FoodEmp partner
Online ordering system pricing
How online ordering is priced: subscription items, modules, and the break-even between a fixed plan and marketplace commission — with GBP and USD examples.
Short answer
Ordering systems use a fixed subscription or turnover commission. Break-even = monthly plan ÷ commission rate (GBP or USD). Above that threshold a subscription is usually cheaper. Compare total cost including modules and card fees.
Pricing models
UK and US restaurants usually face a fixed subscription for a branded channel versus marketplace commission (Deliveroo / Just Eat in the UK; DoorDash / Uber Eats in the US). Some vendors mix both.
- Subscription: predictable; unit cost falls as volume grows.
- Marketplace commission: easier at low volume; absolute cost rises with every order.
What sits inside a subscription
- Base package: ordering, menu, basic reports.
- Modules: loyalty, multi-site, courier, analytics.
- Payment fee: acquirer rate per card transaction (not marketplace commission on your own channel).
Break-even — GBP example (UK)
Suppose your branded channel is £99/month (illustrative) and the marketplace takes 25%. Break-even sales = 99 ÷ 0.25 = £396 per month. Above that marketplace volume, the subscription math often wins for regulars.
Break-even — USD example (US)
Same method: $129/month illustrative plan ÷ 30% commission → break-even ≈ $430 monthly marketplace sales. Confirm live package prices with the vendor — figures here teach the method only.
- Estimate monthly marketplace food sales.
- Break-even = monthly subscription ÷ commission rate.
- Above the line, fixed pricing usually wins.
- Growth widens the subscription advantage.
Compare correctly
- Run both models in the same currency (GBP or USD).
- Add setup and modules to total cost.
- Factor annual discounts and card fees.
Related
Contact or free setup.
Frequently asked questions
Is a subscription or a turnover commission more economical?
It depends on volume. Above a threshold, a fixed subscription beats 15–30% marketplace fees (Deliveroo, Just Eat, DoorDash, Uber Eats). Use the break-even formula below in your local currency.
What should I watch for when comparing prices?
Total cost in GBP or USD: setup, card processing, modules — not only the monthly fee. Compare two providers on the same sales scenario.
Do I need a native app?
No — guests order in a mobile browser. See ordering without downloading an app.
Get started
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