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How to Escape Zomato’s High Commission: The Ultimate Guide to Commission-Free Restaurant Ordering

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    KOSAL IT SOLUTIONS LLP
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How to Escape Zomato’s High Commission: The Ultimate Guide to Commission-Free Restaurant Ordering

Are you a restaurant owner who feels like every online order is just making Zomato richer—while your own margins keep shrinking? You’re not alone. Zomato’s commission rates can hit 20–30% per order, and that’s before you factor in marketing “boosts” and other platform fees. But what if you could take back control, own your customer relationships, and keep more of what you earn? Spoiler: You totally can, and it’s easier (and nerdier) than you think.

The Zomato Commission Problem—By the Numbers

Let’s get real: Zomato and similar platforms charge steep commissions (often 20–30% per order), forcing restaurants to either raise prices, slash portions, or just swallow the loss. According to recent reports, nearly 60% of restaurants say third-party commissions are their biggest pain point. Many small businesses end up operating at razor-thin margins or even losses just to stay visible online.

Why Restaurants Are Making the Switch

  • Profit Retention: Keep 100% of your revenue (minus payment gateway fees) instead of handing over a chunk to aggregators.
  • Customer Data Ownership: Build your own mailing list, run loyalty programs, and connect directly with your fans.
  • Brand Control: Your menu, your prices, your vibe—no more “just another listing.”
  • Better Customer Experience: Resolve issues directly, customize offers, and build real loyalty.

Nerdy Ways to Go Commission-Free

Ready to break free? Here’s how you can start taking orders directly—no middleman required:

1. DIY Online Ordering Platforms

  • What it is: Build your own branded website or app for direct orders.
  • Best for: Restaurants with a loyal customer base and a little tech courage.
  • How to start: Use platforms like Foodiv, Restolabs, or TastyIgniter. These offer drag-and-drop site builders, QR code menus, and POS integration—often with zero commission, just a flat monthly fee.

2. Cloud-Based Ordering Systems

  • What it is: SaaS tools that let you manage orders, menus, and payments online.
  • Why it’s cool: Most offer analytics, marketing tools, and integrations with delivery fleets—without skimming your profits.
  • Popular picks: Pickcel, Square Online, Olo, and more. Many start at 5–5–30/month.

3. QR Code Menus and Table Ordering

  • What it is: Customers scan a code, browse your menu, and order/pay right from their phone.
  • Why it rocks: Super easy setup, great for dine-in and takeaway, and you keep all the data.

4. Leverage Social Media & Messaging Apps

  • How it works: Take orders via Instagram, WhatsApp, or Facebook using order forms or chatbots.
  • Bonus: Link these channels to your online ordering system for a seamless experience.

Real-World Results: The Commission-Free Advantage

  • Profit Boost: Restaurants switching to commission-free systems report saving up to ₹2–5 lakh per year, depending on order volume.
  • Customer Loyalty: With direct communication, loyalty program signups can increase by 40% or more.
  • Brand Growth: Direct orders mean you can upsell, cross-promote, and gather feedback—fueling long-term growth.

Tips to Make It Work (and Outsmart the Aggregators)

  • Promote Direct Ordering: Offer exclusive deals or discounts for customers who order directly from your site.
  • Educate Your Customers: Use table tents, receipts, and social posts to explain the benefits of ordering direct (for both sides).
  • Integrate Delivery: Partner with local delivery services or manage your own fleet for full control.
  • Keep It Simple: Make the ordering process as smooth as possible—clear menus, fast checkout, and easy payment options.

Nerdy Tools to Explore

  • Foodiv: Easy setup, commission-free, POS and loyalty integration.
  • Restolabs: Branded ordering, analytics, and marketing tools.
  • TastyIgniter: Open-source, customizable, and great for techies.
  • Square Online: Flexible, integrates with POS and delivery.
  • Olo: Enterprise-grade, powerful analytics, and seamless customer experience.

Final Thoughts

Escaping Zomato’s commission trap isn’t just possible—it’s happening all over India (and beyond). With the right tools and a little digital hustle, you can keep more profits, own your customer relationships, and grow your brand on your own terms. The future of restaurant tech is direct, commission-free, and—let’s be honest—way more fun for nerds like us.

Ready to break free? Your margins (and your customers) will thank you.