Are you switching from Olo to further support your restaurant business? If so, let’s start by stating that there are many Olo alternatives to choose from. But more importantly, it’s likely that you’ll experience changes in finances, restaurant operations, and so on once you make the switch. After all, brand new hospitality software will be hosting features and services. 

From restaurant expenses to changes in customer satisfaction, there is a lot to keep an eye on. Once we outline a handful of Olo alternatives, we’ll jump right into the changes you might notice once you begin switching from Olo. Now, let’s get prepared to navigate the transition!

Olo Alternatives 

There are many Olo alternatives on the market that offer some of the best online ordering solutions. After all, hospitality software companies are constantly releasing new updates and product features. It’s an industry full of product differentiation, so there’s certainly a lot to choose from. 

As of 2023, some of the most popular Olo alternatives include the following companies:

• Revolution Ordering
• Incentivio
• Toast
• Aloha
• Bentobox
• Chowly 
• Owner
• Lunchbox

Now that you have a variety of Olo alternatives to look into, let’s discuss what switching from Olo might look like. Check out the following section for all you need to know. 

7 Changes You May Notice When Switching from Olo

Every restaurant-centric platform has its unique differences. Sure, most of them might have similar functions and goals in mind. However, for the most part, they’re a bit comparable. So, what would it look like to switch from one to another? Well, it depends on which two. In this blog, we’ll dive into what you may notice when switching from Olo to one of the many Olo alternatives in the restaurant industry. 

Read on for the details:

1. Changes In Monthly Expenses  

It’s safe to say that almost every online ordering service provider prices their products differently from the rest. While some differ based on the size of your enterprise, others fluctuate based on the features you utilize. Or both! That's why choosing online ordering for small restaurants can be so difficult.

For example, Bentobox prices each of their features separately. Depending on what you need and the number of restaurant units you operate, it may be extremely difficult to gauge the total cost. On the other hand, Revolution Ordering offers a flat monthly fee for all its features. As a result, it’s super easy to work us into your restaurant budget and plan your finances.

2. Access to Customer Service Channels

Every company’s customer success team functions a bit differently. In fact, that’s a common reason why many companies are switching from Olo. Did you know that despite the size of their company, you can only reach customer support via email? This could raise many issues when facing a product-related issue. 

Meanwhile, other restaurant tech alternatives, such as Revolution Ordering, offer clients 24/7 customer support. So if you’re ever in dire need of assistance, we’re here to help. And in the event that there are less serious issues, every client will have access to a knowledge base. With this resource, you can learn the product thoroughly on your own.

3. Updates Across the Website Design

Many online ordering service providers design and host their client’s websites. In doing so, they’re able to incorporate a digital storefront right into it. The purpose of this is to keep potential customers on the restaurant’s website for as long as possible.

When switching to one of the Olo alternatives, it might be plausible to assume that the site design may change. Or if it doesn’t, the checkout experience on the customer’s end might be a bit different. It shouldn’t be too drastic of a change to be concerned about, but just a possibility.

4. New Features for the Staff

When switching from Olo, you might notice that your staff has an easier time doing their work. This is because many Olo alternatives include features that boost employee engagement and productivity. As a result, businesses can also maximize revenue. 

For instance, Toast offers a clear view of tables and restaurant seating arrangements. As a result, managing restaurant reservations is a breeze. On the other hand, Revolution Ordering clients have access to a business intelligence dashboard. It displays company-wide performance and industry trends, and is unlike anything Olo competitors offer at the moment. So, staff can leverage its reports to build smart financial and marketing plans. 

5. An Improved Customer Experience

One of your biggest hopes when switching from Olo is likely that your customers will have a better experience. After all, providing great customer service is what provokes repeat business and customer retention. Many Olo alternatives offer customer-centric features, too. 

For example, Aloha has a ton of marketing tools and integrations. Meanwhile, Revolution Ordering offers live order monitoring and custom marketing channels. The list of offerings amongst brands is endless. So, if new customer-facing features are part of your new platform, the overall guest experience may improve.

6. Access to More Online Ordering Apps

It’s pretty obvious that marketplace order insertion is the main reason for partnering with an off-premise tech provider. However, not all companies connect to the same apps. For instance, as of May 2023, Incentivio doesn’t integrate with Google food ordering. Meanwhile, that’s a favorite feature amongst Revolution Ordering clients

With this in mind, it’s important that you consider which delivery service providers are most popular in your geographic region. Then, check which online ordering providers integrate with these apps. After all, the channels that people can order from can make or break restaurant success.

7. An Increased Number of Tools and Integrations

No two online ordering providers are the same. This means that a new provider may offer features that are new to you and your staff. For example, Revolution Ordering is one of the providers that offers multi-pay options for group ordering. Surprisingly, this isn’t offered by all Olo competitors.

Or, some companies may have fewer loyalty program or gift card integrations. In this case, a competitor may be able to offer your business more demand creation and marketing tools.

Frequently Asked Questions About Olo Alternatives

There are many Olo alternatives that potential and current clients can switch to. However, it’s important to learn the basics about the company at hand. Now that you’re familiar with what you can expect when you make the switch, let’s discover a bit more about Olo. See below:

Who Are the Competitors of Olo?

Some of the most popular Olo competitors include the following companies:

• Revolution Ordering 
• Bentobox 
• Incentivio 
• Toast 
• Aloha 
• Owner 
• Lunchbox 

What Is Olo Used For?

Olo is used for online ordering services and POS integration features across the food and beverage industry. Restaurants and other hospitality brands are able to use Olo online ordering features to offer off-premise dining. Plus, there are other aspects, like marketing resources and order management tools.

Is Olo a SaaS Company?

Yes, Olo is a SaaS company. Olo offers software including a variety of features that food service brands can use. Their software options also pair with numerous POS hardware brands to fully operate. Such hardware may include things like tablets, self ordering kiosks, and mobile phones.

How Many Employees Does Olo Have?

According to LinkedIn, Olo has about 890 employees as of October 2023. It’s worth noting that this metric comes shortly after their layoff, comprising 11 percent of Olo’s workforce.

What Industry Is Olo In?

Olo is a company that services the hospitality industry. Not only do they have clients in the restaurant space, but in sub-sectors as well. Such sub-sectors include hotel in room dining, country clubs, and more.

Ready to Make the Switch?

Switching from Olo doesn’t have to be an intimidating process. In fact, many Olo alternatives can probably make it a seamless transition. Like anything else, navigating a new platform will take time and effort to get used to. But once you move past those hurdles, something new can make a world of difference in your business.