Foodics

Unlocking Efficiency With The All-New Foodics Waiter App

Tue, 26 Mar 2024 22:22:03 +0000

How often have you found yourself savoring delectable dishes in a restaurant, enjoying the ambiance, only to have the evening disrupted by slow service and staff seemingly in disarray? It’s a frustrating scenario that can ruin an otherwise delightful experience, leaving you hesitant to return.

At Foodics, we understand the crucial role exceptional customer service plays in defining the success of any restaurant. We also recognize the role of technology in enhancing and streamlining every aspect of restaurant management. Enter the Waiter App – an indispensable solution tailored for dine-in restaurants. This tool is designed to eradicate the chaos, ensuring that every aspect of your dining experience aligns with perfection.

Understanding the Waiter App

The Waiter App by Foodics is an Android application designed specifically for handheld tablets with a user-friendly interface, revolutionizing how waiters operate in dine-in restaurants. Here’s a breakdown of its core features and benefits for staff and customers:

1- Ordering Made Easy

With the Waiter App, waiters can enter the table number and count of guests, take orders directly on the tablet, and ship them immediately to the kitchen with a single click, ensuring accuracy and speed. No more handwritten notes and potential mix-ups.

Benefit for staff: Enhanced accuracy and speed streamline the order-taking process, reducing the chances of errors and ensuring a more efficient workflow for waitstaff.

Benefits for customers: Orders are processed swiftly, minimizing wait times and contributing to an overall smoother dining experience.

Example: A family of four walks into the restaurant. The waiter, using the Waiter App, effortlessly assigns them a table, notes the number of guests, and initiates the order process. This streamlined table and guest management enhances the overall experience of the restaurant.

2- Flexible Payment Options

Customers love choices, and the Waiter App delivers. From traditional payments to the modern tap-to-pay convenience, the app supports a variety of payment methods. Not only this. The Waiter App also allows bill splitting, so if the guests at the table agree to divide the invoice, the waiter can manage this option and approach each individual to pay using his or her preferred payment method.

Benefit for Staff: Waiters can efficiently manage diverse payment preferences, enhancing the flexibility of the payment process and catering to individual customer needs.

Benefit for Customers: Customers appreciate the freedom to choose their preferred payment method, and the split payment feature simplifies settling bills within groups.

Example: A group of friends finishes a delightful meal. With the Waiter App, the waiter presents multiple payment options – from traditional cash payments to the convenience of tap-to-pay. The split payment feature allows the group to divide the bill effortlessly, catering to individual preferences.

Also read BTP: How We Designed a New Way to Pay at a Restaurant Table

3- Integration for Efficiency

Peak dining hours can be chaotic, but with the Waiter App, waiters can navigate through orders smoothly, ensuring a seamless experience for both customers and staff.

The Waiter App seamlessly integrates with the Foodics RMS, providing instant updates on orders and payments. It’s an additional tool from Foodics that glues the front-of-house and back-of-house together.

Benefit for Staff: Restaurant managers stay informed in real-time, enabling them to manage orders and customer requests more efficiently, especially during busy periods.

Benefit for Customers: Restaurant guests are less bothered with delayed orders or waiting to settle payments at the cashier.

Example: Picture a Friday evening rush with a surge of orders. A waiter, using the Waiter App, enters a complex order that traditionally could lead to delays and potential mix-ups. However, with the seamless integration to Foodics RMS, the kitchen receives the detailed order instantly, and the payment is handled without leaving the table.

4- Empowering Accountability

Every waiter gets their own login credentials for the Waiter App in order to facilitate performance monitoring and add a layer of accountability. The app ensures secure login/logout functionality, making it simple for waiters to switch between tablets. Clear role assignments add transparency to operations.

Benefit for Staff: Individual login credentials facilitate performance assessment, encouraging a sense of responsibility and accountability among the waitstaff.

Benefit for Customers: Customers benefit indirectly from a more accountable and efficient service, as waiters are incentivized to deliver a higher level of service to earn larger orders and receive positive reviews.

Example: During a busy shift, a waiter needs to replace his broken tablet. With the Waiter App’s user authentication, using a different unit is seamless and secure. Each waiter has unique login credentials, providing clarity on who is handling which orders and promoting accountability in the service workflow.

5- Streamlining Communication

Waiters can view and browse the entire menu, make on-the-go order modifications, and instantly ship them to the kitchen. It’s all about simplifying the communication process.

Benefit for Staff: Efficient communication through the Waiter App saves valuable time for waitstaff and reduces their movements around. Quick order modifications and instant communication with the kitchen mean more time for providing attentive service to customers.

Benefit for Customers: Guests enjoy a smoother dining experience with faster, error-free communication. Special requests are relayed swiftly, reducing wait times and enhancing overall satisfaction.

Example: A customer requests a menu modification due to dietary preferences. The waiter, equipped with the Waiter App, instantly updates the order, communicating the change directly to the kitchen. This real-time communication ensures that the customer’s request is met without any delays.

Also read How to Improve Kitchen Communication Between Staff: FOH & BOH

Technical Specifications

The Waiter App by Foodics operates on a tablet, featuring an 8-inch display for readability, Wi-Fi connectivity for constant network access, NFC capability for digital payments, a high-speed processor for efficiency, and a durable battery to meet the demands of a waiter’s shift. It stands as a reliable companion for waitstaff, integrating these technical elements seamlessly into its functionality.

How to Get Started

Ready to elevate your restaurant’s service? Getting started is as easy as filling out a form on the product page.

In a Nutshell

In a world where time and quality of service are of the essence, the Foodics Waiter App stands out as a tool that simplifies the ordering process, enhances communication, and ultimately improves the dining experience. If you’re a restaurant owner looking to boost efficiency and customer satisfaction, it’s time to consider integrating the Waiter App into your workflow.

The post Unlocking Efficiency With The All-New Foodics Waiter App appeared first on Foodics.

Reasons Why to “Activate” Pay at Table at Your Casual Diner

Tue, 05 Mar 2024 13:23:47 +0000

Exceptional customer service is defined by the ability to meet the customer’s needs as efficiently and promptly as possible. In the fast-paced world of hospitality, where time is money, embracing innovative technologies becomes paramount. One such transformative solution making waves in the restaurant industry is the Pay at Table system, where QR codes take center stage.
In this blog, we’ll explore the myriad advantages that the Pay at Table solution offers, not just for restaurant owners but for diners as well. Moreover, we’ll provide guidance on selecting a Pay at Table solution that not only meets your basic needs, but also offers additional features to amplify its advantages.

What is Pay at Table?

Pay at Table technology enables diners to pay for their food using their smartphones, bypassing the need for a waiter. By scanning a QR code or tapping an NFC code at the table, customers access a digital invoice listing their order details and allowing them to pay by themselves.This innovative system not only saves time but also reduces the likelihood of errors associated with traditional ordering and payment processes.

The Benefits of the Pay-at-Table Solution for Restaurants

The benefits about to be unveiled have the transformative power to boost your restaurant’s average order value by a substantial 15% or more. Buckle up as we delve into how these advantages can not only enhance your operational efficiency but also pave the way for a considerable increase in revenue.

