We get it, running a food and beverage business is hard. From managing stock to invoicing and everything in-between. As a distributor you wear many different hats and time is often hard to find.
As we move into the new world it is so important to implement a strategy for future growth.
If you are taking orders manually through Phone, SMS or Email, you may be doing more harm for your business then good. The best way you can reduce your administration time and streamline your business is through Online Ordering.
The common misconception in the Food & Beverage industry is that setting up online ordering is expensive. In reality, this couldn’t be further from the truth.
Here are some of the key features of online ordering and what it could do for your business. Some may even surprise you!
- Open your store 24 hours a day, Customers can place orders when it suits them best.
- Automates your entire ordering and payment process. Rather than managing different order methods – Online ordering will completely track and manage all your orders in one central place. You can automatically view, search or sort inputted orders however you choose. No more costly data entry or administration task.
- Avoids cashflow problems, by utilising credit limits and auto customer debits through payment gateway.
- Linked with your management system, you can sync orders with your live inventory. Once an order has been placed online, the system will automatically update your stock count. If your stock is sold out or low in numbers, the system will display a message rather than charging a customer for an unavailable product.
- Integrates with leading accounting software for hassle free bookkeeping.
- Fast and Easy Account creation.
- Simple exporting & printing. Online ordering allows you to export or print slips, receipts, invoices or orders. This is done in minutes as opposed to manual systems that often take hours to generate key information.
Where EasyVend can help?
EasyVend creates complete online ordering and ecommerce websites designed specifically for food and beverage distribution businesses. All EasyVend online ordering platforms include the exciting features above and more!
- No IT experience required; our user friendly, responsive websites are completely scalable for any skillset. With full step by step training and 24/7 support we are with you every step of the way.
- Automatic product and product image updates. Information is automatically updated from EasyVend based on your needs.
- Customisable to your preferences. Set up order cut off times or adjust pricing for customers.
- Automatic SMS or email reminders to customers for cut off times. Your customers will never miss a cut-off again.
Give your business a whole new lease of life today! See how easy it is. Submit your details below for a Trial EasyVend. One of our team members will be happy to show you how it all works.
How Much Does Online Ordering Software for Distributors Actually Cost?
There is no single price for online ordering software in Australia. A basic ordering portal may cost less than $100 per month, while a system built for an established distributor can run into several hundred dollars. If you have a large customer base or need several integrations, you will usually receive a custom quote.
The monthly fee is only part of the picture. When comparing online ordering software for distributors, check exactly what the price covers. Setup, product imports and staff training may cost extra. Some providers also charge for payment processing or connections to your accounting and inventory software.
Think about the features you actually need, too. A simple retail ordering app may look suitable at first, but food distributors often need customer-specific prices, account terms, credit limits, delivery-day rules and order cut-off times. Each additional requirement can shift both the setup process and the final cost.
Before making a decision, you need to ask the provider about:
- Monthly or annual subscription fees
- One-off setup and onboarding costs
- Payment gateway and transaction charges
- Fees based on order, user or customer numbers
- Accounting, inventory and warehouse integrations
- Training, support and future upgrades
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Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Does Online Ordering Software Cost for a Food Distribution Business?
It comes down to how big and complex your operation is. Some basic plans run under $100 a month, but if you need something more robust, you could be looking at several hundred. Your catalog size, how many customers you’re serving, and whatever integrations you need all play into the final number.
Can Online Ordering Integrate With My Existing Inventory System?
Often, yes, but you should confirm compatibility before signing up. Ask whether the two systems share stock updates automatically and how quickly those changes appear online. It is also worth finding out what happens if the connection briefly drops.
Is Online Ordering Suitable for Small Food and Beverage Suppliers?
Yes. You do not need a huge catalogue or hundreds of customers to use a B2B online ordering website. Even a small supplier can use one to accept after-hours orders and keep order details in one place. Just make sure the cost makes sense for the number of orders you receive.
How Long Does It Take to Set Up an Online Ordering Website?
A small, tidy catalogue may be fairly quick to upload. Setup takes longer when you have hundreds of products, several delivery areas or different prices for individual customers. Having your product, pricing and customer data ready can speed things up considerably.