The pandemic has passed, yet its impact lingers. Over the past five years, the way restaurants operate has transformed tremendously. People now prefer takeout and delivery over dining-in options, and with no surprise, it's becoming the new norm. 

Currently, 60% of customers go for food delivery services weekly, with an average spend of $67 on each order. This shift pushes traditional restaurants to offer online ordering services to serve customers. So, how can we get started? In this guide, we will disclose everything about online ordering and how you can start online ordering services for free. 

What is Online Ordering, and Why is it Growing?

Online ordering is a system where customers use the Internet to order food from restaurants. It's growing because customers value convenience. They prefer browsing menus, placing orders, and paying online.

Offering online ordering opens up new sales channels and gives insights into customer preferences. It helps you stay competitive and meet the demands of today's diners. As lifestyles become busier, more customers prefer ordering online to save time. Ordering food online has outpaced dine-in and makes up 40% of restaurant sales.

And here's the kicker: customers love it. They crave the ease of getting their favorite meals to their favorite couch without the hassle.

Why is Online Ordering Growing? 

People want convenience, and online ordering delivers just that. 87% of Americans using third-party food delivery services say it simplifies their lives. And it's not about avoiding cooking. About 63% of people find ordering easier than dining out with family.  

Additionally, people value their time more than ever. They prefer clicking a few buttons over waiting in lines or dealing with traffic. 

For restaurant owners, this shift is a call to action. Online ordering is essential. It meets your customers where they are: online, looking for an easy and satisfying way to dine. 

How to Get Your Online Restaurant Ordering Started?

You’re in the right place. OneHub Online Ordering (Online store) module helps restaurant owners build their online presence and open a new revenue channel. To set up a OneHub Online store is simple. Here’s how this will look for you:

1. Let’s get on a call. Our Customer team contacts you to get all the details and configurations for the Online store. This applies to new and existing customers.

     a. We will ask for an updated menu
     b. Updated pricing
     c. Store settings for Online store

2. Our Engineering and Customer teams will work over the next 36 hours to set up your Online store as needed. 

3. Post set up, our teams will contact you with your Online store admin login details, pre-configured and ready to take orders. 

4. Now, you can manage your online store from one dashboard. 

    a. Edit or update store branding and operating hours.

   b. Simplify menu updates and pricing edits easily.

    c. Track inventory and hide unavailable items automatically from OneHub Online store dashboard.  

    d. Track orders at every phase, including future orders. 

  e. To access Settings - including delivery, taxes, promo codes set up, or edits, go to OneHub Online store > Settings

Advantages of setting up the OneHub Online store

1. Seamlessly syncs POS, KDS, and other peripheral devices.
2. Back office management, including menu and orders, is easy to use on the Online store admin portal. 
3. Set up Online store within 3 days and start being operational.
4. Centralize in-store orders, third-party orders, and Online store orders all on one dashboard to manage.
5. Seamless sync to the POS cloud dashboard will help analyze peak ordering times, popular menu items, and customer preferences, allowing restaurant owners to optimize staffing levels, inventory management, and menu offerings to meet demand and lower ops costs effectively.
6. Allow customers to personalize their orders, choose ingredients, toppings, and sides easily, providing a more engaging and custom experience. 

While initial setup costs of $100 may be associated with implementing an online store, the long-term benefits often outweigh the investment. Reduced labor costs, improved efficiency, and optimized resource allocation contribute to overall cost savings for restaurant owners.

Wrapping Up

Implementing an online ordering system is the first step towards modernizing your restaurant and meeting the changing expectations of your customers. This guide has walked you through creating an online store with OneHub, from getting online to managing orders like a pro. 

Pro tip: From choosing the right software to promoting your new service, each step builds towards a seamless customer experience. Whether you seek to broaden your menu or explore new service models, you have ample opportunities. Always aim to make the ordering process as straightforward as possible to minimize customer drop-off—more on how to do this in our upcoming blogs.

What if you get to run a restaurant but without worrying about the high rent, fancy interiors, or even waitstaff? Well, that’s exactly what ghost kitchens offer: you can serve delicious food without the high costs of a traditional restaurant. 

Plus, the online food delivery market is booming. Customers are also craving convenience. So, ghost kitchens are becoming the future of dining. 

This guide covers what ghost kitchens are, their benefits, successful examples, and how you can start your own. Let’s dive in!

Summary

• A ghost kitchen is a delivery-only restaurant with no physical storefront, operating via food delivery apps.
• Orders are placed online, prepared in a shared or private kitchen, packed, and delivered.
• Different models include shared commissary kitchens, virtual brand extensions, independent ghost kitchens, and franchise ghost kitchens.
• Lower startup and operational costs, lower risk, and wider delivery reach make ghost kitchens a smart alternative to traditional restaurants.
• Popular examples include Krispy Rice, MrBeast Burger, and The Burger Den.
• Starting one involves picking a niche, choosing a strategic location, setting up a commercial kitchen, listing on delivery apps, building a brand, and optimizing operations with technology.
• Costs vary based on setup (rent vs. build), menu type, and marketing expenses. Renting is faster and cheaper, while building offers more control but requires higher investment.
• Ghost kitchens are a scalable, cost-effective way to enter the food industry, with tools like OneHubPOS helping streamline operations.

What is a Ghost Kitchen?

Ghost kitchens are physical spaces that run food preparation and other operations without a storefront. The food prepared is only available for delivery. Ghost kitchens don't have a store display but have space to cook and sell food online via third-party delivery apps. Instead of a physical location, the presence is digital. 

How Do Ghost Kitchen Work?

The working of ghost kitchens is quite simple. Besides how you receive the order, here’s who is potentially involved. There’s a chef, kitchen assistant, packer, dispatcher, and manager to oversee the entire operation. 

1. Order placement: Customers place orders via any food delivery platform. 
2. Order details receipt: Your ghost kitchen receives the order. It is accompanied by all the required details and special requests, if any.
3. Preparation: Your chef starts cooking the fresh meal. Since you need to fulfill the order in the designated timeline provided to the consumers, you need to balance quality and speed. 
4. Packing: Packing the meals in safe, hygienic, and convenient packaging pleases the eye and follows all the food safety regulations. 
5. Delivery: Mark the order as complete in the food delivery app/website. The delivery person would then visit your premises, pick up the order, and deliver it to the customer.   

Different Models of Ghost Kitchen

Ghost kitchens come in different types, each catering to unique business needs:

• In shared commissary spaces, multiple brands share one kitchen, cutting costs while maximizing efficiency. Think of a pizzeria and a sushi brand operating side by side but separately.
• In virtual brand extensions, existing quick service restaurants launch delivery-only brands using their existing kitchen. For example, a burger spot might add a wings-only brand without extra space or staff.
• Independent ghost kitchens are single-brand, delivery-only kitchens.
• In franchise ghost kitchens, big brands run multiple virtual brands from one location.

Benefits of Opening a Ghost Kitchen

By 2030, ghost kitchens are predicted to hold a 50% market share of the drive-thru and takeaway foodservice markets. Here are some of the benefits to consider. 

1. Capitalize on Online Ordering Demand

The online meal delivery segment contributes to about 40% of restaurant sales. So, first-time ghost kitchen operators can leverage online ordering to cater to the increased demand. Moreover, already-established restaurants can expand their business and capitalize on the increased demand for food delivery services.

