How to Get More People to Download and Order from Your App: 3 Free Strategies

TLDR

Creating a mobile ordering app is just the first step. The real success comes when people start downloading it and placing orders every day. With attention spans short and competition high, restaurants need clear strategies that turn visibility into action. This article covers three effective ways to increase app downloads and in-app orders using your existing digital assets: your website, your Google business profile, and your app store listing. These approaches are practical, budget-friendly, and designed to deliver results quickly.

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Optimize Your Website for Maximum Visibility

Prioritize Accessibility

One of the simplest and most effective ways to drive more app downloads and orders is by making your app visible on your website. People can't use what they don't know exists, so placing your app front and center matters. A great example of this in action is Oasis Cafe NYC. When you land on their website, it’s immediately clear that the app is part of the experience, not an afterthought. Their navigation bar features a bold “Rewards” button that sparks curiosity and leads to a page explaining how customers can earn unlimited perks just by ordering through the app. It’s a smart way to connect value with action. On top of that, they highlight their pre-order feature right on the homepage, showing visitors they can skip the line and save time. It’s a small shift in placement, but it creates a smoother path from browsing to ordering.

Highlight Unique App Features

Your website is the perfect platform to spotlight the unique features of your app. Emphasize elements that enhance user experience, such as exclusive discounts, loyalty programs, or time-saving features like ordering ahead or curbside pickup. By doing so, visitors are more likely to download the app to take advantage of these offerings.

Enhance User Experience with Strategic Placement

Where you place your app link on your website can make or break your download rates. Consider placing the link in areas with high visibility and traffic, such as the homepage, footer, or dedicated landing page. Add clear, compelling calls-to-action (CTAs) that convey urgency and value, such as "Download Our App for Exclusive Deals" or "Order Ahead and Save Time."

These small adjustments can lead to big gains in downloads and engagement, all while giving your restaurant or café a stronger, more connected digital presence.

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Leverage Google My Business for Free App Marketing

Elevate Your App's Visibility

Utilizing Google My Business (GMB) is a powerful, cost-free method to boost app visibility and drive downloads. By adopting a strategic approach to this platform, businesses can significantly grow mobile app users and increase app orders. Here's how it's done effectively:

Maximizing GMB Features

Start by linking your app's landing page with your GMB profile. This allows potential customers to easily access your app directly from your Google listing. Think Coffee and Barrio Bagel & Slice are the best cases of this strategy, with the highest app downloads. They seamlessly incorporated links to their app landing pages on their Google listings, effectively using them as their 'menu.' This innovative approach not only guides users to download the app but also keeps them engaged.

Engage and Update

Consistent updates and engagement on GMB also enhance your app marketing strategy. Regularly post updates related to app features, promotions, or new content, keeping your audience informed and interested. Moreover, actively managing reviews can create a more appealing profile. Positive reviews can significantly enhance visibility and encourage more downloads. Encourage satisfied customers to leave feedback on both GMB and app store platforms to create a cohesive, positive image of your business and app.

By implementing these free app marketing strategies on Google My Business, you can effectively enhance your brand's presence, attract more downloads, and ultimately grow your app's user base. This approach not only makes your business stand out but also provides an engaging, informative experience for potential customers searching for services like yours.

Before you launch your app, make sure you’ve covered all the essentials. Visit our Mobile App Launch Guide to follow a proven checklist designed for restaurants and coffee shops.

Optimize Your App Store Listing

Master Keywords for Visibility

Optimizing your app’s presence on the App Store or Google Play is crucial for increasing visibility and downloads. Begin by focusing on keyword optimization. Research and select keywords that potential users might use when searching for apps like yours. Incorporate these words naturally into your app's title, description, and metadata. This strategic use of keywords helps your app appear in relevant search results, driving more potential users to your download page.

The Power of Visuals: Screenshots and Videos

Visual elements play a significant role in app store optimization. High-quality screenshots and engaging video previews provide potential users with a glimpse into what your app offers. Ensure that your screenshots highlight key features and unique selling points, such as your app's ability to let customers pre-order or earn rewards. These visuals not only attract attention but also build trust by showcasing the app's functionality and benefits, encouraging users to hit that download button.

Utilize Customer Reviews

Customer reviews are a powerful tool in boosting your app's credibility and attractiveness. Encourage satisfied users to leave positive reviews and high ratings. Respond to feedback, both positive and negative, to show that you value user opinions and are committed to improvements. Positive reviews enhance your app's reputation and can significantly influence new users to download and engage with your app, thereby increasing app orders.

By meticulously optimizing these elements, you can effectively grow your mobile app user base, ultimately driving more downloads and increasing app orders without incurring costs.

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Final Thoughts

You don’t need a big marketing budget to grow your mobile app. With the right approach, your website and online listings can do a lot of the work for you. If you’re looking for a mobile ordering app built for restaurants and cafés like yours, we’d love to show you how it works. Book a free demo and let’s walk through it together.

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