Boosting Productivity for Maximum Profit

Boosting Productivity for Maximum Profit

Efficiency is king! Every minute counts, and maximizing productivity directly translates to increased revenue and happier customers. But how can you ensure your restaurant runs like a well-oiled machine? Here’s a roadmap packed with strategies to turn your staff into productivity ninjas and keep your restaurant thriving:

Streamlining Operations:

  • Embrace Technology: Invest in a user-friendly point-of-sale (POS) system. This can automate tasks like order processing, inventory management, and staff scheduling, freeing up valuable time for your team.
  • Optimize Your Layout: Ensure your kitchen and dining areas are designed for smooth workflow. Strategically place equipment and service stations to minimize unnecessary movement for staff.
  • Standardized Recipes: Develop standardized recipes to ensure consistency in portion sizes and preparation methods. This reduces waste, minimizes training time for new staff, and speeds up meal preparation.
  • Communication is Key: Establish clear communication channels between staff members. Utilize communication boards, walkie-talkies, or a designated team app for real-time updates and task coordination.

Empowering Your Team:

  • Invest in Training: Provide comprehensive training for all staff members, from servers to cooks. Equip them with the knowledge and skills they need to perform their tasks efficiently and deliver exceptional customer service.
  • Cross-Training is King: Train team members in multiple areas. This allows for greater flexibility in scheduling, ensures smooth operations when staff is out, and empowers employees to take ownership of their roles.
  • Incentivize Efficiency: Consider implementing incentive programs that reward staff for exceeding productivity goals. This motivates them to work smarter and faster, ultimately boosting overall restaurant performance.

Optimizing the Customer Experience:

  • Menu Engineering: Craft a menu that balances profitability with customer preferences. Utilize clear descriptions, consider portion sizes, and strategically place high-margin items to encourage upselling.
  • Online Ordering: Offer online ordering and delivery options. This caters to the growing demand for convenience and reduces wait times for dine-in customers.
  • Table Management Strategies: Implement table management strategies to optimize seating arrangements and minimize wait times. This could involve reservation systems, waitlist management apps, or employing a host to efficiently seat guests.
  • Embrace Automation: Consider self-service kiosks or tableside tablets for ordering. This empowers customers and reduces wait times for service, freeing up staff to focus on other tasks.

The Power of Data:

  • Track Your Performance: Utilize data from your POS system and other sources to track key performance indicators (KPIs) like sales per labor hour, table turnover rate, and average order value. Monitor these metrics regularly to identify areas for improvement.
  • Data-Driven Decisions: Don’t just collect data – use it! Analyze your data to identify trends, understand customer preferences, and make informed decisions about staffing schedules, menu adjustments, and promotional strategies.

Creating a Culture of Productivity:

  • Lead by Example: Restaurant managers set the tone. Demonstrate a strong work ethic, be approachable to staff concerns, and actively participate in problem-solving to create a positive and productive work environment.
  • Recognize and Reward: Acknowledge and appreciate staff members who consistently demonstrate efficiency and a commitment to excellence. Public recognition or small rewards go a long way in boosting morale and motivation.
  • Embrace Feedback: Encourage open communication and actively seek feedback from your staff. Their insights can be invaluable in identifying areas for improvement and fostering a collaborative environment.

Beyond the Basics:

  • Maintain a Clean and Organized Environment: A clean and organized workspace fosters a sense of professionalism and efficiency. Encourage staff to maintain cleanliness and keep prep areas well-stocked to avoid delays.
  • Schedule Maintenance Regularly: Preventative maintenance is crucial. Schedule regular equipment maintenance to avoid breakdowns that disrupt operations.
  • Embrace Sustainability: Sustainable practices can also enhance productivity. Utilize energy-efficient appliances, minimize food waste through proper inventory management, and implement recycling programs.

By implementing these strategies, you can transform your restaurant from a chaotic kitchen scene into a productivity powerhouse. Remember, it’s not about working harder, but working smarter. By streamlining operations, empowering your team, optimizing the customer experience, and utilizing data-driven decision making, you can create a restaurant that thrives on efficiency, keeps your staff happy, and delivers a consistently exceptional dining experience for your customers.