2. Low Overhead Costs

The cost of starting the ghost kitchen business is low. You don't require a server, counter service, staffing for the bar, huge space, and a setup that includes tables, interiors, and cutlery. That means the ghost kitchen costs significantly less than a full-service or fast-casual restaurant. 

3. Simpler Startup Efforts

Starting up a ghost kitchen model takes simpler efforts. All it requires is a brand, a rental space for a kitchen to prepare food, marketing spending to create brand awareness, and integration with a third-party delivery app. All this, accompanied by a solid and sound menu, is a crucial aspect of the model compared to the traditional, which also has to focus on the interiors, exteriors, location, and much more.

4. Lower Risk

If opening a quick service restaurant business is where your interest lies, then there is nothing less risky than the ghost kitchen. Its minimal cost requirement to start a business is lower than any other restaurant business model. Also, the ghost kitchen model allows you to try something new without making a significant investment. 

5. Increased Delivery Range

When there is no fixed storefront to serve the customers, there is no restriction on who your customers are. That way, your delivery range can increase with third-party delivery apps or by increasing the number of kitchens. 

Initially, integrating a third-party delivery app is beneficial as it is more known in the market and can increase sales volume. Once your brand is established, you can select delivery partners to cater to various locations, increasing your revenue. As your business grows, you can increase the number of kitchens in multiple locations to expand the delivery locations.

Ghost Kitchen vs. Cloud Kitchens

Though the ghost kitchen and cloud kitchen are often interchangeably used, their differences make them distinct.

Popular Ghost Kitchen Examples

The ghost kitchen concept of the model is simple. Many businesses have implemented it and have expanded themselves. Here are some popular brands that work on ghost kitchen models.

1. Krispy Rice

Krispy Rice is a Japanese concept kitchen established in 2020. The concept is built around a signature dish, spicy tuna crispy rice. Hence, the menu has a variation of crispy rice made available in three combo deals, or à la carte, which is attractive to all sushi lovers. 

C3 is a subsidiary of SBE Entertainment Group, a hospitality lifestyle company leveraging its vast restaurant network and ghost kitchens to deliver Krispy Rice’s recipes to doorsteps through DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Postmates.  

2. MrBeast Burger

MrBeast Burger is a virtual restaurant operating from ghost kitchens across the United States. It is owned by a famous personality on YouTube, Mr. Beast. Found in 2020. People order food via delivery apps. It is situated in 300 locations. They run from the virtual dining concept by Robert Earl, who has successful franchise ownership. 

VDC is the one that rolls out MrBeast Burger, which uses ghost kitchens to run a brand, and each of the concepts gets endorsed by a celebrity’s branding. With a strategic location spread,  they take over the delivery app algorithm to reach every city with delivery.  

3. The Burger Den

With The Burger Den and The Meltdown, Denny’s is tapping into online food delivery without opening new restaurants. The Burger Den serves up stacked burgers, while The Meltdown focuses on gourmet sandwiches loaded with cheesy goodness. 

These virtual brands operate from existing Denny’s kitchens, allowing the company to maximize its resources and drive more traffic through delivery apps.  

How to Start a Ghost Kitchen?

Here’s how to get started.

1. Pick Your Niche & Menu

What’s your specialty? Burgers, sushi, protein-packed bowls, or something else? Choose a niche that stands out and keeps customers coming back. Using the efficient menu management features, keep the menu focused. Too many options lead to chaos. Also, make sure that you price right so that you sell more.

2. Choose the Right Location

Since you don’t need a fancy storefront, pick a spot near your target customers. A central location with high delivery demand and affordable rent is ideal. Check app hotspots like UberEats to see where orders are booming.

3. Set Up Your Kitchen

Rent a commercial kitchen or build your own. Make sure you have the right equipment for your menu. For example, a pizza place needs top-notch ovens, while a smoothie bar should have high-speed blenders.

4. Get on Delivery Apps & Set Up Direct Orders

List your ghost kitchen on platforms like DoorDash to enable mobile ordering and boost visibility. But remember, they take a cut. To maximize profits, you can create a website or WhatsApp order system with discounts and contactless payment options so that they can simply order and pay.

5. Build Your Brand & Market Smartly

A ghost kitchen is invisible, unless you make noise! Use social media, mouthwatering food photography, and influencer collabs to create hype. Build trust through:

• amazing branding
• great packaging
• fun social media engagement
• real customer reviews

A behind-the-scenes video of your kitchen is a personal touch that builds credibility. You can also send a QR code with the order to your customer so that they can leave a review.

6. Optimize Operations & Scale

Ensure smooth logistics, train staff, and focus on fast, quality deliveries. Customers won’t return for cold fries and soggy pizza. You can use ventilated boxes for fries and secure lids for soups. Plus, test delivery times and tweak routes. 

Ghost Kitchen Costs

Now that you know it works like any other commercial kitchen, what does the cost look like? The essential cost varies depending on these factors:

1. Your food niche and menu determine the necessary equipment and facilities.
2. Costs vary based on whether you build or rent the kitchen.
3. Operating expenses include utilities, equipment, insurance, packaging, salaries, licenses, and setup costs.
4. Digital presence costs cover apps, websites, and promotions.
5. Supply chain expenses depend on food type (fresh or frozen), storage needs, and future scaling. 

Ghost Kitchen for Rent vs. Buy

If you are setting up a ghost kitchen, le’s quickly understand whether it is good to build or rent.  

Option 1: Build Ghost Kitchen 

Building a ghost kitchen has benefits, but it is one’s decision whether to take the initial setup's expenses on themselves. 

Pros: 

• It gives space to build per your needs, whether you want to optimize the layout, pick up specific equipment, or design as per the menu.  
• Consider this a long-term investment if you plan to expand your ghost kitchen. 
• Hygiene, operations, and maintenance can be entirely under your control. 

Cons:  

• Constructing, purchasing utilities, and getting permits is an upfront expenses. 
• The launch can be delayed due to setting things up from scratch.  
• The maintenance, management, repairs, and compliance hassle will be on you.  
• If the investment does not succeed, it can remain an asset that can't be repurposed easily.  

Option 2: Rent Ghost Kitchen

There are rental spaces equipped with shared spaces that you need not set up from scratch. 

Pros:  

• It is cost-effective compared to expenses incurred in construction.  
• The ready infrastructure comes with equipped utilities that are commercial grade and with licenses.  
• You can adapt quickly to test out different menus as you customize them. 
• It can be an efficient solution, as other tenants can share the cost with you.  

Cons:  

• You’ll have limited control over the layout of the kitchen and equipment. 
• You must rely on the owner for the repairs and maintenance. 
• A lease arrangement cannot offer flexibility or might even cost more.

Wrapping Up

Ghost kitchens reduce overhead costs, increase operational efficiency, and expand market reach. Coupled with automation and technology, ghost kitchens can be managed way more efficiently and profitably. 

So, what are you waiting for? It's time to capitalize on this increasing demand and start a ghost kitchen. On the way, if you need help with a point-of-sale solution to make your operations manageable, check out OneHubPOS. This easy-to-use software is designed for restaurants, making kitchen operations a breeze. Book a demo with us to learn how!

‍

Congratulations! You’ve opened your restaurant business. While this role gives you new responsibilities to flex your entrepreneurial muscle, it also comes with its own set of challenges. One such challenge is selecting a POS solution to keep strict tabs on your order processing and inventory, manage customer relationships, or track your restaurant’s spending. 

