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Every hospitality environment has its own unique rhythm. In a busy hotel lobby or a high‑volume bar, the guest’s priority is often speed and efficiency. In a luxury restaurant or a boutique stay, that same guest expects a personal connection and a conversation that cannot be replaced by a screen. The challenge for modern operators is choosing technology that supports their specific environment rather than forcing a one‑size‑fits‑all solution that risks compromising the brand.

Meeting the guest at their own pace

In environments where turnover is the primary driver, digital ordering has moved from a temporary measure to a permanent operational advantage. The benefit is simple: the faster an operator can serve, the quicker the guest receives their order. There is no waiting for a member of staff to become available; guests can sit down, scan, and begin their experience in seconds.

Beyond speed, there is a psychological advantage to digital prompts that goes beyond a simple list of items. Whether it is a beautifully photographed side dish or a premium room upgrade, a well-placed visual creates an immediate, visceral reaction.

“Suddenly [the guest] gets prompted, ‘Do you want to add fries to it?’ and they’re not just being told, they can see a beautiful picture of fries in a basket. Suddenly it’s like, oh, salivating, I want to order that.”

Leveraging technology in high‑touch environments

Many premium sectors stay away from guest‑facing technology because they value the personal interaction that defines their brand. However, this does not mean they have to avoid digital tools entirely. In these settings, the same logic of upselling and efficiency can be leveraged through mobile devices in the hands of the staff.

The technology prompts the server or concierge rather than the guest. It puts real‑time knowledge in their hands, allowing them to discuss the menu or amenities with confidence while the order is sent to the backend instantly. This keeps the team fully present with the guest, blending personal service with the efficiency of a digital infrastructure.

“The server has that knowledge in their hands to be able to discuss this with their customer and prompt those upsells… so it goes off to the kitchen while they are still chatting with the customer.”

Support as an operational consultant

Choosing the right technology is only half the battle; the other half is having a partner who understands the operation behind the screen. At NFS, our operations team comes from the industry, which means they can see behind the simple questions. 

Whether you are running a high-volume bar or a single-site restaurant, our team speaks your language because they have lived it. They understand that a second saved at the terminal is a second gained with a guest. Support at NFS is not just about fixing problems; it is about identifying operational bottlenecks. We help you refine your service flow, ensure your kitchen isn’t overwhelmed by digital spikes, and give time back to the people running the floor.

“Having the operations team come out of the industry helps with that because they are able to see behind the customer’s question… a question that looks so simple can turn into a whole conversation about what they’re actually trying to achieve.”

Always discovering the next move

The best technology does not just sit on a counter; it evolves with the business. Whether it is using a hybrid model where guests order with a server but pay via a digital code or optimising your service layout to reduce travel time for staff, the goal is always the same. We aim to make the life of the operator easier, give them their time back, and ensure they have the tools to meet the ever‑changing expectations of their guests.

“With NFS, support is there to not only fix problems but also help identify areas in which we can improve the customer’s operation. How can we help them interact with their customers better? How can we give them some time back?”

Ready to find the right balance for your service?

If you are looking to improve your speed of service or want to give your team better tools for guest interaction, let’s start with a conversation. We will help you align your tech with your unique brand culture and ensure your operation is ready for the road ahead.

Contact the NFS team today to schedule your service style review and see what happens when your tech partner truly understands your operation.

In high-volume restaurants, efficiency is crucially important and can make a huge difference to the bottom line. How quickly you seat guests, take orders, serve food, and complete payments has a direct impact on table turnover, so it’s essential to have streamlined processes and systems in place to keep service flowing smoothly.

While traditional counter or bar ordering still works for some venues, others are moving toward more flexible alternatives that increase efficiency. From mobile apps to QR codes, the main aim is the same: make the ordering process easier, faster and more accurate. One of the most common solutions that modern restaurants are incorporating is a tableside ordering system. By allowing staff to take orders directly at the table, these systems streamline operations and create a more enjoyable dining experience.

For high-volume restaurants, this type of software is about more than just convenience; it’s key to keeping service quick, accurate and profitable. Below, we have explored the benefits of tableside ordering systems in more detail.

What is a Tableside Ordering System?

