Let’s Get Digital: How and Why Restaurants Integrate Technology
August 2025
Guests expect convenience, personalization and accuracy—and operators are making it all happen with the power of technology. Find out how a few key digital upgrades can improve efficiency, keep patrons happy and, ultimately, boost sales.
Online Ordering
Why do so many restaurants rely on apps, websites or third-party delivery services for orders? Integrated POS systems streamline and centralize the transactions, reducing errors and improving kitchen workflows. These improvements help back-of-house operations while catering to today’s consumer expectations. Operators know that getting orders right the first time can make all the difference with patron loyalty. According to one study, nearly 50% of customers are unlikely to return if part of their order is missing or incorrect. On the flip side, investing in online ordering systems could mean a serious revenue boost when diners return.
Contactless Payment
Like online ordering, mobile wallets and contactless cards are mutually beneficial for guests and staff. Millennial and Gen Z diners are fans of the speed and efficiency of tech-based payment methods, which are now crucial for restaurants to offer. Allowing patrons to pay with a tap at the table or counter shaves precious minutes off each transaction. Without having to swipe or run cards back and forth, staff can touch more tables, take more orders and ensure excellent service.
Self-Service Kiosks
For some operations, kiosk ordering cuts wait times, improves accuracy and even increases check sizes. Guests appreciate having more time to browse the menu, which makes them more likely to add items and try LTOs. In one report, more than a third (34%) said they’d like to see more restaurants adopt kiosks, and businesses that have are seeing the returns. Shake Shack reported an almost 10% average boost to check sizes at their kiosks compared to counter sales. When the Dodgers Stadium introduced self-service kiosks for concessions, the average order size increased by 20%. Studies show that kiosks can even increase check sizes by up to 30% by offering add-ons or combo upgrades.
Some tech-based systems will work better at some operations than others, and operators should train staff on any new procedures. But by choosing the systems that will integrate smoothly with their business, operators can look forward to long-term success. What new technology would you roll out at your operation? Let us know on Facebook or LinkedIn.
Sources:
“Why the Future of Fast Food Is ‘Phygital’”– 2023 – QSR
“How the Self-Service Trend is Transforming Restaurants” – 2024 – LS Retail
“Ways to Boost Your Restaurant's Revenue with Self Order Kiosks!” – SELISE digital platforms
“The Impact of Order Accuracy on Customer Satisfaction Scores” – 2024 – SMG service management group
“Contactless Payment Systems: What Every Restaurant Needs to Know” – OpenTable
“5 Ways Restaurant Automation Improves Efficiency” – 2023 – tablein
