How UK Coffee Shops Can Cut Costs by Ditching Third-Party Apps for In-House Web Ordering

April 24, 2025
Running a successful coffee shop in the comes with a long list of challenges, but one of the biggest pain points is managing profit margins in the age of delivery apps. Services like Uber Eats, Deliveroo, and Just Eat offer convenience but come at a steep cost—often taking 20–35% in commission on every order. For independent coffee shop owners, this means losing a significant chunk of revenue every month. But there’s a better and smarter way. By adopting their own web ordering system, UK coffee shops can take back control of their profits while still offering customers the convenience they expect. In this article, we’ll explore how switching to in-house web ordering saves fees, strengthens customer loyalty, and ultimately helps your coffee shop thrive.

The Real Cost of Third-Party Delivery Apps

It’s easy to be lured in by the reach and exposure of big-name platforms, but the numbers tell a different story:
  • High Commission Fees: Most apps charge 20–35% per order.
  • Loss of Customer Data: You don’t own the customer relationship—the third-party apps does.
  • Limited Branding: Your coffee shop is just another name on a long list.
For many UK coffee shop owners, these platforms feel like a necessary evil. But with tighter margins and rising costs, every percentage point counts.

Why Web Ordering Is the Smarter Choice

Switching to your own branded web ordering system isn’t just about cutting out the middleman—it’s about building a direct line to your customers. Here’s how it helps:
  1. No Commission Fees
  2. Customer Ownership
  3. Full Brand Experience

Real Savings: A Quick Example (with Uber Eats)

Let’s break it down:
  • Average coffee order value: £12
  • Number of online orders per day: 30
  • Using Uber Eats (30% commission): You lose £108 per day
  • In a month (30 days), that’s £3,240 in fees
Now, imagine keeping all that revenue in your business instead.
With Kleo’s low monthly fee and no per-order commission, you save thousands that can go back into staff wages, high-quality ingredients, or marketing efforts.

Features That Make Kleo Ideal for UK Coffee Shops

Kleo’s web ordering system was designed with independent food and beverage businesses in mind. Here’s what sets it apart:
  • Easy Menu Management: Update drinks, food items, and pricing in real-time.
  • Custom Loyalty System: Reward frequent customers with points, discounts, or freebies.
  • Real-Time Notifications: Instant updates for both customers and staff—no waiting around.
  • Simple Integration with POS: Seamless back-office connection for smoother operations.

Build Loyalty Through Direct Ordering

When customers order through your own website or mobile portal, you’re not just saving money—you’re building relationships.
  • Send personalised offers or discounts via email or SMS.
  • Launch loyalty cards or stamp-based rewards systems.
  • Encourage return visits with tailored messages and perks.
Unlike third-party apps, which compete for your customer’s attention with dozens of other businesses, Kleo keeps the focus solely on your brand.

More Profit, More Control, Less Stress

UK coffee shop owners don’t have to be at the mercy of third-party platforms. With a dedicated web ordering system like Kleo, you gain financial freedom, customer loyalty, and a branded experience your community will appreciate. Instead of losing a third of your income to commissions, invest in tools that help your business grow—on your terms.
Want to see how Kleo can work for your coffee shop? Visit our site or get in touch for a free demo today.
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