1- Faster Payment Procedure & Enhanced Accuracy

Say goodbye to the waiting game! With Pay at Table, customers can complete their transactions swiftly, without relying on the waiter’s intervention. This not only enhances the overall dining experience but also saves crucial minutes marking it as the biggest benefit of Pay at Table solution. The innovation doesn’t stop there – manual entry errors become a thing of the past. Pay at Table solution ensures automated efficiency and accuracy by eliminating the need for manual transaction entry. Every payment gets updated instantly at the cashier, reducing the likelihood of errors.

2- Increased Table Turnover

In the restaurant business, every minute counts. Implementing Pay at Table solution can potentially save you around 12 minutes per table, significantly boosting your profits through increased table turnover. According to Hospitality Tech, increasing the number of table turns from three to four per shift has the potential to boost revenues by as much as 25 percent. This isn’t merely a statistic, these numbers are proof of how Pay at Table solution is changing the game for restaurants. It’s not just about saving time; it’s about making restaurants more successful. By using this smart technology, restaurants are finding new ways to make more money and stand out in the competitive industry.

3- Synchronized and Flexible Payment Splitting

Customizing the dining bill has never been easier. Pay at Table solutions enable diners to split their bills equally or according to custom amounts, providing a hassle-free experience for groups of any size. Moreover, real-time updates on split orders make simultaneous mobile payments a breeze. No more overpayment concerns, as the system keeps everyone in the loop, ensuring a smooth and synchronized payment experience.

4- Ready Tip Suggestions

Calculating tips, which can often be cumbersome, is transformed into a seamless and convenient process. These solutions not only eliminate the need for mental math but also go a step further in enhancing the customer’s experience. Guests are presented with a selection of predefined tip amounts and percentages, adding an element of clarity and ease to the tipping process. This thoughtful feature not only streamlines the transaction but also ensures that guests can express their appreciation effortlessly.

5- Boosting Favorable Reviews

Happy customers mean positive reviews, and positive reviews lead to a stronger reputation and increased business growth. With Pay at Table solution, you can increase the likelihood of receiving positive Google feedback by 5X through an instant link displayed after payment, capturing the customer’s satisfaction at the moment. This seamless integration eliminates barriers, leveraging the power of convenience to increase the likelihood of positive feedback significantly. The ability to showcase real-time positive experiences contributes not only to a robust online presence but also to a lasting impression on both current and potential customers, emphasizing the transformative impact of technology on customer relations and business success.

6- Increased Security

Consider this as a security boost for your restaurant. With the Pay at Table solution, the entire transaction unfolds right in front of the customer, cutting down on opportunities for credit card fraud or employee theft. This means less time worrying about potential issues and more time focusing on building a great team. So, instead of constantly navigating through concerns, you can put your energy into cultivating an awesome work environment where trust and excellence naturally coexist.

How to Choose the Right Pay-at-Table Solution for Your Restaurant

Say you’re sold on the Pay-at-table concept, and now you’re eager to explore which solution best suits your needs. Not all systems are cut from the same cloth, and making the right choice can significantly enhance the benefits, streamlining the payment process for both you and your customers. Here are some features to consider:

Bilingual Interface Support

Ensure inclusivity with a bilingual interface supporting both English and Arabic, catering to a diverse range of customers.

Free Activation

Save on additional costs. Look for a Pay at Table solution that offers free activation, namely Foodics Pay at Table Solution, making the transition to this innovative solution cost-effective for your restaurant.

Seamless Cashier Integration

Harmony between front-end and back-end operations is crucial. Opt for a Pay at Table system with seamless cashier integration to enhance overall efficiency.

Synced Digital Menu

Ensure consistency in information. The chosen Pay at Table system should sync seamlessly with your digital menu, preventing discrepancies and providing an up-to-date dining experience.
Consider these features as you explore the possibilities. Notably, Foodics Pay at Table emerges as your optimal choice, incorporating all these essential features for a seamless, efficient, and customer-centric dining experience.

Wrapping Things Up

The advantages of Pay at Table extend far beyond just time-saving and efficiency. By embracing this innovative technology, restaurant owners can create a dining experience that is not only streamlined but also customer-centric, leaving a lasting impression on their patrons. So, why wait?

The post Reasons Why to “Activate” Pay at Table at Your Casual Diner appeared first on Foodics.

8 New Restaurant Trends Shaping the F&B Scene in 2024

Fri, 29 Dec 2023 16:04:32 +0000

As we step into the vibrant world of gastronomy in 2024, the restaurant landscape is undergoing a dynamic transformation, marked by a fusion of innovation, sustainability, and customer-centric experiences. In this culinary journey, eight distinct trends are poised to redefine the dining experience, promising a gastronomic adventure like never before.

Let’s dive in!

Menus are Taking the Center Stage

There’s a buzz among the patrons – a shared excitement for something different, something beyond the usual. As this survey shows, 84% of diners want a surprising menu or theme. And guess what? Restaurants are totally vibing with this new groove! In 2024, break away from your typical menu, which may have previously only seen seasonal changes or infrequent updates.

Envision a departure from the norm, as your menus shift not only seasonally but also daily or hourly from farm-to-table freshness to fusion foods that bring cultures together in your dishes. And let’s not forget about themed cuisine, native dishes that tell tales of tradition, and limited-time specialties that add anticipation to your customers’ dining experience.

Also read: 8 Innovative Menu Ideas That Help You Drive Sales

The Small Plates Revolution

Small plate recipes are gaining popularity among diners. This new form of serving food allows diners to try out different menu items and share them with friends and family. Restaurants are steering away from traditional main courses and leading the small plates revolution! As this has been the norm for Middle Eastern restaurants, other cuisines are getting on board. It’s not just about smaller portions; it’s about creating a shared dining experience that brings people together and keeps them coming back for more.

Engaging Experiences

According to a survey by Eventbrite, 75% of diners are ready to invest a bit more for something special, something that goes beyond the usual.

So, what’s cooking? A whole array of experiences! Here are a few that you can experiment with:

Host tasting evenings: tasting evenings involve curated sessions where diners can sample a variety of dishes and flavors, often in small portions, providing a diverse culinary experience.
Host trivia nights: Trivia nights are events where patrons can participate in a quiz or game, usually related to general knowledge, while enjoying their dining experience.
Set the stage for live music: This involves incorporating live musical performances into the restaurant setting, which may involve hosting a band or a one-person show.
Offer culinary mastery in cooking classes: You can provide cooking classes where patrons can learn cooking techniques and tips from skilled chefs.
Showcase art exhibitions: Art exhibitions in restaurants involve displaying visual artwork, creating a culturally enriched environment that goes beyond the culinary aspect.
Immerse guests in unique dining setups: This refers to creating distinctive and memorable dining environments, such as themed decor or unconventional seating arrangements.
Conduct live cooking demonstrations: Live cooking demonstrations involve chefs showcasing their culinary skills and techniques in real-time.

In 2024, the focus is on captivating your patrons with a variety of events – because running a restaurant isn’t solely about flavors; it’s about crafting memorable experiences that resonate. So let the creative juices flow!

Charcoal Burning

Who does not love open-fire cooking? There’s something irresistible about this primal cooking technique. Diners love to watch chefs create their exquisite dishes right before their eyes. Not only does it create a lively ambiance, but helps increase sales as diners get more interested in trying out new dishes and unique twists on flavors. Consider embracing this trend in 2024 by either incorporating special dishes into your menu or hosting weekly events that customers can eagerly anticipate. This one might be one of our favorite new restaurant trends for 2024!

