General Reads

11 Ways AI is Transforming F&B Businesses in Singapore

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 03:14:01 GMT

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer reserved for tech giants — it’s now reshaping the way F&B businesses in Singapore operate. Whether you run a café, a hawker stall with digital ordering, or a multi-outlet restaurant chain, AI can make your operations smarter, your marketing sharper, and your profits stronger.

Here are 11 ways AI is transforming the F&B landscape .

1. AI Chatbots: 24/7 Service Without Extra Staff

AI chatbots on WhatsApp, websites, or kiosks can instantly handle FAQs, reservations, and delivery queries. Customers don’t need to wait for staff, and your team can focus on food and service. It’s like having an extra employee who never sleeps.

2. Personalized Promotions: Relevance Wins Every Time

Instead of wasting money on generic discounts, AI ensures offers are tailored to customer behavior. A frequent coffee buyer gets a free pastry offer, while a lunch regular gets a bundle deal. This drives higher engagement and loyalty with lower costs.

3. Dynamic Pricing: Smart Flexibility for Revenue Growth

AI adjusts pricing based on demand, stock, or time of day. For example, offer discounts during quiet hours to fill seats or push premium pricing for popular dishes during peak demand. This keeps margins optimized without hurting customer experience.

4. Upsell & Cross-Sell Suggestions: Bigger Bills Automatically

Every time a customer orders, AI can recommend complementary items: “Add fries for just $2” or “Upgrade to a set meal.” These automated prompts consistently raise average order value — a key profit booster in F&B.

5. Smart Loyalty Programs: Retain Customers Before They Leave

Traditional loyalty points are passive. AI-powered loyalty detects when customers stop visiting and sends targeted offers to re-engage them. By preventing churn, you grow long-term revenue without spending heavily on new customer acquisition.

6. Revenue Forecasting: Plan with Confidence

Guesswork is risky in F&B. AI forecasts sales down to the day or even the hour. Managers can then schedule staff, order stock, and prep food more accurately — minimizing waste and boosting efficiency.

7. Profitability Analysis: Focus on What Works

Not every dish contributes equally to profits. AI highlights high-margin items so you can promote them more aggressively while identifying “loss leaders” to improve or remove. This ensures every menu decision is data-driven.

8. Fraud Detection: Protecting Every Dollar

Unusual transaction patterns, repeated voids, or suspicious discounts can indicate fraud. AI flags these in real-time, helping owners prevent revenue leakage and maintain tighter controls across outlets.

9. Menu Engineering: Science Meets Creativity

AI categorizes items into “stars” (high profit, high sales) and “dogs” (low profit, low sales). This helps restaurants redesign menus strategically, giving more visibility to profitable items while trimming underperformers.

10. Customer Taste Prediction: Serve What They’ll Love Next

By studying order histories, AI predicts new dishes or flavors your customers are likely to enjoy. For example, if many order spicy chicken, an AI may suggest launching a spicy rice bowl. This reduces guesswork in menu innovation.

11. Trend Tracking: Stay Ahead of the Market

AI scans social media and online reviews to identify rising trends — whether it’s bubble tea flavors or Korean-inspired desserts. Acting early allows you to stay competitive and win trend-seeking diners.

Conclusion

AI isn’t replacing people — it’s empowering F&B businesses to thrive in Singapore’s tough market. From smarter menus to fraud detection, AI equips you with tools to increase revenue, cut costs, and keep customers happy.

Looking for a POS system that integrates AI-powered insights and loyalty tools? iMakan is here to help. Click here to schedule a demo!

Fake Bulk Orders, How Your F&B Business Can Prevent Falling For This

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 07:36:47 GMT

Singapore’s F&B industry has always been resilient, but operators are facing a worrying trend: fake bulk orders . These fraudulent orders are often placed via phone calls, messaging apps, or even online forms — where someone commits to a large catering or group order but never pays or collects the food.

While they may appear to be isolated incidents, the reality is that fake bulk orders create serious operational, financial, and reputational damage for business owners.

The Real Impact on F&B Operators

1. Food & Resource Wastage

Large orders often require businesses to buy extra ingredients, dedicate prep time, and use significant packaging resources. When these orders turn out to be fake, all of that effort ends up in the bin. Unlike unsold food from regular operations, bulk order wastage is concentrated and can reach hundreds of dollars in value at once.

2. Lost Sales Opportunities

Kitchens have finite capacity. When chefs prioritize bulk orders, it often means slowing down service for regular dine-in or takeaway customers. In the worst cases, genuine orders are rejected or delayed because the team is occupied — only for the bulk order to be fake. This creates double losses: wasted food and missed real revenue.

3. Operational Stress

Managing bulk orders requires careful coordination — from inventory planning to scheduling staff. A fake order doesn’t just waste food; it disrupts the workflow, stresses employees, and affects service quality for actual paying customers.

4. Financial Strain

Margins in F&B are notoriously thin. One large fake order could wipe out an entire day’s profit or even push a small café or restaurant into the red for the week. For hawkers or single-outlet businesses, the financial hit is especially painful.

5. Damage to Reputation

When operations are disrupted, paying customers often suffer the consequences: slower service, quality drops, or even sold-out menu items. Negative reviews and word-of-mouth from disappointed customers can have longer-lasting effects than the fake order itself.

Why It’s Happening More

The rise of instant communication platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram makes it easy for pranksters or scammers to place fake orders. Without a payment gatekeeper , businesses have no way to differentiate serious customers from fake ones until it’s too late.

How F&B Businesses Can Respond

Secure Pre-Payment

Implement a deposit policy for all large orders. Even requiring 30–50% upfront can deter pranksters and secure commitment.

Adopt Digital Ordering Systems

An online ordering platform with integrated payments ensures that orders are only confirmed once payment is made. This reduces fraud and saves admin time chasing customers for deposits.

Staff Training

Train staff to recognize red flags: suspiciously large orders from new numbers, vague details about collection, or refusal to provide deposits. Simple questioning can help filter out fraudulent requests.

How MEGAPOS Protects You

With MEGAPOS Online Ordering , merchants no longer need to worry about fake orders. Customers are required to pay upfront online before the order is confirmed. This ensures:

Guaranteed payment before food preparation
Seamless integration with POS and kitchen workflows
Reduced fraud risk and wasted resources
Better order tracking for accountability

By adopting secure payment-first ordering, F&B businesses can protect their margins, improve staff morale, and focus on serving real customers.

How Referrals Can Drive F&B Business Profits

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 06:23:01 GMT

Imagine a loyal customer leaving your cafe after a delicious meal. They tell a friend about your signature dish, and the friend comes in the next day—eventually becoming a regular too. This chain of referrals is more powerful than any ad campaign.

The Power of Customer Referrals

Referrals work because they are based on trust . People are far more likely to try a new restaurant when it’s recommended by someone they know personally. This leads to higher customer satisfaction, repeat visits, and larger average orders , all of which increase profits.

Key Benefits:

Lower Marketing Costs
Instead of spending thousands on ads, you can leverage your existing satisfied customers. Every positive referral acts as free marketing , delivering new customers at minimal cost.

Boosted Loyalty and Engagement
Referred customers are inherently more loyal—they start with a positive perception of your brand. They’re also more likely to engage with loyalty programs, leave positive reviews, and participate in promotions .

Stronger Brand Image
Word-of-mouth builds credibility. When multiple customers recommend your cafe or restaurant, it reinforces the perception of quality and reliability.

Compounding Growth
Each referred customer can become an advocate themselves, creating a virtuous cycle of growth . Over time, referrals can generate a network effect that scales your business organically.

Making Referrals Happen

Offer Attractive Rewards
Incentivize referrals with meaningful rewards like:

Discounts on next visits
Free drinks or desserts
Bonus loyalty points

Make sure the rewards appeal to your target customers and are easy to redeem.

Simplify the Process
Make sharing effortless with QR codes, mobile links, or app-based referral systems. The easier it is for customers to refer friends, the more they will participate.

Personalize the Invitation
Personalized messages increase engagement:

“Bring a friend and you’ll both enjoy 15% off your next meal.”

Personalized communications show customers that you value their participation.

Deliver Shareable Experiences
Customers are more likely to refer when their experience is memorable. Focus on:

Instagram-worthy dishes
Unique beverages or seasonal specials
Warm and attentive customer service

Encourage sharing with table displays, social media handles, or branded hashtags.

Leverage Feedback Loops
Ask new referred customers how they heard about you. Use this data to optimize referral campaigns and reward top advocates.

Measure Your Success

Track your program with metrics such as:

Number of new customers from referrals
Repeat purchase rates of referred customers
Engagement rates with referral tools (QR codes, apps, social shares)
Conversion rate of referred leads into loyal customers

Referrals are not just a marketing tactic—they’re a strategic growth lever . By encouraging customers to advocate for your brand, providing rewards, and creating memorable experiences, your F&B business can enjoy higher profits, loyal patrons, and sustainable growth .

If you are looking for F&B solutions such as a POS system, QR ordering, self ordering kiosks and CRM that helps you manage your referral programmes, click here to find out more

Why Promo Codes Are a Hidden Weapon for F&B Businesses in Singapore

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 03:44:30 GMT

Running a restaurant, café, or takeaway in Singapore has never been more challenging. Rental costs are rising, manpower shortages are the norm, and competition is fierce with new eateries popping up every month. In such a climate, F&B owners are searching for smart, low-cost ways to attract and retain customers.

One underused yet highly effective tool is the promo code . Flexible, trackable, and easy to implement, promo codes can do far more than just cut prices — they can transform your marketing, boost customer loyalty, and provide valuable insights.

Here’s why promo codes are a powerful lifeline for F&B businesses today.

1. Win Over First-Time Diners

Many customers hesitate to try new places because they’re unsure if the food is worth the price. A simple promo code lowers that barrier and encourages trial.

Example: “WELCOME10 – Enjoy 10% Off Your First Meal”
Effect: This reduces risk for the customer while giving your business a chance to impress and convert them into repeat visitors.

Think of promo codes as your digital sampling tool . Instead of giving away free food, you’re offering a discount that motivates trial but still drives revenue.

2. Keep Customers Coming Back

Acquiring customers is tough — but keeping them is even harder. Promo codes linked to loyalty programs can nudge one-time visitors into becoming regulars.

Example: “Get $5 Off Your Next Meal – Code: LOYALTY5”
Effect: Customers feel rewarded and are more likely to return to claim their perks.

Pair promo codes with your POS-integrated CRM system . Every time a customer redeems, it’s recorded, giving you insights into who your loyal diners are. With this data, you can run even more targeted campaigns.

3. Fill Empty Seats During Off-Peak Hours

For most outlets, sales spike during lunch and dinner — but there’s a big slump between 2–5 pm and after 9 pm. Empty seats mean wasted rent and manpower.

Promo codes are a great way to incentivize visits during these dead zones.

Example: “TEATIME20 – Get 20% Off Desserts from 3–5 PM”
Effect: Even a small boost in footfall during off-peak hours adds incremental revenue.

This is similar to yield management in airlines and hotels — you maximize utilization during quiet times to improve overall profitability.

4. Grow Online Orders & Delivery Sales

Food delivery is booming, but third-party platforms charge hefty commissions. Promo codes can redirect some of that demand to your own ordering channels.

Example: “DIRECT4 – $4 Off When You Order From Our Website”
Effect: Encourages customers to order directly, helping you save on platform fees.

When integrated with your F&B POS system , these direct orders flow seamlessly into your kitchen operations, giving customers a smoother experience while you retain more margin.

5. Measure Marketing ROI with Precision

Unlike generic promotions, promo codes are trackable. Each code redeemed gives you clear data on what’s working.

Which campaign brought in the most new customers?
Which influencer partnership drove actual sales?
Which time-based offer increased footfall?

By linking promo codes with your POS, you get real-time insights that let you adjust promotions, cut what doesn’t work, and double down on what does. This eliminates wasted marketing spend and ensures every dollar counts.