A tableside ordering system is a mobile point of sale (POS) solution that enables staff to take orders directly at the table using a handheld device. They can manage menu modifications, make notes of dietary restrictions and even suggest upsell options. Once an order is entered into the system, it’s immediately sent to the kitchen display system, so chefs can start preparing the food straight away.

POS software provides an end-to-end solution for restaurants. In addition to taking orders via a mobile or tablet device, tableside ordering systems can handle payments, allowing staff to apply discounts and split bills, all without having to leave the table. For guests, this results in a smoother dining experience and for businesses, it can streamline operations, increase accuracy and even provide valuable insights into customer preferences.

Streamlining Service from Order to Payment

One of the biggest benefits of tableside ordering with a POS system is that no one has to go anywhere. Guests won’t have to leave their table to place their orders, and staff won’t have to repeatedly return to the bar or kitchen to input orders. Instead, all orders are placed digitally and transmitted instantly. This seamless process reduces delays, speeds up service and reduces the time taken dealing with errors that result in dishes being sent back.

For high-traffic venues, the ability to increase restaurant efficiency with POS technology is a game-changer. With less time spent running back and forth, staff can focus more on interacting with customers, discussing specials, providing menu recommendations, and ultimately, delivering a memorable dining experience that encourages repeat visits.

Enhancing Accuracy and Reducing Errors

Even the most experienced staff can make mistakes, especially when they’re juggling multiple tables. By entering orders directly into a mobile POS device at the table, staff can read the details back to guests, whether it’s allergy information or cooking preferences, and confirm everything is correct. This reduces the risk of misunderstandings and miscommunication, ensuring every dish is exactly as the guest expects.

With orders being sent directly to kitchen display systems, there is a reduced likelihood of errors being made by chefs as well. This will prevent the time, hassle and cost associated with having to remake dishes, and the knock-on effects this can have on customer satisfaction.

Faster Table Turnover and Higher Revenue

Every minute that can be saved during service will have a direct impact on a restaurant’s bottom line. Tableside ordering systems speed up order processing, which shortens wait times and enables much quicker table turnover. In turn, this means more guests can be served every day, without compromising on quality.

When tableside ordering is combined with convenient contactless payment options, the process becomes even smoother. There will be no more waiting around for the bill, having to go up to the bar to make payment, or manually having to split the bill among guests. By supporting table management, these ordering systems will help you ensure tables are ready for the next party in less time, resulting in higher revenue.

Using Data for Improved Operations

An easy-to-overlook benefit, but arguably one of the most valuable, is that tableside POS systems provide an abundance of data. Every guest interaction, order and payment is tracked through the system, giving you detailed insights into things like menu item performance, sales patterns and even staff efficiency.

By analysing this data, restaurant managers can make informed decisions to boost growth. Whether it’s refining menus, developing targeted marketing campaigns or improving staff training, you can ensure restaurant operations are as efficient as possible. This level of insight can help build a long-term strategy for success and profitability.

 

Using a Restaurant POS System to Increase Efficiency

Ultimately, tableside ordering systems are a proven way to increase efficiency in restaurants, particularly in high-volume venues where time is of the essence. When staff can take orders and process payments at the table, you can ensure the entire guest experience is more enjoyable.

For customers, tableside ordering means faster service, accurate meals, and a hassle-free payment process. For businesses, it leads to quicker table turnover, higher revenue, and valuable insights. To find out more about POS for high-volume restaurants, get in touch with our team at NFS Hospitality today. We will be happy to discuss our range of products with you and help you determine which are the best fit for your business.

Restaurant owners often face a fundamental operational challenge: maintaining peak efficiency and service quality in an extremely demanding environment. 

When service lags, communication breaks down, or errors occur, the easy temptation for some leaders is to scrutinise their team. The assumption is that staff require more training, or that high turnover is an inevitable part of the hospitality industry. However, this perspective often overlooks a critical factor: the tools and systems employees are forced to use. 

Hardworking and dedicated staff can only ever be as efficient as their technology allows them to be. Manual processes, disconnected systems, and outdated equipment create friction that leads to errors, delays, and frustration. At NFS Hospitality, we operate on a fundamental principle: the solution to many operational problems isn’t about changing your people; it’s about changing your technology.  

By providing a modern, integrated tech stack, you empower your staff to perform their jobs with precision and confidence, leading to improved productivity, increased morale, and a more profitable business. 