Gone are the days of old-fashioned cash registers. Restaurants (both big and small) are switching to cloud-based point-of-sale solutions owing to their numerous benefits. Not only do these POS solutions streamline inventory and menu management challenges and transaction processes, but they also provide valuable analytics that can help restaurants succeed.

However, the selection process becomes a monumental task with several different cloud-based POS solutions available. The ideal choice for your restaurant will depend on your requirements and budget. 

This article will explore the top 5 cloud-based POS systems and discuss their pros and cons to help you choose.

What is a Cloud-Based Point of Sale (POS) System?

In a cloud-based POS system, all data, including sales transactions, inventory records, customer information, and analytics, is stored securely in the cloud. This kind of connection processes transactions in real-time, which is crucial for everyday restaurant operations today. The system manages sales, payments, inventory, menus, pricing, and customer contacts using a combination of hardware and software. 

The cloud-based point-of-sale system has physical components like card readers, terminals, and receipt printers. It is through these that the software works seamlessly. The main advantage of having this software hosted in the cloud is its ability to be scaled easily as business needs change. In addition to this, it has automatic backups and real-time updates.

Traditional vs. Cloud-based POS

The debate between cloud-based and traditional POS systems is about how they are built and what they can do. Here is a table representing the apparent differences between the two.

5 Best Cloud-Based POS Software for Small Businesses

Here is our list of the five best POS solutions for small businesses. Learn their features, pros, and cons, and make an informed decision. 

1. OneHubPOS

OneHubPOS - backed by Loomis Pay is your go-to, all-in-one POS solution perfect for businesses of all sizes. The solution is designed to fit your use case and industry. Whether it's simplifying sales or managing deliveries, ensuring error free order processing or smooth payments, this POS system is all about making operations smoother, and increasing your overall profitability. 

With its easy-to-navigate interface and comprehensive features, and affordable pricing, OneHubPOS stands out as a smart choice for businesses across the board.

Features

• All-in-one solution with customizable options that cater to multiple businesses. Whether an enterprise or a quaint cafe, the platform seamlessly adapts to specific requirements.
• Intuitive interface and built on modern Android architecture, that is easy-to-onboard, ensuring easy adoption and minimal training time for employees.
• Enhance security measures with advanced cash management features, reducing the risk of theft or errors.
• Manage multiple stores, take orders from anywhere, and maintain complete control through a centralized dashboard.
• Ensure a smooth flow of orders, online orders, and self-serve kiosks to the kitchen, eliminating any chances of missing requests. 
• Equip your FOH team with a user-friendly POS system for quick and hassle-free order processing.
• Multiple payment options through cards, QR codes, links & NFC.
• Get in-depth insights into each store's performance, empowering you to make informed decisions.

Pros

• A complete Android solution designed to meet your needs.
• Robust cash management feature to minimize the risk of theft and cash losses.
• One workflow to take orders from anywhere, inventory management to payment, and delivery to dine-in.
• Clear pricing structures with no hidden fees, ensuring that every business receives the necessary features and budget-friendly. With a starting price just at $50.
• Seamlessly integrates with your existing system, ensuring a smooth process.
• Upgrade to e-loyalty programs and gift cards to enhance customer retention and satisfaction.

Cons

• Currently it does not support iOS devices.

2. Square

Square caters to businesses of all sizes, offering many tools beyond traditional transaction processing. This cloud-based POS system seamlessly integrates with various business tools, providing a unified platform for managing operations. 

Features 

• Users can manage customers, transactions, inventory, invoicing, and payments, easily. 
• Offers additional tools for managing customer loyalty, marketing, employees, and payroll.

Pros 

• Has transparent pricing, and compatibility with a wide range of hardware.
• Offers robust payment processing, efficient inventory tracking, and customer relationship management tools.

Cons

• Offline functionality is limited. 
• Processing fees are comparatively higher because card companies and banks levy multiple fees and have strict compliance standards. 
• Simplified features do not cater to the complexities of larger businesses.

3. Lightspeed

Lightspeed is a cloud-based POS solution for the hospitality and retail industries. The platform is particularly well-suited for businesses of varying sizes. It also offers flexible and customizable reports on your sales, inventory, and customers. 

Features

• Provides inventory management, sales, and analytics under one platform. 
• Supports e-commerce integration to track inventory sold online or processing online payments.
• Offers employee scheduling and allows for multiple user profiles

Pros 

• Lightspeed’s customer support contributes to a positive user experience.
• Known for its robust inventory management features such as min/max and seasonal inventory control. 

Cons

• Challenges post-sale with customer support.
• Higher pricing may challenge smaller businesses on a budget. 
• Some users also find the learning curve steep, impacting initial implementation.

4. Shopify POS

Shopify POS offers a streamlined solution for retail merchants to manage both their online and physical sales. It ensures a smooth transition for businesses looking to expand their sales channels. Additionally, Shopify POS provides regular updates and security checks to maintain the security of transactions. 

Features 

• Offers seamless integration with Shopify’s online store platform. 
• Users can create purchase orders, receive alerts for low stock levels, and track inventory across all locations. 
• Offers complete control over monitoring staff access and performance. 

Pros 

• Excellent in multichannel sales, comprehensive inventory management, and customizable checkouts. 
• Has a user-friendly design.

Cons

• Limited offline capabilities might disadvantage companies in areas with erratic internet access. 
• Expensive as compared to competitors. 
• More applications could be needed for advanced functions, which might raise total prices.

5. Oracle

Also known as Oracle Hospitality, this POS software is known for its enterprise solutions. It is an ideal solution for businesses with complex requirements and requires robust functionality and flexibility. For startups and big enterprises seeking to optimize their operations, Oracle is a compelling option.

Features

• Oracle's advanced analytics and reporting features help users make informed decisions. Large companies with intricate business procedures are a good fit for it.

Pros

• Heavily customizable, allowing the ability to adapt to changes. 
• Has excellent capabilities and covers all areas a hospitality business requires. 

Cons

• Customer support isn’t great. Oracle does not directly support end-users. 
• Does not integrate well with other software or interfaces. 
• Complicated deployment and large upfront expenditures can put smaller enterprises off. Users with less technical experience may find the comprehensive features overwhelming. 

Key Features To Consider When Buying Cloud-Based POS Software

When selecting a cloud-based POS system, you should carefully evaluate several key factors. Ensure that the chosen system aligns with your unique needs and operational objectives. By considering these factors judiciously, businesses can make an informed decision. They can choose a system that meets their specific requirements and helps them achieve their goals. Some key features to consider when evaluating POS systems are:

1. Ease of Use

Restaurants need an efficient POS system. The system needs to be simple for it to be used. It needs to be easy enough for your team to use it without needing help. If the system is complicated, staff could spend hours trying to learn it, taking away work time and leading to low productivity levels. 

2. Affordability

Evaluate the overall cost of the POS system, including any subscription fees, transaction costs, and additional hardware expenses. Balance the features offered with your budget constraints. Consider the long-term return on investment.

3. Payment Processing

Robust payment processing capabilities streamline transactions, ensuring quick and secure payment handling for enhanced customer satisfaction.

4. Data security

Security is critical, especially when handling sensitive customer information and payment data. Make sure the POS system follows industry standards for data security. It should have features like encryption and regular security updates.

5. Inventory management

An effective inventory management system will help streamline your restaurant operations. It’ll constantly keep stock counts in check, minimize errors, and automate ordering processes. That way, you won’t run out of anything you need or have too much on hand.