6. Leverage Influencer Marketing with Trackable Codes

Influencer marketing is huge in Singapore’s F&B scene — from micro food bloggers to TikTok creators showcasing hidden gems. Promo codes make these campaigns measurable.

Example: Partner an influencer with a unique code like “FOODIE10 – 10% Off Your First Visit”.
Effect: You track how many sales that influencer drove, instead of guessing based on likes and views.

This turns influencer collaborations into ROI-driven campaigns , helping you decide which partnerships are worth repeating.

Conclusion: Promo Codes as a Smart F&B Strategy

In tough times, every customer and every dollar matters. Promo codes give F&B businesses a flexible, cost-effective way to win new customers, reward loyal ones, fill empty seats, and track ROI.

With the right POS system and CRM integration , promo codes become more than discounts — they become a growth engine that keeps your business competitive in Singapore’s fast-moving market.

If you are looking for POS systems, CRM, QR Ordering, Online Ordering, click here to contact us to find out more!

Smart Tech Strategies for F&B Startups Facing High Rentals in Singapore

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 09:35:06 GMT

Ask any café owner or restaurant operator in Singapore, and you’ll hear the same challenge—rental prices are sky-high. For small F&B startups, this can make profitability feel like a distant dream. The good news? You can fight back using the right mix of technology and smart operations.

Here’s how to keep your costs low, efficiency high, and customers happy—even with expensive rent.

1. Rethink Location and Shift Budget to Marketing

A prime location isn’t always the best decision for a new F&B brand. Not just due to the high rentals, but when operating in prime locations you are likely to be competing directly with well established F&B brands.

Pick a slightly less central area to save on rent
Invest those savings in branding and promotions
Use delivery apps as customer acquisition tools—promote aggressively so people discover your food first online, then offline

2. Cut Manpower Dependency with Automation

Labour costs are climbing. Self-ordering kiosks and QR code menus help you:

Operate with fewer service staff
Speed up order processing
Improve order accuracy
Create a seamless customer experience

3. Control Inventory Like a Pro

Throwing away expired food is like throwing away cash. POS-linked inventory systems let you:

Track stock in real time
Predict demand accurately
Avoid over-purchasing and wastage

4. Fill Empty Seats During Off-Peak Hours

With yield management strategies, you can keep the business flowing throughout the day.

Flash deals via Instagram or TikTok
Loyalty perks for off-peak diners
Special menus available only between 3–5pm

5. Make Your POS the Heart of Your Operations

A fully integrated POS can help you:

Manage dine-in, takeaway, and delivery orders in one place
Monitor sales trends
Sync loyalty programs automatically
Make faster business decisions based on live data

While rental prices in Singapore won’t drop overnight, the right tech approach lets F&B startups run more efficiently, keep costs under control, and compete with bigger players.

If you are looking for F&B solutions such as F&B POS systems, Self ordering kiosks, QR ordering, online ordering and CRM solutions, click here to enquire!

First POS System for F&B? Choose Smart, Not Just Cheap

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 10:16:31 GMT

Launching a new café or restaurant in Singapore? One of your first major investments will be a Point-of-Sale (POS) system. While it's tempting to go for the cheapest POS package, smart F&B owners know better: not all POS systems are built the same.

Why Cheaper Isn’t Always Better

Budget POS solutions often cut corners on hardware quality, software flexibility, and customer support. You might get a basic tablet with limited features and little support when things go wrong.

These systems may be fine for weekend hobbyists, but if you're planning to scale and operate seriously, you need something more durable and reliable.

What to Look For in a Reliable POS

Rugged hardware that withstands busy kitchens & long operating hours
Responsive local support for peace of mind
Features that matter: table management, self-ordering, CRM, inventory
Easy integrations with accounting, delivery, and payment platforms

The Long-Term Advantage

Investing in a reputable POS vendor ensures you won’t need to replace or switch systems as you grow. You also benefit from software updates, technical support, and scalability from day one.

Your POS system is the heartbeat of your F&B business. Choose wisely, and it’ll help you run smoother, serve better, and scale faster.

Looking for F&B solutions? Click here to contact us!

Email vs WhatsApp for F&B Marketing in Singapore: Who Wins?

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Mon, 21 Jul 2025 03:37:28 GMT

In Singapore’s fast-paced F&B industry, reaching your customers with the right message at the right time can be the difference between a packed house and a slow day. For years, email marketing has been the go-to method for loyalty engagement—but today, WhatsApp is emerging as a powerful contender.

So which channel delivers better results for F&B businesses? Let’s break it down.

Why More F&B Brands Are Choosing WhatsApp

1. Significantly Higher Open Rates
WhatsApp messages boast open rates of over 90%, while email struggles to break 25–30%. This means more eyes on your promotions, event invites, or new product launches.

2. Real-Time Engagement
Whether you’re pushing a lunch promo or a last-minute reservation slot, WhatsApp delivers instant visibility. Customers receive and act on messages within minutes, making it perfect for time-sensitive offers.

3. Mobile-First and Personal
Almost every Singaporean checks WhatsApp multiple times a day. Messages arrive directly on the home screen—no inbox clutter or spam folders to worry about. The format also feels more personal, increasing engagement.

4. Great for Vouchers & Loyalty Promotions
Sending eVouchers, birthday rewards, or exclusive member discounts via WhatsApp makes redemption easy. Customers just click and go—no need to dig through emails or apps.

When Email Still Shines

1. Long-Form Content & Storytelling
Emails are perfect for more detailed updates like a new seasonal menu, chef’s notes, or an outlet anniversary event. You have more space to build a narrative and showcase visuals.

2. Automation and Segmentation
Email tools allow automated drip campaigns, customer lifecycle journeys, and membership renewals—ideal for maintaining long-term engagement.

3. Official Communications
Invoices, reservation confirmations, newsletters, and account updates are still best suited for email, where they feel more formal and can be archived.

Best Practice: Use Both, Together

Forward-thinking F&B brands in Singapore don’t choose one over the other—they use both channels strategically.

Use WhatsApp to push flash deals, eVouchers, and member reminders.
Use Email to tell your brand story, build loyalty, and deliver richer content.
Connect both through a unified CRM-POS platform like MEGAPOS to sync data, automate engagement, and track performance.

Final Thoughts

If you're only using email to engage your customers, you're leaving money on the table. WhatsApp provides the speed and reach modern diners expect, while email helps nurture deeper, longer-term relationships.

The smartest F&B operators are combining both—powered by integrated POS and CRM tools that make outreach effortless and effective.

Interested in trying to engage with your members through WhatsApp messaging campaigns, click here !

Still Think POS Systems Are Outdated? Here's Why Singapore F&B Businesses Still Swear by Them

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Thu, 03 Jul 2025 08:22:19 GMT

With all the hype about QR ordering, food delivery apps, and self-ordering kiosks, you might wonder— “Do I even still need a POS system for my café or restaurant?”

Short answer? Yes. Absolutely.

Even with all the fancy tech popping up, your POS system is still the beating heart of your F&B operations in Singapore. Here’s why.

POS Systems Have Grown Up

Gone are the days when POS just meant a cash register that printed receipts. Today’s POS is:

Touchscreen, sleek, and fast
Cloud-based (yes, you can check sales from your phone)
Integrated with QR ordering and food delivery platforms
Capable of syncing loyalty programmes, CRM, and even kitchen printers

But What About QR Ordering and Delivery Apps?

Great question. And yes, those tools are super useful, especially post-COVID. But they work better when they’re connected to your POS system.

Think of it like this:

Your POS is the central brain
QR orders? Sent through the POS
Grab or Foodpanda orders? Tracked and tallied in POS
Payment? Handled by POS—cash, PayNow, NETS, e-wallet, you name it

Why Singapore F&B Owners Still Choose POS in 2025

✅ Everything in one place – orders, payments, and reports
✅ Live dashboards – check your shop’s sales from your phone
✅ Cut down on mistakes – no more handwritten orders or missed items
✅ Easy for staff to learn – training new hires is faster
✅ Membership and CRM – turn first-time customers into loyal regulars
✅ Inventory tracking – say goodbye to “Oops, we ran out of chicken wings again…”

From Hawker Stalls to High-End Restaurants

Whether you’re selling bubble tea at a kiosk or running an omakase spot in the CBD, a good POS system scales with you. Many brands in Singapore use cloud-based POS with self-ordering kiosks and QR so they can operate smoother and faster—especially during peak hours.

Final Thoughts

If you're planning to reduce manpower , increase efficiency , or grow your F&B brand , your POS should be doing more than just taking orders. It should support your entire ecosystem—from sales and staff to customers and kitchen operations.

Need help choosing the right POS system for your F&B business?
We’ve helped hawkers, bakeries, cafes, and restaurants across Singapore modernise with hybrid POS + QR solutions.

Click here to contact us and find out more.

7 Essential POS Features Every Singapore F&B Outlet Manager Needs

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Mon, 23 Jun 2025 09:53:46 GMT

In Singapore's food and beverage industry, running an outlet efficiently means staying ahead with the right tools. A modern F&B POS system offers much more than just payment processing—it helps managers make smart decisions, improve daily operations, and increase customer satisfaction.

Here are seven essential POS features every F&B outlet manager should be using:

1. Real-Time Sales Analytics

Understanding what's happening in your business at any moment is powerful. Real-time reporting gives outlet managers instant visibility into sales trends, top-performing menu items, and hourly revenue. This lets you quickly adjust staffing, pricing, or promotions—especially during peak hours or slow periods.

2. Stock & Inventory Tracking

Manual stocktaking is time-consuming and error-prone. A good restaurant POS automatically updates inventory levels with each order, alerts managers when stock is low, and helps prevent wastage. It ensures the kitchen runs smoothly while improving your food cost control.

3. QR & Digital Ordering

With manpower challenges in Singapore, QR ordering reduces the need for floor staff while enhancing order accuracy. A cafe POS system that supports self-ordering and mobile payments also increases table turnover and improves customer experience.

4. Staff Productivity Metrics

Tracking staff performance within your POS system allows you to see who's upselling successfully, managing tables efficiently, or lagging behind. Managers can use this data to reward top staff, improve team training, and maintain consistent service standards.

5. CRM & Loyalty Programmes

POS-integrated CRM tools make it easy to run customer loyalty programs. Offer points, cashback, or birthday vouchers to build long-term customer relationships. This feature is especially valuable in Singapore's competitive cafe and casual dining scene.

6. Multi-Outlet Control

Managing more than one outlet? A centralised POS system for F&B chains lets you monitor each branch’s performance, stock, and staff in real-time from a single dashboard—perfect for owners and regional managers who want visibility without micromanaging.

7. Delivery Platform Sync

A great F&B POS system should integrate directly with platforms like GrabFood, Deliveroo, or Foodpanda. Orders flow straight to the kitchen or kitchen display system (KDS), minimising human error and speeding up prep during busy delivery hours.

Conclusion

A feature-rich POS system empowers outlet managers to run their operations more effectively. If you want to reduce costs, boost efficiency, and keep your staff and customers happy—start with the right POS technology.

Need help upgrading your POS or training your team to use it better? Contact us by clicking here today.

How Real-Time Reporting Transforms F&B Operations in Singapore

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Fri, 20 Jun 2025 08:25:56 GMT

In today’s F&B market, efficiency is everything. Without a smart F&B POS system , you may be missing critical opportunities to improve operations and sales. One feature that leading restaurants and chains rely on is real-time sales reporting.

1. Real-Time Sales = Real-Time Control

Know what’s selling best, what needs restocking, and when your busiest hours are—all instantly from your POS system dashboard . No more guesswork, just data-driven control.

2. Manage Chains Easily from One System

For multi-outlet operators, real-time sales reporting allows instant tracking across every branch. You can compare outlet performance, adjust stock levels, and deploy manpower where needed—all from a single platform.

3. Improve Operational Speed

When you know your top-selling items and peak periods, you can prepare your kitchen, front-of-house, and staff shifts ahead of time—improving service speed and reducing order mistakes.

