In today's competitive gastronomic landscape, where customers are more demanding than ever, offering good food and a pleasant atmosphere is no longer enough. Efficient restaurant management involves a wide range of technologies that help streamline operations, increase profits, and build customer loyalty. Whether you are opening a new establishment or modernizing an existing one, the key role is played not only by the Point of Sale (POS) system but also by having a website, e-shop, delivery logistics, mobile applications, kiosks, and loyalty programs.

Newly Opened Restaurants: It All Starts with the Right Plan

For new businesses, the ideal time to select a POS system and other technologies is during the early planning stages. Proper preparation allows you to set up all processes for maximum efficiency from day one.

• Choosing the Right POS Solution: Focus on systems that offer more than just checkout functions. Ideally, the POS system should support integration with e-shops, logistics, and inventory management systems.
• Website and E-Shop: Having your own website is essential. Adding an e-shop enables customers to order food online directly from you, avoiding high commissions from third parties. More importantly, you remain independent of your ranking on external platforms.
• Delivery Logistics: To save on commissions from platforms like Wolt, Foodora, or Bolt, consider setting up your own delivery service. Although it requires more effort, you retain the full profit margin, which averages around 10-15% of order value, depending on pricing strategies.
• Loyalty Programs: Customers today expect rewards for their loyalty. Offer them loyalty points, discounts on future purchases, or special promotions. Long-term customer engagement pays off.

Established Restaurants: Technology as a Path to Growth

Modernizing an existing restaurant requires a sensitive approach to avoid disrupting daily operations. However, a well-planned strategy can significantly boost efficiency and customer satisfaction.

• Gradual Technology Integration: If you are replacing a POS system, consider gradual implementation to prevent chaos and allow staff to familiarize themselves with new features step by step, ideally outside operating hours with vendor training.
• Integration with Delivery Platforms: Presence on platforms like Wolt, Bolt, DoorDash or Glovo remains relevant. Choose a system that allows centralized management of your menu across all platforms to avoid manual updates, saving hours of administrative work each month.
• Digitalizing the Customer Experience: From online reservations and self-service orders at tables to loyalty programs – customers appreciate time-saving solutions that provide added value.
• IT Team as Part of Your Business: Integrating all these technologies is challenging. Essentially, running a modern restaurant means also establishing an IT team to handle integrations and configurations. Alternatively, you can select a provider offering a comprehensive range of services, eliminating the need for trial and error.

Case Study: Chili's Grill & Bar

The Chili's Grill & Bar chain demonstrates how technological integration can transform customer experiences. The introduction of Ziosk tablets in over 1,100 locations enabled customers to pay directly at the table, speeding up service and enhancing satisfaction. This example highlights the importance of keeping up with technological trends, whether you are a small family restaurant or part of an international chain. (the-sun.com)

Running a successful restaurant today involves much more than cooking great food. Technologies – from POS systems and customized websites to e-shops, delivery logistics, and loyalty programs – form the backbone of the modern restaurant business. If you want your business to thrive, you must think not only like a restaurateur but also like someone passionate about technology. If tech isn't your strong suit, you need someone by your side who is. Timely implementation of these solutions and the ability to integrate them into a functional system are the keys to long-term success.