The Benefits of Eco-Friendly Packaging for Restaurants

The Benefits of Eco-Friendly Packaging for Restaurants

In today’s environmentally conscious world, consumers are increasingly making choices based on sustainability. This extends beyond the grocery store aisle and into the realm of dining – including the packaging that carries their takeout orders home. For restaurants, eco-friendly packaging isn’t just a fad; it’s a strategic decision with significant benefits for both the environment and your business.

The Environmental Imperative:

Traditional restaurant packaging, often made from plastic or styrofoam, is a major contributor to landfill waste and pollution. Eco-friendly alternatives offer a greener solution:

  • Biodegradable Materials: Packaging made from sugarcane, bamboo, mushroom, or seaweed breaks down naturally, reducing landfill waste and microplastic pollution.
  • Compostable Options: Compostable packaging decomposes into nutrient-rich soil, creating a valuable resource instead of waste.
  • Recyclable Materials: Recycled paper, cardboard, or aluminum offer a more sustainable option compared to virgin materials. They can be reprocessed and reused, minimizing environmental impact.

Embracing eco-friendly packaging isn’t just about environmental responsibility; it offers a range of advantages for your restaurant:

  • Enhanced Brand Image: Consumers are drawn to businesses that align with their values. Eco-friendly packaging showcases your commitment to sustainability, attracting environmentally conscious customers and fostering brand loyalty.
  • Potential Cost Savings: While the initial cost of eco-friendly packaging might be slightly higher, some options can lead to long-term savings. For instance, lighter packaging reduces shipping costs, and some municipalities offer tax breaks or incentives for using sustainable materials.
  • Improved Customer Experience: Eco-conscious customers appreciate restaurants that prioritize sustainability. Eco-friendly packaging demonstrates your commitment to offering a holistic dining experience that aligns with their values.

Marketing and Beyond:

  • Highlight Your Efforts: Don’t be shy about your eco-friendly packaging! Promote your use of sustainable materials on your website, social media platforms, and even on signage in your restaurant.
  • Partner with Eco-Conscious Suppliers: Seek out suppliers who offer a variety of eco-friendly packaging options. Building relationships with these suppliers can ensure you have access to high-quality, sustainable materials.
  • Educate Your Customers: Inform your customers about the benefits of eco-friendly packaging through signage, inserts in takeout bags, or even a dedicated section on your website.

Choosing the Right Packaging:

With a wide range of eco-friendly options available, it’s crucial to choose the right ones for your restaurant:

  • Consider Your Menu: Match your packaging to your food items. For example, leak-proof containers are essential for soups or sauces, while breathable packaging is ideal for hot sandwiches to prevent sogginess.
  • Durability Matters: Eco-friendly packaging shouldn’t compromise functionality. Ensure your chosen materials are durable enough to protect your food during transport.
  • Composting Considerations: If you opt for compostable packaging, understand the composting infrastructure in your area. Will customers have access to proper composting facilities?

As environmental concerns continue to rise, eco-friendly packaging is becoming the industry standard. By embracing sustainable practices, restaurants can not only reduce their environmental footprint but also attract eco-conscious customers, enhance their brand image, and potentially achieve cost savings. So, ditch the traditional packaging and embrace a greener future for your restaurant and the planet. Remember, every eco-friendly choice, one takeout box at a time, adds up to a more sustainable dining experience.

Launching and Thriving with Your Food Truck in KSA

Launching and Thriving with Your Food Truck in KSA

The food truck scene in KSA is sizzling! With a growing appetite for diverse culinary experiences and a vibrant street food culture, KSA offers a fertile ground for aspiring food truck entrepreneurs. But navigating the unique landscape requires careful planning, cultural awareness, and a strategic approach. Here’s your roadmap to launching and thriving with your food truck in the Kingdom:

Concept and Cuisine:

  • Find Your Niche: KSA’s food scene boasts a rich tapestry of flavors. Identify a niche that caters to a specific audience. Consider offering global street food favorites with a local twist, healthy and convenient lunch options for busy professionals, or innovative takes on traditional Saudi cuisine.
  • Adapt to Local Preferences: Be mindful of cultural sensitivities and dietary restrictions. Offer vegetarian and vegan options, cater to halal preferences, and ensure portion sizes are appropriate for local appetites.

