We currently live in a time where technology is constantly developing and growing to find solutions to simplify problems and reduce human error. The F&B industry has changed and evolved a lot over the years by digitizing itself to live up to the changes.
What kind of digitizing?
Restaurants have started digitizing itself and are adapting to changes in the environment. With the introduction of kiosks, e-menus, bring your own device, e-payment, order ahead and more. This has left diners with a number of different methods to order and have a unique dining experience. Rather than having to rely on wait staff, the diners are getting the opportunity to order using their meals using various devices.
For example, KFC, McDonald’s and other fast-food chains in Singapore have introduced kiosks which allows diners to quickly order their food rather than having to wait in queues. The kiosks allow users to order and pay, therefore eliminating the waiting time at the queues and only having to wait for their food.
Other restaurants have introduced e-menus. Sushi Tei now has an iPad at each table and allowing diners to order their food which goes straight to the kitchen. This eliminates the need for diners having to call a waiter to take the order. With the introduction of all this technology and new ordering methods, diners have a number of alternatives to themselves.
How does digitalization help restaurants?
Firstly, it reduces the required number of manpower. Since most of the work is done on kiosks, or e-menus or other mobile apps, there isn’t much requirement for manpower. One of these solutions is Waitrr, which is a mobile ordering and payments solution that creates seamless dining experiences for guests and restaurant partners. With Waitrr, consumers can save up to 15 minutes when dining in. On the other hand, restaurants have seen a 40% improvement in staff efficiency and a 20% increase in table turnover. It also has a loyalty program which incentivizes users to order using the app.
With Waitrr, restaurants can reduce the required number of staff as the primary job would be to bring the food. With this, restaurants are reducing costs on salaries. Reducing the number of staff members reduces the total costs given that the average salary is $2000 per staff member. Additionally, with lesser staff means less training costs and benefits to cover up. Also, users register their phone numbers and email which allows restaurants and Waitrr to build a rapport with customers. With this, Waitrr can retarget those customers and can inform restaurants about which of their meals are well-received by diners. This personalized data from transactions provides a better understanding of the customers.
With restaurants becoming digitalized, diners are opening themselves up to better, faster service, and a higher quality dining experience. While restaurants, are opening themselves to higher table turnover, better sales and lesser costs in the long-run.