Ten trends Vancouver foodies are likely to encounter this year…#1 Mobile
M commerce — Restaurant owners, meet thy customers, the mobile millions. They’re not hobbled to computers, but to mobile devices. They want to access websites on the go, on the road.
“I compare it to clients of 20 years ago who asked why they needed a website. Today, it’s why do I need a mobile website?” says Rob Barnett, managing director of Stray Dog Marketing and Design in West Vancouver. “Stats say more people access websites through mobile devices than through computers.”
Having websites for mobile devices such as iPhone and BlackBerrys and Android phones, he says, is an absolute must to reach customers. “We always say ‘young’ customers but what is young? It’s not just people in their 20s. It’s people 45 and younger. It’s a much bigger market than we think and it’s an absolute must.”
Most restaurants don’t have mobile-friendly websites designed for quick information. “It’s like snack food, just enough to lure them in, to reserve or order food online.”
Loyal customers can opt in to receive mobile text messaging with embedded URL links for websites, updates on discounts, deals and specials. Barnett says studies show people follow through more with mobile text messages than those in email or print. “It’s an instant read and the redemption is six to 10 times higher.” Soon, he says, GPS-enabled phones will bring forth geo-location marketing with messages from restaurants once you enter the neighbourhood.
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