Fin-to-Gill Dining

The nose-to-tail eating approach has extended its wings to include fish! The fin-to-gill approach embraces every part of the fish introducing unique offerings like prawn heads onto menus. Innovative you might say? Yes, but it is also sustainable. Diners are now encouraged to savor the full spectrum of the ocean’s offering. While it may be difficult to entice customers with such dishes, hyping them and incorporating appealing flavors will cultivate a love for them, especially among those who enjoy experimenting with their culinary choices.

Prioritizing Value and Convenience

In times of economic uncertainty, consumers seek value and convenience in their dining choices. As habits shift, restaurants are adapting to meet evolving needs, redefining offerings to provide not just meals but streamlined, convenient experiences. It’s a dynamic response to changing lifestyles, emphasizing value for money and ensuring that dining out remains a convenient and satisfying choice for patrons navigating uncertain times.

Here are a few ways you can make your customers’ experiences more valuable and convenient:

Value Meal Packages: Restaurants are introducing value meal packages that offer a complete dining experience at an affordable price. These packages not only include a satisfying meal but also additional perks such as complimentary beverages or desserts, providing consumers with added value for their money.
Online Ordering and Delivery Services: Now more than ever, restaurants need to work on their ordering and delivery services given the high demand for the latter. Streamlined digital platforms allow customers to effortlessly browse menus, place orders, and have their favorite meals delivered to their doorstep.
Subscription-Based Meal Plans: In response to changing consumer preferences, some restaurants are introducing subscription-based meal plans. These plans offer customers the convenience of pre-scheduled, regular meal deliveries, providing them with a hassle-free dining solution. This adaptation not only aligns with the demand for convenience but also offers a budget-friendly option for those seeking value in their dining choices.

Adoption of AI Will Increase

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is not merely a buzzword; it’s becoming an indispensable tool for restaurant efficiency. According to Statista, the AI market is expected to experience a 44% growth within the next year and is anticipated to expand by 180% by the year 2026..

With the AI market set to soar, restaurants are tapping into its potential to fine-tune operations. From curbing food waste to boosting marketing efforts and automating inventory management, AI is becoming the behind-the-scenes hero. As AI integrates seamlessly into Point of Sale systems, namely Foodics POS Solution, 2024 announces a new era of smart recommendations, personalized services, and streamlined processes.

Also read: ChatGPT And Restaurant Management: The Perfect Duo!

Food Waste on the Decline

The spotlight on sustainability intensifies in 2024, as both diners and restaurants alike seek ways to minimize food waste. Acknowledging the industry’s role in the issue, restaurants are committing to reducing unnecessary waste. From donating leftovers to inventive upcycling of surplus ingredients, expect a surge in sustainable and eco-friendly dining options. Sourcing locally becomes a priority, not just for freshness but to reduce the carbon footprint and bolster the local economy.

Also read: 11 solutions for Reducing Food Waste In Restaurants

Wrapping Things Up

As restaurant owners, the landscape of 2024 invites you to embrace these new restaurant trends. From crafting menus that tell a story to curating unforgettable experiences, integrating AI for efficiency, and championing sustainability, these trends offer a roadmap to elevate your establishment. The commitment to minimizing waste not only aligns with societal values but also enhances your bottom line. Make 2024 your canvas to innovate, captivate, and leave a lasting impression on your patrons. Happy New Year!

The post 8 New Restaurant Trends Shaping the F&B Scene in 2024 appeared first on Foodics.

7 Ways Restaurant Data Analytics Tools Can Help Boost Revenue

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 12:25:08 +0000

In a world where the restaurant industry is continually reshaped by modern dynamics, data analytics has emerged as the ultimate catalyst for success. From renowned chains to local eateries, the deployment of data analytics has become pivotal in navigating the contemporary culinary landscape. But how, exactly, do data analytics tools drive the remarkable growth of restaurant revenue?

What is Data Analytics?

Restaurant data analytics is the practice of collecting, processing, and analyzing various types of data generated within a restaurant environment to gain valuable insights and make informed decisions.

What Does Data Analytics Entail?

Customer Insights: POS data provides valuable information about customer behavior, such as peak dining hours, preferred menu items, and average spending per visit.
Sales Trends: Identifying patterns in sales data, including peak hours and popular items.

Inventory Management: Monitoring inventory levels to prevent shortages or overstocking.
Menu Optimization: POS data can reveal which menu items are performing well and which ones are underperforming.
Employee Performance: POS data can also be used to evaluate the performance of staff members. It can track server efficiency, order accuracy, and customer satisfaction.

Our Foodics All-in-One Point of Sale Solution allows you to manage, track, and analyze all your data seamlessly in real time from anywhere. If your business operates across multiple branches or aggregators, you might want to consider a Business Intelligence tool, namely Foodics BI, which can provide invaluable insights by seamlessly tracking and consolidating data from all locations.

How Can Data Analytics Tools Help Increase Revenue?

Data-Driven Decision-Making

Analytics provide restaurant managers with the information needed to make informed decisions. Whether it’s expanding the business, changing pricing strategies, or introducing new menu items, data-driven insights reduce the risks associated with these decisions.

Let’s say you own a fast-casual chain and you’re considering expanding into a new location. POS data helps you identify areas with high customer demand for your type of cuisine. With this data-driven approach, you confidently open a new branch knowing that it will be successful and increase the chain’s bottom line.

Mastering Inventory Management

The art of managing inventory efficiently takes center stage. Data analytics empowers you to actively monitor the popularity of items on your menu, ensuring your stock aligns with demand. Consistently gathering and analyzing data will ensure that you don’t have shortages which will increase sales, enhance customer experience, and avoid disappointment.

Also read: Introduction to Restaurant Inventory Management Systems

Minimizing Food Wastage

Another benefit of mastering inventory management is minimizing food wastage. Data analytics zeroes in on the ebb and flow of your kitchen’s inventory, meticulously tracking what comes in and out of your restaurant’s inventory. This level of scrutiny encourages staff accountability in food preparation and delivery. The key here is to make sure you give the right amount of food on each plate in your restaurant. If you give too much or too little, it can make people not like your restaurant and can hurt your money.

Also read: 11 solutions for Reducing Food Waste In Restaurant

Crafting Intelligent Menus

Using data analytics tools can help you make better menus, and it’s not a shot in the dark. It’s like a guiding light that shows you which items on your menu are popular and which ones aren’t. You might be surprised to discover that your best-seller isn’t necessarily your most profitable item. Point-of-Sale data reveals which items are in high demand, potentially allowing the hidden potential of lesser-selling dishes to surface. With this information, you can cleverly advertise your best dishes and bring more customers to your restaurant, helping you achieve your restaurant’s goals.

If you are struggling with planning a Menu, You can always refer to our Menu Engineering feature

Enhanced Marketing Strategies

Effective marketing can greatly influence your restaurant’s success. Here, data analytics can be very helpful as it allows you to see how effective your current marketing strategy is and refine it as needed. Remember, marketing is not a one-day job, but an ongoing process. Small things like giving VIP guests their favorite drink or a free dessert can make a big difference. The real skill is in knowing your customers by name and recalling their preferred dishes from your menu, fundamentally reshaping your business paradigm.

