Saving $3,500/Month in Delivery Fees and Boosting Repeat Customers by 40%
The Challenge
Southern Smoke BBQ’s business model was suffering from:
- High Delivery Fees – Third-party apps like DoorDash and UberEats were charging up to 30% per order, severely cutting into profits.
- No Direct Customer Relationships – Orders through apps didn’t allow the restaurant to collect customer data for loyalty or promotions.
- Inconsistent Repeat Business – Many first-time delivery customers never returned, making growth unpredictable.
To regain control of their margins and customer base, Southern Smoke needed a
direct-to-consumer strategy
Our Solution
DineDigitals implemented a direct ordering and retention system designed to increase
profitability and repeat visits.
1. Direct Online Ordering System
- Built an integrated online ordering feature directly on their website.
- Enabled customers to order pickup and delivery without going through third-party apps.
2. Loyalty & Rewards Program
- Introduced a points-based rewards system where customers earned credits toward future BBQ meals.
- Promoted via SMS and email campaigns with exclusive deals for loyalty members.
3. Email & SMS Marketing
- Set up automated campaigns for abandoned carts, special promotions, and new menu items.
- Sent personalized offers for loyal customers, such as “double points on brisket this weekend.”
4. Local SEO Improvements
- Optimized for keywords like “Dallas BBQ delivery” and “best brisket in Dallas.”
- Updated Google Business Profile with mouthwatering photography and promotions.
The Results
Within four months of implementation, the impact was clear:
- Saved $3,500/month in third-party app fees by driving 60% of delivery orders to their own system.
- 40% increase in repeat customers, fueled by loyalty rewards and personalized marketing.
- Email and SMS campaigns achieved an open rate of 38% and strong return visits.
- Ranked higher in Google Maps searches, resulting in a steady stream of new diners.
Client Testimonial
“Those delivery apps were eating our profits. Now we have our own ordering system and a way to keep customers coming back. DineDigitals didn’t just save us money — they helped us build relationships with our guests.”
— Tyler J., Owner of Southern Smoke BBQ
Key Takeaway
Restaurants relying on third-party delivery apps can take back control with direct ordering, loyalty programs, and retention marketing. Southern Smoke BBQ turned what was once a profit drain into a reliable growth engine.