6. Reporting

When choosing a POS system, looking out for one with robust analytics and reporting capabilities is crucial. Ideally, You will need software that provides data on inventory levels, selling patterns, and consumer activities. A system that offers advanced reporting tools can help you make strategic decisions.

7. Customer loyalty

Look for POS software that supports customer loyalty programs. Reward systems and personalized incentives improve customer retention. They also help build long-term relationships.

8. Customer support & training

Each restaurant has its preferred processes, challenges, preferences, requirements, and goals. When buying a POS system, ensure that the vendor assists you with onboarding, They should also provide customer support and technical assistance when necessary.

Wrapping Up

A cloud-based POS system is a big step forward in business transactions. Its seamless integration with hardware, real-time inventory management, and seamless operations make it a powerful tool for restaurants that want efficiency, flexibility, and better customer service. 

If you’re ready to take your restaurant to the next level, don't forget to check out OneHubPOS. Designed with user-friendliness, this POS system can help boost customer satisfaction and maximize sales. Experience POS at just $1.

Are you wondering why more and more businesses are adopting self-service kiosks? 

The answer is simple. Self-ordering kiosks improve efficiency, enhance customer experience, and reduce operational costs. On top of it, your customers love self-serve kiosks—84% of the Americans at least! 

This love is because self-serve kiosks are easy to use, extremely convenient, and super quick. In fact, the global self-service kiosk market size is said to reach USD 43.65 billion by 2028. That's a compound annual growth rate of 8.71%. 

Let's explore what exactly self-serve kiosks are, their benefits, and how to buy one. 

What Are Self-Serve Kiosks for Restaurants?

Also called self-serve kiosks or self-checkout kiosks are standalone devices that enable customers to navigate through menus independently, customize orders, and complete transactions—without staff needing direct assistance. 

The hardware of the self-serve kiosks is a screen mounted to a wall, counter, or stand. The kiosk management software handles everything from inventory management to reporting and performance analytics. That's not it. Your customers can browse menus, customize their orders, and make payments—all by themselves. This ease of experience results in faster order processing, reduced wait times, and increased customer satisfaction.

5 Key Benefits of Self-Serve Kiosks for Your Restaurant

A cold slice of pizza and waiting in long queues ruin your customers’ experience. Fortunately, modern self-serving kiosks are your gateway to increased traffic and better restaurant operations. Let's explore more benefits of self-serve kiosks. 

1. Increased Order Size

Making the kiosk immersive and interactive becomes a valuable tool for enhancing the dining experience. Menu customization options available on these kiosks allow customers to edit their orders. The suggestive selling (complementary recommendations) also allows customers to add extra items, leading to increased order size and more sales. 

2. Reduced Wait Time 

Waiting in queues is tedious and can frustrate customers. But with self-serve kiosks, waiting is no longer a problem. Customers just walk up, choose their order, pay quickly, and that's it! They spend less time waiting and more time enjoying their food. It's a smooth and effortless experience that turns the old waiting ritual into a fast and fun dining adventure. This improves the overall dining experience and boosts operational efficiency during peak hours.

3. Cost Savings & Lesser Errors

When you choose self-serve kiosks, you don't need to hire and train additional staff to take orders or process payments. Since everything is digitized and customers place orders, you need fewer resources to streamline orders, reducing order errors and food wastage. Besides, self-serve kiosks create upsell opportunities which can further increase margins. 

4. Improved Customer Experience

About 73% of consumers today prefer self-checkout over staffed cashier lines. Self-ordering kiosks provide your customers the autonomy to give orders at their own pace. They can select whatever they like without pressure or having someone wait to take their order. They can also customize their selections without any inhibitions. This independence improves their experience and ultimately improves your restaurant's bottom line. 

5. Integrations

Modern self-serve kiosks seamlessly integrate into existing restaurant operations and POS systems without disrupting customer experience. They come in various installation options. You can select from a countertop, stand-mounted, or wall-mounted self-ordering kiosk as per your restaurant size and layout. OneHub self-ordering kiosks seamlessly integrate with your existing point-of-sale system to ensure your customers a quick and improved dining experience. 

Factors to Consider While Implementing a Self-Serve Kiosks?

Undoubtedly, self-serve kiosks improve customer service and make restaurant operations more efficient. But how do you buy one? Consider a few essential factors below before making a selection.

1. Kiosk Cost

Self-serve kiosks can be a significant initial investment. Therefore, weighing the initial expense against the long-term benefits is crucial. Choose a kiosk that fits your budget and gives you a good return on investment.

Kiosks with basic features start at approximately $1,500 to $5,000. The cost of the kicks can vary as you choose additional features, higher-quality materials, and advanced capabilities. 

2. Features 

Select a kiosk that offers features that can help you boost customer experience. The features you select will make your restaurant more competitive, and customers will want to return. Here is a  summary of features you should consider:

Must-have features

• User-friendly interface: Must have a user-friendly interface which allows seamless navigation and quick order processing. 
• Diverse payment options: Secure and diverse payment options for trust and convenience. 
• Integrations: Robust integration with the point-of-sale (POS) system for accurate order fulfillment and inventory management. 
• Order customization: Customization capabilities to allow order modifications and dietary preferences.
• Analytics and Reporting: Select kiosks that provide analytics and reporting features, allowing you to track sales trends, customer preferences, and operational insights.

Good-to-have features

• Responsive touchscreens and multilingual support. 
• Integration with loyalty programs is always a plus since it can encourage repeat business. 
• Visual product displays and nutritional information are a plus since customers are becoming more conscious of their diets. 
• Order tracking and status updates for transparency. 
• Branding and menu customization capabilities

Optional features

• Advanced features like augmented reality can enhance the kiosk experience.

3. Ease of Use

Picture a scenario where your customers struggle with a kiosk, requiring constant assistance from restaurant staff – a potential fiasco. Your self-serve kiosk should be user-friendly, with simple instructions that a diverse audience can understand. You can also test it out with users to ensure it's easy to navigate. A kiosk that's easy to use will encourage more people to use it and leave positive reviews.

4. Scalable Software

The software of the kiosk you choose should be able to handle more orders as your restaurant grows. A scalable POS system ensures a hassle-free transition and keeps up with demand without slowing down. Considering this factor is essential as kiosks are a long-term investment, and they should be able to adapt to the changing needs of your customer base.

5. Kiosk Location

Your kiosk should be in a place that's convenient for the customers. It should be visible and accessible from all possible spaces of your restaurant. We also recommend not placing the kiosks in places that can cause havoc. High-traffic areas like entrances or order pickup points are ideal kiosk spaces. Additionally, your kiosk should fit in with the rest of your restaurant's layout. 

6. Vendor Reviews and Testimonials

Apart from the above factors, researching the vendor is equally important. You can look for customer reviews, testimonials, and case studies. Reviews and ratings can help you gather first-hand feedback from the restaurants that have already used the kiosk. 

Ready to Implement a Self-Serve Kiosks in Your Restaurant?

Self-service kiosks are winning the restaurant industry. As technology evolves, embracing innovations like self-serve kiosks can be strategic for your business. They meet evolving consumer expectations and future-proof your restaurant for sustained growth and competitiveness. 

Check out OneHubPOS, get started at $1, and launch your Kiosks today!

What is a Fast Casual Restaurant?