Legalities and Licensing:

  • Permits and Regulations: Research and obtain all necessary permits and licenses required to operate a food truck in your target location. Regulations can vary by municipality, so consult with local authorities to ensure compliance.
  • Mobile Kitchen Regulations: KSA has strict regulations regarding mobile food kitchens. Ensure your truck meets all safety standards for food preparation, storage, and hygiene.

Location is Key:

  • Strategic Positioning: Choose high-traffic locations with good visibility and foot traffic. Consider areas near office buildings, universities, shopping malls, or popular tourist destinations.
  • Permits and Restrictions: Certain areas might have restrictions on food truck operations. Research and adhere to local zoning regulations and parking limitations.

Building Your Brand:

  • Stand Out from the Curb: A visually appealing and well-branded food truck is crucial for attracting customers. Invest in eye-catching signage, creative menus, and uniforms that reflect your brand identity.
  • Embrace Social Media: Utilize social media platforms like Instagram and Snapchat to showcase your delicious offerings, promote special deals, and engage with potential customers.

Optimizing Operations:

  • Mobile Menu: Design a concise and visually appealing menu that highlights your signature dishes and caters to dietary restrictions. Consider offering combo options and catering to different budgets.
  • Tech-Savvy Operations: Invest in a user-friendly point-of-sale (POS) system specifically designed for mobile food trucks. This facilitates cashless transactions, streamlines order processing, and provides valuable sales data.
  • Partnerships: Collaborate with local businesses. Partner with event organizers, coffee shops, or retail stores to expand your reach and tap into new customer demographics.

The Saudi Food Truck Difference:

  • Cultural Considerations: Respect local customs and traditions when promoting your food truck. Be mindful of prayer hours and adjust your operation schedule accordingly.
  • Embrace Family Dining: KSA has a strong focus on family dining. Offer comfortable seating arrangements, consider providing high chairs or children’s menus, and create a welcoming atmosphere for families.
  • Delivery and Takeaway: The KSA market embraces convenience. Offer delivery options through dedicated food truck delivery platforms or partner with existing delivery services. Ensure your packaging is travel-friendly and caters to both dine-in and takeaway customers.
  • Exceptional Customer Service: Saudi hospitality is renowned. Train your staff to deliver exceptional customer service, be friendly and welcoming, and personalize the dining experience whenever possible.
  • Embrace Feedback: Actively seek customer feedback through online reviews or surveys. Use this information to refine your menu, improve service, and continuously adapt to customer preferences.

By understanding the unique landscape of KSA, focusing on a niche concept, adhering to regulations, and prioritizing exceptional customer service, you can transform your food truck into a thriving business in the heart of the Kingdom. So, fire up the grill, unleash your culinary creativity, and get ready to hit the streets! Remember, with careful planning, cultural awareness, and a passion for delicious food, your KSA food truck journey can be a recipe for success.

The Art of Crafting the Perfect Restaurant Menu

In the competitive world of restaurants, the menu is more than just a list of dishes. It’s a
silent salesperson, a visual ambassador that entices customers, educates them about
your offerings, and ultimately guides their dining experience. Designing the perfect
menu requires a balance of art and science, an understanding of human psychology,
and a clear reflection of your restaurant’s concept and brand identity. Here’s a roadmap
to navigate the creation of a menu that will tantalize taste buds and boost your bottom
line:


Content is King (and Queen):


The foundation of any great menu lies in the quality and clarity of its content.
 Focus on Readability: Ensure your menu is easy to navigate. Use clear fonts in a
comfortable size, with ample spacing between sections and dishes.
 Descriptive Delights: Don’t just list ingredients; paint a picture with words. Use
evocative language that highlights the freshness of your ingredients, the unique
preparation methods, and the flavor profiles of each dish.
 Less is More: Resist the urge to overwhelm diners with an endless selection. A concise
menu allows you to focus on showcasing your signature dishes and ensures you
maintain quality control in the kitchen. Aim for a curated selection that caters to diverse
preferences without being overwhelming.


Strategic Organization is Key:


The way you organize your menu plays a crucial role in influencing customer decisions.
 Logical Flow: Guide diners through their meal journey with a logical flow. Typically,
menus start with appetizers or starters, followed by main courses, sides, and desserts.
 Highlighting the Stars: Strategically place your most profitable and popular dishes in
prime locations. Studies suggest diners tend to focus on the top right and bottom right
corners of a menu page.