This blog explores in depth some of the challenges you may be facing in your business and just why a restaurant technology upgrade could be the answer you are looking for. 

The Operational and Financial Costs of Outdated Systems 

Every inefficiency in your restaurant has a direct impact on your bottom line. These aren’t minor inconveniences; they are measurable costs that detract from your revenue and put a strain on your team. 

Let’s explore the specific challenges. 

Inefficient Order Taking and Processing 

Relying on manual order taking, such as handwritten tickets, introduces multiple points of failure. A server’s hasty handwriting, a misheard order in a noisy restaurant environment, or a misplaced modifier can all lead to an incorrect dish being prepared. The direct costs include wasted food and ingredients, which can unnecessarily inflate your food cost percentage by several points. The indirect costs are equally significant: a delayed or incorrect order diminishes the customer experience, potentially leading to negative reviews and a loss of repeat business. In a competitive market, a single mistake can erode customer loyalty built over months of quality service. 

Communication Breakdown Between Front and Back-of-House 

A lack of seamless, real-time communication between the front-of-house (FOH) and back-of-house (BOH) is a constant source of friction. When servers must physically run orders to the kitchen, and the kitchen team relies on a cluttered rail of paper tickets, the risk of miscommunication is high. This disconnect prevents the BOH from having a clear, organised view of the order queue, making it difficult to manage ticket times and prioritise dishes effectively. The result is a chaotic workflow, slower service, and a high-stress environment that can lead to staff burnout and high turnover. 

Flawed Inventory Management 

Manual inventory tracking using spreadsheets or clipboards is a time-consuming and error-prone process. This method provides only a static snapshot of your stock, making it nearly impossible to maintain an accurate, real-time view of your inventory levels. This leads to two critical financial issues: overstocking, which results in spoilage and tied-up capital, and understocking, which leads to lost sales when popular menu items are unavailable. Without accurate data, it is also difficult to analyse your menu’s profitability, identify high-waste areas, or make informed purchasing decisions. The labour hours dedicated to manual counts are an additional, unnecessary expense. 

Slow and Inconvenient Payment Processing 

The end of a meal should be as smooth as the beginning. However, outdated payment systems can slow down this final, critical step. Processing credit cards manually or requiring a customer to wait for a bill and then a payment device extends their stay at the table. This directly impacts your table turnover rate, which is a key metric for profitability, especially during peak hours. Furthermore, with the growing consumer demand for contactless and mobile payment options, a slow or inconvenient payment process can detract from the overall customer experience and make your business seem outdated. 

The NFS Hospitality Solution: A Comprehensive, Integrated Platform 

NFS Hospitality provides a powerful, integrated technology suite that addresses these operational challenges head-on. By connecting every part of your restaurant, our platform creates a seamless workflow that improves efficiency, enhances communication, and provides valuable business insights. 

The Integrated Point-of-Sale (POS) System 

Our modern restaurant POS system is the central nervous system of your operation. Its intuitive, touch-screen interface allows staff to take orders quickly and accurately, with features for customizable menus, modifiers, and allergy notes. Orders are instantly and wirelessly transmitted to the kitchen from the restaurant POS software, totally eliminating the risk of miscommunication and speeding up service. The restaurant epos software system also handles complex tasks like bill splitting and payment processing with ease and efficiency, allowing your staff to focus on the guest experience. 

The Kitchen Display System (KDS) 

The KDS replaces paper tickets with a clear, digital display in the kitchen. Orders are automatically organised and prioritised, providing the BOH team with a real-time, comprehensive view of the order queue. Features like integrated timers help manage ticket times, ensuring dishes are prepared in the correct sequence and delivered fresh. This system reduces noise and stress in the kitchen, leading to a more focused and productive team. The improved communication between FOH and BOH ensures synchronised service and faster table turnover. 

Automated Inventory and Actionable Analytics 

Our platform automates inventory management by connecting directly with your restaurant POS system. Every sale is automatically recorded, providing a real-time view of your stock levels. The system can be configured to alert you when items are running low, helping you prevent stockouts and lost sales. Our robust analytics engine provides deep insights into your menu’s performance, staff productivity, and overall profitability. This data-driven approach allows managers to move from reactive decision-making to proactive, strategic planning. 

