Why Big Brands Are Replacing Kiosks With Mobile Ordering Apps

TLDR

As a business owner, you know the value of efficiency and convenience. Your customers demand it. This is why you invested in those clunky kiosks that force customers to tap through endless options just to place a simple order. What if there was a better way? The future is here with mobile ordering apps. Mobile apps allow customers to place orders right from their smartphones in just a few taps. The benefits don't end there. Apps provide valuable data and metrics to optimize your business while providing more convenience and better experiences for your patrons. Big brands are already making the switch, replacing outdated kiosks with sleek, intuitive mobile apps. Now it's your turn. Read on to learn how mobile ordering apps represent the logical next step for your business.

‍

The Downsides of Kiosk Ordering for Customers

Customer Frustration and Confusion

Kiosks can often lead to frustration and confusion for customers unfamiliar with the technology. Navigating complex menus, modifying orders, and inputting payment details can prove challenging, especially for those with limited technical skills or disabilities. This frustration negatively impacts the overall dining experience.

Lack of Personalized Recommendations

Without human interaction, customers miss out on personalized recommendations based on their preferences and dietary needs. Knowledgeable staff can suggest items, explain ingredients, and tailor orders accordingly. Kiosks simply cannot replicate this level of personalized service, leaving customers to fend for themselves.

Limited Menu Insights

Kiosks typically provide only basic menu information, lacking the depth of knowledge a trained employee can offer. Customers may miss out on understanding daily specials, featured items, or the story behind certain dishes. This lack of context can diminish the overall dining experience and customers' appreciation for the food.

‍

The Benefits of Mobile Ordering Apps for Restaurants

Increased Order Size and Revenue

One key advantage of mobile ordering apps is the ability to upsell and cross-sell menu items. Studies show customers tend to order around 20% more when using an app versus ordering in-person. The interactive interface allows restaurants to highlight promotions, combo deals and popular add-ons seamlessly. This boosts average ticket size and overall revenue.

Streamlined Operations

Mobile apps eliminate the need for customers to wait in long lines or crowd service counters. Orders flow directly to the kitchen for efficient preparation. This eases operational bottlenecks and allows staff to focus on ensuring a smooth pickup/delivery process. Many apps also enable advance ordering for added convenience.

Customer Insights and Loyalty

Apps collect valuable customer data like order histories and preferences. This intel helps restaurants personalize marketing and refine menu offerings. App users can also enroll in loyalty programs and receive targeted promotions to drive repeat business. The seamless ordering experience cultivates brand affinity.

Lower Labor Costs

By shifting orders to mobile apps, restaurants can reduce staffing needs for cashiers and call centers. The automated system handles orders accurately with minimal human intervention required. This allows businesses to reallocate labor resources more strategically. Less staff is also needed for bussing tables vacated by diners using mobile pickup/delivery.

Innovative brands like Chipotle, Starbucks and McDonald's have already embraced mobile ordering apps as the future of customer service. The efficiency gains, revenue uplift and customer satisfaction make transitioning to this technology a no-brainer for the modern restaurant.

‍

How Big Brands Are Adopting Mobile Ordering Technology

An Essential Channel

As more diners embrace mobile ordering, big brands are rapidly investing in this capability. According to Olo, over 700 brands now offer digital ordering through their platform. Top brands recognize mobile apps provide an essential channel to diversify revenue streams.

Streamlining Operations

Mobile apps allow customers to browse menus, customize orders, and pay seamlessly from their phones. This streamlines operations for both customers and staff. Brands can also leverage the technology to promote new menu items or offers directly to app users.

Meeting Customer Expectations

Consumer expectations continue shifting towards greater convenience. Mobile ordering caters to this demand, enabling a frictionless experience from start to finish. Major chains like The Works Grill, La Catrina Miami, and Dough & Co. Pizza have partnered with Per Diem developer to enhance their digital presence.

Gaining Valuable Data

Beyond operational benefits, mobile apps provide a wealth of customer data. Brands can analyze ordering patterns, menu preferences, and campaign performance to optimize their offerings. This data-driven approach helps big players stay competitive and responsive to evolving tastes.

A Competitive Necessity

As leaders like Chip City Cookies, Crave Cookies, and Coffee Dose embrace mobile ordering, the technology is quickly becoming table stakes. Brands must adopt user-friendly mobile apps to meet modern consumer standards and remain competitive in today's digital landscape.

‍

Final Thoughts

When it comes to ordering food and drinks on-the-go, mobile apps provide a more seamless experience for customers than kiosks. With just a few taps, you can place your order, pay, earn rewards, and skip the line at your favorite spots. As big brands like The Works Grill, La Catrina Miami, and Chip City Cookies demonstrate, mobile ordering integrates smoothly into existing operations while providing data insights. So next time you're craving a quick bite, open your favorite food app for the ultimate grab-and-go experience.

‍