A step-by-step playbook for Cairo restaurants to build, segment, and monetise a WhatsApp Business list.
WhatsApp is the most under-utilised revenue channel for Cairo restaurants. Here's the playbook we've seen work.
Setup
Use WhatsApp Business API (via 360dialog, Twilio, or Wati) — not the free Business app. You'll need templated messages and proper segmentation.
List building
- QR code on every table linking to a WhatsApp chat
- "Order on WhatsApp" CTA on Instagram bio
- Opt-in after every delivery with a 10% next-order discount
- Goal: 2000 subscribers in first 60 days
Segmentation
- VIP (5+ orders): early access to new menu items
- Active (1-4 orders in 60 days): weekly menu + Friday offers
- Lapsed (no order in 30+ days): win-back flow with free delivery
Message cadence
- Max 2 messages/week, or opt-outs spike
- Best times: Thursday 6-8 PM (weekend prep), Sunday 11 AM (weekly menu)
Templates that convert
- "شيف بيعمل دلوقتي [dish] — خصم 20% للـ 30 طلب الأولى، اطلب دلوقتي"
- "العيلة عازمة الجمعة؟ قائمة Family Meal جديدة بـ 30% خصم"
- "شوف اللي فاتك الأسبوع ده 👇"
Integration
Plug your menu into a catalog so customers can order without leaving WhatsApp. This alone lifts conversion 2-3×.
Metrics to track
- Open rate (should be 70%+)
- Click-through to menu (target 15%)
- Conversion to order (target 5%)
- Cost per acquired customer
The Friday trick
Send Friday's menu at Thursday 8 PM. Conversion on family orders will 4× vs. same message at Friday noon — people plan weekend dinners on Thursday.
Final
WhatsApp > Instagram > Talabat in LTV terms. Invest accordingly.