 Categorize for Clarity: Group similar dishes together – salads, pastas, vegetarian
options – to make it easier for diners to find what they’re craving.


Visual Appeal Matters:


In a world bombarded with visual stimuli, presentation matters.
 High-Quality Photography (Selectively): Consider incorporating high-quality
photographs of your most visually appealing dishes. However, use them sparingly to
avoid cluttering the menu.


 Whitespace is Your Friend: Whitespace provides breathing room, making the menu
less overwhelming and easier to read.

 Cohesive Design: Ensure your menu’s design aligns with your restaurant’s overall
brand identity. The colors, fonts, and graphics should create a unified and aesthetically
pleasing experience.


Psychology Plays a Part:


Understanding how customers make decisions can inform your menu design.
 Descriptive Language Increases Value: Detailed descriptions can subconsciously
increase the perceived value of a dish, making customers more willing to pay a
premium price.


 Framing Matters: Experiment with using action verbs and positive adjectives to frame
your dishes in a more enticing way.
 Price Positioning: Don’t list prices next to every dish. Consider strategic placement or
grouping dishes by price point to subtly influence customers’ choices.


Beyond the Basics:


While these are core principles, there’s always room for creative exploration.
 Storytelling Through Menus: Weave a narrative through your menu descriptions.
Briefly mention the origin of signature dishes or the local farms you source your
ingredients from.


 Seasonal Twists: Update your menu seasonally to showcase fresh, local ingredients
and keep your offerings exciting for repeat customers.
 Embrace Sustainability: Highlight your commitment to sustainable practices by
indicating locally sourced ingredients or eco-friendly packaging options.


Remember:


The perfect menu is a work in progress. Regularly analyze customer data, track best-
selling items, and solicit feedback to refine your offerings. Don’t be afraid to experiment
and adapt your menu to stay relevant and enticing in the ever-evolving culinary
landscape.

Taker Acquires Brisk Delivery to Strengthen TakerGo Capabilities

Taker announces the official acquisition of Brisk delivery, stating that the company has become a wholly-owned subsidiary of Taker preserving its brand. This comes as a step to further improve, expand and strengthen TakerGo; an innovative delivery solution that connects restaurants to leading delivery services providers. The thing that enables restaurants of all sizes, with and without delivery fleets to provide and increase the efficiency of their delivery services.

Recognizing the value of providing sustainable solutions to empower the digital transformation for restaurants, Taker formalized incorporating Brisk assets and services into TakerGo service. Furthermore, this acquisition comes as a result of the rapidly growing demand on TakerGo services, having achieved exceptional results for many restaurants allowing them to increase their delivery volumes and expand into new geographic markets.

Moving forward, Taker stated that the key driver for the acquisition of Brisk was escalating the range of services and features offered by TakerGo in order to improve the service to cater to all restaurant needs. As the two companies share a commitment to their clients and an urgency to deliver value and enable sustainable growth, Taker guarantees better and more advanced services and support to their clients.

TakerGo was launched in 2020 to solve one of the hardest, make-or-break logistical challenges that face restaurants which is; providing reliable delivery services to their customers. Hence, empowering restaurants to cope with the rapid changes in the food delivery sector. According to Statista’s online food delivery report, by 2023 the global online food delivery sector is expected to grow to reach 154.34 billion U.S. dollars. On The other hand, the online food ordering rates have increased in KSA to reach 4.5 billion SAR, with an average of 1M meals being delivered on a daily basis.

TakerGo has proven its feasibility in helping restaurants to achieve tangible business value by giving them full control over delivery services. Restaurants can choose from several trusted delivery service providers and choose the delivery fees with 0% commissions. They can choose between outsourced, in-house or hybrid logistics and accept high order volumes at rush hours without worrying about the quality of the food delivery service.

About Taker

Taker, is an online ordering management platform pioneering the future of the food and beverage (F&B) industry. Established in 2019, Taker offers the most advanced and powerful technology, allowing F&B businesses of any size to have their online website, mobile app, and ordering system and effortlessly manage the entire process in one single place.

