Technology
SpotOn launches app to help independent restaurants beat third-party fees
June 23, 2025
SpotOn, a restaurant management system, has launched GoTo Place, a mobile-first ordering app designed to help independent restaurants drive direct orders, build customer loyalty and boost profits without the high commissions or competition often associated with third-party platforms.
"At a time when restaurants are under pressure from rising costs and shifting consumer habits, GoTo puts the power back in the restaurant's hands," Bryan Solar, chief product officer at SpotOn, said in a company press release. "GoTo is the kind of branded experience usually reserved for national chains. We're democratizing that tech for independents with the tools to drive repeat visits, own their customer relationships, and build long-term loyalty."
How it works
GoTo Place integrates online ordering, loyalty programs, deals, waitlist management, reservations and push notifications into a single, branded application for restaurants. This move by SpotOn seeks to level the playing field for independents against larger chains and "super apps."
Unlike marketplace apps that feature multiple restaurants, GoTo acts as a direct digital extension of a single restaurant, promoting its brand identity and offerings exclusively. Solar said. SpotOn data indicates that over 80% of consumers order from their phones, with 40% returning to the same restaurant within a week. GoTo is designed to capitalize on these trends by providing a streamlined experience that encourages repeat business and reward redemption.
Features include:
- Commission-free, branded mobile ordering.
- Customer engagement through loyalty rewards and marketing offers.
- Fast and intuitive reordering of favorite items.
- Management of reservations, waitlists and delivery.
- Direct digital connection to build long-term customer relationships.
"This is exactly what we've been looking for, an easy way for our guests to engage with our restaurants and control their own dining experience," Danny Scott, managing partner and director of operations of Tahoe Restaurant Group, said in the release.
The GoTo Place app is now available for download in the Apple App Store and Google Play, and is automatically included for restaurants using SpotOn Order.