Fast casual restaurants balance speed, customization and pricing. They offer higher-quality ingredients with an inviting atmosphere compared to traditional fast-food outlets. This restaurant model offers both dine-in and takeaway that meet the new trends and growing preferences of customers. The meals are fresh and made when ordered. It is often served within 5 to 10 minutes and at an affordable price.  

Key Characteristics of Fast Casual Restaurants

Certain characteristics make a fast-casual restaurant unique and different from other restaurant formats. Let's look at some examples to understand what fast-casual restaurants are. 

Atmosphere

The fast-casual encourages the customers to sit and enjoy their meal. They give an overall ambiance similar to a casual dining experience. Look at Panera Bread; the atmosphere is cozy cafe decor, which makes it a perfect fast-casual place. However, that is not the case with Subways, where you order, pay and go.   

Service 

The ordering is usually self-served in fast-casual restaurants. The server then brings the food to you at the table. Some fast-casual restaurants also have drive-throughs, but not all have this option. Chipotle is an example of a fast-casual restaurant exhibiting both serve-at-table and drive-thru services.  

Pricing and Menu Options 

The average price at fast-casual restaurants is $11. It costs slightly more than fast food restaurants and less than casual dining restaurants. The reasoning behind these costs is that it has quality food, service, and ambiance. Fast casual restaurants also offer menu customization, and customers have various categories and items under each to choose from.  

An example of a fast-casual restaurant is Qdoba. This restaurant offers various food options at minimal prices compared to casual dining.  

Benefits of Operating a Fast Casual Restaurant

The growth of fast-casual restaurants in the US is only going up. A double-digit growth(as shown below) and an accelerating momentum make this model the ideal choice for small business owners. 

Here are a few other reasons to consider the fast-food casual restaurant model.  

1. Higher Average Order Value

Fast casual is not as expensive as casual dining. Besides, the quality of food they offer

is better than those of fast food restaurants. These restaurants can sell more items on the menu, add-ons, etc, increasing the average order value.    

2. Better Perception than Fast Food Chains

While fast food meals are cheaper to afford, they’re not good for health. The picture of frozen, lifeless vegetables and greasy food perceptions of fast food are entirely altered by fast-casual restaurants. With carefully curated menus and open kitchen cooking, more and more customers prefer these restaurants.  

3. Lower Operating Costs

The cost to operate a fast-casual restaurant is low, as fewer employees are involved. Technically, there are table service staff, a few cashiers, and intermediate staff between the servicing staff and the kitchen.  

How to Open a Fast Casual Restaurant in the US?

Fast casual Restaurants are positioned to offer the best of both worlds: experience and convenience. First and foremost, define your restaurant's theme by determining the type of cuisine and unique offerings for your customers. This sets the stage for a competitive edge and future expansion. Next, craft a comprehensive action plan encompassing logistics, supply sources, team management, quality control, branding, and marketing strategies. Carefully selecting the perfect site is crucial, considering factors like foot traffic, accessibility, competition, and demographics to match the local community's preferences.

Additionally, integrating technology is imperative for operational efficiency. Solutions like OneHubPOS streamline order delivery, kitchen integration, and seamless payments. Building a cohesive and well-trained team is vital to maintain brand consistency and enhance efficiency. Lastly, develop a savvy marketing plan that aligns with your brand values. Whether through promotional offers, Instagram trends, influencer collaborations, or traditional methods, smart assessments are key to a successful marketing campaign. Launch your fast-casual restaurant with a clear theme, robust planning, technology integration, a skilled crew, and a strategic marketing approach for lasting success.

Latest Trends in the Fast Casual Restaurant Industry

In the restaurant industry, the latest trends can influence your strategies. Here are the trends you should look out for if you plan to launch your fast-casual restaurant. 

1. Focus on Health and Wellness 

You must have noticed discussions about the keto diet, plant-based proteins, and vegan and paleo diets across social media. Even though none of these is particularly new, the discussions have motivated and shifted the focus of fast-casual restaurants, which is now a major focus for them. Health and wellness always emerge as prominent factors that shouldn't be taken lightly. 

2. Growth of Franchise 

Fast casual restaurants have the perfect economic climate to grow rapidly. With a stable economy and increased consumerism, fast casual restaurants are at the right juncture to serve people with busy schedules. You can witness the rapid deployment of franchises across vast arrays of locations, which suggests that this industry is not only getting back on its feet but also acquiring momentum. 

3. Technology Integration 

Enabling technology is an excellent way to attract customers as tech optimizes the experience for people. AI-enabled automation simplifies the order management process between the diners and the chefs and improves the customer experience. People find it more comfortable and appealing. In the context of fast-casual restaurants, this also enables quicker service times as there is no delay in information transfer, order priority will function as expected. 

4. Creative Strategies 

With tons of competition, fast casual restaurants need to be creative with their approach to gain fame. Standing out from the competitors is critical to the growth factor and customer churn. As the fast-casual restaurant segment gets crowded and other players start offering similar value propositions, we suggest you engage with your audience and create a strong brand identity. 

5. Sustainability 

Sustainability is a worldwide social notion that's quite serious, especially with the younger generation. They care about the planet and aren't afraid to portray that affection. Embracing sustainability can be a superb differentiator while also having real and feasible benefits on the side. From creating a solid brand identity and message to energy-efficient lighting, water-saving faucets, waste reduction, etc., restaurants can reduce operation costs and increase margins.    

Wrapping Up

Fast casual restaurants have advantages and are better than fast food initiatives that can be operated at a lower cost. Regardless of the type of restaurant that you would like to start, you'd need an efficient system that manages the inventory, menu, orders, payment processes, and cash.  

If these things are in place, you ought to give your customers a smooth and positive experience. Launch your fast-casual restaurant confidently with our user-friendly platform. Check out OneHubPOS today and start your journey at $1.

Quick-service restaurants are growing. And the major factors driving their growth are globalization, affordable pricing, and convenience. As per research by Custom Market Insights, the market size of Quick-service restaurants, or QSR, is expected to reach $454.3 billion by 2030. This expected growth has made QSR restaurants a popular business option for entrepreneurs and small business owners. 

While the growth may seem promising, what leads to the success of a QSR is thoughtful planning and launch fueled with a powerful concept. Now, the question that arises is where you should start.

This is where this article can guide you. It will walk you through the process of starting a QSR quickly.

What are Quick Service Restaurants?

A Quick service restaurant is a casual dining restaurant that emphasizes quick food service. QSR restaurants generally have fast services, a casual atmosphere, limited seating, and a focused menu. The most popular and common QSRs in the US are Taco Bell, Panera Bread, Mc Donalds, and many more.

Quick-service restaurants come in various sizes. Small kiosks and major chain establishments offer limited seating, drive-thru windows, and takeaway options. However, one thing is always expected for all QRSs— speed and convenience. They make it easier for customers to purchase. 

More and more customers are leaning toward QSRs. They are popular for their quick turnaround times, allowing customers to order, receive their food, and eat relatively quickly compared to traditional sit-down restaurants.

Step-by-Step Guide to Start a QSR 

If you want to start a QSR in 2024, here is the process you need to know: 

1. Choose a Location With High Foot Traffic

The location of your quick-service restaurant is one of the most critical factors that can determine its success or failure. Since these restaurants are meant to provide quick meal options, customers usually prefer restaurants that are easily accessible. 