 

About Brisk

Brisk is a logistics software that provides delivery services based on predicting growth rates of many sectors including the F&B industry. Established in 2019, Brisk offers many essential features; assisting in optimizing food delivery services for restaurants including; a comprehensive control panel that provides, real-time order tracking & management, in addition to, advanced analytics and reporting system. As well as, integration with various online ordering systems and other valuable services such as E-wallet for restaurants.

Effortless POS System Migration for Saudi Restaurants

Data migration from restaurant management software is often a hassle. That’s why you find many restaurant owners procrastinate switching to a new POS system for fear of losing important data along the way. Even though the benefits of POS migration may outweigh the trouble of the process, challenges still exist. In this article, we discuss how Saudi foodservice operators can migrate data easily and effortlessly.

The three challenges that may arise during POS system migration:

As technology advances, new and better Point-of-Sale (POS) system versions are released every day. Though the following three challenges may arise, still, you can get the better of them and find solutions to simplify your restaurant’s operational processes.

1. Fear of data loss: A database of critical restaurant information such as inventory records, sold items, customer data, and financial data is of extreme importance. Restaurant owners may fear the loss or damage of such sensitive information due to switching to a new POS system.

2. Delays due to migration: A new POS system may require training- even if minimal- which may consume time for familiarization,  getting used to the new interface, and learning the how-to of operation. Restaurants that can’t afford to spare time may drop off the whole idea altogether.

3. Problems of implementation: The average duration it takes to implement a POS system is between four and seven weeks. For many restaurant owners, such a prolonged period is a major concern, especially if unexpected technical issues arise.

How to overcome the three challenges:

1. Integrate massive data with a cloud-based POS system

First, you move your data to analytics software, then you incorporate it into your new POS system immediately. A cloud-based POS is generally easier to install, import data, and set up than your traditional POS.

Checking a particular report or specific data is less risky with a cloud-based POS system as you don’t depend on others to extract it for you as is the case with a traditional POS.

With a reliable cloud-based POS system, all your historical data can be integrated within an hour. Other reports such as monthly sales may take a bit longer.

2. Preserve the data during POS migration

Losing data during POS migration only happens with unreliable cloud-based POS systems. An excellent cloud-based POS system not only allows you to retain all your previous data but to even keep it saved for later use. The current advancement in technology allows two instances of temporary storage of data.

Considering migrating your Saudi restaurant to a new POS system? Aske Taker.

3. Train your staff

Efficient POS system training for staff and managers is indispensable. Delays and difficulties negatively influencing the customer experience are all caused by improper training of regular staff. Usually, training takes two days at most with a cloud-based POS system, whereas, with a traditional one, it may take up to four days for the setting up only.

For smooth staff training, allocate enough time, clean up and organize your data, and make sure formatting is correct before importing it into your new POS system.

You may think switching from an old POS and migrating to a new one is a lot of work. The truth is, it could be, but with a strong restaurant management solution, your POS migration will be implemented in no time.

8 Recipe Management Tips to Boost Your Restaurant’s Revenue

Whether you’re new to the restaurant business or simply taking your already existing business to a new level, customers expect quality food across all your outlets at all times. Failing to keep consistency across your restaurant branches may lead you to lose potential loyal customers every second.

The key, here, to retain loyal customers, attract new ones, and thus increase your restaurant’s revenue-  is recipe management. Below are eight tips to help you maximize profits through using restaurant technology.

1. Serve fast and serve more

A great deal of recipe management relies on time management. When you set a standardized preparation time for all your dishes, your table turnover rate will increase as customers will be satisfied by the quality of your dishes in addition to your quick service.

2. Maintain recipe consistency

To minimize any possible errors while preparing your dishes, include a detailed standardized recipe in your recipe management plan. This way, you’ll keep up recipe consistency while lowering your food costs.

3. Minimize wastage

The lesser you waste, the more you earn. Why is that? Because your recipe management system indicates the ingredients needed for each dish and how much it costs. This process gives you an idea of your estimated stock and your exact next purchase order. Without it, you may find yourself using different quantities of ingredients in the same dish every time you prepare it! A total waste of food!

