Digital Platforms Boost SME Restaurant Growth in Mexico
Digital platforms have been a significant boost for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), particularly those in the food industry. These platforms enable restaurants to reach more customers, optimize costs, and create new job opportunities.
Cost Optimization through Digitalization
According to Sigfried Eisenmeier, Director of Public Policies at DiDi, 35% of restaurants using delivery platforms have optimized costs through digitalization. This is because digital sales records make accounting and tax declarations easier.
Increased Visibility and New Jobs
Eisenmeier further explained that digital platforms provide greater visibility, allowing restaurants to reach more customers and generate new demand. This demand, in turn, leads to the creation of new job positions. In fact, 25% of these businesses have created new jobs, with an average of 12 new hires in the past year.
Credit Facilities Fuel SME Growth
Lack of funding is a significant challenge for SMEs. Sigfried Eisenmeier highlighted that DiDi loans are not only used for unexpected expenses (43%) or family needs (57%), but also for business investment (24%).
Government and Private Sector Collaboration
Ximena Escobedo, Head of the Productive Development Unit at Mexico’s Secretariat of Economy (SE), emphasized the importance of collaboration between the private sector and government to support SME growth. She stated, “There are over 20 million credits given by DiDi. This impacts and becomes seed capital that allows businesses to develop. We cannot successfully support SMEs without financial inclusion and digitalization.”
Passion, Digitalization, and Credit Expand Businesses
A Case Study: Café Galería, Guadalajara
Karla Madera, founder of Café Galería in Guadalajara, Jalisco, exemplifies how passion and digitalization are crucial for business growth.
Karla’s venture began as a small crepe stand outside her home after she contracted COVID-19 and lost her DiDi driving job. With no other income source, she decided to sell crepes, but struggled initially as customers didn’t know about her business.
A DiDi Food driver suggested registering her products on the platform, leading to growing sales. Karla saw an opportunity to diversify her offerings, introducing cold cuts for sandwiches alongside crepes.
To expand, she applied for a DiDi credit, which she used to open a storefront. Now, protected from the elements, she offers an expanded menu and continues delivering through DiDi.
She mentioned some customers live nearby, preferring app-based orders over visiting the store. DiDi Enviar handles delivery when orders are confirmed.
Regarding competition, Karla said, “I don’t view them as competitors; I focus on improving my business daily. As they say, the sun rises for everyone, but you must concentrate on your own path.”
Advice to Her Past Self
If she could speak to her past self, Karla would say, “Always believe better times are coming; stay resilient like a frog.”
