In the appropriate setting, table-side ordering can be a quite pleasant experience. Even in a full-service environment like a biergarten. It allows customers to scan a QR code and order directly from their phone. They don't have to wait in line to place their order, or for an overstretched server with a 10-table section. It's been especially helpful considering all the staffing shortages that restaurants have been experiencing in the post-pandemic world.
Table-side ordering also helps improve efficiency at the restaurant. With less people waiting in line to order, more of the staff can be focused on food preparation and delivering great service. This means that the restaurant can serve more customers in a shorter amount of time, and offer a better overall experience while doing so. Finally, table-side ordering provides you with valuable insight into your customers' purchasing behaviors. By tracking what items people are ordering and how often they're ordering them, you can get a better idea of what items are popular and what items need to be stock more often.
Increasing Sales with QR Code Ordering
QR code ordering can improve your restaurant by giving your guests more freedom and control. With QR codes, they can order their food whenever they want. Here are a few ways QR code ordering can help to increase sales:
1. Because the orders are being taken directly at the table, and made by your customers themselves, there's less of a chance for things to go wrong. In fact, Scaffidi's saw a 57% decrease in voids due to out-of-stock items because of the ordering accuracy from a table-side POS.
2. Table-side ordering can help increase the amount of upsells and tips. When customers are able to place their orders directly, they're more likely to be engaged in the process. And that means they're more likely to order extras or leave a bigger tip.
3. Table-side ordering is a great way to keep things moving when you're short staffed. Customers will appreciate not having to wait in line, and you'll appreciate not having to deal with long lines!
How Do I Get Started With Table-side Ordering?
It's actually not as difficult as you might think. Here are a few things you need to consider: First, you need to make sure that your staff is properly trained on how to use the system. They need to be able to navigate through the menus and enter in customer orders quickly and accurately. Second, you need to invest in the right device and system. There are a number of other options on the market, so you need to find one that's right for your restaurant. It should be easy to use and fit seamlessly into your current workflow. Last, but not least, you need to make sure that you're promoting table-side ordering to your customers. Let them know that they can order directly from their table and that they can expect a faster, more accurate dining experience. This usually comes in the form of a table tent with a QR code.
How Table-side Ordering Improves the Customer Experience and Keeps Your Staff Happy
1. Improved Efficiency - When guests place their orders directly with your staff, it speeds up the ordering process and gets food to their tables faster.
2. Accuracy - With accurate order taking, there are less mistakes made and less food wasted.
3. Enhanced Guest Experience - Giving your guests the opportunity to order directly from your staff provides a more personal touch and can make them feel valued.
4. Increased Table Turnover - The quicker the table turns, the more revenue your restaurant generates.
5. Time Savings - Having a system that takes care of the ordering for you frees up your staff to do other tasks, such as preparing food or cleaning tables.
All of these reasons combined mean that introducing QR code ordering into your restaurant can be a great way to increase your in-store sales and improve your bottom line. Not to mention that this all leads to lower labor costs and increased profits for your restaurant. Additionally, a QR code ordering system can improve customer satisfaction by providing fast and easy access to food.
FAQs About Using Table-side Ordering in Restaurants
How does it improve the customer experience? Table-side ordering systems make the dining experience faster and more efficient. Customers can place their orders directly with the server, which means they can avoid long lines at the counter. Plus, since they're interacting with a live person, they can ask any questions they have about the menu items.
What are the costs associated with implementing a table-side ordering system? The cost of implementing a table-side ordering system will vary depending on the type of system you choose. However, the benefits of using a tableside ordering system typically outweigh the costs. Square is a great option if you need something to get started with.
How does it help increase sales? By making it easier for customers to order and by providing valuable data about customer interactions with menu items. This data can help restaurants improve their menu items and marketing strategies.
TLDR
QR code ordering is a great way to improve the customer experience and increase in-store sales. It's convenient and easy to use, and it helps your customers get the food they want faster. Plus, it makes your restaurant look more modern and sophisticated. It is quickly becoming a popular way for guests to order food, and while not for every restaurants, it makes a lot of sense for cafes, biergartens, and dessert shops. Not only does it make the ordering process faster and easier for your guests, but it can also improve your bottom line by reducing the amount of time your staff spends on taking orders.