Seamless Online Ordering and Reservations 

In today’s market, a strong digital presence is non-negotiable. Our integrated solution allows you to manage online orders and reservations from a single platform. This eliminates the need for manual data entry from third-party apps, reducing errors and saving valuable time. All customer data and orders are centralised, providing a consistent experience and a single source of truth for your business. 

Secure and Efficient Mobile Payments 

Our system provides customers with fast and secure mobile and contactless payment options. With pay-at-the-table devices, your staff can complete transactions quickly, reducing customer wait times and increasing table turnover. Our platform is EMV-compliant, which protects your business and your customers from fraud. 

The Return on Investment: Empowering Your Staff for Success 

empower your staff

The most significant return on your technology investment is not just in operational efficiency, but in the positive impact on your staff. By providing a streamlined, user-friendly platform, you create a more stable, productive, and satisfied workforce. 

Conclusion  

The success of your restaurant is built on the talent and dedication of your people. Don’t let outdated restaurant technology hinder their performance. By investing in an integrated solution from NFS Hospitality, you equip your team for success, create a more efficient operation, and build a stronger, more profitable business. 

Our approach is highly consultative, recommending the right solutions for you and our product experts will be with you every step of the way to help you maximise your return on investment.  

Want to find out more? Our FAQ section will help answer any remaining questions you may have. 

Or are you fully ready to consider a restaurant technology upgrade? To discover how a modern technology platform can transform your restaurant operation and empower your team, contact NFS Hospitality today to arrange a demonstration. 

 

Over the years, the hospitality industry has seen an increase in technological innovations that make day-to-day operations much easier and more efficient. QR code ordering has become the ‘new normal’ for many restaurants, and it’s reshaping customer interactions and operational efficiency. What started as a trend driven by the need for contactless dining in 2020 has now become a standard feature, and one that customers often take advantage of.

As customer needs and expectations evolve, more and more restaurants are embracing the convenience of self-ordering via QR codes and providing customers with the ability to place orders directly from their smartphones without having to speak to a member of staff. In this post, we have explored how QR ordering systems are changing the way restaurants operate and why they have become the new normal across the industry.

The Popularity of QR Code Ordering

QR code ordering is revolutionising the dining experience. By simply scanning a QR code on their table, customers can access digital menus, place their orders and even pay their bill, all directly from their mobile device. This way of ordering prevents the need for traditional paper menus or front-of-house staff taking orders, speeding up the entire process and providing a more enjoyable experience for some diners.

In recent years, QR codes have become increasingly popular due to their convenience and ease of use. They are used across a range of industries in various settings, and as long as customers have a smartphone, they can make the most of self-ordering. With the growing demand for contactless and quick-service options, QR code ordering has quickly become a game-changer for restaurant businesses.

Empowering Customers

One of the main reasons why QR code ordering has become so popular is that it provides customers with more control over their dining experience. They can browse the menu without feeling rushed, exploring various offers and discounts available. Customers can also customise their orders, adding any special requests, and review their choices before submitting them straight to the kitchen. Once they’ve finished eating, they can also pay for their bill via multiple payment methods and without any delays, allowing them to get on with their day.

Since customers are no longer dependent on a server, they can enjoy their dining experience at their own pace. They can immediately place their orders as soon as they’re ready, reducing wait times and preventing delays that often occur when they’re trying to get someone’s attention. This streamlined process is particularly beneficial for quick-service restaurants with a high turnover of tables, making the entire experience more enjoyable.

Minimising Errors

When customers have the option to place their orders themselves, there’s less room for error. Traditional methods, where front-of-house staff write down orders and input them at service kiosks, are often prone to mistakes. From misheard requests to forgotten items, customers can be left dissatisfied and send orders back to the kitchen.

With QR code ordering, customers will directly input their choices into the ordering system. They can double-check the details before proceeding, which reduces the chance of errors. Not to mention, online orders are sent straight to the kitchen display system, reducing the likelihood of miscommunication between teams. This higher level of accuracy, combined with the faster service, will result in a better customer experience and fewer complaints.

Improving Operational Efficiency

In addition to benefiting customers, QR code orders can be incredibly useful for restaurants and will help improve operational efficiency. By reducing the need for employees to take orders manually, they will have more time to focus on other tasks, like serving drinks and meals, and maintaining a clean and welcoming environment.

