Preoday Launches Curbside Collection

New social distancing feature allows customers to collect orders without leaving their car

Preoday, a QikServe company, has launched Curbside Collection, a new feature for its online and mobile ordering platform. The solution allows customers that have purchased food for takeaway to remain in their car, while operators easily locate them for on-location delivery.

The updated functionality comes at a vital moment within the UK’s battle against COVID-19. As restrictions on shop and restaurant openings continue, Curbside Collection gives customers the confidence to order food for takeaway while maintaining appropriate social distancing. Looking to the future, the feature will prove particularly useful for customers unable to easily leave their cars to venture in-store for food collection.

Hooked Fish and Chips, is one of the first companies to switch the feature on. Already, nearly two-thirds of the orders it is receiving are for Curbside Collection.

Craig Buckley, Co-owner of Hooked Fish and Chips, comments: “After we were told we’d have to change the way that we engaged with and served people, we were relieved to find an online ordering solution that could be up and running so quickly. This is such a tough time for our industry, online ordering is helping us to stay open and has given us a way to get food to our loyal customers. Curbside Collection not only increases the convenience of our service, it is helping them - and us - stay safe and protected from COVID 19.”

To use, customers simply select ‘Curbside Collection’ on their chosen outlet’s online menu, and a preferred collection time. During checkout, they will be asked to fill in their car registration number and colour. These details are then transmitted, along with the order details to the food operator’s ordering screen; they’ll also appear on printed receipts. The feature can be used for any outlet with accessible parking, that is curbside or a car park.

Nick Hucker, CEO of Preoday, comments: “So many in the hospitality industry, our community, are fighting to survive right now. It’s the duty of companies like ours to seek ways to support businesses and neighbourhoods through this time. We can do that by getting businesses up and running with online ordering as fast as possible - we’ve committed to a 48 hour turnaround, and without the complications of long-term contracts or hefty fees. We can also do it by thinking about the problem, how can we truly help people stay safe while operating their takeaways, Curbside Collection is a response to that thinking.”