You should consider a location with higher foot traffic, such as busy streets and markets. It increases your restaurant's visibility and expands your customer base. Also, quick-service restaurants don't require ample parking space since customers need faster delivery and turnover.  

Additionally, You might have noticed McDonald’s, Burger King, and KFC are always near each other. It is so because QSRs perform better when they are open near competitors. If you open a QSR that sells pizza nearby to one that serves tacos, you can get their customers, too, as they are willing to try new food.

Other factors to keep in mind when selecting the location of the QSR are as follows:

• Budget-friendly as they require minimal space and infrastructure to start.
• Accessibility to customers 
• Easily visible
• Goes with the USP of your QSR
• Ample space to run your accommodate your equipment and carry out cooking operations smoothly 
• The availability of the ground floor is preferred.

2. Calculating the Initial Investment 

Before starting a QSR, it is crucial to consider the upfront cost of opening your restaurant to make an informed decision. The costs of opening the QSR include the following:

• Renovation and interior design of the restaurant
• Kitchen appliances and equipment
• Acquisition of POS system and software
• Furniture and other fixtures
• Marketing 
• Acquisition and setting up self-serving kiosks
• Hiring and training staff
• Permit and licenses
• Getting initial supplies and inventory

Other factors, like the restaurant size, location, business requirements, insurance, and legal fees, can impact the cost of opening your quick-service restaurant. 

3. Secure Funds

The next step is to secure financing. You can use your personal savings, grants, and investors. You can also secure the funds through restaurant financing if you need more investment. 

Restaurant financing makes it easy to borrow money to start, expand, reimburse, and support your business. Some of the most popular ways by which you can get financing for your QSR are as follows:

• Brick-and-mortar bank loan
• Small Business administration (SBA) loan
• Merchant cash advance
• Business line of credit
• Crowdfunding

Also, you must compare and evaluate the financing options based on the approval process and timeline, the lender's reputation, the need for collateral, repayment duration, and the interest rate. Evaluating these factors will help you choose the right lender for your quick-service restaurant and ensure you get maximum financing at minimal interest rates.

4. Obtain Licenses, Permits, and Insurance

QSRs face the strongest health and safety regulations to ensure food quality. Thus, as a quick-service restaurant owner, you must meet compliance requirements and have up-to-date permits, licenses, and insurance. 

Some of the most essential licenses and permits that you must possess are as follows:

• Registered business name
• Business License
• Certificate of occupancy
• Food service license
• Employer identification number (EIN)
• Food handler’s permit
• Building health permit
• Liquor license
• Live entertainment and music license
• Resale permit
• Sales tax license
• Dumpster placement permit
• Seller’s Permit
• Valet parking permit

You should also check if you need additional licenses and permits in your city to avoid penalties and meet compliance with local laws.  

5. Create Your Menu

The next step to set up a QSR is to plan the menu. If you are opening a franchise, then this is the most straightforward job. If opening your first quick-service restaurant, you must carefully develop your menu.

Menus are an essential part of the customer experience and your restaurant's selling point; thus, you should take time to develop your menu. To make the menu, follow the following steps:

• Select the food and beverages you want to sell.
• Choosing the names of dishes and adding their description.
• Categorize your menu.
• Setting the prices for the food items.
• Highlighting the dishes that are popular and profitable.
• Designing your menu color scheme, layout, and design. 
• Make your menu accessible through your website, mobile application, QR scanner, and delivery platforms. 

Your menu management can be completely centralized and automated with software like OneHubPOS, where you can upload bulk menus from Excel or create and update them in real time across stores. 

6. Hire and Train Staff 

The staff of the QSR is its backbone. Hence, getting the right talent is a must. To begin hiring, you must create clear, concise job descriptions for different restaurants. You must highlight the job title and description to get the right talent. Once you have a suitable job description, you should look for staff via online portals, referrals, social networking platforms like LinkedIn and Facebook, and hiring agencies.

After hiring the right candidates, you must train the staff about your brand and their duties. To train them, you should provide a training manual that can act as a starting point for them. You must provide shadow and cross-training and educate them on food safety and cooking. 

Remember an important step - to educate the employees about the technology so that they can work effectively.  Also, free courses or live classes are essential to honing their soft skills and communication skills.  

7. Developing a Marketing Strategy

The marketing strategy for your business should start with setting goals, identifying the right marketing practices for your business, and determining the budget.

Target your audience through a mix of online and offline marketing. The popular way to target your audience via offline marketing is through mouth-of-words, hoarding, local advertisement, and pamphlets. 

On the other hand, you can create your brand online presence by greeting your QSR page on social media channels like Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok. You can select the right platform based on your target audience.  

We recommend listing your business on Yelp and Google My Business and asking your customers to drop their reviews to increase your restaurant's reach. Also, you can get a website for your restaurant to increase the brand visibility. 

8. Procuring Kitchen Equipment 

Kitchen equipment is one of the major components of the expense of opening a quick-service restaurant. You must prepare a list of necessary equipment while preparing your business plan. 

While starting a QSR, you will need the grill, fryers, refrigerator, mixer, convection oven, preparation tables, cutting board, knives, fry pans, utensils, dishwasher, and food storage equipment. You may also require other equipment based on the food you sell. 

You can procure this equipment from a supplier or even lease it from companies like North Star Leasing, Cater Renting, Rental Plus, etc. Leasing is a more cost-effective approach as it can reduce your substantial investment. You can instead pay monthly rent for the kitchen equipment. 

9. Implement a Self-Serve Kiosk 

A self-service kiosk is a touchscreen that allows customers to place orders without needing staff. You can easily integrate these kiosks in smaller spaces without compromising customer experience.

Customers can quickly order food, pay, get real-time menu updates, check the dish's availability, and save themselves from long lines. This, in turn, makes the customer experience better and frees up the staff's time, who can work on other tasks and cater to customers more effectively.

10. Go Live

Once you have completed all the steps mentioned above, you are ready to launch your quick-service restaurant. Make sure to create buzz about the QSR before opening it. You can do this through solid marketing, opening discounts, and brand advertisement.

Wrapping Up

The QSR restaurants are constantly increasing and will continue to increase. Thus, it is the right time to start one. By following the steps mentioned above, you can start your QSR, but what matters is the right execution of the steps with the right technology to meet your end goals.

Investing in the right technology in the initial phase of the restaurant can streamline restaurant operations. Solutions like OneHubPOS help optimize your restaurant operations by providing a user-friendly POS system. We offer various features and benefits, enabling you to make real-time menu modifications, pricing, and ordering on a single screen.

‍Contact us today to learn more!

Remember those good old days when having delicious food, excellent food service, and a charming setup were the keys to a successful restaurant? Well, times have changed! We now experience Augmented Reality, Robot servers, and uninterrupted self-serve experiences. 

The essentials are still the same. However, the industry is becoming more customer-centric and creating experiences with technology advancements. And the push to embrace tech solutions stems from the mounting challenges in the restaurant sector. With diner price sensitivity, rising food and labor costs, and dried-up VC funding, adapting to these changes is more than just a choice. It's the need of the hour. 

This article looks at the key trends shaping the restaurant industry in 2024. We will also provide insights into the factors driving these changes and their implications for restaurants.

Biggest Trends in the Restaurant Industry in 2024

The world is changing fast, and business leaders will have to adapt with speed and agility. Constant innovation and speed-to-market will help restaurants thrive as they serve guests where and when they want to be served.

