DoorDash Launches New AI Suite for Merchant Operations

DoorDash has introduced a new suite of AI-driven tools designed to streamline merchant onboarding, improve menu photography, and automate marketing efforts [2]. These features are intended to reduce operational complexity and help restaurant owners manage their businesses across both the DoorDash app and their own direct ordering channels [1].

Key takeaways

• The new self-serve onboarding tool uses AI to pull information from a merchant’s existing website, which DoorDash claims can help them launch more than 35% faster [2].
• Merchants can now use AI photo-editing tools to sharpen images, replace backgrounds, and professionally replate dishes without altering the food itself [1].
• A new video library allows merchants to tag menu items directly in videos, enabling customers to order items as they watch [2].
• AI-powered website tools allow merchants to create branded ordering sites using existing DoorDash content, with tests showing average order conversion rates of nearly 10% [1].
• Automated marketing features now help merchants generate content and schedule email outreach for specific occasions [2].

Enhancing Visuals and Streamlining Operations

The updated platform includes significant upgrades to how merchants present their food to customers. The new AI-powered photo tools, available across web, Android, and iOS, offer three specific modes: AI Retouch for lighting and background adjustments, AI Replate for professional-grade presentation, and a style-matching feature that allows merchants to apply the aesthetic of a reference image to their own photos [2]. These tools are designed to ensure that menu images remain consistent and high-quality, which the company notes can be a deciding factor for customers choosing what to order [2].

In addition to photography, DoorDash has revamped its video library to serve as a centralized hub for merchants to upload and manage content [2]. By tagging specific dishes within these videos, merchants can create a direct path for customers to purchase items [1]. Brian Tolkin, head of merchant product at DoorDash, stated that these tools are intended to remove friction for merchants, allowing them to focus on food preparation and customer experience [1]. The company also introduced a marketing campaign builder that automates content creation and email scheduling, helping businesses stay connected with customers during local events or national holidays [2].

Why it matters

These updates represent a broader effort by DoorDash to provide a comprehensive commerce platform that supports merchants beyond the initial delivery transaction [2]. By integrating AI into the setup and maintenance processes, the company aims to help businesses save time on manual tasks like website creation and campaign management [2]. As merchants continue to seek ways to drive direct sales and improve operational efficiency, these tools provide a standardized way to maintain a digital presence across multiple channels without requiring extensive technical resources [1].