Self-order-only areas – Trend for 2023

Defining self-order-only areas

As the name suggests, self-order-only areas are zones where guests order and pay independently. In these areas, guests find a QR code at the table with a brief explanation of the concept. They place their orders and pay on their own. The order is automatically recorded in the POS system and then brought to the table.

Most restaurants face significant challenges finding staff today. Given the predicted rise in labor shortages, many restaurateurs are digitizing their operations. These areas require no service staff for orders or payments; you only need "runners" to bring food and drinks to the table. These runners do not necessarily need training. 

Greeting guests in these areas

Depending on the concept, it may be useful to assign guests a table at the entrance and briefly explain the concept. You can direct older guests or those without smartphones to the standard area. In a bar with a younger audience, simple signs or a brief explanation at the QR code are sufficient.

Relevant restaurant concepts

Self-order-only areas help restaurateurs maintain long-term independence from constant recruiting. This concept is particularly useful for hard-to-reach areas, such as first-floor rooms or outdoor spaces. It also suits businesses with a modern audience, like cocktail bars, beer gardens, Irish pubs, and shisha bars.

Benefits for guests

Guests can order and pay at any time. They can leave your venue without waiting for a server to bring the bill.

Benefits for restaurateurs

This method allows for cost-efficient staffing and lets you open up areas you might not have considered otherwise. The benefits extend to both staffing and your role as a restaurant manager. Consider the time and energy spent on job ads, recruitment, interviews, training, scheduling, payroll, managing shortages due to illness, and resignations. The cycle repeats because of the high turnover in the gastronomy industry. Aim for long-term independence from staffing fluctuations while retaining your core team.

Once you digitize an area, you can track all digital payments and orders 100%, without losses or misunderstandings. You can also update your entire menu or add daily specials in seconds. From there, you can gradually expand and scale the self-order-only area.

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