The French culinary scene in Osaka, Japan, is seeing a subtle but significant shift in how restaurants approach digital engagement with their clientele. Le Progrès, a Michelin-recognized establishment, is currently updating its online account creation process, signaling a broader trend of restaurants prioritizing direct customer relationships through digital platforms.
According to a notice on the restaurant’s website, Le Progrès is updating its account management system. The message details how the restaurant collects and processes personal information submitted through a new account creation form. This data, managed by their Customer Relations department, is used for account creation, subscription management, and other services. Customers are also informed that their data may be used for newsletters and promotional offers, provided they consent. The notice includes links to the restaurant’s data protection policy, terms of use, and contact information, including a dedicated Data Protection Officer (DPO) email address.
This move comes at a time when restaurants globally are increasingly focused on building direct-to-consumer relationships, bypassing traditional third-party delivery and reservation platforms. While Le Progrès doesn’t explicitly state a reason for the update, the emphasis on data privacy and consent suggests a commitment to transparency and building trust with its customers. What we have is particularly relevant in Europe and increasingly in other regions, where data protection regulations are becoming more stringent.
The restaurant’s approach, as outlined in the online notice, is comprehensive. It clearly outlines the purpose of data collection, the rights of individuals regarding their data (access, rectification, erasure, limitation, opposition, and consent withdrawal), and provides multiple avenues for customers to exercise those rights. The inclusion of a DPO contact demonstrates a proactive approach to data governance.
The broader context of this update is the evolving digital landscape for restaurants. Historically, restaurants relied heavily on platforms like OpenTable or local review sites to manage reservations and build visibility. However, these platforms often come with significant commission fees and limited control over the customer experience. Restaurants are now investing in their own websites, email marketing, and loyalty programs to cultivate direct relationships and reduce reliance on intermediaries.
The update at Le Progrès also reflects a growing awareness of the importance of personalization. By collecting customer data (with consent), the restaurant can tailor its marketing efforts, offer customized recommendations, and create a more engaging experience for its patrons. This is particularly important in the competitive fine-dining market, where customer loyalty is paramount.
Interestingly, the notice appears to be dated with a future date of , suggesting a planned rollout of the updated system. This proactive approach indicates that Le Progrès is anticipating future regulatory changes or simply aiming to enhance its customer service capabilities well in advance.
Beyond Le Progrès, the trend of restaurants prioritizing digital account management is evident across the industry. Creating a Google Account, as detailed on Google’s support pages, is now often a prerequisite for accessing online reservation systems, loyalty programs, and exclusive offers. For businesses, a Google Account facilitates the setup of a Google Business Profile, enhancing online visibility and management of online information.
The shift towards direct digital engagement isn’t limited to established restaurants. Subscription-based services, like those offered by “Le Progrès” magazine (as highlighted on ShareSub), also require account creation and data management. This underscores the universality of the trend across the broader media and hospitality sectors.
While the focus here is on Le Progrès, the underlying message is clear: restaurants are recognizing the value of owning their customer relationships in the digital age. The emphasis on data privacy, transparency, and personalization will likely become increasingly common as restaurants strive to create more meaningful and lasting connections with their patrons. This isn’t simply about technology; it’s about building trust and fostering loyalty in a highly competitive market.
The restaurant’s chef and sommelier, who both trained at the same establishment, aim to present French cuisine that reflects Japan’s climate, and culture. This dedication to originality, applying French techniques to Japanese ingredients, is mirrored in their approach to digital engagement – a sophisticated and considered strategy designed to enhance the overall dining experience.