Self-ordering will also speed up the overall dining process, helping with table turnover and increasing revenue. Since customers can order and pay without waiting for a server, you can seat more guests during busy periods and make the most of seasonal or promotional menus. This low-contact, streamlined process allows for a much more efficient workflow, so you can serve more customers in less time without impacting the guest experience.

Integrating with Restaurant POS Systems

When integrated with a restaurant POS system and kitchen management system, QR code ordering becomes even more effective. Together, these modern systems will enable accurate inventory control and immediate ordering processing. You can provide an uninterrupted service and even update menus in real time if required.

A modern POS system for restaurants also allows you to collect valuable data from QR code orders. From customer preferences and most popular menu items to overall sales trends, you can gain useful insights with advanced reporting capabilities. The data collected can then be used to improve everything from inventory management to staff scheduling, or even make adjustments to menus to meet customer demand more effectively.

Why QR Code Ordering is Here to Stay

As customers’ wants, needs and expectations continue to evolve, QR code ordering is proving to be a lasting trend in the hospitality industry. It perfectly meets the growing demand for fast, efficient and contactless dining experiences, putting the customer in full control. With the benefits for both guests and restaurant staff, it’s no surprise that so many businesses are offering self-ordering solutions to customers.

As QR codes become more of a common sight in restaurants, self-ordering will likely be the standard expectation. Guests enjoy the speed and convenience that comes with ordering and paying directly from their smartphones, and many don’t miss the interaction with servers. For restaurant owners, investing in a QR code ordering system that integrates with a restaurant POS system is a smart move that both improves customer satisfaction and optimises operations, supporting long-term success.

Looking to Implement QR Code Ordering?

It’s fair to say that QR code ordering is reshaping the way restaurants operate and interact with guests. If you’re looking to incorporate QR code ordering into your operations, NFS Hospitality can provide you with a comprehensive system that is trusted by many leading brands in the hospitality industry. Get in touch with our team today to learn more about how QR code ordering can benefit your business.

No matter how a customer chooses to engage with your brand, there’s no doubt that they’ll expect a smooth and convenient experience. Whether they choose to reserve a table online, dine in at your restaurant or even place an order via an app, maintaining a clear brand consistency and experience across all touchpoints is now a baseline expectation.

As the hospitality sector continues to become increasingly digital, delivering a unified and frictionless journey is key to building loyalty and staying competitive. A fully integrated omnichannel ordering system is a powerful starting point. When aligned with your existing restaurant management software, it lays the groundwork for streamlining operations and improving customer experience.

At NFS Hospitality, we believe that top restaurant management software should allow operators to deliver a consistent and high-quality experience across every channel. In this article, we’ll explore how an omnichannel approach can help you achieve exactly that.

Why Consistency Matters in Hospitality

Inconsistent service can lead to confusion, customer dissatisfaction, and even lost revenue. On the other hand, delivering a consistent experience helps build trust in your brand. When customers receive the same high level of quality and service, whether online, in-app, or in your venue, it reinforces confidence and strengthens loyalty.

Consider the typical customer journey in today’s world: A customer may browse your menu online, place an order for delivery via a third-party app, and later visit in person. Each of these interactions contributes to their overall perception of your brand. If the information, pricing, or service quality differs from one touchpoint to another, it creates a disjointed experience. This is where omnichannel strategy – backed by intelligent systems – comes into play.

What is an Omnichannel Ordering Experience?

Omnichannel ordering allows customers to interact with your restaurant across multiple channels in a connected and consistent way. Whether they’re ordering from a kiosk, app, website, or at the table, the experience should feel seamless and unified.

This differs from a multichannel setup, where services exist on multiple platforms but operate independently. Omnichannel systems integrate those channels, allowing data, preferences, and communication to flow across the entire customer journey.

An effective omnichannel approach means:

The Role of Restaurant Management Software

Delivering a consistent omnichannel experience depends heavily on the technology behind the scenes. Restaurant management software platforms play a central role in integrating these channels.

At NFS Hospitality, our innovative restaurant management solutions have been designed with this in mind. Our restaurant EPOS systems enable operators to manage menus, pricing, promotions, and ordering across multiple platforms – all from a single, centralised system. This ensures consistency from back-of-house to front-of-house and beyond.