Also read: Restaurant Online Reputation Marketing: Key Tips & Practices

Strategic Labor Cost Optimization

Paying your staff can be a big cost for your restaurant. Data analytics can help you see the whole picture and figure out the best way to schedule your workers. This insight enables you to minimize costs, especially during slower shifts where a reduced workforce suffices.

Think about holidays and busy times. If you use data to make smart schedules that mix temporary, part-time, and full-time workers, it can help you save money and make sure your restaurant is busy and profitable all year long.

Cost Reduction

Data analytics helps you identify areas where expenses can be trimmed without compromising quality, resulting in an increase in your profit margins. This may include renegotiating supplier contracts, optimizing energy usage, or reducing staff turnover through better training and retention strategies.

Wrapping Things Up

Data analytics tools can potentially deliver significant advantages to your business. The crucial step is learning to effectively interpret your restaurant’s data and leverage it to your benefit. By doing so, you gain insights into your restaurant’s expenses, top-selling dishes, and customer behavior while identifying opportunities to boost your bottom line with data-driven strategies.

The post 7 Ways Restaurant Data Analytics Tools Can Help Boost Revenue appeared first on Foodics.

Opening a Coffee Shop: Business Plan and Key Steps

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 04:15:50 +0000

The aroma of freshly brewed coffee, the cozy ambiance, and the sound of friendly chatter — opening a coffee shop can be a dream for many aspiring entrepreneurs. However, to turn this dream into a thriving reality, it’s essential to start with a well-structured business plan. Think of it like a roadmap that will guide you through your journey. Without it, things may get messy and you may get lost along the way.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key steps to create a business plan that will set the foundation for your coffee shop’s success.

What is a Business Plan?

At its essence, a cafe or coffee shop business plan is a comprehensive document that outlines the ins and outs of your business concept. Basically, a cafe or coffee shop business plan is like a master plan that explains what your cafe idea is all about and how it’s going to rock the scene. It answers questions like: Who are your targeted customers? What is your marketing plan? How much money do you need to kick things off? Where’s that money coming from? And how much cash you’re going to bring in from your business.

Once it’s all polished up, your business plan serves as a valuable presentation tool for potential investors, lenders, collaborative partners, and anyone instrumental in turning your cafe dream into reality. Trust us, this is a big deal, so giving it your time and effort is a must.

Before thinking of the logistics and operational side of your business, you must first have a clear vision of your dream coffee shop and look for insights from other business plans for guidance and inspiration.

How to Start a Business Plan for a Coffee Shop?

Define Your Vision

Imagine your café dream taking shape – the first step is your business plan, the key to turning that dream into reality. Dedicate time to think the details through as you lay down the blueprint for your future café. What’s the look of your café? The décor that sets the mood? Where will it be located? Which kind of offerings will be on your menu? Who will become regulars, drawn by the charm you curate? And how will your customers flow through your café, from when they step in until they swipe their cards?

Get Insights from Other Business Plans

Before you put pen to paper and start shaping your own business plan masterpiece, take a look at how things are done in your industry. That’s right – explore business plan examples from cafes, coffee shops, and quick-service restaurants. Don’t just stick to theories and textbooks; connect with those who’ve been in the arena. Dive into their strategies, and ensure that your café is on the right track.

How to Write a Business Plan for a Coffee Shop?

Now that we have the basics laid out, it’s time to craft your business plan. To do this, follow the sections below:

1- The Executive Summary

Starting a Cafe Business Plan

An executive summary is the introduction of your business plan. It lays out the idea, the problem aims at solving, and articulates what you’re asking from your readers. Anyone who reads this section should clearly understand what your business is all about. Get inspired by cafe business plan samples online and be concise in your wording and presentation.

2- The Competitive Analysis

In the competitive analysis section of your business plan, you’ll outline how your cafe competes with similar establishments, including major chains like Starbucks. Research competitors’ customers, products, and pricing to set competitive prices for your offerings. Despite potentially high gross margins for cafes, small ones often face limited profits due to high overhead costs.

However, a thorough competitive analysis enhances your cafe’s chances of success by demonstrating how it can outperform rivals and remain sustainable. Refer to templates online to help you along the way.

3- The Market Analysis

The success of every cafe or restaurant translates into a loyal customer base or a steady flow of customers. Establishing a customer base can be challenging for startups, hence the importance of a thorough market analysis.

First you need to define who your future customers will be AKA your market, then you should divide it into market segments*. Second, you need to figure out your market size, and finally your marketing strategy.

For example, If your coffee shop is strategically located near work offices, a diverse range of potential customers emerges. Professionals seeking top-notch coffee before their workday, might become regulars. Additionally, your cafe could attract those in need of a conducive environment for business meetings or a productive workspace for freelancers.

Your business plan will incorporate this approach in the form of a market analysis, detailing your marketing plan for effectively reaching each customer segment.

*A market segment refers to people who are grouped together for marketing purposes.

4- The Marketing Plan

Once you’ve got a clear picture of your customer base, it’s time to consider how you’ll reach them and keep them coming back. Jot down your imaginative ideas for social media promotions and loyalty programs that will connect you with your intended audience.

Let’s say you decide to run a “Flavor of the Month” campaign on your social media platforms. Each week, you introduce a new and unique coffee flavor that customers can try. As for loyalty programs, you might consider a simple punch card system where customers get a stamp for each purchase, and after a certain number of stamps, they receive a free coffee or a discounted treat.

These tactics are just the tip of the iceberg, but they show that you are thinking creatively about marketing and customer retention.

5- Menu and Pricing

When crafting a persuasion business plan, your menu should come across as interesting and innovative to potential investors. Talk about the different specialties you plan to include in your menu and the pricing strategies that will help boost sales, reduce food wastage, and compete with nearby cafes.

As your café gets underway, changes to the menu are likely to pop up. However, when it comes to mapping out your business plan, it’s crucial to get your pricing game right. This involves figuring out how much you’ll charge for staples like coffee or croissant. To arrive at these numbers, you’ll break down the ingredient costs for each item and take a look at what your competitors are charging. It’s all about ensuring your menu makes both culinary and financial sense.

5- The Operation Plan

In this section, you will give information about how you plan on running your coffee shop. This includes the number of employees needed, facilities, supplies and equipment. Think about the POS system that will be most convenient for your business. You might want to consider our Foodics All-In-One POS system that is meticulously designed to improve your top of line, bottom line, and facilitate your restaurant’s operations.

As you create your operational plan, think about trimming expenses. For instance, you could roast your own coffee beans instead of buying a roaster. You might delay getting this equipment until your café is making solid profits. This way, you’re smart about spending while still offering quality.

6- The Financial Plan

Consider this section akin to a financial compass, providing insights into the potential of your coffee shop’s future.

Begin by estimating the startup costs, encompassing essential elements like renovating your space and acquiring necessary coffee-making equipment.
Then, introduce monthly expense forecasts encompassing crucial aspects such as rent, utilities, salaries, and supplies.
Finally, blend in comprehensive income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow projections, forming a cohesive roadmap that indicates the anticipated break-even point and the exciting transition into profit territory.

This section needs to be thorough and well thought, so here’s a detailed guide on financial planning for small businesses and startups.

Wrapping Things Up

Your coffee shop’s success depends on careful planning. Your business plan is like a map that guides you. From deciding what your café will be like to figuring out how to attract customers and manage money, each step is important. Just remember, your business plan is the key to making your coffee shop a hit.

The post Opening a Coffee Shop: Business Plan and Key Steps appeared first on Foodics.

