The COVID-19 pandemic is slowly becoming a distant memory, but the technology that became popular in this area probably won’t. QR codes, introduced in the early 2000s, only got off the ground when contactless payments became necessary. Now, QR codes are everywhere.
By the end of 2020, 11 million American households scanned at least one QR code, a high number when you account for COVID lockdowns. As customers become more familiar with QR codes, we’re going to start seeing them in all stores, but primarily in restaurants and cafes.
The threat of competition alone should encourage restaurants to adopt this exciting tool, but there are other great reasons why investing in QR order and pay technology is a good idea.
3 Reasons Why Restaurants Should Use QR Technology
QR code order and pay technology can benefit restaurants in several ways, but we narrowed it down to three.
Here’s how QR codes can increase ROI and customer satisfaction rates.
1. QR Code Order and Pay Technology can Reduce Wait Times
In the restaurant industry, prompt delivery is vital. Most orders cool in 10 minutes, and some get soggy or indigestible in 5 minutes. However, restaurants can use QR technology to reduce queues and wait time for customers, making their experience more convenient and enjoyable.
Coupled with the right ordering system, QR codes can do more than reduce wait times. For example, a Canadian startup called OrderUp is dedicated to simplifying contactless ordering and payments for restaurants. This leads to higher revenues and happier customers.
QR code order and pay technology also increases table turnover, which also cuts down on restaurant wait times. Serving more customers per hour means you’ll have more money to throw around. Consider using it to improve customer experience throughout your restaurant.
2. QR Code Order and Pay Technology can Streamline Payment
Although QR codes were initially rolled out by restaurants to generate more footfall, they’re now the best way to streamline payments. This process starts from the moment patrons sit down at the table, where they can usually scan a code on a sticker that links to the restaurant’s menu.
With that said, a lot of customers are still worried about contracting COVID, meaning they’ll choose restaurants that offer contactless payment options. QR codes promote social distancing and reduce time spent at tables, protecting customers and waitstaff from potential illness.
After the pandemic is long gone, customers will still prefer contactless payment options. 77% of Americans want to use mobile, online, or QR payment options all or some of the time.
QR codes are even helpful for loyalty programs and reward schemes when linked with digital payments. For example, points can be added directly to a patron’s account via a restaurant app online. In-person, a physical bill can contain a QR code they can scan using phone cameras.
3. QR Code Order and Pay Technology can Track Valuable Data
We live in a digital world, which is good news for businesses that want to increase their marketing potential and customer relationships. Since QR codes exist in a digital space, order and pay technology can track user data and create personalized experiences for customers.
Starbucks popularized using barcode scanners to track customers’ visits and purchases via a plastic card but has since moved to a mobile order and pay solution using QR codes. The app offers suggestions, discounts, and rewards based on a customer’s previous coffee orders.
Not only has this led to a higher overall ROI, but it greatly improves the customer experience. It encourages customers to keep eating at your restaurant and try new items. It also gives owners insight into what their ideal customer looks like, which they can use to market more effectively.
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