top of page

Why 2025 Is the Year of First-Party Restaurant Technology


Restaurant Technology

Key Takeaways:

  • First-party delivery platforms are becoming a leading choice as restaurants seek to increase profits and own customer relationships

  • Restaurants can save 15-35% on commissions by switching from third-party to first-party delivery solutions

  • The hospitality industry's successful shift away from third-party booking platforms provides a proven blueprint for restaurants

  • Direct ordering platforms offer superior data insights, customer relationship management, and brand control

  • Technology investment in first-party solutions is becoming essential for long-term restaurant sustainability



While third-party delivery apps have dominated the digital landscape for years, a significant shift is occurring as restaurants seek greater control over their delivery operations, customer relationships, and profit margins.


The Limitations with Third-Party Platforms for Restaurants


Recent industry data reveals limitations that restaurants face using third-party delivery providers. According to a recent article by Restaurant Business Online the core issues include:


  • High commission rates (15-30% per order)

  • Loss of direct customer relationships

  • Pressure to offer steep discounts

  • Limited access to customer data

  • Decreasing profit margins


The Rise of First-Party Restaurant Technology Solutions


Forward-thinking restaurants are increasingly investing in first-party delivery solutions, and here's why this shift matters for your business:


  1. Complete Control Over Customer Experience

- Direct communication with customers

- Branded delivery experience

- Personalized service options

- Quality control from kitchen to doorstep


  1. Better Economics

- No third-party commissions

- Higher profit margins

- Controlled pricing strategy

- Reduced promotional costs


  1. Valuable Customer Data

- Direct access to ordering patterns

- Customer preference insights

- Targeted marketing opportunities

- Building long-term relationships


Learning from Other Industries


The hospitality industry provides a valuable blueprint for restaurants. Airlines and hotels successfully regained control from online travel agencies by:

  • Offering better prices on direct channels

  • Creating compelling loyalty programs

  • Providing exclusive benefits

  • Delivering superior customer service


Flat Fixed Fee

How to Successfully Implement First-Party Delivery


Step 1: Choose the Right Technology Partner

Select a technology solution that offers:

- Seamless ordering experience

- Robust delivery management

- Customer data analytics

- Marketing automation tools


Step 2: Develop Your Strategy

Create a comprehensive plan that includes:

- Competitive pricing strategy

- Customer acquisition approach

- Loyalty program design

- Staff training procedures


Step 3: Execute and Optimize

Focus on:

- Consistent service quality

- Regular performance monitoring

- Customer feedback integration

- Continuous system improvement


The Sauce Advantage: Your Partner in Online Ordering & Delivery


As a dedicated first-party restaurant technology solution, Sauce provides:

  • Complete ownership of customer relationships

  • Higher profit margins on every order

  • Advanced data analytics and insights

  • Seamless delivery management and live customer support for your diners

  • Integrated loyalty programs

  • Custom-branded experience


Cut Delivery Fees To Zero

Making the Switch to First-Party Technology


The transition to first-party delivery might seem daunting, but with the right technology partner, it's a strategic move that positions your restaurant for long-term success. As more restaurants recognize the advantages of controlling their digital destiny, first-party solutions are becoming not just an alternative, but a necessity.


Ready to take control of your delivery future? Contact Sauce today to learn how our first-party restaurant technology solution can transform your digital operations and boost your bottom line.


Get started with Sauce: Schedule a demo today and discover how our first-party delivery platform can help you increase profits, build customer loyalty, and take control of your digital presence.


Read also:



Frequently Asked Questions


How does first-party delivery impact restaurant profitability?

First-party delivery eliminates third-party commissions (typically 15-30%), allowing restaurants to retain more profit per order while maintaining control over pricing and promotions.


What advantages does first-party technology offer over third-party platforms?

A: First-party solutions provide direct customer relationships, complete data ownership, higher margins, and the ability to create a branded delivery experience without intermediaries.


How can restaurants compete with the convenience of third-party apps?

By offering better prices, exclusive deals, superior service, and loyalty rewards through their first-party platform, restaurants can create compelling reasons for customers to order directly.


What should restaurants look for in a first-party technology solution?

Key features include user-friendly ordering interfaces, robust delivery management, customer data analytics, marketing tools, and seamless integration with existing restaurant systems.






9 views

Comments


Thanks for subscribing!

Get a Taste of Our Secret Sauce
Stay up to date with the latest restaurant delivery news

Bringing in

Orders

Supporting

Deliveries

Recovering

Funds*

Driving Repeat Business

Making Delivery Work

*Sauce recovers over 98% of restaurant delivery refund claims.

Commission Free Direct Delivery

Access To Unlimited Supply Of Delivery Drivers

Live Mobile Order Tracking

Live Delivery Support

Refund Reconciliation Management

Virtual Telephone Answering

Feedback Collection & Management

MAKING
DELIVERY
WORK

bottom of page