Restaurant technology and automation can help restaurants remain flexible and adaptable to changing realities, making daily activities more efficient and giving owners all the tools needed to build a profitable business.
In today’s golden age of technology, many tech solutions are readily available to improve the restaurant’s resource efficiency, paving the way for that much-needed flexibility and adaptability.
Read more: How is inflation affecting food ordering in UAE and Saudi?
In light of the above, Naji Haddad, MENA General Manager at Deliverect, compiled a list of the top technologies that could be on the menu next year.
Automation, AI, and robotics
Operators are looking into automation, robotics, and AI in response to high labor costs, staff shortages, and menu inflation. These technologies automate specific tasks or, at the very least, eliminate a few steps for staff. As a result, they increase efficiency and product consistency, helping them offer better service.
Virtual brand marketplaces
Thanks to the widespread success of virtual brands on delivery platforms, more restaurants will launch their own virtual brand in the year ahead. In a recent survey conducted by Deliverect and Qoot, 70% of the respondents expressed that they are planning to open new dark/cloud kitchen operations. Virtual brands help expand the reach and delivery radius, improve sales, and experiment with new dishes to meet demand.
Contactless payment and ordering systems
The demand for contactless processes has been growing considerably since the onset of the pandemic. Mobile ordering, payment apps, and QR code menus offer plenty of benefits for food businesses and their customers. They help increase table turnover, optimize the operational flow, and give restaurants access to customer data, helping them build a meaningful connection with guests.
Digital loyalty programs
With diners cutting expenses due to the global economic crisis, restaurateurs are investing in loyalty programs to increase customers’ spending and encourage repeat business. Most digital loyalty schemes can be integrated directly into your restaurant POS, making tracking, personalizing, and redeeming rewards easier than ever.
Online order aggregator software
Over the past few years, food service operators and Q-commerce businesses have been turning to online ordering systems and (third-party) delivery services to meet increased demand. As the next step, they’ll be looking to optimize their online ordering operations and maximize potential. That’s why delivery aggregator software will gain even wider-spread adoption in 2023. In this context, the global online food delivery industry is showing no signs of slowing down and is estimated to become a $369.97 billion business by 2030.