4. Boost Profit Margins Effortlessly

A smart restaurant POS helps you cut unnecessary expenses, reduce over-ordering, and prevent dead stock—all based on real-time sales performance.

Why This Matters for Singapore’s F&B Sector

In a competitive market like Singapore’s, small improvements in operational efficiency can make a big difference. A well-equipped F&B POS system with live data gives you that edge.

Ready to Upgrade?

Contact us by clicking here to learn how our all-in-one POS solutions can deliver real-time sales insights for your cafe, kiosk, or restaurant chain.

Handling Difficult Customer Situations in Your F&B Outlet

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 09:43:28 GMT

Mastering Difficult Customer Situations in Singapore’s F&B Industry

No matter how good the food or service, F&B outlets in Singapore will inevitably encounter difficult customers. The key is turning conflict into customer satisfaction through skilled, polite service.

Here’s a quick guide to train your outlet staff on handling challenging situations :

1. Listen Without Interrupting

Let the customer fully explain their concern. Active listening makes them feel valued and reduces anger.

2. Stay Polite and Apologetic

Even if the customer is wrong, respond with kindness: “We’re sorry for the inconvenience, let us fix this.”

3. Offer Fair Compensation

Train staff to offer simple compensations—like a free drink or quick dish replacement—without needing manager approval. This keeps service efficient and customers satisfied.

4. Recognize When to Escalate

Some cases require supervisor handling. Make sure staff know when to escalate politely.

5. Follow Up After Incident

Use customer feedback logs and review responses to close the loop, ensuring issues don’t repeat.

Why This Matters for F&B businesses

✔ Reduces bad reviews on Google and online platforms
✔ Improves team confidence
✔ Keeps customer loyalty high even after mistakes

If you are interested in self ordering solutions for your F&B businesses such as self ordering kiosks , and QR ordering , click here to contact us and find out more!

Self Ordering Kiosk, QR Ordering & CRM for Beverage Kiosks: Tools To Help You Earn More!

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Tue, 20 May 2025 04:07:22 GMT

In Singapore's bustling F&B scene, quick-service beverage outlets like bubble tea shops, coconut drink stalls, and fruit juice bars face the challenge of serving a high volume of customers efficiently while maintaining personalized service. Integrating self-ordering kiosks, QR ordering, and Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems can revolutionize operations, enhance customer satisfaction, and drive revenue growth.

1. Flexible Order Customization

Beverage kiosks often offer a variety of customization options—sugar levels, ice preferences, toppings, and more. Self-ordering kiosks and QR ordering systems allow customers to easily select their preferences through intuitive interfaces, reducing errors and ensuring orders are prepared to exact specifications. This precision enhances customer satisfaction and streamlines the ordering process.

2. Reduced Manpower Requirements

By enabling customers to place orders directly through kiosks or their smartphones, staff can focus on preparing beverages rather than taking orders. This shift not only reduces the need for additional manpower but also accelerates service during peak hours, improving overall efficiency.

3. Increased Average Bill Size

Self-ordering systems can be programmed to suggest add-ons or upgrades, encouraging customers to explore additional options. This automated upselling strategy has been shown to increase average order values, with some establishments reporting a 15–30% boost in sales.

4. Enhanced Customer Loyalty through CRM

Implementing a CRM system allows beverage kiosks to track customer preferences and purchase history, enabling personalized marketing and loyalty programs. Offering rewards, cashback, or point-based incentives encourages repeat visits and fosters a loyal customer base.

5. Real-Time Menu Management

With integrated systems, menu updates and item availability can be managed in real-time across all outlets. This centralized control ensures consistency, reduces the risk of selling unavailable items, and allows for quick adjustments based on inventory or promotions.

6. Data-Driven Insights

Collecting data through QR ordering and CRM systems provides valuable insights into customer behavior and preferences. Analyzing this data helps in tailoring offerings, optimizing inventory, and designing targeted marketing campaigns, ultimately enhancing the customer experience and boosting sales.

7. Improved Order Accuracy

Allowing customers to input their orders directly minimizes miscommunication and errors. Accurate orders lead to higher customer satisfaction and reduce waste from incorrect preparations.

8. Streamlined Operations

Integrating self-ordering kiosks, QR ordering, and CRM systems creates a cohesive operational flow. Orders are processed efficiently, customer data is centralized, and staff can focus on delivering quality products, resulting in a more streamlined and effective business model.

By embracing these technologies, quick-service beverage outlets in Singapore can enhance operational efficiency, improve customer satisfaction, and drive revenue growth. Implementing self-ordering kiosks, QR ordering, and CRM systems positions businesses to meet modern consumer expectations and thrive in a competitive market.

CRM a Neccessity For Singapore F&B Buisinesses?

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Wed, 14 May 2025 08:42:32 GMT

Starting an F&B business in Singapore? Learn how CRM systems boost loyalty, improve operations, and drive smarter marketing for restaurants and cafes.

Launching a food & beverage business in Singapore is exciting—but it comes with intense competition. If you want to build strong customer loyalty, improve daily operations, and grow your brand faster, a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system might just be your best tool.

Here’s how CRM can transform your restaurant, cafe, or food stall from day one.

1. Build Loyal Customers From Day One

CRM systems help you track customer visits, spending habits, and preferences . This lets you create highly personalized promotions and loyalty programs—turning one-time customers into repeat regulars. You’ll know who your best customers are and how to keep them coming back.

2. Launch Memberships & Cashback That Work

With CRM-linked membership programs, customers can:

Earn points or cashback on purchases
Redeem e-vouchers or discounts
Track rewards via mobile

This drives repeat visits and increases customer satisfaction, especially in a loyalty-driven market like Singapore.

3. Smarter Marketing With Real Data

CRM tools let you group customers based on behavior (e.g., frequent lunch diners, dessert lovers) and send targeted promos that get results. No more guesswork—just smarter marketing with better ROI.

4. Integrate Seamlessly With POS & Ordering Systems

The best CRMs connect to your POS system, self-ordering kiosks, and QR ordering platforms , giving you a 360° view of every customer interaction—from order to payment to promotion usage.

5. Make Data-Driven Decisions

See what dishes are most loved, what promotions actually work, and what time your regulars show up. These insights help you make decisions that grow your F&B business sustainably.

6. Save Time on Admin Work

Instead of tracking memberships manually, your CRM automates everything— from managing cashback balances to auto-sending birthday vouchers . Spend more time focusing on food and service, less on admin.

Final Thoughts

For any F&B startup in Singapore, CRM is no longer a luxury—it’s a growth tool. When combined with the right POS and digital ordering solutions, it helps you serve better, sell smarter, and scale faster .

If you're opening a restaurant, cafe, bubble tea shop, or even a kiosk, investing in CRM early sets you up for long-term success. Click here to send us an enquiry to find out more if you are interested!

QR Ordering & Self-Service Kiosks in Hotels: Modernising Your Hotel, Elevate Guest Experiences

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Tue, 13 May 2025 04:01:09 GMT

Singapore's hospitality landscape is constantly evolving, and hotels that embrace technology stand to gain the most. Among the most impactful digital solutions available today are QR ordering systems and self-service kiosks . These tools not only enhance the guest experience but also improve operational efficiency and drive revenue growth.

What is QR Ordering in Hotels?

QR ordering allows guests to simply scan a code using their smartphone from the comfort of their room, the lobby, or even the hotel bar. The code opens a mobile-friendly menu, enabling them to browse items and place their orders instantly without the need for staff assistance.

This system offers convenience and speed, cutting down waiting times and ensuring guests get what they want, when they want it. For hoteliers, this also means fewer missed service opportunities and higher guest satisfaction ratings.

Why Implement Self-Service Kiosks?

Self-service kiosks placed in key locations such as the hotel lobby, cafe or bar provide a seamless ordering experience. These kiosks allow guests to select items, customise orders, and pay without standing in line or waiting for a server.

Benefits for Hotels

Increased Revenue: QR ordering and kiosks use intelligent prompts to upsell items like beverages, desserts, or side dishes, increasing average order size by up to 30% .
Error-Free Orders: Guests control their selections, significantly reducing miscommunication and wrong orders.
Lower Manpower Costs: With fewer staff required to take orders, hotels can redirect manpower to more important tasks such as guest relations.
Real-Time Menu Management: Hotel staff can instantly update menus, pricing, and item availability via a powerful online backend — no printing, no delays.
Integrated CRM: When combined with CRM, these systems collect valuable guest data, enabling personalised promotions and loyalty rewards.

The Bottom Line

In a competitive hospitality market like Singapore, providing a digital-first, streamlined experience helps your hotel stand out. QR ordering and self-service kiosks are not just tech upgrades — they're strategic investments that enhance guest satisfaction, reduce operational overhead, and drive profitability.

If you are interested in getting self service solutions for your hotel, click here to contact us and find out more!

QR Ordering for Car Showrooms: Elevate Customer Experiences!

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Tue, 13 May 2025 03:57:53 GMT

Offer refreshments, streamline staff perks, and impress visitors with smart self-ordering kiosks. Elevate your car showroom’s hospitality with iMakan

Car showrooms are more than just spaces to display vehicles — they are environments that shape customer perceptions of a brand. Providing a refined and thoughtful in-showroom experience can significantly influence purchasing decisions. Implementing a self-ordering kiosk with QR ordering and CRM integration is an effective way to take that experience to the next level.

How Self-Ordering Works in a Car Showroom

A sleek digital kiosk is placed at a central point within the showroom. When visitors arrive, they can use the kiosk to help themselves to complimentary coffee, tea, or refreshments — no need to look for staff. This small touch goes a long way in making guests feel welcomed, comfortable, and valued.

In addition to complimentary items, the same kiosk can offer branded merchandise , bottled drinks, or packaged snacks for sale. The system can be configured to accept card payments, PayNow, or even credits from a CRM-integrated loyalty account.

Benefits for Showroom Visitors

Convenient Self-Service: No need to interrupt staff or wait for assistance.
Enhanced Experience: Free refreshments contribute to a positive showroom environment.
Interactive Branding: Guests can browse and purchase branded merchandise easily.

Benefits for Showroom Staff and Management

Trackable Transactions: Monitor all staff and guest F&B transactions — complimentary, discounted, or paid — from a single dashboard.
Staff Perks: Employees can use login IDs to enjoy subsidised meals and drinks while keeping all usage data recorded.
Control & Efficiency: Set usage limits (e.g., 1 free drink per prospect per day) and manage inventory in real-time.
CRM Integration: Track guest engagement, reward frequent visitors, and gather valuable insights on showroom behaviour.
Upscale Image: The digital kiosk adds a premium, tech-savvy touch that aligns with the experience of buying a high-end car.

Why Now?

In an age where digital convenience is expected, adding a self-ordering kiosk is not just about offering coffee — it’s about creating a holistic brand experience that reflects your showroom's values. iMakan offers an integrated solution that enhances both customer experience and operational control.

Take the lead in redefining hospitality within your showroom. Invest in a self-ordering solution that reflects your brand’s quality and forward-thinking approach.

If you are interested in getting self ordering solutions for your car showroom, click here to contact us and find out more!

Self Ordering Kiosks For Canteens With CRM Integrations

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 09:30:05 GMT

Thinking of ways to battle the rising costs to make your canteen more sustainable and even profit? Self ordering kiosks and CRM solutions could be your way out!

The current F&B industry in Singapore is competitive and tough. More and more dining options apperaring near one another, spoiling consumers with endless choices. On top of that, food costs, rental and operational costs like utility bills are increasing.

While this may sound like there is no hope in operating an F&B canteen, there are still ways to help you boost your profits while controlling or even lowering your costs. Implementing self ordering kiosks and CRM solutions at your canteen are two simple 2 ways you could go about doing that.

Benefits of Self-Ordering Kiosk

Enhanced Efficiency and Reduced Wait Times
Self-ordering kiosks streamline the ordering process, allowing multiple users to place orders simultaneously, which reduces congestion and wait times.