9 Steps to Crafting the Best Restaurant Menu Design

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 07:20:09 +0000

Designing a successful food menu is an art in itself. Not only does a menu need to be appealing to the eye but it should also be a silent yet persuasive salesperson, enticing diners to try out unique or exclusive items that you want them to try out. A restaurant menu design should take a lot of things into consideration from aesthetics and design to selling points and psychological effects on customers.

In this article, we will explore the step-by-step process of designing a food menu that not only tantalizes taste buds but also boosts sales and enhances the overall dining experience.

Before we jump to the steps, there are a few things that you should consider before crafting your menu

Defining the Essence

Your restaurant menu design should reflect your restaurant’s identity. If you’re an upscale steakhouse, feature prime beef and fresh juice. For a cozy café, emphasize artisanal coffee and light lunches. A fusion eatery could offer innovative dishes merging different culinary traditions. Clarifying your core values and cuisine sets the foundation for a menu that suits your restaurant’s identity.

Cater To Your Clientele

Understand your customers and adapt your menu. Research their demographics, preferences, and lifestyles. For health-conscious millennials, include plant-based and organic choices. Cater to gourmands with luxury ingredients, fresh juice, and exquisite dishes. Your menu should suit your clientele’s tastes and needs.

Keep Your Menu Short and Neat

A well-crafted menu strikes a balance: it’s not too long, it’s easy to navigate, and it looks neat. By trimming down your menu, you can actually save quite a bit on managing ingredients and reducing food waste. Think about it this way: a shorter menu makes choosing less stressful for your customers. They won’t feel bombarded with options, and that means they’ll make up their minds faster. And you know what that can lead to? They might end up ordering more, and that’s a win-win.

Also Read: 8 Innovative Menu Ideas That Help You Drive Sales

The Steps

Step 1. Write Out All Menu Items

Before diving into design, the first step is mastering the basics of creating a restaurant menu. You can use tools like Excel, Google Sheets, or simply pen and paper to list out all the meals you plan to offer. This preliminary step sets the stage for your culinary offerings and ensures that your food menu design takes shape with precision.

Step 2. Curate Your Menu Display

Now that you’ve gathered your gastronomic gems, let’s give them the spotlight they deserve. Begin by categorizing your creations into delightful sections like appetizers, entrees, and desserts.

But this is where it gets exciting. Select the top performers, the dishes that steal the spotlight and leave everyone eager to dig in.

Now imagine this: a purposeful arrangement that naturally draws attention to these standout culinary delights, often those with a high-profit margin. It’s akin to giving your menu a fresh look under your creative guidance. Experiment with fonts, colors, and borders to make them stand out and create an irresistible allure.

Step 3. Set Menu Prices Wisely

When it comes to pricing, it’s crucial to tread carefully to prevent any surprise or sticker shock for your customers. One effective way to achieve this is by employing some subtle yet powerful menu psychology techniques. Consider ditching the traditional currency signs and presenting your prices in a clean, uncluttered format. Instead of a dedicated column that draws immediate attention to the numbers, try integrating the prices seamlessly with the menu items. This strategic arrangement helps divert the patrons’ focus away from the cost itself.

If you need help with setting up menu prices to maximize profitability, we’ve got the guide for you! “How to Increase Restaurant Profitability Through Menu Pricing Strategies”

Step 4. Craft Enticing Descriptions

Imagine transforming a simple “Salmon Salad” into a culinary seduction: “Grilled Wild Salmon Salad, kissed by zesty lemon vinaigrette, nestled in a vibrant bed of crisp greens and juicy cherry tomatoes.” This isn’t just about words; it’s about sharing the chef’s passion. Dive into the tale behind each dish, embracing the inspiration, sourcing journey, and meticulous preparation. Let these stories flourish with sensory-rich adjectives like “crispy,” “savory,” and “tangy.” Imagine a first-time guest reading your menu – what imagery would captivate their senses? Consider their questions, and watch as your menu comes alive with irresistible allure.

Step 5. Select a Menu Color Palette

After arranging your menu items logically on the sheet, give your eyes a breather from spreadsheets and focus on design. Pick a color scheme that resonates with your restaurant’s identity. It could be as easy as selecting three preferred colors or opting for black and white to save on printing costs.

Step 6. Choose Typography and Aesthetics

Font selection is an unspoken reflection of your brand’s personality. Choose legible fonts that match your restaurant’s vibe, whether it’s elegant script for a high-end establishment or playful sans-serif for a casual café. Incorporate design elements, like line dividers or subtle illustrations, to enhance visual appeal without overwhelming the menu’s clarity.

Also, keep in mind that having a menu that’s easily updated is very important. Leaving room for adding or taking off items as time goes by, especially when seasons shift, is really important. A well-thought-out restaurant menu design becomes familiar to returning patrons, including the loyal ones. Ensuring effortless updates not only saves you from the need for frequent redesigns but also maintains a consistent experience for your cherished customers.

Step 7. Make Room for Photos

Photos have immense power over people’s minds. Showcasing mouthwatering photos on your menu can boost sales if you keep it balanced. How often has a customer made an order by pointing at a photo of a juicy burger or fiery chicken wings, saying, “I’ll have this”?

Whether you’re hiring a pro photographer or not, make sure the photo quality is excellent and translates well to printing. With digital menus, you’ve got more space for photos, so capitalize on it by presenting your best dishes in the most tempting way.

Step 8. Test the Waters

Before going full-scale, test a small batch of printed menus among colleagues or friends. Gather feedback on readability, clarity, and overall appeal. This trial phase allows you to fine-tune your menu’s design based on real-world reactions.

Step 9. The Final Touches

Incorporate the feedback received and finalize your restaurant’s food menu design. Proofread diligently to eliminate any errors that could mar the dining experience. Print the menus on high-quality paper or cardstock, transforming your vision into a tangible work of art.

Suppose you haven’t yet made the transition to a digital menu. In that case, we strongly recommend reading this blog to discover how it can significantly enhance customer experience, elevate sales, reduce costs, and offer a range of other advantageous benefits.

Wrapping Things Up

Your restaurant’s menu is a powerful tool that can do wonders for your business. From choosing the best dishes to picking the fitting font and colors, crafting the perfect restaurant menu design that is unique to your brand’s identity can be challenging yet rewarding. Remember, crafting the perfect menu is an art, so invest the time and collaborate with the right individuals to make it shine.

If you are struggling with planning your menu, you can always refer to our Menu Engineering feature!

The post 9 Steps to Crafting the Best Restaurant Menu Design appeared first on Foodics.

How to Improve Kitchen Communication Between Staff: FOH & BOH

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 13:42:51 +0000

At the heart of every successful restaurant lies efficient kitchen communication. It’s a dynamic process that revolves around seamless coordination between the front-of-house staff – the ones serving and engaging with guests, and the back-of-house team – comprising the talented chefs and kitchen staff responsible for crafting delightful dishes. When these two components work in perfect harmony, the entire dining experience reaches new heights, leaving customers satisfied and the business thriving.

In this article, we’ll delve into essential strategies for improving staff communication between the front-of-house and back-of-house teams.

