Remember the days of frantically waving down servers, squinting at smudged paper menus, and playing the waiting game for your bill? Those days are officially over, because as long as you’ve got a phone and some tech-savvy, you’re using that QR code stuck on the table and skipping the queue.
COVID gave QR code ordering its legs, but the last few years have proven it isn’t just another tech trend. It’s changing the restaurant industry, and here are 4 reasons why your venue needs to jump on board.
1. Transform Your Operations (And Your Bottom Line)
Let’s talk money. Restaurants using QR code ordering systems report up to 30% faster table turnover, significantly reduced labour costs, and a remarkable decrease in order errors.
But the real magic happens when your staff shifts from order-taking to creating exceptional dining experiences. Reducing the time spent communicating with the kitchen means your servers are free to have engaging conversations and level up your diners’ experience.
Venues using table QR code order systems have ultimate flexibility. With real-time menu updates at your fingertips, you can adjust prices during peak hours or seasons, remove sold-out items instantly, or launch that special happy hour menu with a click. No more apologising for items being unavailable, reprinting menus for every small change or whacking messy-looking masking tape over sold-out items.
2. Customer Experience, Elevated
With the cost of living skyrocketing, diners are becoming more discerning. Standards are high when they choose to spend their hard-earned cash on a meal, and QR code ordering delivers in spades. Customers can browse at their own pace, customise orders without hesitation, skip the line at the bar and pay instantly when ready. Remove the awkward hovering of servers, miscommunications about dietary requirements, yelling drink orders over the bar and split-bill headaches.
QR code menus and ordering systems enhance the customer experience through features like:
- Easy upselling with suggested add-ons and complementary items
- Highlighting popular dishes and best-sellers to guide customer choices
- Offering customisable meal combos and set menu options
- Displaying high-quality food photos to drive purchases
- Providing detailed dish descriptions and allergen information
- Suggesting drink pairings with meals
- Promoting special offers and time-limited deals
3. Leverage Data: Your Secret Ingredient
Think you know your menu inside and out? Data might surprise you. You might think the ceviche on your menu is the best thing since… ceviche, but if your kitchen reports show it’s barely moving, it’s time to dig deeper. Prevent wasting fish or time with clear data to drive decision making. Our QR code tech captures crucial insights that transform guesswork into strategy. Using a venue-wide QR code system will unlock invaluable insights about ordering patterns, popular dish combinations, and peak service times.
You’ll be able to see and understand:
- Popular dish combinations and add-ons that drive higher check averages
- Peak ordering times by dish type, helping you prep more efficiently
- Most viewed but least ordered items – perfect for menu redesign decisions
- Customer ordering patterns that inform inventory management
Armed with these insights, you can:
- Fine-tune your menu layout to highlight high-margin items
- Adjust staffing levels based on real ordering patterns
- Create data-driven marketing and promotional campaigns
- Optimise your inventory to reduce waste
Best of all? This data collection happens automatically in the background while you focus on what matters most – creating exceptional dining experiences.
4. Use Dynamic Remarketing to Turn One-Time Diners into Regulars
Every QR code interaction is a goldmine of customer data. When diners scan and order, you’re collecting valuable information about their preferences, spending habits, and dining patterns. This data becomes your secret weapon for targeted marketing campaigns.
Imagine sending personalised promotions for wine specials to customers who frequently order premium bottles, or alerting pasta lovers about your new handmade gnocchi menu. With customer opt-in, you can build a database of email addresses and phone numbers, turning one-time diners into regulars through strategic remarketing.
Whether it’s birthday promotions, special event invitations, or exclusive menu previews, QR code ordering systems help you maintain an ongoing relationship with your customers long after they’ve left your venue.
But What About…?
Got concerns? System change across venues can be daunting, but we’re here to support the transition.
Here are some common concerns we hear about QR code ordering and how we address them:
- “QR code ordering feels impersonal” – Train your staff to focus on meaningful guest interactions instead of order-taking
- “What about tech-challenged customers who might not understand ordering with QR codes?” – Keep physical menus on hand and train staff to guide guests through the process
- “The system seems complicated” – It’s easier than you think! Plus, the Venue Smart team provides comprehensive setup support and staff training
- “What if there are technical issues with the QR code ordering system?” – We offer technical support and backup solutions to ensure smooth operations
- “The transition to QR code order systems might disrupt service” – We’ll help you implement the system gradually, ensuring a seamless integration
Ready to implement QR code ordering in your venue and reap the rewards? Interested in finding out how you can grow your bottom line, improve your customer experience and leverage data? Learn more about our QR table ordering solution and join the restaurants, bars and cafes already revolutionising their service with smart technology.