For example:

The Benefits of Integrated Omnichannel Tools

When your restaurant management software supports integrated omnichannel ordering, the benefits go far beyond operational efficiency – it enables a smooth and connected experience across every customer interaction.

Customers can enjoy effortless ordering, whether through a mobile app, website, or in-venue kiosk, with consistent menus, clear pricing and reliable functionality throughout. Accuracy also improves thanks to the automation of orders routed to the kitchen, reducing the risk of mistakes in the process.

A centralised view of customer behaviour allows for smarter personalisation, enabling teams to tailor promotions and upselling strategies more effectively. Most importantly, consistent service across all channels builds trust and strengthens brand loyalty, encouraging repeat visits and positive word of mouth.

Operational Advantages for Hospitality Teams

In addition to customer-facing benefits, integrated omnichannel systems offer several operational advantages:

By implementing top restaurant management software, hospitality operators can adapt quickly to changing demand and manage operations in a more centralised and strategic manner.

Ready to Streamline your Omnichannel Experience?

Ensuring the success of your restaurant both today and in the future requires agility as customer expectations and technologies evolve at pace. Thankfully, with integrated restaurant management software, you can scale services, launch new ordering channels, and explore innovations like self-service, without any compromise on consistency or control.

At NFS Hospitality, we help hospitality operators build scalable digital ecosystems that deliver exceptional and connected customer experiences. Ready to streamline your omnichannel journey? Get in touch with our team today to discover how our solutions can help your business grow and thrive in a digital-first world.

It’s tough out there in hospitality land. Customers facing cost of living squeezes, labour hard to come by, costs soaring and competition at an all-time high. But the best operators are doing impressively well – and we know exactly why.

Big names like GAUCHO, Dishoom, Marugame Europe and Doner Shack – valued clients of NFS Hospitality – are leveraging the power of technology to support their thriving operations.

Read on to discover the tips you can take from the big names – and to know 5 ways technology can improve your restaurant operations.

Boosting efficiency and customer satisfaction

Both of these factors are major players when it comes to success, and as a result leveraging technology in restaurant operations has become indispensable.

From streamlining order management to enhancing customer experiences and promoting loyalty, restaurant technology is important in in optimising workflow and maximising profitability in restaurant operations of all sizes. It’s why restaurant pos system software represents a good investment.

5 ways technology can improve your restaurant operations

  1. Streamlining the ordering process
  2. Optimising your labour
  3. Enhanced customer engagement and loyalty
  4. Better inventory management
  5. Data-supported decision making

Streamlining the ordering process

Customers want convenience these days, and for many that means the ability to browse menus and order their meal online.

The best epos offers an online food ordering system, that integrates with online ordering platforms such as Grubhub or Uber Eats. This is not only quick and easy for customers but also provides increased accessibility to your services to a wider audience.

Customised mobile apps allow customers to browse the menu and make their selection effortlessly whether they are at home or in your outlet, leading to improved engagement and driving up the possibility of repeat ordering.

Optimising your labour

Labour is at a premium these days, and restaurants are working hard to ensure a good working environment where staff are happy to stay. It’s also crucial to operations and the bottom line to make the best use of the staff available.

That’s where epos comes in. Implementing tableside ordering tablets for either the diners or your serving staff enables orders to be sent immediately to the kitchen, eliminating human error that gets food sent back and reducing the time it takes for the order to arrive. It also reduces the time staff need to run back and forth to the kitchen, so they can put their valuable efforts into engaging with the diners and upselling.

POS systems also streamline order processing, simplify payment transactions – payment can also be taken at tableside – and provides valuable insights into sales trends and staff performance thanks to comprehensive reporting.

Your data can be used to organise shift scheduling, ensuring that you have optimal staffing levels and busy and less busy times – it’s a good way to minimise staff costs while maximising efficiency and offering the best customer service. Providing good training alongside the epos technology equips your staff with the necessary skills to give great service and enjoy their work.

Enhanced customer engagement and loyalty

All the big-name NFS clients we mentioned above (and many others) have exceptional reputations for customer engagement and effective loyalty programmes that reward diners and build up a valuable bond.