— National Restaurant Association Research and Knowledge Group

The above quote suggests the speed of change and the hyper-competition the food service industry will face in the coming years. From quick service to fine dining, restaurants of all sizes need to stay abreast of the technology trends that are shaping the future of the food service industry.  

1. E-Loyalty

Creating a loyalty program can immediately increase your repeat customers. 

The e-loyalty trend in the restaurant industry is gaining massive momentum in 2024. About 92% of all top-performing restaurants offer mobile order-ahead and loyalty rewards programs or a combination of both.

Customers increasingly prefer digital loyalty programs because they make it easier for them to engage with restaurants. 

To leverage e-loyalty to the best of your ability, you must understand loyalty is moving beyond traditional incentives, primarily discounting. Indeed, it is crucial to integrate loyalty apps with mobile payments and online ordering, especially with advanced solutions OneHub e-loyalty and CRM software. It allows customers to effortlessly enjoy rewards while encouraging them to visit more often. With OneHub e-loyalty program not only streamline the ordering process but also empower customers to create more engaging and rewarding relationship.

2. Experimental Dining

Around 80% of diners are willing to pay extra for a unique experience. As customers seek more from their dining experiences, experiential dining is rapidly emerging as a significant trend. Technology, the key driver behind this force, can help you create unique and innovative dining experiences beyond traditional norms. 

As a restaurant owner, you can leverage technology and do a lot with Augmented and Virtual Reality to add an element of storytelling and enhance the dining experience. Take Dave & Buster’s, for example. It offers arcade games with food and drinks to improve customer experience. The chain grew by over 51% in 2022. And if you’re a small restaurant concerned about spending a lot of money, you can create DIY participatory and entertaining experiences. This can involve having themed restaurants, tableside cooking, etc. 

3. Ghost Kitchens

The trend of cloud kitchens started in the post-Covid era when people switched to online ordering more than going out. Since then, about 51% of restaurateurs in the U.S. have shifted to ghost or virtual kitchens. 

Fire Biryani, a ghost kitchen created by MayaEats, has over fifty locations in the US. Since ghost kitchens focus only on delivery, they help existing businesses stay afloat. Additionally, they are a less risky investment with lower operational expenses. 

If you already have a restaurant, opening a ghost kitchen in a different location allows you to increase your customer base. This expansion enhances production capacity and extends your delivery range. Given the increasing demand for delivery services, investing in a delivery-only model can be brilliant. You can also test new menu concepts, food items, and brands at lower rents and with less labor.

4. Online Ordering

New technology in the food industry is making waves. Right when you’re reading this blog, 70% of Americans shop online. Online ordering is one of the notable developments and has become one of the latest norms in restaurants. Food ordering has evolved from dine-in to takeout via phone calls to third-party apps. That’s not it. Now, the newest trend is native apps developed by restaurants themselves–a low-cost, high-return solution.

Now, restaurants like Domino's, Starbucks, Panera, Chipotle, Subway, Pizza Hut, and other number of successful chains offer their apps with rewarding loyalty programs to boost convenience and loyalty and reduce costs. 

Another benefit of online ordering is that it opens the door to reaching thousands of people. Your restaurant's seating capacity might be 100-200 or even less. But this trend allows you to serve a much larger audience without additional staff or infrastructure investments.

5. Contactless Payments

About 51% of American consumers leverage contactless payment methods like tap-to-go credit cards and mobile wallets. A trend once again initiated by the pandemic continues to grow in 2024. As per customer demands, contactless payment options are increasing, and restaurants are incorporating different payment methods as a new norm.  

The different ways of payment below can help you save time while increasing the table turnover rate. With quicker and seamless payments, you won't have to worry about order accuracy or increased costs associated with cash management. 

• Tap-and-pay options by leveraging NFC (near-field-communication)
• Credit and debit cards
• Apple Wallets 
• Google Wallets

Another apparent advantage of contactless payments is the time they save. Customers do not have to wait in long queues to order or pay. They can swiftly pay with cards, smartphones, watches, and wearable devices and get going. Contactless payment systems enhance efficiency and improve the customer experience. As a result, updating your payment system can upgrade the overall customer experience. With faster and more convenient paying methods, it can be a win-win for diners and you.

Ensuring a hassle-free payment experience is vital for guests — the smoother and more convenient the experience, the better. 

6. Digital Menus

Digital menus, often accessed via QR codes, are becoming a standard norm. These streamlined menus help customers decide faster and allow restaurants to update offerings in real-time. In addition, it also saves money and reduces waste, ultimately leading to more profitability.

“From talking to a variety of sources on both sides of the digital menu boards divide, both providers and end-users, is about 3 to 5 percent uplift in sales.”
‍
— Networld Media Group Digital Menu Boards and ROI Study

Unlike paper menus, digital menus can be updated instantly and often. You can even use them to add new dishes, change prices, and manage sold-out dishes in real time. When your digital menu is linked to your POS, it can automatically show customers which dishes are sold out. Besides, deploying digital menus can help you cut costs quickly while reaping longer-term, more strategic cost reductions. 

Zablong Pizza, for instance, transforms the waiting period into an interactive experience, fostering a sense of community among customers. CAFETIERO, a German cafe chain, cleverly integrates digital menu boards into its decor with framed displays, effectively blending aesthetics and functionality. Sodexo Defense Partners focuses on clarity and simplicity, minimizing clutter on menu boards to communicate swiftly with patrons. Starbucks Express takes a streamlined approach, optimizing digital menu boards for speed, strategically placing them at eye level for quick decision-making. Meanwhile, Baja Bistro demonstrates creativity with clean design and icon-based menu labeling, utilizing technology to present information in an appealing and easily digestible manner. These examples highlight how restaurants strategically employ digital menu boards to not only inform customers but also create engaging, efficient, and visually appealing experiences that ultimately contribute to increased sales.

Wrapping Up

Customer behavior significantly impacts buying habits, whether you run a quick-service restaurant (QSR) or a traditional family-style eatery. Adapting to these trends is essential to stay relevant and stay relevant in a highly competitive market.

Now that you're aware of these trends shaping the future of dining, you're just one step away from your game-changing idea. Take a moment to examine how technology trends can shake things up for your business. 

Utilize these food technology trends and take action in 2024! And on the way, if you need a modern and cost-effective point-of-sale solution to implement these trends quickly, consider checking out OneHubPOS.

OneHubPOS provides centralized POS software to streamline restaurant operations and enhance customer satisfaction. The user-friendly system seamlessly integrates with your existing processes, handling inventory, orders, and payments. Reach out now to learn more and try our solution for just $1!

As NRF 2024 unfolded, one resounding theme echoed through the halls of the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center — the transformative power of AI in shaping the future of retail. NRF 2024 was an exhilarating experience. Let me tell you, the energy was nothing short of electrifying. 

Partnering with Innovation: OneHubPOS & iMin Technologies

Teaming up with our partner, iMin Technologies, we ignited the retail landscape by showcasing the power of OneHubPOS solutions on their state-of-the-art devices. The electrifying buzz in the event space was contagious, setting the stage for an unforgettable retail experience.

‍

Dive into the Retail Mosaic: POS, Supply Chain, and Beyond

In the bustling event space, I navigated through a mosaic of retail dimensions, exploring exhibitors in POS, Supply Chain, food service technology, AI, AR/VR, and Security. Each corner held a promise of innovation, and my journey through these realms left me with a tapestry of insights.

