The Asian Catering Federation and fully integrated ordering platform, NOQU, have announced a new partnership to help restaurants take control of their brand identity and unlock the potential of online sales. NOQU allows restaurants to implement online ordering systems in a cost-effective way, while retaining a strong brand identity through their own integrated website, app and online ordering system. Central to the partnership is a nationwide series of roadshows, where The Asian Catering Federation will educate takeaway outlets on how NOQU technology can be used to build relationships with new and existing customers online and drive sales.

The partnership came about following an approach from The Asian Catering Federation, which is encouraging its 1,500 members to take control of their own online ordering systems and customer relationships by setting up their own websites.

Yawar Khan, chairman, Asian Catering Federation comments: “A handful of big players dominate online ordering in the takeaway market – but they don't always represent the best commercial benefits for our members or provide the experience their customers want. We chose to partner with NOQU because it's a cost effective way for restaurants to take full control of their brand and build loyalty with customers by providing them with their own website, app and ordering system. Restaurants using the system also collect their own data, meaning they are able to run promotions and marketing as they like. And it's more competitive – charging only 5 per cent on orders, compared to an average commission of 12 per cent. We're looking forward to working with them to help our members to increase customer loyalty and profit from increased online sales.”

Rob McMillian, CEO, NOQU comments: “We live in a digital world and it's no different in the food to go market. Today's consumers increasingly want to browse menus and order online when purchasing food to takeaway – it's a key part of the customer experience. Consumers also order up to 25% more online than when in a restaurant[1], which presents a significant sales opportunity for restaurants and takeaways. Our new partnership aims to help businesses unlock this while enabling them to remain profitable and retain a strong brand identity.”

As part of the long-term partnership, NOQU became a lead sponsor of The Asian Catering Federation's Asian Curry Awards, which took place on 15 November 2015.