Improving Kitchen Communication

1- Regular Team Meetings

One effective way to enhance kitchen communication is by conducting regular team meetings. These meetings provide an opportunity for both front-of-house (FOH) and back-of-house (BOH) staff to come together and discuss important matters. During these gatherings, you can address challenges, exchange feedback, and brainstorm ways to enhance communication and teamwork. Additionally, it is a chance to address any concerns or issues that may have arisen since the meeting. Team meetings help foster a sense of unity among staff members and ensure everyone is aligned with the restaurant’s objectives ultimately leading to operations.

2- Designate Point of Contact and Chain of Command

In a bustling restaurant, the last thing anyone wants is chaos caused by numerous individuals relaying information to the kitchen. To maintain organization and efficiency, successful restaurants often assign one person as the point of contact between FOH and BOH. This role is commonly fulfilled by the general manager or shift manager.

Having a designated point of contact in the FOH to communicate with a specific counterpart in the kitchen streamlines the information flow. This ensures that service remains smooth, even during the busiest times. Whether it’s addressing customer requests or handling any issues that arise, having a clear chain of command guarantees that matters are promptly and effectively dealt with.

3- Facilitate Communication with Technology

POS Integration

POS systems are inarguably one of the paramount staff communication tools between the kitchen and the front house. Integrating a well-structured POS system, namely the All-In-One Point of Sale Solution from Foodics, can streamline the process, ensuring the kitchen staff receives accurate and timely information about incoming orders.

POS systems offer various functions that strengthen communication between FOH and BOH. Restaurants must agree on how to utilize these tools effectively. Our Foodics Kitchen Display Screen, for instance, allows seamless transmission of orders from the POS system directly to the kitchen. Orders can be routed based on preparation location and order type, and any delays trigger notifications, keeping everyone informed and on the same page.

Apps & Other Tools

Employing effective employee communication tools can significantly minimize misunderstandings and friction among your staff.

Consider integrating restaurant-friendly apps that streamline operations by automating scheduling, sending menu updates, alerts, announcements, and real-time kitchen and floor status to all team members with a simple click. This ensures that everyone receives accurate information promptly, reducing delays and potential miscommunications. Moreover, these apps offer specific-group chats and one-on-one conversations, providing excellent avenues for sharing personal updates with the team.

4- Cross-Training

Another valuable approach to enhance kitchen communication is through cross-training. This involves training FOH staff on some BOH tasks and vice versa. Cross training ensures that everyone has an understanding of the challenges and responsibilities faced by their counterparts.

5- Feedback System

Establishing a feedback system is crucial for continuous improvement in kitchen communication. Create a structured mechanism for both FOH and BOH staff to provide feedback on their experiences. Encourage them to share insights, challenges, and suggestions on how to enhance communication. This feedback loop can help identify issues that might go unnoticed and allow for timely adjustments.

6- Impeccable Understanding of the Menu

Effective communication between the front of house and back of house is crucial, especially when it comes to the restaurant menu. Seamless coordination ensures a smooth dining experience for guests. Here are a few examples that highlight the significance of menu-related communication:

Knowledgeable Servers

In a successful restaurant, servers must possess in-depth knowledge about the menu. They should be well-versed in dish descriptions, ingredients, and potential allergens to provide accurate information to customers. For instance, if a guest inquires about gluten-free options, the server should confidently recommend suitable dishes and alert the kitchen about any specific dietary requirements.

Menu Updates and Information Sharing

The kitchen should keep the FOH team informed about any menu changes or specials. This ensures that servers can promptly inform guests about the latest offerings and any limited availability items.

Clear Communication on Substitutions

To avoid communication snafus, the kitchen staff should establish clear guidelines for permissible substitutions or adjustments to dishes. For instance, if a guest requests a certain ingredient replacement, servers should be aware of which substitutions are feasible and communicate these preferences accurately to the kitchen during service. This helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures that guests’ preferences are met.

Also read 8 Innovative Menu Ideas That Help You Drive Sales

7- Foster a Supportive Environment During Rush Hours

The rush hours in a restaurant can be extremely demanding, putting both the FOH and BOH staff under immense pressure. During these peak times, it is crucial to maintain a supportive and understanding environment. FOH staff should be patient when relaying orders to the kitchen, while BOH staff must acknowledge the urgency of service.

Fostering camaraderie during high-pressure moments not only reduces stress levels but also elevates kitchen communication. Organizing monthly events or gatherings for your team is a great approach to achieve this. Such initiatives allow team members to connect on a deeper level, fostering empathy and understanding toward each other’s temperament and character.

Also read Marketing Strategies for Restaurants to Adopt in Rush Hour

Wrapping Things Up

Lack of communication can lead a restaurant to its demise, regardless of the food quality or the exquisiteness of the dishes. Effective kitchen communication is crucial for ensuring smooth operations and providing adequate customer service. Utilize all the technological and human resources at your disposal to ensure everyone is on the same page. Make communication a priority and educate your team about its importance, making all necessary tools available to them.

The post How to Improve Kitchen Communication Between Staff: FOH & BOH appeared first on Foodics.

Foodics Accounting: The Rising Star of F&B Accounting Solutions

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 07:56:22 +0000

Success in the dynamic business world relies on various factors, and for restaurant owners, mastering accounting is undeniably crucial. Enter Foodics Accounting, a pioneering cloud-based accounting software designed to empower restaurant owners with an arsenal of financial management tools that will make arduous financial management a breeze.

The Importance of Accounting Solutions

Before we dive into the specifics of Foodics Accounting, let’s take a moment to understand why accounting solutions are pivotal for restaurant owners. In the restaurant industry, tracking income and expenses is more than just a number-crunching exercise. It’s the compass that guides decisions on pricing, staffing, marketing, and more. Here’s why it matters:

Financial Clarity

Tracking income and expenses provides a clear understanding of financial performance, allowing for informed decisions on pricing, staffing, and more.

Example: A cafe owner notices that the sales of a particular beverage have decreased over the past month. By analyzing the income data, he decides to run a promotion to boost its sales or consider replacing it with a more popular option.

Cost Savings

Accounting solutions pinpoint savings opportunities, helping cut costs through waste reduction and better vendor negotiations.

Example: A restaurant’s accounting software highlights that a significant amount of a specific ingredient is going to waste. The owner can then adjust order quantities or find recipes to utilize the ingredient more efficiently.

Compliance

Preparing financial statements ensures compliance with tax laws, assuring adherence to regulations.

Example: During tax season, a diner owner can easily generate a profit and loss statement from their accounting software, ensuring they report accurate income figures to the tax authorities and avoid potential penalties.

Asset Protection

These solutions help identify risks such as theft or fraud, safeguarding your valuable assets.

Example: An upscale restaurant’s accounting system flags irregularities in cash deposits. Upon investigation, it’s discovered that a staff member was skimming cash. The early detection prevents further losses.

Cash Flow Optimization

Cash flow is optimized by tracking and identifying improvements, like faster payment collection and expense management.

Example: A bistro’s accounting software provides a detailed breakdown of monthly expenses. The owner identifies that utility bills peak during certain times of the year. By adjusting operating hours or implementing energy-saving measures during these periods, they can better manage expenses and optimize cash flow.

Now that we’ve established the significance of accounting in the restaurant industry, let’s delve into what makes Foodics Accounting a game-changer.

What is Foodics Accounting?

Foodics Accounting is not just another run-of-the-mill accounting software. It’s a cloud-based powerhouse meticulously tailored to the unique needs of restaurants, setting it apart from competitors.