4. Maintain branch consistency

Keeping a common recipe across all restaurant branches helps you maintain recipe consistency across all outlets besides establishing a solid brand name. But success isn’t just about recipe consistency; it’s about consistency across all branches. In other words, serving the same menu across all branches.

5. Create a central dashboard

Have all your recipes accessible by all your branches in one click. Tweaking recipes or adding or changing them is unavoidable, especially as you listen to your customers’ feedback. By putting all your recipes on a central dashboard, all recipe updates will be accessible to all outlets simultaneously.

If you’re wondering what recipe management technology is like, book a free demo now with Taker

6. Order the right amount of stock

Aside from keeping track of wastage, ordering just the right amount of stock is another excellent way to increase your restaurant’s revenue. Over-ordering stock is a common mistake often made, but with a recipe management technology that measures consumption, you’ll save on stock and level up to boost revenue.

7. Make it easy for your staff

Your business goals should be clear and easy to understand by all of your staff members. Things like recipes, ambiance and the overall customer experience you seek to achieve should be included in the standardized training for all staff members, especially new ones.  With an efficient recipe management system, your staff can deliver their best from the very beginning.

8. Make your staff independent

By independent, we don’t mean your staff members being detached or disconnected from the work cycle. What we do mean is that your restaurant operations are smoothly streamlined that even the absence of any member doesn’t cause a drop in performance. Using a recipe management system ensures that each member is fully aware of your recipes in a way that guarantees efficient delivery at all times.

Features to Look for in Your Restaurant Management Software for Employee Scheduling

In recent months, Covid-19 has made restaurant management more difficult than ever. And since employees are responsible for delivery kitchens, having their shifts scheduled systematically is key to their success. To help you as a restaurant owner or manager benefit from your workforce to the fullest, we listed the features to look for when choosing your restaurant management software for employee scheduling.

1. Easy shift-based scheduling

Starting from your employees’ availability, work schedules, and leaves, all the way to data tracking, the scheduling process should run smoothly. Considering efficient restaurant management depends on having the right employee work their best for reasonable hours, the system ensures your employees are neither overworked nor facing any obstacles while working.

As for takeout and delivery restaurants, a shift-based scheduling feature is a life-saver, for you may find yourself in need of twice as many employees as you did in the past.

2. POS integration

Another important feature is POS integration with your software. A POS system helps you gain a better understanding of your employees. Through your customer data, you identify areas of strength and weaknesses. Information such as the number of upsold orders, frequent and successful deliveries, and hours worked by each employee are all provided by the ideal restaurant management software.

As you analyze the data, you get a clearer vision of your employees’ true potential and possibly give incentives as per performance.

3. Mobile-friendliness

A part of smart restaurant management is to accommodate everyone. To have an employee scheduling software that is compatible with all devices- mobile phones included- is another important point to consider. Not all employees have access to laptops or computers all the time. This is why your restaurant management software must be optimized for mobile devices.

Also, this way, restaurant owners and employees can keep track of shift timings and tasks making it easier for both to remain updated throughout the day.

4. Faster communication

Ease of communication with employees is an essential feature of any restaurant management system, especially with employee scheduling. Efficient communication in terms of employee shifts, leave requests, and performance management should be covered by the software. With such an integrated platform, employees get to plan their vacation and you can keep track of their schedules at all times.

5. Unusual periods of activity coverage

Even during the chaos of the pandemic, it is unacceptable that restaurant employees are overworked. Your restaurant management system should keep track of unscheduled breaks, planned employee activities, and absence shifts.

Of course, adversity may result in management challenges, but having efficient software for employee scheduling can help you stay ahead of crises.

Check out Taker for customized features for your restaurant management system.

7 Tips for Curbside Pickup for Restaurants

The rise of curbside pickup has been one of the greatest changes in the restaurant industry lately. A study reveals a 22% increase in using curbside pickup for restaurants from April 2020 to January 2021.  Although setting your own curbside pickup operation system isn’t complicated, still, there are several strategies to increase its efficiency and success. Below are seven tips to apply.

1. Create a separate menu

When you dedicate a smaller menu for curbside pickup, your kitchen operations will run more smoothly. As you keep your menu small, stick to the best-seller dishes and make sure they hold up well through long drives. You can also get more creative by offering ready-to-cook meals or family packs to cater to a wide range of customers.

