Despite the increase in internet usage, many small businesses still do not have a website. In fact, less than two-thirds of local businesses report having an active website. This is understandable. As a manager or restaurant owner, you are busy putting out (hopefully metaphorical) fires, taking care of employees, and ensuring that customers go home happy and well-fed.

But ignoring your online presence is a huge mistake you can't afford to make—particularly during the current COVID-19 crisis.

If your restaurant still does not have a website, here are six reasons why the time is riper than ripe.

1. Show up in Local Searches

When someone near your location is looking for a bite to eat, there is a good chance they'll pull up their mobile device and type a question such as, "Chinese food near me" or "best burger near me." Does your restaurant appear in search results? If you don't have a website, chances are it's nowhere to be found.

According to Social Media Today, 46% of all searches on Google are for local information, which means people are looking for local restaurants online. But if you don't have a website, they are finding your competitors, not you.

Creating a website and claiming your Google My Business listing is the best way to ensure that your location shows up when diners near your restaurant are looking for a place to eat.

2. Allow Online Delivery Ordering

As more Americans reduce activities outside of their home due to COVID-19, there has been an increase in online delivery and takeout options. According to Restaurant Business Online, 86% of consumers are using take-out or food delivery options—an increase of more than a third.

Without a website, your restaurant is at the mercy of third-party delivery apps, which often charge high fees—up to 30% in some cases. Your own website, however, makes it easy for consumers to order directly from you.

3. Compete With Larger Brands

Smaller restaurants have smaller budgets for marketing, branding, and even training. However, the internet is an equalizer, if you know how to leverage it. By creating a website, applying SEO best practices, and including social proof, such as testimonials, you'll make your restaurant far better prepared to compete with larger brands.

While having a website isn't the only step you need to take to compete with larger chains, it is the most crucial one.

4. Increase Brand Trust

When was the last time you shopped online? If you are like most people, it was sometime in the last few weeks. Did you check online reviews, compare pricing, and research what other people had to say about the item or brand you were considering?

Brand trust is the extent to which consumers are familiar with your brand and trust your business to offer a valuable service. Having a website helps increase brand trust, which drives revenue.

When people trust you to provide a good experience, they are more likely to choose you over your competition—and recommend your restaurant to their friends.

5. Sell Gift Cards

Gift cards should be an essential part of your business model—both now, during the health crisis, and when times are good. Here's why: Customers who have gift cards are more likely to spend over the gift card amount, which means you make more money. Gift cards can also help create a steady stream of income during the holiday season or during global pandemics.

While in-person dining at regular capacity is not currently possible in some locations, many patrons are still choosing to buy gift cards to their favorite local spots to use at a later time. If you do offer takeout, community members can also purchase gift cards for first responders and other essential workers.

6. Offer Online Reservations

While many restaurants cannot currenly offer in-person dining at full capacity, there are some indications that you may be able to open up in the coming months.

An online reservation system makes it easy for patrons to schedule a time to dine with you without having to make a phone call, which most millennials say they hate.

Final Thoughts

Many restaurateurs face difficult choices to stay afloat during the current health crisis. However, you can't afford to not have a website for your restaurant. Having a website makes it easier for diners to find your location, allows you to leverage online ordering, and increases your ability to compete with larger brands.

Ready to get started on your restaurant's website? Get your free online ordering website today.