place? 

thank you boiseboys for the info and vote of confidence.  I have tons of homework to do.  I  have not yet looked into the local codes.  I know I will need a good business plan to present to the various restaurants in my area.  I know this is a great idea.  I have seen it done in another state that I lived in and they did quite well.  Any further info anyone can give is very much appreciated.

If you have not already done this then maybe you want to take a look at http://www.restaurantowner.com/

 

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Great idea. Here in Chicago, when we were working late, we utilized one of several restaurant delivery services available. They "centralized" the menus in PDF format, guaranteed delivery times within various "districts" etc. You never had to call up an individual restaurant to ask if thaey dieliverd. And many unusual and gourmet restaurants were available, which probably would not have maintained an active "free standing" delivery staff. I suggest that wide selection and guaranteed delivery time be part of your USP

Manny