Analysis of transactional data from Westpac has revealed that restaurants using food delivery platforms are generating an additional $100,000 in annual revenue on average, with businesses earning 15% more than those not utilising these services.
The data, which examined cafés and restaurants with annual turnovers between $100,000 and $1 million from 2020 to 2024, shows Victoria leading revenue growth at 21%, followed by the Australian Capital Territory (18%) and New South Wales (17%).
“Our research showed that hospitality businesses that have responded to growing consumer demand for at-home dining options have generated an additional source of revenue that is going to the bottom line,” said Anthony Mathews, National General Manager, Small Business at Westpac.
The analysis reveals significant regional variations in delivery platform adoption. Within metropolitan areas, Sydney’s western suburbs and Melbourne’s southwest show the highest usage rates, while in Queensland, Ipswich and Logan lead adoption.
According to Mathews, initial business caution around delivery platforms has given way to strategic integration. “Some businesses only turn on their delivery options when their kitchen is slow, to give them a boost, and they love having the option to choose,” he explained.
The revenue boost comes as restaurants tap into customers who prefer dining at home—a segment that wouldn’t typically visit physical locations. This represents a new customer base rather than cannibalisation of existing dine-in revenue.
Beyond delivery platforms, restaurants are investing in kitchen automation systems, self-ordering kiosks, and automated pizza ovens to increase output while maintaining quality. These technologies enable staff to focus on customer experience while managing higher order volumes.
Western Australia (12%) and South Australia (5%) showed slower growth rates compared to eastern states, suggesting potential for expansion in these markets.
The growth trajectory appears sustainable, with Westpac’s latest consumer spending data showing food delivery services up 16.8% in the three months ending May 2025 compared to the same period last year. Over the 12 months, delivery spending grew 7.8%, significantly outpacing overall food and drink spending, which increased just 0.6%.