Why Do You Need Foodics Accounting?

User-Friendly Interface

No accounting experience? No problem. Foodics Accounting boasts a bilingual and easy-to-use interface, making it accessible to individuals with no prior financial background.

Real-time Reporting

Stay in the know with real-time financial reporting, enabling you to make data-driven decisions on the fly.

Easy Integration

Seamlessly connects with your Foodics All-In-One Point of Sale to enhance your restaurant’s efficiency.

Affordable Pricing

Top-notch doesn’t have to mean costly. Foodics Accounting offers competitive pricing plans that make sense for small and medium-sized enterprises.

HRMS Features

Streamline HR tasks with ease, handling payroll, employee records, leave tracking, and more, all within the same platform.

How Does Foodics Accounting Ensure Seamless Integration?

Automatic Data Sync

Foodics Accounting integrates seamlessly with Foodics RMS, offering real-time syncing of critical financial data. No more manual data entry!

Automatic Mapping

Generate necessary resources and map them effortlessly with a simple click, saving you time and ensuring accuracy.

Security & Data Ownership

Ensure full ownership and secure access to your restaurant’s financial data while enjoying the benefits of regular data backups stored in secure multiple locations, guaranteeing data integrity and availability.

Easy Migration

Easily migrate old data from third-party accounting solutions to Foodics Accounting with a single click, streamlining the transition.

Sales and Revenue Tracking

Seamlessly transfer sales and revenue data from Foodics RMS to Foodics Accounting, enabling accurate tracking and analysis.

Cost of Goods Sold (COGS) Calculation

Get COGS calculations effortlessly as Foodics Accounting computes them by monitoring inventory levels, evaluating ingredient costs, accounting for wastage, and more, providing a precise and insightful snapshot.

Multi-Location Support

Manage multiple branches centrally, consolidating financial data and analyzing performance across your entire business.

Streamlined Reporting

Generate comprehensive financial reports, gaining insights into your restaurant’s performance and key metrics.

In a Nutshell

Foodics Accounting isn’t just accounting software; it’s a financial game-changer for restaurants. Its user-friendly interface, seamless integration, and localized focus empower restaurant owners to seize control, make data-driven decisions, and elevate their financial game. Don’t miss out on unlocking your business’s full potential with Foodics Accounting.

The post Foodics Accounting: The Rising Star of F&B Accounting Solutions appeared first on Foodics.

6 Effective Loyalty Program Ideas for Restaurants

Fri, 20 Oct 2023 10:56:51 +0000

Today, more than ever, it is of utmost importance to build an effective loyalty program in light of the unprecedented competitiveness in the restaurant industry. With a loyalty program, guests can get rewards whenever they visit or spend more at your restaurant. Therefore, Customer loyalty programs are a great way to enhance customer retention, generate positive word-of-mouth marketing, and increase check size.

In this article, we will discuss the impact of loyalty programs and loyal customers, and then we will go through 6 effective loyalty program ideas for restaurants.

The Importance of Returning Customers

Retaining customers is fundamental to maximizing profitability. As the Pareto Principle suggests, around 20% of your customers, who are typically loyal, account for 80% of your total revenue.

But how do loyalty programs increase sales?

Loyal customers are more likely to make frequent purchases and have higher average transaction value. Moreover, retaining customers is more cost-effective than acquiring new ones. In fact, it can cost 5 to 25 times more to acquire a new customer compared to driving repeat business, according to Harvard Business Review.

The Impact of Loyalty Programs

A restaurant loyalty program boosts customer retention by gamifying purchases and incentivizing repeat visits. When you turn dollars into points, you shift your customers’ perception from spending money to leveling up in a game, making it easier for them to spend.

Furthermore, a restaurant loyalty program can increase revenue by between 25 and 95% by increasing customer loyalty by 5%, according to that same study by Harvard Business Review.

How?

Upselling and cross-selling play a major role in increasing order size. For instance, when you offer customers bonus points for ordering combos, you will sell more drinks and sides.

Now that we’ve laid out the importance of loyalty programs and loyal customers, let’s go through some of the best loyalty program ideas for restaurants that your customers will love and engage with!

Customer Loyalty Programs Ideas

Points-based loyalty program

Best suited for fast-casual and casual dining restaurants.

The points-based program is a highly popular loyalty rewards program for restaurants; it is easy to implement in your restaurant and has proven successful, hence its popularity. In this program, customers earn points for every 4 Riyals spent for example, and they can redeem these points for discounts, free items, or other promotions.

Consider offering bonus points for special occasions or promotions to make it more engaging. For example, customers could earn double points for their purchases during Ramadan, or the Christmas season. Keep your points-based loyalty program clear and simple, and ensure the reward’s value doesn’t cut into your profit.

Frequency-Based Loyalty Program

Best suited for Cafes, coffee shops, and fast-food restaurants.

This type of loyalty program aims at developing a loyal customer base by rewarding customers based on how often they visit your restaurant. For instance, after a certain number of visits, customers could receive a free appetizer, dessert, or a discount on their next meal. This encourages repeat visits and creates a sense of accomplishment as customers work towards unlocking rewards.

Subscription-Based Rewards Program

Best suited for coffee shops and restaurants that offer delivery or take-out services.

A subscription-based rewards program offers subscribers discounts, perks, and rewards.

For instance, you can offer your members a yearly or monthly subscription plan where they get your products for a discounted price. Moreover, members get rewarded for reaching certain membership milestones. For example, you could have bronze, silver, gold, and platinum levels, with each level offering progressively better rewards, such as exclusive discounts, priority reservations, or personalized offers. This encourages customers to strive for higher tiers, increasing their loyalty to your restaurant.

Furthermore, this program helps you attract new customers, such as employees who often look for subscription plans to help them go through the day easier.

Item-Based Rewards

Best suited for restaurants that have signature menu items that customers love. (Ex: Pizza or Taco restaurants).

This program is two-fold. You can reward your customers by offering an item for free after they purchase it a certain number of times. Or you can offer a specific item as a reward instead of credit.

For example, if a customer buys 9 soft drinks, he gets the 10th for free, or you can offer that same drink for every 50 points collected at your restaurant.

Whichever method you choose, make sure not to limit your offers to one or two items. Instead, make it as broad as possible so you don’t alienate customers with other preferences.

Gamification

Adding a gamification element to your loyalty program can make it more fun and engaging for customers. For example, you could create a “spin-to-win” game on your website or app where customers can earn rewards by spinning a virtual wheel. This adds an element of surprise and excitement, and customers can feel motivated to participate and earn rewards.

Also read: How Can Restaurants Leverage Gamification To Increase Customer Engagement And Improve Staff Efficiency

Refer-A-Friend Program

Word-of-mouth marketing can be powerful. I know that because I always ask for a friend’s suggestion before visiting a new restaurant.

A refer-a-friend program can help you leverage that marketing strategy by encouraging customers to refer friends and family to your restaurant for rewards, such as discounts or free items. This will promote loyalty among existing customers and bring in new customers through referrals.

For example, you can add a “Who Sent You” section within your app with an option to tag someone who will directly receive points and rewards once tagged. Then, you can encourage new customers to use that feature by granting them some points too!

Social media engagement

Social media is the most influential marketing tool ever created, and incorporating it into your loyalty program can boost loyalty and promote your brand.

