I’m going to put myself out there and say that every single person that reads this post owns a mobile device. I’ll even take it one step further and say that each person reading this blog has either researched or bought a product or service using a mobile device.

I’ve provided a few statistics below to back up such a non-sweeping statement:

  • By 2014, it’s projected that mobile internet usage will overtake the desktop.
  • Mobile traffic now accounts for over 16% of total web traffic. It increased 27% in 2012..
  • Over 50% of all local searches are performed on mobile devices.
  • 70% of all mobile searches result in action within one hour

I think we’re starting to see not only the rate of mobile adoption and usage, but its extreme relevance to hyper-local marketing and conversion rates, both important topics to any business owner, in any vertical.

But wait, here’s some further proof as to the impact mobile technologies are having on the bottom line, particularly in the food and beverage industry, a leader in mobile technology adoption.

  • Restaurants now average $1,500 to $7,500 in online orders per month.
  • Almost half of all consumers have ordered food via mobile or online.
  • 37.5% of fast casual restaurant customers are now ordering online.
  • Of the 94% of US smartphone users that seek restaurant location information on their phone, 90% convert.
  • 88% of Google search volume for the keyword restaurant comes from mobile devices.

These statistics are a testament to the effect mobile technologies are having on consumer behaviors. It is clear that no matter what vertical a business finds itself, in order to be competitive, or better still, relevant, it better implement some form of mobile marketing strategy. Whether that be a mobile optimized website, enabled mobile commerce solutions, or in the case of restaurants, digital menus that allow consumers to purchase food or beverages while they are on-the-go directly from their mobile devices. Business owners need to recognize the mobile consumer, because mobile consumers are now their customers. If businesses don’t optimize and go mobile, they won’t be where their customers are. And, that doesn’t sound like good business!

Go mobile, stay relevant, and realize true ROI today. Your competitors are doing it.