Release Notes 57

This release introduces a range of significant improvements to the Playfood software solution, designed to streamline the operations of our food delivery partners, reduce order-related costs, and maximise upselling potential. These updates will significantly improve the efficiency, accuracy and revenue opportunities of your food delivery ecosystem, whether you run a high-volume marketplace, operate a grocery delivery service or manage branded apps for a restaurant chain.

1. The New Order Webhook API for Vendors

We understand that, as partners grow, they often bring their own technology stacks to the table. Our Order API for Vendors has officially launched, enabling a seamless connection between Playfood and a vendor's internal inventory or POS system.

This is how it works in your operations: Vendors can now automatically receive order data and update their internal stock levels in real time through the use of secure webhooks. This eliminates the need for manual data entry, reduces human error in busy kitchens and means that, when a customer places an order, the vendor's system is already up and running.

2. JSON API for Import and Export

While our CSV tools have served our partners well, we are stepping up to modern industry standards by introducing a JSON API for catalogue management.

This is how it works in your operations: This is a game-changer for large restaurant chains or marketplaces with thousands of SKUs. Your technical teams can now push or pull menu data, prices and descriptions programmatically. This enables near-instant updates across your entire marketplace, ensuring your digital storefront always reflects your physical inventory perfectly.

3. The Dynamic Welcome Screen

The first thing a customer sees should be the most valuable. Our new welcome screen for both app and web marketplaces features top categories and dedicated landing pages for couriers and new vendors.

This is how it works in your operations: Beyond simple navigation, this feature enables internal deep linking. Want to promote a specific vendor who is running a weekend special? You can now place them directly on the welcome screen. You can also sell this premium digital space as 'promotional spots' to vendors looking to increase their visibility, generating an entirely new revenue stream for your platform.

4. Custom splash animation screens

First impressions matter. We have introduced custom splash animations that appear while the marketplace loads.

This is how it works in your operations: You can now select a sophisticated animation from our universal library or request a bespoke design that reflects your local brand identity. These screens keep users engaged during the critical first second of app launch, whether it’s a taxi fleet-branded delivery animation or a vibrant food-centric motion, reinforcing your brand’s premium feel.

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5. The major analytics overhaul

The Admin Panel has received its most significant update yet with the Advanced Analytics Module. We’ve replaced static tables with dynamic, up-to-the-minute charts.

This is how it works in your operations: You can now visualise your business health through:

• Heatmaps of orders: Identify 'rush hour' bottlenecks by hour and day.

• Geographic heatmaps: See exactly where your orders are being fulfilled to optimize courier hubs.

• Cancellation Analysis: View a daily breakdown of why orders are failing to identify and resolve operational issues immediately.

• Payment & Stats: Monitor the popularity of cash versus digital payments to manage your funds more effectively.

6. Required field markers at checkout

Minor friction can cause major abandonment, but missing information can cause delivery failure. We have optimised the checkout page so that all essential fields are now clearly labelled with the word 'Required'.

How it works in your operations: To prevent couriers from getting lost, we have added smart logic: if an address is entered in an unusual format (such as a Google Plus Code) or is missing key details, the 'Comments' field automatically becomes mandatory. This forces customers to provide specific landmarks or instructions, which significantly reduces the number of "failed delivery" calls and keeps your fleet moving efficiently.

7. Courier search estimations on Vendor App and in the Call Center

Efficiency is built on information. Now, both Vendors and Call Center operators can see a live estimation of when the courier search mechanism will begin after an order is accepted.

This is how it works in your operations: This provides a clear 'readiness window' for the kitchen. Vendors no longer have to guess when a rider will arrive; they can see the countdown and time their food preparation perfectly. This visibility also allows your operators to manage customer expectations accurately, leading to higher satisfaction scores and smoother logistics.

This update gives you more control over the 'how' and 'why' of your delivery business. By opening up our APIs and improving our data visualisations, Playfood is ensuring that our partners have the tools to compete on a global level.

As always, feedback from the field drives our sprints. We look forward to hearing how these new charts and integrations help you to scale up your operations this month!