Increased Average Order Value

Kiosks can suggest add-ons and upgrades during the ordering process, leading to higher average ticket sizes.

Improved Order Accuracy
By enabling customers to input their orders directly, kiosks minimize miscommunication, leading to more accurate order fulfillment.

Labor Cost Optimization
Automating the ordering process reduces the need for dedicated order-taking staff, allowing personnel to focus on food preparation and other essential tasks.

Advantages of CRM Integration

Personalized Customer Experience
CRM systems track individual customer preferences and order histories, enabling personalized meal suggestions and promotions, which enhance satisfaction and encourage repeat visits.

Effective Loyalty Programs
Integrating CRM with loyalty programs allows for tracking customer purchases and rewarding frequent diners with discounts or special offers, fostering customer retention.

Data-Driven Menu Optimization
Analyzing CRM data helps identify popular dishes and adjust menus accordingly, ensuring offerings align with customer preferences and reducing food waste.

Targeted Marketing Campaigns
CRM platforms facilitate the implementation of targeted marketing efforts by segmenting customers based on their behavior and preferences, leading to more effective promotions.

By adopting self-ordering kiosks and CRM systems, canteens can enhance operational efficiency, provide a more personalized dining experience, and implement strategic marketing initiatives, ultimately leading to increased customer satisfaction and profitability.

If you are interested in self ordering kiosks , CRM solutions or a POS system for your canteen, click here to find out more!

Recent Tariff Increases, How It Affects Singapore's F&B Businesses & How Restaurant & Cafe Owners Can Overcome Impact

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 03:30:05 GMT

The recent implementation of a universal 10% tariff by the U.S. administration under President Donald Trump has introduced new challenges for Singapore's economy, particularly affecting the Food and Beverage (F&B) sector. Restaurant and café owners must proactively address these challenges to sustain their operations and profitability.

Understanding the Tariffs

Tariffs are taxes imposed on imported goods, aimed at protecting domestic industries and generating revenue. The current U.S. tariffs include a universal 10% levy on imports, with higher rates for specific countries. Singapore, despite its strong trade relations with the U.S., is subject to this 10% tariff.

Impact on Singapore's F&B Sector

Singapore's F&B industry relies heavily on imported ingredients and products. The imposed tariffs are likely to increase the cost of these imports, leading to higher operational expenses for businesses. This escalation in costs may necessitate price adjustments, potentially affecting consumer demand and profitability.

Strategies for Mitigation

To navigate these challenges, F&B businesses can consider the following approaches:

Diversify Supply Chains : Exploring alternative suppliers from countries not affected by the tariffs can help mitigate cost increases.
Optimize Operations : Implementing efficient inventory management and reducing waste can offset increased costs.
Adjust Pricing Strategies : Carefully evaluating and adjusting menu prices can help maintain profitability without significantly deterring customers.
Enhance Customer Engagement : Strengthening loyalty programs and personalized marketing can boost customer retention and spending.

Government Support

The Singapore government has expressed its commitment to assisting businesses affected by the tariffs. Engaging with relevant agencies can provide access to support programs and resources designed to help businesses navigate these economic challenges.

Conclusion

While the U.S. tariffs present significant challenges to Singapore's F&B industry, proactive strategies and leveraging available support can help businesses adapt and sustain their operations during this period of economic uncertainty.

Increasing F&B costs damaging profits? Find out how tech solutions can help your restaurant boost its profitability

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Mon, 07 Apr 2025 08:57:37 GMT

Increasing F&B food and operating costs have forced many F&B businesses to downsize or even close down. Find out how your restaurant can ride through these tough times by implementing these tech solutions

In Singapore's dynamic F&B industry, escalating operational costs pose a significant challenge for restaurant owners. To navigate this landscape, adopting advanced technological solutions such as POS systems , QR ordering , self-ordering , and CRM can streamline operations and enhance profitability.

1. Implementing an Integrated POS System

A comprehensive POS system serves as the central hub for managing sales, inventory, and customer interactions. By automating order processing and payment transactions, restaurants can reduce human errors and improve service speed, leading to increased customer satisfaction and turnover. On top of that, a modern F&B POS system can integrate with self ordering solutions such as QR ordering & self ordering kiosks and CRM solutions to help you capitalise on your peak hours, and boost repeat customer spendings.

2. Adopting QR and Self-Ordering Solutions

Incorporating QR ordering and self-ordering systems empowers customers to place orders directly from their smartphones or at kiosks. This approach not only reduces the need for extensive front-of-house staff but also accelerates the ordering process, minimizing wait times and enhancing the dining experience.

3. Utilizing CRM for Personalized Marketing

Integrating a CRM system allows restaurants to collect and analyze customer data, facilitating personalized marketing efforts. By understanding customer preferences and behaviors, establishments can tailor promotions and loyalty programs to encourage repeat business and build a loyal customer base.

4. Enhancing Operational Efficiency

Combining these technologies leads to streamlined operations. Real-time data from the POS system aids in accurate inventory management, reducing waste and ensuring popular items are always available. Additionally, automating routine tasks frees up staff to focus on delivering exceptional customer service.

Conclusion

Embracing technological advancements like POS systems , QR ordering , self-ordering , and CRM is essential for Singaporean restaurants aiming to combat rising costs and boost profits. These tools not only improve operational efficiency but also enhance the customer experience, fostering loyalty and driving revenue growth.

If you are looking to adopt such solutions, click here to contact us and find out more!

Key Factors for Choosing the Ideal POS or Self-Ordering Kiosk for SG Hawker Stalls

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Tue, 25 Mar 2025 06:15:30 GMT

In the vibrant hawker scene of Singapore, every second counts and every dollar matters. Choosing the right POS or self-ordering kiosk can be the difference between smooth daily operations and missed revenue opportunities. Here, we break down the key factors that hawker stalls should consider when selecting their digital ordering solution.

Cost-Effectiveness and Value

Hawker stalls typically operate on tight budgets. An ideal POS system should be affordable—not just in terms of upfront costs but also ongoing maintenance fees. Look for solutions that offer:

Low Initial Investment: Minimal hardware costs tailored for small-scale operations.
Budget-Friendly Maintenance: Affordable service plans and low transaction fees to keep expenses under control.

User-Friendly Design

The fast-paced environment of hawker stalls demands simplicity. A system that’s easy to learn and operate ensures minimal training time and fewer errors:

Intuitive Interface: Simple navigation and clear on-screen instructions that speed up order-taking.
Quick Onboarding: A system that gets your staff up and running in no time, with minimal technical jargon.

Seamless Cashless Payment Integration

Singapore’s push for cashless transactions makes it essential for hawker stalls to offer diverse payment options. A good POS solution should support:

Local Payment Methods: Integration with NETS, PayNow, and other popular mobile wallets.
Secure Transactions: Robust security features that protect customer data and ensure quick, hassle-free payments.

Robust Performance and Durability

Hawker stalls can be busy, noisy, and sometimes cramped. Your digital solution must withstand heavy use:

High-Speed Processing: Fast transaction times to prevent queues during peak hours.
Compact and Durable Hardware: Equipment that can handle the rigors of daily use while fitting into limited stall spaces.

Local Support and Scalability

When technical issues arise, quick local support is invaluable:

Responsive Service: Access to nearby technicians familiar with the unique challenges of Singapore’s hawker environment.
Future-Proofing: A scalable system that can grow with your business, offering additional features like inventory management or online ordering as needed.

For hawker stalls in Singapore, choosing a cost-effective, user-friendly, and robust POS or self-ordering kiosk is key to staying competitive. By focusing on affordability, ease of use, cashless payment integration, and local support, hawker stall operators can streamline operations and create a better customer experience. Invest wisely in a system that not only meets your current needs but also scales with your future growth.

If you are interested in a self ordering kiosk , POS system or any self ordering solutions , click here to get in touch with us.

Building a Winning Loyalty Program for Your Food Kiosk

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Fri, 03 Jan 2025 07:03:52 GMT

Starting a loyalty program for your food kiosk is a great way to keep customers coming back and increase sales. Here's how to get started:

1. Define Your Goals

Establish clear objectives for your loyalty program. Do you want to increase customer retention, encourage higher spending, or enhance brand recognition? Setting specific goals will guide your program’s structure and help measure its success. For example, if your goal is to boost repeat visits, consider offering rewards for a set number of purchases within a time frame.

2. Choose a Reward System

Design a reward system that aligns with your customers’ preferences. Points-based systems, discounts, free items, or exclusive offers are popular options. The key is to make the rewards appealing yet attainable. For example, customers might earn points for every purchase and redeem them for free drinks, discounts, or other perks.

3. Leverage Technology

Modern loyalty programs thrive on technology. Use a CRM and POS system to automate customer data tracking and reward redemptions. Integration with self-ordering kiosks or online ordering systems makes enrollment easy and enhances the user experience. Technology ensures efficiency and eliminates errors associated with manual processes.

4. Promote Your Program

Make sure customers know about your loyalty program. Use signage, social media, and direct communication to spread the word. Train your staff to explain the benefits and encourage sign-ups. You can also run launch promotions, such as double points for the first week, to generate excitement.

5. Monitor and Optimize

Track your program’s performance using data analytics from your CRM. Identify which rewards are most popular, track customer participation rates, and adjust your strategy accordingly. Regularly updating your program ensures it remains relevant and appealing to your customers.

A well-executed loyalty program can turn occasional visitors into loyal fans of your food kiosk. Invest in the right tools and strategies to make your program a success.

If you are interested to get a CRM solution , QR ordering system , self ordering kiosk or online ordering solution , click here to contact us to know more!

Boosting Restaurant Earning And Efficiency With QR Ordering &

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Fri, 27 Dec 2024 03:03:44 GMT

The F&B industry is embracing innovative technologies to meet customer expectations and streamline operations. Among these, QR ordering and CRM systems stand out for their transformative potential. By combining these tools, restaurants can deliver exceptional experiences and boost profitability.

Simplified Ordering Process

With QR ordering, diners can independently place their orders using their smartphones. This speeds up the ordering process and reduces wait times. A CRM system complements this by recording every transaction, enabling efficient management of customer data.

Building Stronger Customer Relationships

CRM systems track customer interactions, providing insights into their preferences. Restaurants can use this data to create personalized offers and menus, fostering deeper connections with their patrons.

Boosting Loyalty Programs

Combining CRM and QR ordering simplifies loyalty programs. Customers enjoy hassle-free point tracking and redemption directly through the system, making their experience more enjoyable and encouraging brand loyalty.

Optimized Operations

QR ordering reduces the workload on staff, allowing them to focus on enhancing service quality. The CRM integration ensures all customer data is centralized, aiding in inventory management and staff allocation.

Targeted Promotions

CRM systems use customer data to craft targeted promotions. Restaurants can notify diners of exclusive deals or events through personalized messages, maximizing engagement and driving sales.

Incorporating QR ordering and CRM solutions is essential for restaurants aiming to excel in today’s competitive market. These tools empower businesses to operate more efficiently while delivering memorable dining experiences to their customers.

If you are interestedin getting a QR ordering and/or a CRM solution to boost your restaurant's earnings, efficiency and increase member's loyalty, click here to contact us and find out more!

10 Key Considerations when setting up a restaurant loyalty program

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Fri, 01 Nov 2024 10:21:03 GMT

In today’s competitive restaurant industry, a customer relationship management (CRM) system is crucial for building loyalty, increasing customer engagement, and streamlining operations. Setting up a CRM effectively can make a significant difference in customer satisfaction and brand loyalty. Here are key considerations when implementing a CRM system tailored to your restaurant's unique needs.

1. Define Clear Customer Engagement Goals

Clarify objectives: Consider what aspects of customer engagement you want to prioritize, such as boosting return visits, increasing order values, or driving loyalty through frequent visits. Knowing your objectives enables you to choose the right CRM features—whether it's personalized offers, rewards tracking, or targeted campaigns—that align with your goals.

