Yelp will now display the estimated wait times associated with a restaurant with the new 'Yelp Connect' feature. The Yelp general manager of restaurant market places, Devon Wright, stated that Yelp Connect will allow restaurants to update their estimated wait time. Additionally, Yelp Connect will also give restaurants the ability to share updated menu items, specials, and events. Yelp Connect will have a cost of $199 per month for restaurants located in the United States, however, there is a limited offer of $99 per month.
Many restaurants already share much of this information to a social media account. However, Devon Wright states that presenting the information on Yelp will allow restaurants to reach "a high-intent audience." Customers will also have the ability to follow restaurants in order to receive updates.
Restaurant Information Sharing Systems
'Yelp Connect' Will Allow Restaurants to Publish Wait Times
Trend Themes
1. Restaurant Wait Time Transparency - The Yelp Connect feature allows restaurants to share estimated wait times on the Yelp platform, creating an opportunity for transparency in the industry.
2. Real-time Menu Updates - Yelp Connect also gives restaurants the ability to share updated menu items, specials, and events, opening up innovation opportunities for real-time menu updates.
3. Restaurant Social Media Integration - By allowing customers to follow restaurants for updates, Yelp Connect creates a trend of integrating social media into the restaurant experience.
Industry Implications
1. Restaurant Industry - Yelp Connect directly targets the restaurant industry, providing an opportunity for improved customer experiences and engagement.
2. Technology Industry - With the rise of restaurant technology, there is an opportunity for companies to innovate and develop new systems that improve restaurant operations and customer experiences.
3. Social Media Industry - Yelp Connect highlights the importance of social media integration in the restaurant industry, creating an opportunity for social media companies to develop new tools specifically for restaurants.