6 Mobile Apps That Will Keep Your Customers Coming Back

Customer retention has become increasingly challenging as diners have numerous dining options available. Mobile applications offer powerful tools for maintaining customer loyalty and encouraging repeat visits.

Here are six approaches to mobile engagement for restaurants.

1. Fivestars

Fivestars is one of the largest and most proven loyalty program apps. The platform integrates text, email, and mobile marketing to increase customer visit frequency.

Key features:

• Automatic customer check-in via app
• Points-based rewards system
• Targeted marketing campaigns
• Customer data analytics
• New patron referral features

The platform helps attract new customers while keeping existing ones engaged.

2. Yotpo

Yotpo is a multi-purpose marketing platform emphasizing visual marketing and review management alongside loyalty rewards.

Strengths:

• User-generated content collection
• Review solicitation and management
• Social media integration
• Loyalty and referral programs

While oriented toward broader retail, restaurants can leverage its review features alongside SMS marketing for comprehensive customer engagement.

3. Preferred Patron

Preferred Patron offers registration-based rewards programs with backend marketing analytics focused on customer spending patterns.

Features include:

• Detailed spending analytics
• Timely re-engagement campaigns
• Birthday and anniversary rewards
• Visit frequency tracking

The platform focuses on understanding customer behavior to drive targeted promotions.

4. TapMango

TapMango is a straightforward platform providing a relatively easy and effective turn-key program. It prioritizes both new customer acquisition and repeat visits.

Offers:

• Customizable rewards programs
• Digital punch cards
• Referral incentives
• Marketing automation

The simplicity makes it accessible for restaurants new to loyalty programs.

5. Annex Cloud

Annex Cloud delivers comprehensive loyalty functionality across online, in-store, and app channels with integrated direct marketing capabilities.

Capabilities:

• Omnichannel loyalty tracking
• Tiered rewards programs
• Gamification features
• Advanced analytics

This enterprise-focused solution works well for multi-location restaurants.

6. Custom Restaurant Apps

While third-party platforms offer proven benefits and customer access, proprietary apps enable personalized customer engagement tailored to specific restaurant operations.

Benefits of custom apps:

• Complete brand control
• Integrated online ordering
• Direct customer communication
• No third-party fees per transaction
• Customer data ownership

Restaurant Fire provides pizzerias with mobile ordering and customer engagement tools built specifically for the pizza industry.

Choosing the Right Approach

When evaluating mobile engagement options, consider:

1. Your customer base - Are they app-savvy?
2. Your budget - Monthly fees vs. per-transaction costs
3. Integration needs - Does it work with your POS system?
4. Data ownership - Who controls customer information?
5. Simplicity - Can your staff actually use it?

Beyond Loyalty Apps

Mobile engagement extends beyond loyalty programs. Effective mobile strategies also include:

• SMS marketing for timely offers (learn more)
• Online ordering via mobile-optimized websites
• Review management to encourage positive feedback
• Social media engagement with customers

The restaurants that thrive combine multiple touchpoints to stay connected with customers.

Start Building Loyalty

Mobile app engagement is increasingly essential for competitive restaurant operations. Whether you choose a third-party platform or build your own program, the key is consistent engagement with your customers.

Want a complete solution built for pizzerias? Schedule a demo to see how Restaurant Fire's mobile ordering, SMS marketing, and review management help you keep customers coming back.