Loyalty rewards strategy: Decide if you want a points-based program, exclusive VIP memberships, or seasonal promotions to keep customers coming back. Each structure impacts the CRM’s design and setup.

2. Integration with Your POS System

Unified operations: A CRM that integrates seamlessly with your POS system will streamline data flow and reduce manual entry errors, making it easier to manage customer profiles, track sales, and redeem loyalty points at checkout. This integration also offers insights into customer preferences, top-selling items, and order frequencies, helping you create better-targeted loyalty strategies.

Enhanced accuracy: Integration minimizes discrepancies in loyalty points, customer profiles, and membership rewards, giving both your team and customers a smooth, dependable experience.

3. Flexible Membership & Loyalty Features

Customizable rewards: Look for a CRM with flexible loyalty options that allow you to offer rewards such as points accumulation, discounts, or exclusive perks for special members. Providing a range of rewards keeps your program appealing to customers who can choose the perks that matter most to them.

Member tiers: Some CRMs allow you to create tiered membership levels (e.g., silver, gold, platinum) that reward customers based on their spending. Tiered programs encourage guests to increase their spending to unlock higher levels and perks.

4. Customer Data Insights & Reporting

Detailed analytics: A CRM with analytics and reporting features enables you to track customer ordering habits, visit frequencies, and spending trends. With this data, you can design promotions and campaigns that cater to your audience’s preferences, increasing the likelihood of higher engagement.

Predictive insights: Advanced CRMs use data to suggest personalized offers based on customers’ past behaviors, allowing you to tailor discounts and recommendations that feel unique to each individual.

5. Mobile Accessibility for On-the-Go Management

Real-time access: Choose a CRM with mobile compatibility, allowing your team to monitor customer loyalty trends, manage membership programs, and access customer profiles from smartphones or tablets. This feature is especially useful for busy restaurants where managers are often away from the office.

Improved service efficiency: Mobile CRM access enables staff to quickly reference customer preferences and respond to their needs, creating a more personalized dining experience.

6. Automation & Operational Efficiency

Save time and improve consistency: Automating routine customer interactions—such as thank-you emails, birthday messages, or reminders to use accumulated rewards—ensures regular engagement without the need for constant manual input. Automated campaigns build a reliable presence that makes your guests feel valued and remembered.

Less administrative burden: With automation, you can reduce the time spent on tedious tasks, allowing your team to focus more on customer service and program improvement.

A CRM designed around these considerations can elevate your restaurant’s customer relationships and optimize loyalty program management. Investing in the right CRM solution brings efficiency, deeper insights, and customer loyalty, driving your restaurant’s growth in today’s competitive market.

If you are looking for a solutions such as QR ordering , self ordering kiosks and online ordering , click here to send us an enquiry.

How Quick Service Food & Beverage Businesses Can Learn from Chains and Grow Faster

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Fri, 18 Oct 2024 09:34:12 GMT

In the fast-paced F&B industry, particularly in Singapore, quick service chains are constantly evolving to meet customer demands while maintaining operational efficiency. Smaller quick service food and beverage outlets can learn a lot from successful chains and adopt similar strategies to fuel their growth.

1. Investing in a Reliable POS System

A robust POS system is essential for managing orders, inventory, and customer transactions efficiently. Quick service beverage chains rely on advanced POS systems to streamline operations and minimize errors. Smaller outlets can adopt similar systems to scale their operations effectively, reduce wait times, and enhance customer satisfaction.

2. Utilize CRM to Build Stronger Customer Relationships

Successful chains know the importance of building a loyal customer base. By implementing a CRM system, smaller businesses can track customer preferences, purchase history, and offer personalized rewards. CRM solutions allow quick service food and beverage outlets to run loyalty programs, which are key in encouraging repeat visits and driving long-term growth.

3. Leverage Online Ordering

Online ordering has become a game-changer for F&B businesses, providing convenience to customers and increasing sales opportunities. Quick service chains often integrate their POS systems with online ordering platforms to streamline order processing. Smaller F&B outlets can adopt this practice to increase order accuracy and grow their delivery and takeaway services.

4. Implement Self Ordering Kiosks

Chains frequently invest in self-ordering kiosks to enhance customer convenience and reduce wait times. This not only improves the customer experience but also reduces the workload for staff. For quick service food and beverage outlets, adopting self-ordering kiosks can significantly boost order accuracy and efficiency, especially during peak hours.

5. Use QR Ordering for Seamless Customer Experience

QR ordering is an increasingly popular solution among quick service chains. It allows customers to place orders through their mobile devices, improving convenience and minimizing physical contact. Smaller businesses can use QR ordering to optimize service and increase table turnover, leading to higher revenue and customer satisfaction.

6. Run Effective Loyalty Solutions

Loyalty programs are a proven way to retain customers and increase repeat business. Chains leverage loyalty solutions integrated with their CRM and POS systems to reward loyal patrons. By offering digital loyalty programs through a POS system, smaller F&B outlets can engage customers with points, discounts, or exclusive offers, boosting their revenue and brand loyalty.

7. Automate Marketing Efforts

Quick service chains often use CRM systems to automate their marketing campaigns based on customer behavior and preferences. This helps them stay relevant and top of mind for their customers. Smaller businesses can adopt this strategy to create targeted promotions and campaigns that drive customer engagement and sales.

8. Focus on Data-Driven Decisions

Larger chains rely on POS systems and CRM analytics to track customer behavior, product popularity, and sales trends. Small quick service outlets can also benefit from these insights by making data-driven decisions to adjust their menu offerings, improve service efficiency, and enhance the overall customer experience.

By learning from quick service chains, smaller food and beverage outlets in Singapore can adopt scalable solutions such as POS systems, CRM platforms, and self-ordering kiosks to streamline operations, improve customer loyalty, and accelerate growth.

If you are looking for F&B solutions such as self ordering kiosks , QR ordering and online ordering , click here to send an enquiry!

How Sustainable Practices Can Improve Your Restaurant’s Brand and Sales

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Fri, 11 Oct 2024 10:30:21 GMT

In the ever-evolving F&B industry, sustainability is not just a trend—it’s a necessity. Consumers are increasingly drawn to eco-friendly restaurants that prioritize environmental responsibility. Implementing sustainable practices not only helps the planet but can also boost your restaurant's brand and drive sales. Let’s explore how sustainability can improve your restaurant’s bottom line and reputation.

1. Reduce Food Waste and Increase Efficiency

Food waste is a significant issue in the restaurant industry, contributing to environmental harm and unnecessary expenses. By implementing better inventory management through a POS system , your restaurant can track stock levels and reduce waste by ordering only what’s needed. Additionally, real-time data from a POS system can help adjust portion sizes, ensure that ingredients are used before expiration, and monitor which dishes are more popular to prevent over-preparation.

2. Attract Eco-Conscious Customers

Today’s consumers, especially millennials and Gen Z, actively seek eco-friendly dining options. Restaurants that adopt sustainable practices, such as using locally sourced ingredients, reducing single-use plastics, and offering plant-based menu options, can attract this growing customer base. QR ordering and self-ordering kiosks can also help reduce paper waste from traditional menus and receipts, aligning with your sustainability goals while providing a modern customer experience.

3. Boost Brand Reputation Through Transparency

Sustainability gives your restaurant a powerful story to tell. Promoting eco-friendly practices, such as using biodegradable packaging or participating in farm-to-table initiatives, builds trust with your customers. Transparency about your efforts can differentiate your restaurant from competitors and improve customer loyalty. Sharing your sustainability journey through social media and marketing campaigns can enhance your brand image and show your commitment to the environment.

4. Cut Down on Energy Use and Costs

Energy efficiency is another crucial aspect of sustainability. Restaurants can save on utility bills by adopting energy-efficient appliances, switching to LED lighting, and using smart POS systems to monitor energy usage. Simple changes, like turning off equipment when not in use or optimizing kitchen operations, can significantly reduce energy consumption, benefiting both the environment and your bottom line.

5. Enhance Customer Experience with Self-Ordering Solutions

Integrating technology like self-ordering kiosks and QR ordering systems allows customers to place orders efficiently while reducing the need for printed menus and order slips. This paperless approach reduces waste and enhances the customer experience by offering a seamless, tech-forward ordering process. These solutions also minimize human error, speeding up service and improving accuracy in fulfilling customer orders, further contributing to operational efficiency.

6. Create Long-Term Savings and Profitability

While some sustainable initiatives may require an initial investment, they can result in long-term savings and increased profitability. For example, reducing food waste, cutting down on packaging costs, and lowering energy usage can all add up to significant savings over time. Moreover, as more consumers prioritize sustainability in their purchasing decisions, eco-friendly restaurants can see higher traffic, translating to greater sales and customer loyalty.

7. Improve Employee Satisfaction

Sustainable practices often go hand in hand with better working conditions, whether it’s through improved energy-efficient kitchens, healthier work environments, or ethically sourced ingredients. Employees are more likely to take pride in their workplace if they know they’re part of an organization that cares about its environmental impact. Happy employees contribute to better service, which can lead to improved customer satisfaction and repeat business.

Incorporating sustainable practices in your restaurant not only improves your brand reputation but also attracts eco-conscious customers, reduces costs, and enhances overall efficiency. Technologies like POS systems, self-ordering kiosks, and QR ordering solutions play a pivotal role in supporting sustainability while modernizing operations. By adopting these practices, you can boost both your restaurant’s profitability and its positive impact on the planet.

If you are looking for digital solutions such as self ordering kiosk . POS system , QR ordering , online ordering solutions , click here to find out more!

How To Elevate Your Takeaway Kiosk Experience With Digital Solutions?

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Thu, 03 Oct 2024 10:22:54 GMT

In today’s fast-paced world, the food and beverage (F&B) industry is constantly evolving to meet customer expectations for convenience and efficiency. For takeaway food kiosks, creating an exceptional ordering experience is critical to stand out from the competition. One of the most effective ways to do this is by integrating digital ordering solutions such as self-ordering kiosks, QR code ordering, and POS system integrations.

In this article, we will explore how these digital solutions can help you elevate the customer experience at your takeaway food kiosk, drive customer satisfaction, and streamline operations.

1. Simplified Digital Ordering Platforms

A streamlined and easy-to-navigate digital ordering platform is essential for any food kiosk. Customers should be able to browse through the menu, customize their orders, and check out effortlessly. Implementing a user-friendly platform eliminates friction in the ordering process, reduces errors, and allows customers to place orders quickly, making it ideal for a takeaway environment where speed is a priority.

2. Seamless Integration with POS System

To maximize efficiency, it’s crucial to have your digital ordering platform seamlessly integrated with your POS system. This integration allows orders placed online to be automatically sent to the POS system, streamlining operations by reducing the need for manual data entry. This also minimizes order inaccuracies and ensures that your staff can focus more on order fulfillment and less on administrative tasks. It’s a key factor in delivering fast and accurate service at your food kiosk.

3. Touch-Free Ordering with QR Code Solutions

QR code ordering offers a contactless and highly convenient method for customers to place their orders. With a simple scan of the QR code displayed at your food kiosk, customers can view the menu and order directly from their smartphones. This eliminates the need for physical menus or long waiting times and provides a streamlined, touch-free ordering experience, which is increasingly in demand in today’s environment.

4. Enhance Convenience with Self-Ordering Kiosks

Self-ordering kiosks give customers control over their ordering process. They can browse the menu, customize their food, and place their order without needing to interact with a cashier. This speeds up the ordering process during peak hours and reduces wait times, enhancing customer satisfaction. Self-ordering kiosks are also a great way to reduce the pressure on your staff, as customers can handle the ordering process independently.

5. Optimized for Mobile Devices

In an era where mobile devices are ubiquitous, having a mobile-optimized digital ordering platform is non-negotiable. Whether customers are ordering via a mobile-friendly website or an app, they should be able to navigate the menu, customize their orders, and make payments easily. A mobile-optimized solution makes it easier for on-the-go customers to engage with your kiosk and provides a seamless experience.

