Yelp (NYSE: YELP) launched a new platform yesterday that will allow users to make transactions with businesses -- such as ordering food or scheduling appointments -- directly through Yelp's website and iOS app.
Yelp is releasing the new service, called Yelp Platform, by categories -- starting with food delivery and pickup. The company is working with delivery.com and Eat24 to allow Yelp users to order food directly through its online service. Yelp said that over the next few months it's adding thousands of local restaurants throughout the U.S. In addition to ordering food, the Yelp Platform will allow users to schedule appointments at yoga studios, spas, salons and dentist offices in the coming months.
Yelp CEO Jeremy Stoppelman said in a blog post that "We know people want an easy, streamlined consumer experience, and Yelp Platform is the next step in directly connecting users with millions of great local businesses."
Ordering food through Yelp Platform is now available at select restaurants through Yelp's website and iOS app, and will be available soon on the Android app.
