Over the last few years, restaurant POS has evolved rapidly. Initially, the POS technology was only used by big restaurants due to its high cost of installation and maintenance. However, nowadays, the technology has been simplified in a way that even smaller restaurants can afford. Features such as the use of tablets have really disrupted delivery of services in the industry. One of the promising trends in the restaurant industry is the automation of self-service. While numerous innovations were made in 2017, below are some of the worthwhile to look at POS trends this year.
Recommended: Best Data Recovery Software for Mac
1. Cloud POS Software
Contents
Cloud-based POS is among the latest development of the point of sale systems. The system is connected to the internet and compatible with mobile devices and the rest of the point of sale hardware such as the cash register etc. Interestingly, the system is highly integrated and old cash registers are rarely used. Most restaurants are now using the cloud-based systems since they streamline processes are less complex compared to the older systems. There are numerous benefits of using a cloud-based POS system in the restaurant industry. The system is accessed through the browser, eliminating the need to invest in expensive servers and equipment. The system ensures backup since every data is saved automatically.
2. Mobile App Ordering and Delivery
Most restaurants have been practicing delivery of food services for a long time. In fact, due to high competition, restaurants in urban areas are necessitated to provide delivery services. Initially, people used to make their orders over the phone. However, in the recent past, delivery services have been greatly enhanced by the evolution of delivery and ordering mobile applications. One of the major advantages of the applications is convenience. The applications also result in reduced queues in restaurants.
Recommended: How to Monitor Social Networking Apps on Android Phone?
3. Mobile Payments
Due to the rapid development of the mobile technology, the use of mobile devices does not just stop at ordering and delivery of food services. Currently, mobile payments are increasingly becoming common in restaurant payments. Industry analysts indicate that mobile payment in the restaurant industry grew by over seventy-five percent in 2017. It is projected to grow further in 2018 and beyond.
4. Delivery Route Optimization
Due to the rapid growth of restaurants, delivery services have become bigger. Large chains are handling the increased presence with strategies and route optimization. This allows designating deliveries based on the location of the customer, allowing for the delivery of multiple orders at the same time. It ensures customers not only get their orders right but also fresh. Optimization of the delivery route helps restaurants scale the cost down through improved efficiency. Recently, some restaurants have started cooking pizzas during the delivery process.
5. Self-Service Kiosks
Self-service or interactive kiosks are POS systems that allow customers to order and pay directly without human contact. The technology started only as pay-and-display machines but has advanced to more sophisticated customer service. Self-service kiosks are increasingly gaining popularity in the restaurant industry due to the rising concern about labor cost and the planned minimum wage. Most restaurant owners are integrating the system to improve service delivery while at the same time manage the number of staff members. They are particularly a good fit for fast food restaurants or line service restaurants like coffee shops or cafeteria. While large chains such as McDonald’s have started rolling out self-service kiosks, other restaurants have adopted fully self-service in their operations.
Recommended: Do Not Miss the Beauty of Project Management
