Enhancing Restaurant Operations with Self-Service Kiosks
Explore the impact of self-service kiosks on the restaurant industry, from increasing average check sizes to improving customer engagement and operational efficiency.
Photo by Tim Mossholder on Unsplash
Increasing Average Check Sizes
Self-service kiosks have emerged as game-changers for restaurants in boosting their average check sizes. By providing consumers with a convenient and interactive ordering experience, kiosks empower customers to explore menu options thoroughly and consider add-ons or upgrades they might not have otherwise. Studies have shown that the average check size in-store can increase by up to 15% with the introduction of self-service kiosks. This aligns with CEO Brandon Barton's assertion that kiosks drive significant check growth in the restaurant industry.
Enhancing Customer Engagement
The use of images and suggestive selling on self-service kiosks can significantly enhance customer engagement. By displaying enticing visuals of menu items and promotions, kiosks appeal to various consumer types and encourage upselling. Portillo’s, for example, expressed interest in leveraging kiosks to tailor recommendations to customers, creating a more personalized and interactive ordering process. This approach not only increases sales but also strengthens the bond between the customer and the brand.
Photo by Tim Mossholder on Unsplash
Improving Operational Efficiency
Self-service kiosks play a vital role in enhancing operational efficiency within restaurants. By streamlining the ordering process and reducing wait times, kiosks help optimize throughput and alleviate bottlenecks during peak hours. Osanloo's acknowledgment of using kiosks to improve overall throughput highlights their potential to enhance operational performance. Furthermore, the redistribution of labor across the restaurant, facilitated by kiosks, creates new opportunities for guest interaction and service quality.
Adapting to Industry Trends
The increasing deployment of self-service kiosks by various restaurant chains reflects a broader trend in the industry towards embracing innovative technology. Companies like Dave’s Hot Chicken and Shake Shack have successfully implemented kiosks, witnessing sales boosts and operational improvements. Dave’s Hot Chicken's adoption of GRUBBR kiosks in response to market changes showcases the adaptability of self-service technology to meet evolving consumer and regulatory demands, such as wage increases.