6. Multiple Payment Options

Offering a variety of payment options enhances the convenience of your takeaway food kiosk. Integrated digital ordering systems should support various payment methods, including credit cards, digital wallets, and contactless payments. The more payment flexibility you offer, the smoother the checkout process will be, ensuring your customers have a pleasant, frictionless experience.

7. Order Tracking and Updates

One of the most appreciated features in any digital ordering system is the ability for customers to track their orders. Implementing real-time updates on order status, such as “in preparation” or “ready for pickup,” keeps customers informed and reduces uncertainty. This not only improves the customer experience but also reduces congestion around the pickup area, as customers can collect their orders when they are ready.

8. Customer Loyalty Programs and Discounts

Integrating customer loyalty programs into your digital ordering platform is an excellent way to encourage repeat business. By allowing customers to earn points or cashback on their orders, you provide incentives for them to return to your kiosk. Additionally, sending out personalized offers and discounts through your digital platform can help increase customer engagement and drive sales.

9. Efficient Pickup and Delivery Options

Offering efficient pickup and delivery options is crucial for takeaway food kiosks. By allowing customers to specify their pickup times or opt for delivery, you can better manage order flow and prevent crowding at your kiosk. Clear instructions for pickup and timely notifications when orders are ready for collection contribute to a smooth customer experience.

10. Collect Feedback for Continuous Improvement

To further enhance the customer experience, digital ordering platforms can be used to collect post-order feedback. By giving customers the option to rate their experience or leave comments after they receive their order, you can gather valuable insights. This feedback allows you to continuously improve your service and ensure that customers return for more.

Conclusion

Digital ordering solutions, such as QR code ordering, self-ordering kiosks, and POS system integration, are transforming the way takeaway food kiosks operate. These technologies provide the speed, convenience, and accuracy that customers expect while streamlining your operations. By implementing these solutions, you can enhance the overall customer experience, increase efficiency, and drive customer loyalty, ultimately boosting the success of your takeaway food kiosk.

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10 Ways To Create An Execptional Online Experience For Your Cafe Customers

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Wed, 25 Sep 2024 10:21:21 GMT

In today’s digital landscape, providing a seamless online ordering experience is essential for any cafe looking to stand out. By leveraging technology like QR ordering, self-ordering kiosks, and a well-integrated POS system , you can streamline operations and improve customer satisfaction. Here’s how you can elevate your cafe’s online ordering process.

1. Select an Intuitive Online Ordering System

The first step to creating a great online experience is choosing a platform that’s easy for customers to navigate. A well-organized menu, quick access to categories, and a user-friendly checkout process can make a big difference in the customer’s experience.

2. Seamless Integration with Your POS System

Integrating your online ordering platform with your POS system is critical for ensuring that orders are processed quickly and without errors. This not only speeds up service but also ensures accurate reporting and inventory management.

3. Implement QR Code Ordering

By offering QR ordering , you allow customers to scan a code with their smartphone, browse the menu, and place their orders without downloading an app. This convenience makes ordering simpler and faster, enhancing the overall customer experience.

4. Add Self-Ordering Kiosks

Self-ordering kiosks in your cafe provide a contactless and efficient way for customers to place their orders. This reduces wait times and gives customers full control over their order, improving both speed and accuracy.

5. Offer Customizable Menu Options

Ensure that your online ordering system offers customizable options for customers, allowing them to modify their orders as needed. This can include dietary preferences, portion sizes, or additional ingredients, helping to cater to a wider audience and increasing customer satisfaction.

6. Provide Flexible Payment Options

Offering multiple payment options, including credit cards, mobile wallets, and loyalty points, can make the checkout process smoother and more convenient for your customers, helping to reduce cart abandonment and boost order completion rates.

7. Optimize for Mobile Devices

With the growing number of people placing orders via mobile devices, your online ordering platform must be optimized for mobile. A responsive design ensures that customers can easily navigate your menu and place orders, whether they’re on a smartphone or tablet.

8. Keep Customers Updated with Order Tracking

Real-time order updates, such as notifications when the order is being prepared or ready for pickup, help keep customers informed and reduce wait-related frustrations. This is an important feature that can improve overall customer satisfaction.

9. Personalize the Ordering Experience

Personalization can go a long way in enhancing the customer experience. By analyzing order history through your POS system, you can recommend menu items or send targeted offers, encouraging customers to return for more.

10. Integrate a Loyalty Program

Connecting your online ordering platform with a loyalty program encourages customers to keep coming back. Whether you offer points for each purchase or exclusive discounts, a loyalty program can help drive repeat business and boost revenue.

Conclusion

Offering a superior online ordering experience for your cafe customers can significantly improve your operations and boost customer retention. By incorporating QR ordering, self-ordering kiosks, and integrating a loyalty program with your POS system, you can create a smooth, enjoyable, and personalized experience for every customer.

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10 Steps To Create An Exceptional Online Ordering Experience For Your Restaurant Customers

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Mon, 09 Sep 2024 08:47:29 GMT

In today's fast-paced digital world, providing a seamless and convenient online ordering experience for your restaurant customers is essential. As more diners prefer ordering food online or through QR codes, the need for an optimized system that meets their expectations is paramount. By creating a user-friendly, efficient online ordering experience, restaurants can significantly boost sales, enhance customer satisfaction, and stay competitive in the F&B industry. Here’s a guide to help you set up and optimize an online ordering system that caters to your customers' needs.

1. Choose the Right Online Ordering System

The foundation of a great online ordering experience starts with choosing the right system. Look for a platform that integrates seamlessly with your existing POS system and allows you to manage orders in real-time. Ideally, your online ordering solution should:

Be easy to navigate and mobile-friendly.
Allow customers to customize their orders.
Enable QR ordering and self-ordering options.
Integrate with third-party delivery apps.

Having an efficient, intuitive online ordering platform ensures that customers can place orders quickly and accurately, which leads to higher sales and repeat business.

2. Optimize the User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX)

An optimized UI/UX design is crucial for a successful online ordering system. Customers should be able to find what they want easily without navigating through cluttered pages. Key optimization tips include:

Simplified Menu Structure: Organize your menu categories in a clear and logical manner. Use high-quality images and detailed descriptions for each item.
Easy Navigation: Ensure that customers can navigate between different sections of your menu effortlessly, whether they’re ordering via your website, app, or using a QR code at your restaurant.
Mobile-First Design: As many customers will order from their smartphones, it's essential to have a mobile-optimized design. Make sure that the interface is responsive, and loading times are fast.

A streamlined, visually appealing interface keeps customers engaged and more likely to complete their orders.

3. Enable QR Ordering for Convenience

QR ordering has become increasingly popular in the F&B industry, especially post-pandemic. This self-ordering method allows customers to scan a QR code at their table or even outside your restaurant, browse the menu, and place their order without waiting for a server. The advantages of QR ordering include:

Reduced wait times: Customers can order as soon as they sit down or even before they arrive.
Increased order accuracy: Since customers input their orders directly, there’s less room for communication errors.
Efficient operations: Your staff can focus on preparing and serving orders rather than taking them, especially during peak hours.

Implementing a QR ordering system not only improves the customer experience but also helps streamline your restaurant's operations.

4. Offer Multiple Payment Options

The payment process is a critical part of the online ordering experience. To make it as smooth as possible, provide customers with various payment methods, including credit/debit cards, mobile wallets, and even cash on delivery. Integrated payment options with your POS system make the checkout process easier for customers and help avoid delays or confusion.

Additionally, providing secure payment gateways builds trust with customers, encouraging them to place more orders in the future.

5. Incorporate Personalization and Customization

Customers love the ability to personalize their orders, and your online ordering system should accommodate that. Allow diners to customize their meals by selecting different toppings, ingredients, or portion sizes. You can also leverage customer data from your POS system to suggest personalized menu recommendations based on previous orders. Personalization enhances the customer experience and increases the likelihood of repeat business.

6. Implement Loyalty Programs and Promotions

Incentivizing your online customers with loyalty programs and exclusive promotions is a great way to encourage repeat orders. When integrated with your restaurant’s POS system, you can:

Offer points for every online order.
Provide discounts or rewards for frequent customers.
Promote special deals that are only available through online or self-ordering channels.

By using data from your POS and CRM , you can send personalized offers or exclusive promotions to customers based on their ordering behavior, further boosting online sales.

7. Streamline the Ordering Process for Speed and Efficiency

Customers value speed and efficiency when placing orders online. Optimize your system by:

Minimizing the steps needed to place an order: Limit the number of clicks needed to complete an order.
Automated Order Notifications: Ensure customers receive real-time updates about their order status, from confirmation to delivery or pickup times.
Estimated Wait Times: Display accurate wait times so customers know how long it will take to receive their food.

A fast, hassle-free ordering experience increases customer satisfaction and reduces the chance of cart abandonment.

8. Enhance Customer Support and Feedback

Even with a smooth online ordering system, customers may still have questions or encounter issues. Providing excellent customer support options such as live chat, FAQ sections, or a helpline ensures that any problems can be resolved quickly. Additionally, encourage customer feedback on the online ordering process. This feedback can provide valuable insights into areas for improvement, helping you refine the system and better meet customer needs.

9. Integrate Online Orders with Your POS System

A well-integrated POS system is essential for managing online orders effectively. By linking your online ordering platform to your POS system, you can centralize all orders, track inventory in real-time, and monitor sales data seamlessly. This integration ensures that orders are processed quickly and accurately, improving the overall efficiency of your operations.

Additionally, syncing online orders with your POS system enables better customer data collection, allowing you to tailor your marketing strategies, loyalty programs, and menu offerings to enhance the customer experience.

10. Offer Delivery and Pickup Options

Whether you're offering delivery, in-house pickup, or a combination of both, make sure to provide clear instructions and options for customers. Include estimated delivery times and a reliable tracking system for added convenience. If you're offering contactless delivery or pickup, ensure that this is clearly communicated on your online ordering platform.

Conclusion

Creating an exceptional online ordering experience is essential for staying competitive in the F&B industry. By optimizing your online ordering system with features like, personalized promotions, and seamless POS integration , you can meet customer expectations, boost sales, and improve overall restaurant efficiency. The combination of convenience, speed, and personalization will keep customers coming back to your restaurant time and time again.

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Sustainability Initiatives Gain Momentum in the F&B Industry

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Tue, 03 Sep 2024 10:38:26 GMT

As global awareness of environmental issues continues to grow, the F&B industry is increasingly prioritizing sustainability. In Singapore, both major chains and local eateries are leading the charge by adopting eco-friendly practices that resonate with today's environmentally conscious consumers. From sourcing ingredients locally to minimizing food waste, the movement towards sustainability is reshaping the F&B landscape.

The Shift Towards Sustainable Practices

The Singaporean F&B sector is witnessing a significant shift as businesses recognize the importance of sustainability not just as a trend but as a long-term strategy. Consumers are more aware than ever of the environmental impact of their choices, and they are seeking out establishments that align with their values. This shift in consumer behavior is prompting F&B businesses to take meaningful steps towards sustainability.

Sourcing Locally for a Greener Footprint

One of the most impactful ways that F&B businesses are becoming more sustainable is by sourcing ingredients locally. Local sourcing reduces the carbon footprint associated with transportation and supports the local economy. Additionally, locally sourced produce is often fresher, leading to better-quality dishes. Singaporean F&B establishments are increasingly forming partnerships with local farms and suppliers to ensure a steady supply of fresh, sustainable ingredients.

Reducing Food Waste: A Key Priority

Food waste is a major concern for the F&B industry, contributing to both environmental and financial losses. In response, many Singaporean F&B businesses are adopting strategies to minimize food waste. This includes using technology to better predict demand, offering smaller portion sizes, and creatively repurposing leftovers into new dishes. By reducing food waste, these businesses are not only cutting costs but also reducing their environmental impact.

Eco-Friendly Packaging: Moving Beyond Single-Use Plastics

The push towards sustainability in the F&B industry extends beyond food to include packaging. Many businesses are moving away from single-use plastics and embracing eco-friendly alternatives such as biodegradable containers, reusable bags, and plant-based packaging materials. This shift is particularly important in Singapore, where takeaway culture is prevalent, and the environmental impact of packaging waste is significant.

