So, let’s get right into it and discover the wonderful things that 2015 has in store for us!

What will we be eating? 
The health food craze is nothing new. It’s common knowledge that more and more customers are seeking out new and creative ways to eat healthier. Although the healthy food price tag is not always as appealing as the food itself, be assured that this craze is here to stay. Being aware of the craze is one thing, utilising this knowledge and acting upon it is another! In 2015, consumer demand for a variety of healthy options will only increase, so get on the healthy train and start reaping the benefits! And remember, healthy food doesn't just mean having a salad for dinner - there are a number of exciting ways to turn all-time favourites into meals as good for the waist line as they are for the taste buds. 

One of the more interesting trends in 2015 is that food, home grown ‘from garden to plate’, have the upper hand on just ‘healthy produce’. Quality of produce and knowing where the food you’re eating has come from is more important now, than ever! Making or growing your own food will not only delight your customers, but also give their palettes a run for their money. You simply can’t compare homemade butter and bread to store bought, packaged alternatives. Yes, butter may not be the healthiest of foods out there, but when it’s lovingly made in house without additives that we can’t even pronounce, it’s a whole lot better for you. Not to mention, it tastes divine! 

It may seem like a lot of work at first, but you don’t have to start home growing your whole menu. Remember that details matter - especially on a customer’s plate. There are many restaurants that grow a few of their own veggies or herbs, make chutneys and jams, oils, condiments – the list is pretty much endless. The trick is to find out what you can do that others don’t or perhaps even can’t, perfect it and last but not least, promote it. Knowledge is key, which means you need to ensure that your customers are well informed about any healthy additions to your menu. Email and SMS campaigns as well as Google Advertising are all fantastic ways of keeping your customers in the loop, and on their toes! 

A phone is all you need. 
We don’t need to tell you that online ordering and online shopping is a huge hit with the customers and it will only get bigger and more customised! Although visiting a physical store will almost certainly never go out of style, the online world is where the action is. With 24.4 million active mobile phone subscriptions in Australia alone, it’s suffice to say that mobile shopping is a huge market and it’s here to stay!

The total online retail turnover had a rise of 0.2 per cent in December 2014 and online food retailing alone had an increase of 0.3 per cent within the same time frame.

A smartphone is the second most popular device used to access the internet and statistics predict that in 2015 almost 90% off all mobile phone users will have a smartphone as their primary mobile device. It’s no longer a matter of figuring out whether mobile marketing is important – it clearly already is.

Not so long ago, it was inconceivable to think that a business could reach its customers at such a close a proximity. Yes, your customers may well be kilometres away, but with the power of mobile shopping and online marketing combined, you can connect with your customers instantly. 

The future of technology is bright and only promises more exciting and customisable ways for customers to connect, and purchase from businesses. From face-recognition software to touchscreens that customise and enhance the ordering experience – the power of technology has no limits. 

So, now what?
Take this knowledge on board and start connecting with your customers. We live in an online world that's saturated with messages, offers and ads on a daily basis. Business owners simply don’t have the luxury of waiting for their customers to walk through the doors without so much as lifting a finger. 

Be proactive, not reactive - businesses all across Australia are utilising mobile marketing to its full potential – don’t be the one who’s left behind.

Engage and continue to connect - grow your database but don’t neglect to use it! There is always a reason to connect with your customers, so there are no excuses not to.

Finally, know your customers inside and out - ask your customers and actually listen. Use their feedback to shape your business – the customer is always right after all.