Apple Maps Connect
On the 21st October 2014, Apple released a new web portal called Apple Maps Connect. Apple Maps Connect is aimed at smaller businesses, such as independent restaurants and takeaways, so that they have the ability to put themselves onto the map. Many smart devices such as smart phones and tablets will have a maps app already installed onto the device. For Android devices this will be Google Maps, whereas on Apple devices this will be Apple Maps. Apple Maps was first introduced in 2012, therefore is still fairly new and is still being very much developed to improve the way that it works.
Maps App
The maps app on any smart device is useful for people to find your business on the map. Using a map can bring up useful information and is always great at directing you to your required destination. Restaurants and takeaways can benefit from being on a map so that customers can easily find them.
Benefits of Apple Maps Connect
Restaurants and takeaways can benefit from Apple Maps Connect as they can add themselves to the map so that customers can easily find them. Apple Maps Connect is free to use. Restaurants and takeaways can either log in with an existing Apple ID or they can create a new one which is also free to do.
The set up process for Apple Maps Connect is very simple. A verification code is sent to either a mobile number which you have provided or the email address that you have logged in with. Once your account has been verified you can carry on setting up your account. After you have created an account you can add the address of your restaurant or takeaway. You can also add essential information such as your opening hours and links to your website and your social networking sites so that your customers can link with you for future updates and offers.
Disadvantages of Apple Maps Connect
Currently Apple Maps Connect is only running in the USA, however if it is a success then it won’t take long for Apple Maps Connect to be introduced to more countries across the world and eventually be introduced to the UK.
Apple Maps Connect is perfect for all restaurants and takeaways. It is another marketing platform which can be used to create awareness and get customers through the door. Customers will benefit by being able to find out information such as your opening hours which is useful information for your customers.
At Smart Restaurants we strongly advise that as soon as Apple Maps Connect is available in the UK that you put your restaurant or takeaway straight on to Apple Maps to gain recognition and will eventually gain more customers. Many customers will own an Apple iPhone, therefore if your restaurant or takeaway is on there your customers will be able to see you on Apple Maps as well as be able to link with you further by visiting your website where they will be able to see your menu and may also be able to download your App where they can then order a meal with you. They can also link with you on social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter.