Embracing Plant-Based Menu Options

Another major trend in sustainable F&B is the growing popularity of plant-based menu options. Plant-based diets are known to have a lower environmental impact compared to diets high in animal products. Recognizing this, many Singaporean F&B businesses are expanding their menus to include more vegetarian and vegan options. This not only caters to the growing demand for plant-based foods but also helps reduce the overall carbon footprint of the business.

Sustainability as a Business Strategy

For many F&B businesses, sustainability is not just about doing the right thing—it's also a smart business strategy. By adopting sustainable practices, businesses can differentiate themselves in a competitive market, attract environmentally conscious customers, and potentially reduce operating costs. Moreover, sustainability initiatives often resonate well with younger consumers, who are particularly concerned about environmental issues.

The Role of Technology in Sustainability

Technology is playing a crucial role in helping F&B businesses achieve their sustainability goals. From inventory management systems that reduce waste to apps that track and optimize energy usage, technology enables more efficient and sustainable operations. In Singapore, there is a growing interest in tech solutions that support sustainability, further driving the momentum of eco-friendly practices in the F&B sector.

The Future of Sustainable F&B in Singapore

As sustainability continues to gain momentum, it is likely to become an integral part of the F&B industry in Singapore. Businesses that adopt sustainable practices will not only contribute to a healthier planet but also position themselves as leaders in a rapidly evolving market. With consumers increasingly favoring eco-conscious choices, sustainability is set to become a key driver of success in the Singaporean F&B industry.

Apart from being a sustainable F&B business, making sure your operations are streamlined while being able to grow revenue is important to make your F&B business a sustainable one. If you are looking for solutions such as an F&B POS System , QR Ordering , Online Ordering , Self Ordering Kiosks or CRM Membership solutions for your F&B business, Click here to get in touch and find out more!

Labor Shortages and Wage Increases: How F&B Businesses can Adapting

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Fri, 16 Aug 2024 10:34:18 GMT

The food and beverage (F&B) industry is facing one of its most significant challenges in recent years: labor shortages. As businesses struggle to fill positions, wages and benefits are on the rise as a means to attract and retain staff. This trend is not only reshaping the industry’s workforce but also driving innovation in operations and customer service.

Understanding the Labor Shortage Crisis

Labor shortages in the F&B industry have become a global issue. Several factors contribute to this crisis, including the aftereffects of the COVID-19 pandemic, shifts in worker preferences, and increasing competition for talent. Many former F&B employees have transitioned to other sectors, seeking higher pay, better working conditions, or more stable employment.

As a result, F&B businesses are finding it increasingly difficult to maintain adequate staffing levels, leading to longer wait times, reduced service quality, and even temporary closures in some cases. The shortage has created a competitive labor market where businesses must offer more attractive compensation packages to fill vacancies.

Wage Increases and Enhanced Benefits

To combat the labor shortage, many F&B establishments are raising wages significantly. Offering higher hourly rates, bonuses, and enhanced benefits such as health insurance, paid leave, and flexible working hours has become a necessity rather than an option. These incentives are crucial in attracting new employees and retaining existing ones in a tight labor market.

While these measures are essential for staffing, they also present challenges. Higher wages increase operating costs, which can strain the profitability of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Consequently, businesses must find ways to balance these costs while maintaining service standards and customer satisfaction.

The Role of Automation and Streamlined Operations

To mitigate the impact of labor shortages and rising wages, many F&B businesses are turning to automation and streamlined operations. Technologies such as self-ordering systems, including QR code ordering and self-ordering kiosks, are becoming increasingly popular as they reduce the need for staff while enhancing the customer experience.

QR Ordering: QR code ordering allows customers to scan a code with their smartphones, browse the menu, place their orders, and even pay—all without the need for direct interaction with staff. This system not only reduces the demand for front-of-house staff but also speeds up the ordering process, leading to faster table turnover and increased revenue. Moreover, QR ordering systems can be integrated with existing POS systems, allowing for seamless operation and efficient order management.

Self-Ordering Kiosks: Self-ordering kiosks are another innovative solution helping F&B businesses cope with labor shortages. These kiosks allow customers to place their orders at their own pace, reducing wait times and freeing up staff to focus on food preparation and other essential tasks. Self-ordering kiosks can also enhance the customer experience by offering personalized recommendations and upsell opportunities based on previous orders or current preferences.

The Future of the F&B Workforce

The ongoing labor shortages and wage increases are likely to continue shaping the F&B industry for the foreseeable future. As businesses navigate these challenges, the adoption of technology and automation will play a critical role in sustaining operations and meeting customer demands. By embracing solutions like QR ordering and self-ordering kiosks, F&B businesses can reduce their reliance on human labor, control costs, and ultimately improve their competitiveness in a rapidly evolving market.

In conclusion, while labor shortages and wage increases present significant challenges, they also drive innovation within the F&B industry. By investing in automation and streamlining operations, businesses can not only weather the current labor crisis but also position themselves for long-term success.

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Top 10 Best Practices for Your Restaurant

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Tue, 30 Jul 2024 09:30:50 GMT

Running a successful restaurant requires more than just good food. It demands strategic planning, exceptional service, and effective management. Here are ten best practices that can help restaurants achieve success in a competitive market.

1. Focus on Customer Experience

Customer experience is paramount in the restaurant industry. Ensure that every guest feels welcomed and valued from the moment they step in. Train your staff to be attentive, polite, and responsive to customer needs. Consistently providing excellent service can turn first-time visitors into loyal customers.

2. Maintain High-Quality Standards

Quality is non-negotiable. Use fresh, high-quality ingredients and maintain consistency in your dishes. Regularly inspect your kitchen and dining areas to ensure cleanliness and hygiene. A commitment to quality will earn your restaurant a reputation for excellence.

3. Leverage Technology

Modernize your operations with the latest technology. Implement a reliable POS system to streamline ordering and payment processes. Utilize online reservation systems to manage bookings efficiently. Consider adopting digital menus and QR code ordering to enhance convenience for your customers.

4. Engage with Your Community

Building strong community ties can boost your restaurant’s reputation and attract more customers. Participate in local events, sponsor community activities, and collaborate with nearby businesses. Engaging with your community fosters loyalty and encourages word-of-mouth referrals.

5. Create a Unique Menu

Stand out from the competition by offering a unique and appealing menu. Incorporate signature dishes that reflect your restaurant’s identity. Update your menu regularly to include seasonal specials and new items. Consider customer feedback when designing your menu to cater to their preferences.

6. Effective Marketing Strategies

A well-executed marketing plan is essential for attracting and retaining customers. Utilize social media platforms to promote your restaurant and engage with your audience. Invest in professional photography to showcase your dishes. Run targeted advertising campaigns to reach potential customers in your area.

7. Train and Empower Your Staff

Your staff plays a crucial role in your restaurant’s success. Provide comprehensive training to ensure they understand their roles and responsibilities. Empower them to make decisions that enhance customer satisfaction. Recognize and reward outstanding performance to motivate your team.

8. Monitor and Manage Finances

Effective financial management is vital for long-term success. Keep a close eye on your costs and revenues. Use accounting software to track expenses, manage payroll, and generate financial reports. Regularly review your pricing strategy to ensure profitability without compromising quality.

9. Gather and Act on Customer Feedback

Customer feedback provides valuable insights into what’s working and what needs improvement. Encourage customers to leave reviews and provide feedback through surveys. Act on their suggestions and address any issues promptly. Positive feedback builds your reputation, while constructive criticism helps you grow.

10. Sustainability Practices

Sustainability is increasingly important to customers. Implement eco-friendly practices such as reducing food waste, sourcing local ingredients, and using biodegradable packaging. Not only does this appeal to environmentally conscious customers, but it also enhances your restaurant’s image and reduces costs.

Implementing these best practices can significantly enhance your restaurant’s operations, customer satisfaction, and profitability. Focus on delivering exceptional customer experiences, maintaining high-quality standards, and leveraging technology. Engage with your community, create a unique menu, and employ effective marketing strategies. Train and empower your staff, monitor finances, gather customer feedback, and adopt sustainable practices. By following these guidelines, you can set your restaurant on the path to long-term success and growth.

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Do Self-Ordering Kiosks Help You Attract More Customers to Your Cafe?

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Fri, 19 Jul 2024 10:27:43 GMT

In the dynamic world of the food and beverage (F&B) industry, cafes constantly seek innovative ways to enhance customer experience and streamline operations. One such innovation that has gained significant traction is the self-ordering kiosk. But do self-ordering kiosks truly help attract more customers to your cafe? Let's explore the benefits and impact of this technology on customer attraction and retention.

1. Enhanced Customer Experience

A self-ordering kiosk in your cafe can significantly enhance the customer experience. These kiosks allow customers to browse the menu at their own pace, customize their orders, and avoid long queues. This level of control and convenience can attract tech-savvy customers who appreciate a modern, efficient ordering process. By providing a seamless and enjoyable ordering experience, cafes can boost customer satisfaction and encourage repeat visits.

2. Increased Order Accuracy

Self-ordering kiosks reduce the chances of order errors by allowing customers to input their choices directly. This accuracy ensures that customers receive exactly what they ordered, which can enhance their dining experience and build trust in your cafe. Happy customers are more likely to return and recommend your cafe to others, helping to attract new patrons through positive word-of-mouth.

3. Faster Service Times

Long wait times can deter customers from visiting your cafe, especially during peak hours. Self-ordering kiosks can speed up the ordering process, reducing wait times and increasing table turnover. Faster service times can make your cafe more appealing to busy customers looking for a quick and efficient dining experience, thereby attracting more foot traffic.

4. Upselling Opportunities

Self-ordering kiosks are equipped with the ability to suggest add-ons, upgrades, and complementary items during the ordering process. These upselling prompts can increase the average transaction value and introduce customers to new menu items they might not have considered. By enhancing the overall dining experience and offering value-added suggestions, cafes can attract customers looking for a complete and satisfying meal.

5. Appeal to Tech-Savvy Customers

In today's digital age, many customers appreciate and even expect technological conveniences in their dining experiences. A cafe equipped with self-ordering kiosks can attract tech-savvy customers who prefer to use digital interfaces over traditional ordering methods. This demographic is often keen to explore new technologies, and their positive experiences can lead to increased foot traffic and customer loyalty.

6. Improved Hygiene and Safety

Post-pandemic, many customers are more conscious of hygiene and safety. Self-ordering kiosks minimize physical interactions between staff and customers, promoting a safer dining environment. This reduced contact can make customers feel more comfortable and secure, encouraging them to choose your cafe over others that rely solely on traditional ordering methods.

7. Enhanced Menu Presentation

Self-ordering kiosks can display your cafe's menu in an attractive and interactive format, complete with images and detailed descriptions of each item. This visual appeal can entice customers to try new dishes and enhance their overall dining experience. A well-presented menu can also highlight special promotions and seasonal offerings, attracting new customers interested in unique and appealing choices.

8. Efficiency in Staffing

By handling the ordering process, self-ordering kiosks can free up staff to focus on other important tasks such as food preparation and customer service. This efficient use of staff resources can improve the overall service quality and customer experience. A well-run cafe with attentive service and high-quality food is more likely to attract and retain customers.

9. Data Collection and Insights

Self-ordering kiosks collect valuable data on customer preferences, peak ordering times, and popular menu items. Analyzing this data can provide insights that help you tailor your menu and marketing strategies to better meet customer needs and preferences. By understanding and anticipating customer trends, cafes can attract more customers through targeted promotions and menu adjustments.

Implementing self-ordering kiosks in your cafe offers numerous benefits that can attract more customers and enhance their overall dining experience. From increased order accuracy and faster service times to appealing to tech-savvy customers and promoting a safer dining environment, self-ordering kiosks are a valuable addition to any modern cafe. By embracing this technology, cafes can stay ahead of the competition, attract a diverse customer base, and foster long-term loyalty in the ever-evolving F&B industry.

