Restaurant automation and technology are rapidly changing the way the F&B industry operates and functions in Singapore. One of the most obvious examples of such changes is the way we order our food. Previously, you may expect to receive a physical menu and place your order with a waiter. Now, it would not be a shock for customers to perform these actions digitally via a QR ordering system.
Even fast food and fast casual chains in Singapore are revolutionising how we order our meals. Step into McDonald’s, KFC, or Burger King, and one of the first sights you see will be the establishment’s self-ordering kiosks. So why these changes? Providing customers with convenient and high-quality services is the most obvious answer.
However, there are plenty more reasons beyond this. In fact, we will posit that these automated ordering systems are the future of the F&B industry. Let us share why self-service kiosks are becoming more popular in Singapore and why you should consider adopting this technology if you have not already done so for your F&B business.
What are self-ordering kiosks?
As their name implies, self-ordering kiosks grant consumers the autonomy of ordering and paying for their meals themselves. Think of these machines as sophisticated vending machines for meals. They generally consist of a touchscreen with a user-friendly digital interface. The screen will display the menu and prices and guide users through the ordering process – from ordering their preferred dish to payment.
Why are self-ordering kiosks rising in popularity?
A study conducted by Tillster revealed that 65% of consumers would visit a restaurant more often if the establishment has self-ordering kiosks while 30% prefer to order from a self-ordering kiosk to a cashier if the lines are of equal length. So here is the million-dollar question: why are self-ordering kiosks rising in popularity?
While it is challenging to pinpoint a specific cause, the bump in popularity is generally attributed to a change in consumer behaviour. Thanks to technology providing us with greater convenience, we have gotten used to the ease of online ordering. Therefore, we expect similar control, choice, and personalisation when we visit a restaurant in person. And self-ordering kiosks are designed to meet these changing expectations.
There is also no denying that the pandemic has encouraged more entrepreneurs in the F&B industry to embrace this technology. Self-ordering kiosks help promote social distancing, allowing customers to order and pay for their meals without interacting with the cashier. Restaurants simply have to sanitise the machines frequently to maintain strict hygiene standards.
Why should you consider self-ordering kiosks?
It is obvious that self-ordering kiosks are becoming more popular. So if you have not already adopted this technology, what are you waiting for? If you are still on the fence about this decision, let us share several benefits of self-service kiosks to change your mind.
Benefit #1: Decreased waiting time
Nobody likes waiting in a lengthy queue line. If someone spots a long queue forming in your food establishment, they may choose to patronise another restaurant instead. A self-service kiosk can help speed up the ordering process, minimising any delay in service time.
Of course, you can still open a counter or two for customers who prefer ordering in person. But you will only require a few staff members to operate the registers. You can reallocate the rest to areas more beneficial to the business. For example, you can place more employees in the kitchen so that more dishes can be prepared and served, thereby reducing service time.
Benefit #2: Ensure order accuracy
Imagine waiting a long time for your meal to arrive only to discover that the kitchen has mixed up your order. You would understandably be displeased. Perhaps livid enough to leave a bad review. Naturally, as a business owner, you will want to avoid this happening to any of your customers.
Unfortunately, it is impossible to eliminate human errors. But you can circumvent this issue by automating your ordering process. Self-ordering kiosks with a visual menu can significantly reduce such occurrences in your restaurant because your customers know exactly what they are ordering.
Benefit #3: Targeted upselling
Relying on your employees to highlight the latest promotions or popular items on the menu can be a hassle. Firstly, your staff must be prepped on the newest offers. Secondly, miscommunications may occur during the upselling.
Self-ordering kiosks provide a straightforward way to push targeted upsell prompts while your patrons are building their orders. For example, your kiosk can display prompts with various menu modifiers or promotions that customers may not be aware of otherwise. This includes meal combos, top-ups for premium sides, or 2-for-1 deals.
Yes! Self-ordering kiosks do require a bit of an upfront investment. However, these machines are well worth the cost! As the demand for swifter and more convenient service in the F&B industry becomes the norm, you will find that self-ordering kiosks are essential in offering an excellent customer experience to your patrons.
Do you require help looking for a suitable self-ordering kiosk for your F&B business? In that case, our friendly staff will be delighted to assist you in selecting the ideal system that fits your business needs. Do not hesitate to contact us today to learn how we can help you.