They use customer loyalty program software to achieve the best results, and also enable their customer base to act as ambassadors by using gift card management software to treat their friends and relatives to a meal.

Implementing Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems allows restaurants to gather incredibly valuable customer date and personalise interactions with them. This means marketing offers are targeted to people who are likely to make the most of them, and encourages a sense of belonging.

Feedback management programmes allow restaurants to collect, analyse and respond to customer feedback promptly. It’s a great way not only to head off complaints at the pass, but also to foster a culture of continuous improvement across the whole organisation.

All of these facilities can be accessed online by managers anywhere, reducing the need to duplicate head office functions in multi-location groups and creating an end-to-end view of the business at all times – something that can otherwise be hard to achieve in the hurly-burly of hospitality operations.

Better inventory management

Reducing food waste is high on the agenda of any hospitality business seeking to create a sustainable environment, and it also makes huge sense financially.

Restaurant management software, with its real-time reporting, enables excellent inventory tracking so stock levels are accurately recorded and wastage is drastically reduced. It also enables your staff to quickly understand when a dish becomes unavailable, allowing them to manage the expectations of guests by offering an alternative.

Predictive analytics is a further ingredient in the recipe for restaurant success, helping forecast demand trends so you can optimise stock levels and make proactive decisions and cost savings.

Integrating with your suppliers via technology streamlines your procurement process, making sure deliveries are timely and inventory levels are kept up to scratch.

Data-supported decision making

Business intelligence tools designed specifically for hospitality operations enable restaurant owners to analyse key metrics for performance, identify upcoming trends and make data-drive decisions that will improve operational efficiency and the profitability of the business.

Leveraging the real-time reporting capabilities of epos provides managers and owners with up-to-the-minute insights into sales performance, inventory levels and customer feedback so you can take timely corrective actions where needed and create long-term strategies for continued success.

Integrating various restaurant technology solutions into your epos platform, such as a table reservation system ensures seamless data flow across the different operational functions, taking the guesswork out of decision-making and providing firm foundations on which to grow your business.

Conclusion – technology is the special sauce

What does real restaurant success look like these days? Great food, outstanding customer service, costs and wastage under control and happy, motivated staff who are not run off their feet meeting diner expectations every day.

No surprises there – but supporting all these excellent ambitions in today’s hospitality industry is technology, the special sauce that brings it all together and makes the magic happen.

It’s why the most successful restaurants and groups in the UK have deployed epos technology and its integrated facilities, and are reaping the benefits even as we speak. It’s an investment that makes perfect sense – a gift to operations that will keep on giving however circumstances in the industry evolve.

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In today’s fast-paced world, customers prioritise convenience, speed, and personalised experiences, driving the escalating demand for online food ordering, delivery, and takeout. While off-premise dining boasts advantages like increased revenue, an expanded customer base, and higher check sizes, some restaurant owners remain hesitant due to concerns about losing valuable in-person customer interactions. To address these apprehensions and empower restaurateurs to elevate their online ordering experiences, here are four insightful tips for staying connected with customers in the digital realm.

Tailor Your Platform Listing and Online Menu

Consider your restaurant’s page on third-party platforms as a virtual storefront—a canvas that needs to captivate potential customers. Infuse it with the essence of your brand’s voice and personality. Craft a compelling introduction that narrates the story of your restaurant, its culinary offerings, and your vision. The menu, the heartbeat of the experience, should showcase delivery-friendly, high-quality, and customisable dishes.

Engage potential customers through visually appealing content, such as high-definition images of your culinary creations. Complement this with imaginative dish names and clever descriptions that evoke curiosity. For instance, would you prefer ordering a “Large Cheese Plate” or a “Sweet Dreams are Made of Cheese Plate?” Descriptions offer a unique opportunity to let your brand personality shine in the digital space.

Harness the Power of Social Media

Social media stands as a potent tool for fostering customer interaction. Establish a connection with your followers through contests, giveaways, and user-generated content. Organise engaging photo contests, encourage customers to share their culinary experiences, and create custom hashtags exclusive to your restaurant. Use the platform to share behind-the-scenes stories, communicate hygiene measures, and introduce the faces behind your brand.

Invest time in nurturing your social media accounts to establish a genuine connection with customers. The organic growth of these accounts over time can serve as a cost-effective means to disseminate messages to your loyal customer base.