2. Select the right packaging

A major factor in the success of curbside pickup for restaurants is having the food packed in appropriate containers; safely and securely. Bottom line is to make sure hot, cold, and liquid items are all kept intact in their containers at the right temperature. Also, include the basic utensils as many customers may want to eat in their car right away.

3. Get an online ordering system

The easiest way to set up a curbside pickup for restaurants and get customers to actually order is to implement an online ordering system. Surely, you can take curbside pickup orders over the phone, but it’s limiting, time-consuming, and error-prone. A platform like Taker streams all your online orders into your POS so you can begin preparing orders promptly.

4. Have dedicated curbside pickup spots

If your restaurant has a parking lot, it is easy to create a dedicated spot for pickup. If this is not the case for you, for maybe your restaurant is located in a busy neighborhood where there is no parking lot, you may want to get a bit creative. Request permission from local authorities to set up a temporary curbside pickup in front of your restaurant or a permanent one on a nearby street.

5. Provide clear pickup instructions

The goal of curbside pickup for restaurants is to make it easier for customers to get their orders. Customers should know how to place an order on your website or app to be picked up from a curbside. Give your customers a timing estimate of when it shall be ready. To let you know they’ve arrived, customers may text or call your restaurant where a staff member pops the order in their vehicle’s trunk. To minimize contact even further, customers can pay online while ordering.

6. Train staff for curbside pickup

Curbside pickup for restaurants requires the collaboration between kitchen staff and front-of-house staff from monitoring the ordering system all the way to coordinating the handoff of orders. Follow proper food safety and sanitization, limit food handling, provide staff with face masks, gloves, and hand sanitizers while enforcing regular handwashing and surface disinfection.

7. Promote your curbside pickup service The pandemic has accelerated curbside pickup for restaurants which means there is competition in this department. Once all the work is done, and you’ve set up a great curbside pickup operation, it’s time for everyone to know about it. Social media campaigns, online profiles, email newsletters, and in-store signage are all ways to promote your curbside pickup service.  

How to Win With Curbside Pickup for Restaurants in Two Steps

In the near past, customers had the luxury to wander around picking the restaurant of their choice. They would get into a restaurant and order whatever they like, no rush, nothing to worry about. Now that Covid has forced us into social distancing, customers want to get their food with minimal contact. Hence, curbside pickup for restaurants.  

Below we discuss two ways to win customer experience with curbside pickup.

Why go for curbside pickup?

The current health situation forces restaurant owners to adapt in terms of serving customers to the full and keeping their businesses running. Curbside pickup for restaurants is a feature that has been adopted by a growing number of restaurant owners. All that a customer has to do is place an order online- through a website or application (check out Taker ) – and pick it up while staying safe in their vehicle.

A study shows that online ordering and curbside pickup for restaurants have grown an 87% over a year. It is believed that the trend will last long even after the pandemic has retreated. A positive customer experience still matters, however, even though curbside pickup is a win-win situation.

How to focus on customer experience?

Although many businesses are merely trying to survive, customer experience is crucial when it comes to curbside pickup for restaurants.

1. Keep things normal

In times of uncertainty, the best thing a restaurant business can do is to maintain normalcy. Surely, things have changed, but if you’re known for your fast service, for instance, keep it up no matter what the challenges are. Curbside pickup for restaurants- though relatively new to some customers- is an option that could benefit from your fast service. Everyone will be happy. Your customers will feel nothing has changed, and the only change you did was for the best which is for your customers to pick up the food themselves.

As you maintain normalcy, make sure you’re flexible enough to adapt to changes. Just like any in-house staff, employees responsible for curbside pickup for restaurants should adhere to all the precautionary and hygiene measures.   

2. Strategize logistics

The logistical undertaking of curbside pickup for restaurants is massive. Many restaurants are experienced in the process, but many others are fairly new to it. To create a consistent logistical experience, customers should know how to order and what to do to pick up their order. Always make sure there is clear communication after the order is placed and good signage at the pickup spot. Also, be realistic when it comes to order preparation time, especially with stricter safety. If an order will take longer, let the customer know rather than wait.

To conclude, curbside pickup for restaurants isn’t a big deal only if you’re aware of worldwide changes and customer priorities.