Want to optimise dine-in experiences and build lasting customer relationships? All while going green and saving on labour costs? QR codes could be the tool you need.
In the wake of a tumultuous period that altered the way we live, restaurants had to handle rapid changes. The ensuing challenges opened up a space for creative solutions. Rising to the top of these solutions is the humble QR code.
The QR code is a mighty tool in today's dining landscape. It optimises in-house dining, forges stronger bonds with guests, and drives sales upwards.
So, what exactly is a QR code? And how can small restaurants harness its power to maximise efficacy?
The Origins of the QR Code
QR code stands for 'quick response code'. Masahiro Hara invented it in 1994 for his company, Denso Wave, to track car manufacturing.
Over the years, it has evolved into a powerful tool for marketing and information sharing. Today, QR codes take on a whole new role in promoting contactless dining and online ordering.
It was the unfurling of the COVID-19 pandemic that brought QR codes into the limelight. It is now embedded into various aspects of our everyday lives.
Mobile phone advancement played a big role too. Gone are the days where you had to install an app to read QR codes. All you need now is your phone's built-in camera.
Enhancing the Dining Experience with QR Codes
Ever scoured through a digital menu at your favourite local café? Or clicked on an advert out of the blue, or cleared your bill, all through a simple scan of a QR code on your mobile?
This contactless solution opens up a world of possibilities for diners. Eager to browse menus, place orders, and pay bills sans the usual waiter interaction.
It's not only about diner convenience. For restaurants, it has been a health-conscious shift designed to keep everyone safe. But is that all? Dare to imagine the full potential of these intriguing little squares?
Dig a bit deeper and you’ll see it’s not only about turning more tables and increasing profits. QR codes have the potential to reshape the dining experience in a way unimagined before. So, how can they become a blessing in disguise for restaurants? Let’s engage in some exploratory 'food for thought' — if you will. Here are 4 benefits of QR codes and how small restaurants can use them:
- Say goodbye to your printer
- Guests can order and pay at their own pace
- Make patrons part of your digital family
- Carry home a bit of the dining charm
1. Say goodbye to your printer
Think of a QR code as an easy, green entry point to your restaurant's menu. It lets customers view your online menu without waiting for a waitstaff to attend to them. It provides instant access to menus and specials.
Platforms like Maynuu let you update your offerings in real-time, on the fly. All while cutting down on paper waste. Simple and efficient, right?
2. Guests can order and pay at their own pace
Whether you're a bustling cantina or a laid-back café, QR codes no doubt enhance the dining process.
Through a simple scan, diners can start ordering AND make payment. Saving the need for staff to take orders and settle bills.
If you are facing staffing concerns, such technology is a boon for small teams. All while aiming to maximise operations and secure profits.
Consider this: the typical wait-time for placing an order is 10 minutes. Another 10 minutes for bill settlement. Both staff and diners save 20 minutes of their time.
The result? An increase in hourly covers and a significant boost in daily sales.
3. Make patrons part of your digital family
Capturing the contact details of walk-ins has always been challenging. More so if you don't take many reservations.
QR code ordering almost always requires at least a contact number or email address. Contact information no longer remains elusive. You can start growing your marketing contact list. This way you can ease off dependence on third-party platforms for customer data. And you can now steer your business on your own terms.
The possibilities are endless, but make sure not to spam them.
Some ideas:
- send a warm thank you message from the owner or chef
- create interactive marketing campaigns
- update them on upcoming events
- ask for feedback and reviews
- send offers and promotions
These little actions can encourage return visits or takeaway orders.
4. Carry home a bit of the dining charm
Promotions aren't only for in-house dining! With QR codes, you can extend this perk to your takeout & delivery patrons as well.
When someone orders takeaway - throw in a card with an offer for a discount on their next dine-in order. This adds a pleasant surprise to their unboxing experience.
This works the other way around, too! After a walk-in guest has finished their meal, offer them a coupon code for delivery orders.
Maynuu lets you create your own unique coupon codes in your dashboard.
Conclusion
Be it dine-in or takeaway, QR codes offer immeasurable benefits. You save on labour costs, and you get to wear that eco-friendly badge with pride.
You can optimise your guests' dining experiences with lean staffing. At the same, build strong customer relationships and nurture brand loyalty.
Want to explore the power of QR codes to benefit your restaurant?
Discover more about dine-in ordering with PayTerus QR / QuickPay QR by getting in touch with us:
🇲🇾 Malaysia [email protected] +6017-3584876
🇸🇬 Singapore [email protected] +65-92257913
Or sign up for a free account and get started right away!
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We use the term 'restaurant' throughout the article for consistency. However this guide can be generally applied to any type of food shop, including but not limited to: bakeries, bars, bistrots, boulangeries, butcheries, cafés, cantinas, caterers, coffeeshops, delis, diners, eateries, food trucks, grocers, patisseries, pubs, and more.
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