Infuse a Personal Touch in Each Order

Once an order embarks on its delivery journey, it’s essential to maintain a connection with the customer. Employ a point-of-sale (POS) system integrated with your online ordering solution to ensure precision and completeness. Timeliness and order accuracy resonate deeply with customers, making it imperative to get these aspects right.

Elevate customer interaction by personalising food orders. Consider including handwritten thank-you notes, short messages, or branded freebies like stickers or utensils. Thoughtfully branded packaging contributes to a unique ‘unboxing’ experience, potentially prompting customers to share their delight on social media.

Consider offering a ‘build your own’ meal option to provide customers with an ultra-personalized dining experience. This showcases an understanding of personal preferences without burdening your kitchen staff.

Actively Seek and Welcome Feedback

While reaching customers who utilise third-party services can be challenging, actively seek feedback through alternative channels. Utilise polls, surveys, and social media platforms to encourage customers to share their thoughts. Include a feedback card in delivery and take-out bags, complete with a custom QR code for seamless online submissions. Consider incentivizing feedback with discounts or coupons.

Monitor and respond to reviews on delivery platforms, transparently communicating actions taken based on feedback. For those with their own delivery service or online ordering app, leverage customer relationship management (CRM) data to send personalised offers, discounts, and feedback forms.

In conclusion, fostering customer interaction in the online realm may pose challenges, but it’s far from impossible. By tailoring your platform, leveraging social media, infusing a personal touch into each order, and actively seeking feedback, you can bridge the gap and forge meaningful connections with customers. Embrace these strategies not only to streamline operations but also to cultivate growth and customer loyalty in the competitive landscape of online food ordering.

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Marugame Udon is the world’s largest udon noodle chain, with more 800 fast casual restaurants in Japan and 250 across Asia. It opened its first European restaurant in London in 2021 with a noticeably QSR-style low price point, with freshly-made noodles from £3.45.

Four further London sites were lined up before the first opened, with the restaurant in the O2 also now open, and the company has big plans for a speedy further expansion.

Marugame Udon has a global audience on social platforms ranging from Tiktok to Facebook and Instagram, and is leveraging this presence – and the power of the Muragame Loyalty Scheme – to extend brand awareness and  position the offering perfectly in its new market. 

Marugame Udon Chief Executive Keith Bird says: “It’s crucial to get the values and culture right.” Helping customers to feel part of the Marugame Udon community is crucial – for example, in the run-up to opening, visitors were invited to take pictures of themselves in front of a special screen to share worldwide on social media. 

The innovative use of digital technology is helping Marugame Udon to establish and grow its community of enthusiasts across the UK and beyond. A  unique level of integration is enabling the company to gain an extraordinarily deep insight into its customers, enabling better customer service and engagement.

The loyalty system, implemented via Aloha EPOS from NFS,  is so well integrated that important customer information is automatically shared across all platforms ranging from the till to wifi and email marketing. 

It means Marugame Udon has a 360 degree view of the customer’s requirements and preferences – what the company calls a ‘single point of truth’ – and it eliminates the need to repeatedly input data into different systems.

The integration makes the customer journey effortless. It enables Marugame Udon to send highly-targeted marketing emails that are sure to hit the mark – and when the customer pays, the till automatically applies any discounts. On opening, members who had already signed up to the loyalty programme were given popular offers including free noodles.

Further integration means customers are never disappointed when ordering. When a menu change is made on the till it is instantly reflected across all menu screens and collection screens, and the company is now working with NFS to extend this to delivery channels.

Customer safety is also a priority, and as well as providing allergen alerts, the Aloha EPOS system deployed by Marugame Udon offers diners the ability to input an allergen and see an online menu of dishes they can eat safely. Calorie counts are also updated through the system. 

* Discover how Aloha EPOS can benefit your restaurant:

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Mobile ordering is massive now – but what’s the future? In this video, James Brown of BrewDog, Katy Moses of KAM and Daniel Rodgers of Qikserve share their opinion on what lies ahead in hospitality when it comes to ordering and payment.

Cloud POS is reliable, affordable, designed for fast deployment and backed by a 24/7 helpdesk. It includes everything you need to run your business from stock control, labour management, online ordering and loyalty. Easy to use, it creates a great guest experience.