Encourage customers to engage with your restaurant on social media by liking, sharing, tagging your posts, or by leaving reviews, and offer rewards for such engagement, such as points, discounts, or free items.

This program can help you reach a wider audience by building brand awareness and improving visibility. Moreover, it helps to create an engaging online community that brings your loyal customers together.

Conclusion

Good loyalty marketing programs can really help a restaurant retain customers, spend more and feel good about it! By implementing and regularly assessing the effectiveness of a loyalty program, restaurants can stand out from competitors and build a loyal customer base that will keep coming back for more delicious meals.

The post 6 Effective Loyalty Program Ideas for Restaurants appeared first on Foodics.

BTP: How we designed a new way to pay at a restaurant table

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 09:28:37 +0000

Welcome to Foodics’ Behind the Pixels (BTP) series where we dive into the process we took to design the solutions that enhance your experience the next time you visit a restaurant near you.

We’ve all been there, waiting around after your meal to try and catch the waiter’s attention for the bill. To do that slightly awkward hand wave gesture. Sometimes this can be a bit of a mood killer after an otherwise enjoyable experience. So why not fix that problem altogether? We heard you and introduced Pay at Table.

Pay at Table

Pay at Table allows restaurant visitors to view and pay their bills right from their table, minimizing the need to get the waiter’s attention or call them after a meal to bring the bill. Each Foodics product is a step toward digitizing the customer’s experience to enhance the restaurant’s overall experience. Our product decisions are deeply embedded in the needs of our clients and their customers.

Every project starts somewhere, and so did ours, with a Google Sheet to gather all the requirements that a Pay at Table experience must fulfill. We looked at different competitors offering a similar solution for the restaurant space like Sunday, Qlub, and Spades to name a few. Through this competitor analysis, we better understood how the market is working, what user needs are fulfilled, and what is lacking.

Get it to flow, like a pro

To start off we had to make it flow right. Before making a single pixel work we gathered all the user needs that we were solving for and made a full-depth user flow that encompasses the end-end flow for each and every interaction that users are going to do with the solution.

This helped us uncover many areas that needed further exploration. We triggered the dead-ends and error areas early on.

Making the end-end flow also helped in opening the conversation on how we are solving this with the cross-functional teams of PMs and engineers.

Soon after we had discussions with the cross-functional teams, we were confident to move forward, as the bottlenecks and many error areas were solved early on. These conversations also helped in figuring out the technical feasibility, and let developers start figuring out the architecture.

Understand the browsers

Pay at Table is not a mobile app that users install — but it is a web app that is accessible only by scanning the QR code placed on the restaurant table. This was an interesting challenge to see how different browsers give space to the content. To understand this, we looked at the browser usage stats in our available markets and also studied different mobile browsers. We wanted to be sure that our designs, placement of elements, and content are easily accessible on different browsers.

From our research, we found that Google Chrome is the most used browser in the region followed by Safari. We also found that Android captures roughly 60% of the market. We also studied what different screen sizes are most common in the region, to be very sure that we set a foundation that can work on many different devices.

Take it to the screen

When we had a flow in place and we knew what different interactions and tasks the users would be doing, we knew it was time to map. We quickly wireframed ideas to start seeing the layout of the app. The wireframes helped in laying out the interface and forming a foundation for what will go on screen and where. This articulated and solidified the ideas into tangible screens.

The visual design process was super fast thanks to our design system (more on it very soon). Relying on the base we have set for a multi-device framework helped in leveraging the components from there to be used and instantly iterating and solving the problems instead of spending endless time fine-tuning that button.

Taking it to the test

At Foodics we run usability tests very often to catch problems early on. With the unique nature of this product, it can be used by one person or multiple persons at the same time. They can pay the full bill themselves or can split it in three different ways. We wanted to understand if the designs, copy and everything else are understandable for different tasks.

We conducted remote usability testing but with a twist. We wanted to replicate the real-life use case of multiple people splitting the bill, so we tested in groups. We checked how the real-time updates help them know the latest with their bill and reflect the latest amounts and splits to everyone on the table. We recruited people from different departments within our company to test this.

We document everything on Notion. Soon after we finished our usability study we documented the sessions along with the improvements we found out to do. We redesigned a few screens, rewrote the copy in many places, and introduced affordances in some places.

A sneak peek

Let’s look at some bits and pieces from different parts of the solution. Because we would love you to notice the details.

Little joys

Software should be fun and to make ours a little fun too we animated the emoji in tipping to change as the user picks different tips. We are hoping that changing the tips and the higher one picks the happier they see the waiter is can entice users to tip more.

It is not a primary goal of ours to increase tips, but if this small element can help positive behavior, we believe it is good to have.

Stay in sync with others

A major problem that other solutions in the market had was the overpayments that users make when a bill is split. Those solutions do not update others on the table if someone has split or paid a portion of the bill, which results in overpayments.

We solved it with real-time updates across all the devices that are viewing a bill. We collaborated with engineering immediately on this direction and through our brainstorming exercises we came up with an architecture and solution that solves the problem by syncing all the instances in real time and posting updates between devices. We have been able to do it without taking any extra data from the users. So you eat in a group of 5 or 15, and no worries about overpaying your bill and getting frustrated.

In your language

Our user base is diverse and in the region where we operate the two most common languages are Arabic and English. We have given support for both languages in our solution and a user can easily switch between the two. From the design side supporting the RTL interface along with the components shift was a good initiative. We design components to be used in both languages with some components with states that specifically require an alternate to support the RTL interface.

Multiple devices supported

Mobile devices are expanding their variability with the release of new screen sizes every now and then. From tablet screens, and portrait and landscape modes, to the external screens of new folding phones, we had to consider every little detail and support as many screen sizes as we could. This was an interesting exploration to see how new mediums and screens for interaction are forming new complexities for the UI design and how designers need to solve for many different screen sizes.

Restaurant’s brand, integrated

A customer’s experience with the Pay at Table solution at any restaurant is elevated when they see the branding of that restaurant in that solution too. We offered control to the restaurant managers to pick their cover photos and logos and apply their brand colors to certain areas of the product to make it their own. These customizations are to be further enhanced in the coming releases to offer more granular controls to the restaurants to make Pay at Table a solution that feels exclusively designed for their restaurant.

Using color styles helped in offering better customizations and specifying areas where the custom color is to be applied. This also formed the alignment between design and devs to speak the same language and easier implementation.

Learnings

Involve cross-functional partners early in the process. People from different departments have insights and experiences of their own. Involving them and listening to their side of the story in beneificial to expand your own understanding and form a culture of collaboration in the company.
Test early and often, to mitigate any bias the designers have toward their solutions. Seeing others use the designs helps us uncover more insights and ways the users will use your solution instead of how you want them to use it.
Design to scale as soon there will be more features, requests, and updates will come to the solution so the base should be strong enough to accommodate the future picture.

Foodics is on a mission to design the future of restaurant management. But it is not complete unless we also care about every experience of customers with that restaurant. Solving for the business also means we are touching the experience of hundreds of visitors of many different kinds of restaurants, be it fine dining, fast service, or a food truck. We are not only making the restaurant businesses easy to operate but also making the experiences of restaurant visitors memorable.

This is our very first step in solving the table payments at a restaurant. As we explore this space more and learn from the current release of Pay at Table through behavioral research and going out in the field, we will be refining the solution and sharing our journey here with you all.

Till next time.

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