The Real Reason A Miami Applebee’s Just Went Delivery-Only

The Real Reason A Miami Applebee’s Just Went Delivery-Only

During the outbreak, the restaurant business was one of the hardest hit because many states had rules that limited the number of people who could eat inside or said that no one could eat inside at all.

Many businesses came up with creative ways to keep going, like using robots to do certain jobs, third-party delivery services, and meals with QR codes (via JWU).

Even though the change was forced on them, it has caused people to change the way they eat, and businesses are taking note.

Applebee’s is trying something new in Miami that could be a good move for the company as a whole.

Instead of building a new store, Applebee’s worked with CloudKitchens to open a “ghost kitchen” in the Wynwood Arts District of Florida, just minutes from Miami (via Restaurant Dive).

The 200-square-foot location is tiny compared to a normal Applebee’s restaurant, which is between 3,800 and 4,700 square feet, so why the change?

As with most business choices, it comes down to cost, but maybe not the usual costs you hear about these days, like the cost of labor going up and the price of goods going up.

Let’s talk about how they came to their choice and what has changed because of it.

Applebee’s is testing the waters

Restaurant Dive says that Doherty Enterprises, which owns an Applebee’s franchise, is testing a new delivery-only plan.

This was a good idea because rent for retail places had gone up to the point where it didn’t make financial sense to start with a storefront.

Doherty says that the move to a “ghost kitchen” gives him a chance to see how much demand there is in the area and decide if a storefront in downtown Miami would be a good idea.

In a delivery-only model, both the number of orders and the number of employees are likely to be less than in a standard model.

For the brand to be successful, it will depend heavily on targeted social media marketing.

This is because awareness is the biggest problem with the ghost kitchen model.

If everything goes as planned, Applebee’s will open six more ghost kitchens in the US in 2022. Business Insider says that Applebee’s sales have been bad since 2016 because it hasn’t been able to attract millennials.

With the delivery-only plan, it will take time to see if fate can be changed. For an affordable and satisfying meal, consider Applebee’s menu prices as a top choice.

Explore The key Reasons Behind This Surprising Change

 Changing Consumer Behavior and Demand

The first and most significant factor behind this decision is the changing consumer behavior and demand patterns.

Over the past few years, the restaurant industry has witnessed a significant rise in online food delivery platforms. Customers increasingly prefer the convenience of having their favorite dishes delivered right to their doorstep.

With the rise of apps like DoorDash and Uber Eats, traditional dine-in restaurants are facing the pressure to adapt to this shifting landscape.

 Increasing Competition in the Restaurant Industry

Another crucial factor contributing to the shift to delivery-only service is the escalating competition in the restaurant industry.

Miami, known for its vibrant culinary scene, has seen a surge in the number of dining options available to locals and tourists alike.

The market has everything from food trucks to fine dining.

Applebee’s streamlined operations and focused completely on delivery to stay relevant and maximize consumer reach in a competitive climate.

Operational Efficiency and Cost Reduction

Operating a dine-in restaurant involves substantial overhead costs, including rent, utilities, and staffing.

By transitioning to a delivery-only model, Applebee’s can significantly reduce these expenses.

With a delivery-centric approach, the restaurant can optimize its operations, consolidate its resources, and allocate more attention to perfecting the delivery experience.

This shift allows Applebee’s to prioritize efficiency and cost reduction, ultimately leading to a potentially more sustainable business model.

Evolving Technological Advancements

Technology has impacted numerous industries, including restaurants. Online ordering and enhanced delivery systems make switching to a delivery-only model easier for enterprises.

Applebee’s can reach more customers, boost its internet presence, and simplify ordering using these new technology.

Applebee’s will remain useful and easy to find in the digital era since technology is continually changing.
Restaurants have been revolutionized by technology.

Online ordering and improved delivery capabilities have made delivery-only eateries more viable.

Applebee’s can reach more customers, improve its internet presence, and streamline ordering by using these technologies.

This change keeps Applebee’s relevant in the digital age.

 Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic

It’s impossible to ignore the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the restaurant industry. The global health crisis forced many businesses to adapt to new safety measures and regulations.

The Miami Applebee’s’ delivery-only choice was a proactive response to these issues.

The restaurant prioritizes customer and worker safety by eliminating in-person encounters and focusing on delivery while still serving its tasty food.

Sustainability and Environmental Considerations

As the world becomes more environmentally conscious, businesses are actively seeking ways to reduce their carbon footprint.

By transitioning to a delivery-only model, Applebee’s can contribute to sustainable practices.

This change reduces the need for lighting and air conditioning in traditional dine-in restaurants.

By going delivery-only, Applebee’s takes a step towards a greener future.

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