Decoding Shopper Behavior with Jonathan Jimenez

One highlight was Jonathan Jimenez's Tech Talk, where he delved into in-store analytics, particularly focusing on the beauty category. The emphasis on creating unforgettable shopping experiences through data-driven decisions underscored the transformative potential of AI in the retail sphere.

Supply Chain Excellence with FedEx CEO Raj Subramaniam

A fan moment awaited as I delved into a keynote by none other than FedEx CEO Raj Subramaniam. The discussion on supply chain excellence and unveiling the "fdx" initiative showcased FedEx's commitment to making the supply chain smarter using AI and machine learning.

Unveiling Digital & Cash Management Solution

A very proud moment for us was witnessing the surge of interest in our latest cash management solution. Our customer Loomis launched a robust cash management solution for their smart safes (powered by OneHubPOS), attracting many retailers and partners. 

This is a great time to discuss cash management with an increase in cash thefts, and retailers will benefit from implementing a solution that can safely move your cash from registers to a safe while being accountable throughout the process. Know more about our cash management solution. Let’s talk. 

Visionary Wisdom: Edward Stack’s NRF 2024 Visionary Award

Post-receiving the NRF's 2024 Visionary Award, Edward Stack, the Ex-CEO and Executive Chairman of DICK’s Sporting Goods, shared insights resonating with continuous innovation, the value of learning from mistakes, and the dynamic nature of the retail industry.

Future of Checkout Experiences: Insights from a Dynamic Panel

A dynamic panel featuring Jon Hsu, CEO of Copay, Toby Awalt, VP of Marketing of Mashgin, and Thea Myhrvold, Founder & CEO of GetBee delved into the future of checkout experiences with AI. The consensus on AI's transformative potential, the human factor, and the imperative to educate frontline staff about AI adoption underscored the evolving retail landscape.

Additional Insights from NRF 2024

• Salesforce and Walmart CEOs Fireside Chat explored current and future opportunities in AI and why businesses are investing in the technology now.
• U.S. retailers learning marketing lessons from Shein and Temu, focusing on strong social media presence, diverse affiliate programs, and gamifying shopping experiences.
• AI emerged in nearly every conversation, with discussions on generative AI, autonomous AI, and artificial general intelligence.
• The line between online and in-store retail continues to blur, emphasizing thinking like an omnichannel retailer for success.
• A guarded optimism prevailed about the economy in 2024, focusing on consumer spending and sentiment. However, potential threats like inflation, interest rates, geopolitical strife, and crime kept retailers on their toes.

Clearly, NRF unveiled the omnipresence of AI but also brought forth a crucial realization — a limited focus on sustainability. As holograms and robotics took the spotlight, discussions around transparent reporting on ESG and the role of AI in achieving sustainability goals emerged as significant points of contemplation.

‍

‍

As I bid adieu to NRF 2024, the resonance of AI's dominance, the retail innovation tapestry, and the imperative of sustainability echo in my mind. The retail landscape stands on the brink of unparalleled transformation, driven by the fusion of technology and consumer-centric strategies. 

Here's to the thrilling journey that lies ahead in retail innovation!

‍

In the restaurant industry, there is a mixture of optimism and caution as we enter the new year. The average U.S. household spends about $2,375 yearly on dining and takeout – that's a whole lotta love for good food!

Whether your place is a fancy restaurant or a cute cafe, we're here to give you the inside scoop on trends that might raise your game. So, let's get those apron strings right and check out the latest trends in restaurant industry in 2024.

Ready to see what's cooking? Let's dive in!

Top 8 Trends Reshaping the Restaurant Industry

The way we do restaurants? It's getting a serious makeover. We're talking about new technology in the food industry and a sincere desire to simplify things for customers. It's not merely about spicing up the menus anymore.

Join us as we dish out the deets on the trends in the restaurant industry that every restaurant owner should know. 

1. Contactless payments

Restaurants these days make payment simple by offering contactless payment options. You have various options, such as smart cards, cellphones, and even smartwatches. Although this practice was beginning to gain traction on a worldwide scale, the pandemic helped it take off. In the US, eateries and grocery stores are leading the way in contactless payments. 

According to Mastercard, 51% of Americans use it daily, tapping their cards or using Apple Pay without missing a beat. Why? Well, safety and hygiene are big reasons. People like less touching and faster payments. OneHubPOS makes creating QR codes simple for restaurant owners, ensuring customers can smoothly pay with their smartphones.

2. Self-order kiosks

A self-ordering kiosk is the latest tech trend and the future of the restaurant industry. It lets guests order and pay on their own. A big plus with this trend is it boosts how much people spend. After ordering, customers can chill while waiting for their food at a special counter. 

3. Plant-based menu options

In 2024, plant-based menu options will be the latest food technology trends. They desire plant-based foods since they understand the benefits to their health and the environment. Nearly half of US restaurants, according to the PBFA, serve plant-based cuisine. Offering plant-based choices fits with the trend of conscious eating. It's not just about being healthy; it also makes your restaurant trendy. 

4. Food ordering apps

These days, food delivery apps like DoorDash are a common occurrence in our everyday lives. There is a sustained need for food delivery services, rather than being a fad. Users can review menus, place orders, and make payments with only a few touches on their phones. You can customize your orders and explore different types of food while keeping track of your delivery in real-time. These apps have become a simple and convenient way for everyone to enjoy various meals. They show how technology has made dining more manageable and accessible.

5. AR and VR dining

Restaurants are experimenting with AR and VR (augmented and virtual reality). These fancy tech tools are helping restaurants do better for their customers and grow their brands. AR and VR are not just for fun; they're used in marketing and making customer experiences more exciting. Have you visited a restaurant and seen menus with 3D pictures of dishes and detailed info about ingredients? That's AR for you!

Besides, VR customers may sample new cuisines and experience dining at various places from the comfort of their homes. As a customer, these tech experiences keep you coming back for more. 

6. QR code menus

QR menus give you a peek into customer preferences—what they love,how much they spend, and how often they swing by. In the pandemic chaos, QR codes were a godsend. They brought contactless ordering to customers and gave busy restaurant staff a break. 

Now, even with things getting better, staffing headaches linger. QR menus still shine, keeping things easy for customers and giving restaurant owners cool insights. And hey, in-house menus can spice things up with QR codes, making them user-friendly too. OneHubPOS makes running a restaurant a breeze, ensuring menus and orders get updated quickly.

7. Online table reservation system

Booking a table just became much easier with online table reservation systems! Imagine booking a table hassle-free, making customers happy, and keeping everything organized – that's what these platforms do! 

They help customers and make managing reservations a breeze for restaurants. These online systems are designed to meet consumer demands and streamline restaurant operations. This latest trend fits perfectly with today's mobile-savvy crowd and is easily the future of restaurants.

8. Chatbots for customer service

In today's world, nobody is oblivious to the magic of 24/7 chatbots! These trendy chatbots help you connect with customers anytime, saving on operational costs.

Chatting with these bots isn't just incredible; it's like getting instant feedback for your restaurant. Users can interact with chatbots and get quick responses. This makes their experience even better.

Wrapping up

In 2024, expect the restaurant industry to thrive. Dining will see growth but at more realistic rates. The future of the restaurant industry is about exciting developments, and we're eager to see the trends take flight.

Ready for a revolution in restaurant management? With OneHubPOS, you can transform your diners’ experience. Leverage our user-friendly POS system for flawless order management and increased profitability. Book a call with our team today!