If you are interested in a self ordering kiosk for your cafe, WhatsApp us, or click here to send in an enquiry!

8 ways your food kiosk can benefit from QR ordering & CRM integration

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Fri, 12 Jul 2024 10:35:23 GMT

In the fast-paced world of food kiosks, efficiency and customer engagement are paramount. Integrating a membership solution with QR ordering can revolutionize your food kiosk operations, enhance customer loyalty, and drive sales. Here are eight ways this powerful combination can benefit your business.

1. Streamlined Ordering Process

QR ordering simplifies the ordering process for your customers. They can scan a QR code, browse the menu, and place their order directly from their smartphones. Integrating this with a membership solution makes the process even smoother, allowing members to log in quickly, view their saved preferences, and enjoy a personalized ordering experience.

2. Personalized Customer Experience

A CRM integrated with your QR ordering system allows you to collect valuable customer data. Use this data to offer personalized recommendations and special deals based on customers' past orders and preferences. Personalized experiences make customers feel valued and encourage repeat business.

3. Seamless Loyalty Programs

Integrating loyalty programs with QR ordering enables automatic tracking of customer purchases and points accumulation. Customers can easily see their points and rewards status on their mobile devices, making it convenient for them to engage with your loyalty program and stay motivated to earn rewards.

4. Increased Efficiency

By allowing customers to place orders via QR codes, you can reduce wait times and improve order accuracy. This efficiency leads to a better customer experience and increases your kiosk’s capacity to serve more customers in less time, ultimately boosting sales.

5. Enhanced Customer Engagement

A membership solution integrated with QR ordering provides a platform for continuous customer engagement. Send personalized notifications, special offers, and event invitations directly to customers' mobile devices. Engaged customers are more likely to return and recommend your kiosk to others.

6. Data-Driven Insights

Collecting data through your CRM allows you to gain valuable insights into customer behavior and preferences. Analyze this data to make informed decisions about menu offerings, marketing strategies, and promotions. Understanding what your customers want helps you tailor your services to meet their needs.

7. Simplified Promotions and Discounts

With integrated QR ordering and membership solutions, you can easily offer and manage promotions and discounts. Members can access exclusive deals directly through the ordering interface, and you can track the success of these promotions to optimize future campaigns.

8. Improved Customer Retention

A strong membership program encourages repeat visits and fosters customer loyalty. By providing a seamless experience through QR ordering and rewarding loyal customers, you can build a solid customer base that keeps coming back. Regular customers not only generate consistent revenue but also act as brand ambassadors, spreading the word about your food kiosk.

Integrating a membership solution with QR ordering offers numerous benefits for your food kiosk. From streamlining operations and enhancing customer experiences to driving loyalty and increasing sales, this powerful combination can transform your business. Embrace this integration to stay competitive, build a loyal customer base, and ensure long-term success for your food kiosk.

Ready to elevate your food kiosk with membership and QR ordering integration? Start today and watch your customer satisfaction and sales soar!

By leveraging the benefits of membership solutions and QR ordering, your food kiosk can create a more efficient, personalized, and engaging experience for customers. Implementing these technologies will help you build a loyal community, improve operations, and drive growth in the competitive food kiosk industry.

8 ways membership solution integrated with QR ordering helps your cafe

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Fri, 05 Jul 2024 10:36:32 GMT

In the fast-paced cafe industry, creating a seamless and engaging customer experience is key to building loyalty and driving repeat business. Integrating a membership solution with QR ordering can significantly enhance the efficiency and appeal of your cafe. Here are eight ways this powerful combination can benefit your cafe business.

1. Streamlined Ordering Process

Integrating QR ordering with a membership solution simplifies and speeds up the ordering process. Customers can easily scan a QR code at their table or counter, browse the menu, place their order, and pay directly from their mobile devices. This reduces wait times and minimizes errors, providing a smoother and more convenient experience.

2. Enhanced Customer Loyalty

A membership solution linked with QR ordering fosters customer loyalty by allowing customers to earn and redeem points with every purchase. Customers appreciate the convenience of automatically accumulating points without needing to carry a physical loyalty card. This encourages repeat visits and strengthens their connection to your cafe.

3. Personalized Customer Experience

Integrating your CRM with QR ordering enables you to gather valuable data on customer preferences and behavior. This information allows you to tailor personalized offers and recommendations, making each visit more enjoyable. For instance, if a customer frequently orders a specific type of coffee, you can send them targeted promotions for their favorite beverage.

4. Efficient Marketing Campaigns

With a membership solution and CRM integration, you can run more effective marketing campaigns. Use the data collected from QR ordering to segment your customers and create targeted promotions. For example, you can offer exclusive discounts to members who haven’t visited in a while or launch special offers for birthdays and anniversaries.

5. Increased Sales and Revenue

By offering personalized promotions and loyalty rewards, you can drive higher sales and increase your cafe’s revenue. Customers are more likely to spend more when they know they are earning points or receiving exclusive deals. Additionally, the convenience of QR ordering can lead to higher order values as customers can easily browse the entire menu.

6. Improved Customer Retention

A membership solution integrated with QR ordering helps improve customer retention by providing a consistent and rewarding experience. Members feel valued and appreciated, which encourages them to return more frequently. The ease of earning and redeeming rewards further strengthens their loyalty to your cafe.

7. Actionable Insights

The integration of a membership solution and QR ordering provides you with actionable insights into customer behavior and preferences. Analyze the data to understand which products are popular, identify peak times, and track the effectiveness of promotions. These insights can help you make informed decisions on menu updates, staffing, and marketing strategies.

8. Contactless and Safe Experience

In today’s health-conscious environment, offering a contactless ordering and payment option is crucial. QR ordering provides a safe and hygienic way for customers to interact with your cafe. By minimizing physical contact, you can enhance customer confidence and satisfaction, making them feel more comfortable dining at your establishment.

Conclusion

Integrating a membership solution with QR ordering offers numerous benefits for your cafe. From streamlining the ordering process and enhancing customer loyalty to providing personalized experiences and actionable insights, this powerful combination can transform your cafe into a customer-centric and efficient business. Embrace this technology to stay ahead in the competitive F&B industry and build a loyal customer base that keeps coming back for more.

If you are interested to explore a QR ordering system that comes with a powerful inbuilt membership CRM system for your cafe, WhatsApp us, or click here to send in an enquiry!

Setting up a takeaway food business? Should you still go for ghost kitchens or set up a takeaway food kiosk?

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Fri, 28 Jun 2024 10:13:16 GMT

The food and beverage (F&B) industry has undergone significant transformations in recent years, driven by changing consumer preferences and technological advancements. If you're considering setting up a takeaway food business, you might be weighing the options between a ghost kitchen and a food kiosk. Both models have their unique advantages and challenges. This article explores the key differences and benefits of each, helping you decide the best route for your takeaway food business.

The Rise of Ghost Kitchens

Ghost kitchens, also known as cloud kitchens or dark kitchens, are commercial cooking spaces that operate exclusively for online ordering and food delivery. They have gained immense popularity due to their cost-effectiveness and flexibility.

Advantages of Ghost Kitchens

Lower Overheads

Without the need for a physical storefront, ghost kitchens save on rent, utilities, and front-of-house staff costs.

Flexibility

Ghost kitchens allow you to experiment with different cuisines and menus without the constraints of a traditional restaurant setup.

Scalability

It's easier to expand operations with ghost kitchens, as you can open additional locations without significant upfront investments.

Focus on Delivery

Ghost kitchens are designed to optimize the delivery process, ensuring food reaches customers quickly and efficiently.

Integration with Technology

Ghost kitchens benefit greatly from technology integrations, particularly with online ordering systems and food delivery platforms like GrabFood, Deliveroo, and Foodpanda. Utilizing advanced POS system integrations can streamline operations, track sales, and manage orders effectively.

The Appeal of Food Kiosks

Food kiosks offer a different approach, providing a physical presence where customers can interact directly with your brand. They are typically smaller than traditional restaurants and are often found in high-footfall areas like shopping malls, food courts, and busy streets.

Advantages of Food Kiosks

Direct Customer Interaction

Food kiosks allow for face-to-face interactions, enhancing customer service and building brand loyalty.

Visibility

Having a physical presence increases brand visibility and can attract impulse buyers.

Lower Setup Costs

Compared to full-scale restaurants, food kiosks require a smaller initial investment in terms of space and décor.

Adaptability

Food kiosks can be set up in various locations, providing flexibility to reach different customer demographics.

Enhancing Food Kiosks with Technology

To maximize efficiency and customer experience, food kiosks can integrate several technological solutions:

Self-Ordering Kiosks

These kiosks allow customers to place orders independently, reducing wait times and improving order accuracy.

QR Ordering

QR ordering systems enable customers to scan a code, view the menu, and place orders from their smartphones, offering a seamless and contactless experience.

POS System Integrations

Modern POS systems can integrate with online ordering platforms, inventory management, and customer relationship management (CRM) tools to streamline operations.

Making the Decision: Ghost Kitchen or Food Kiosk?

When deciding between a ghost kitchen and a food kiosk, consider the following factors:

Target Market

If your target market prefers online ordering and food delivery, a ghost kitchen might be more suitable. Conversely, if you aim to capture foot traffic and build a local presence, a food kiosk could be the way to go.

Budget

Ghost kitchens typically require lower initial investments, but food kiosks can also be cost-effective, depending on location and design.

Brand Strategy

Consider how you want to build your brand. Ghost kitchens rely heavily on digital marketing and delivery platforms, while food kiosks benefit from physical branding and direct customer engagement.

Operational Focus

If you prefer focusing solely on food preparation and delivery logistics, a ghost kitchen is ideal. If you enjoy customer interaction and want to create a tangible brand experience, a food kiosk is better.

Conclusion

Both ghost kitchens and food kiosks offer unique advantages for setting up a takeaway food business. Ghost kitchens excel in cost-efficiency and scalability, particularly in a delivery-focused market. On the other hand, food kiosks provide direct customer engagement and brand visibility. Integrating technologies like online ordering, self-ordering kiosks, QR ordering, and POS system integrations can enhance the efficiency and appeal of both models. Ultimately, your choice should align with your business goals, target market, and operational preferences.

If you are in the market for F&B solutions for your food kiosk or ghost kitchen such as F&B POS System, online ordering, QR ordering and self ordering kiosks, WhatsApp us or click here to send us an enquiry.

10 tips to integrate digital ordering with your existing operations

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Fri, 31 May 2024 09:59:32 GMT

As the takeaway food kiosk industry in Singapore continues to evolve, integrating digital ordering systems such as QR ordering and self-ordering kiosks is essential to stay competitive and meet customer expectations. Here are ten tips to help you seamlessly incorporate digital ordering into your current business processes without disruption.

Assess Your Current Operations

Before diving into digital ordering, evaluate your existing operations. Identify areas that need improvement and how digital solutions can address these issues. Understanding your current workflow will help you select the right technology that complements your business.

Choose the Right Digital Ordering System

Select a digital ordering system that fits your business needs. Whether it’s a QR code ordering system or a self-ordering kiosk , ensure it’s user-friendly, reliable, and integrates well with your existing hardware and software. Research and compare different providers to find the best match.

Train Your Staff

Proper training is crucial for a smooth transition. Educate your staff on how to use the new digital ordering system effectively. This includes taking orders, processing payments, and troubleshooting common issues. Well-trained employees will ensure the system runs smoothly and provide better customer service.

Start with a Pilot Program

Before fully rolling out the digital ordering system, consider starting with a pilot program. Test the system in one location or with a small group of customers to identify any potential issues and gather feedback. Use this information to make necessary adjustments before a full-scale implementation.

Integrate with Your POS System

Ensure that your digital ordering system integrates seamlessly with your existing point-of-sale (POS) system . This integration will streamline order processing, reduce errors, and provide a unified view of your sales and inventory. Work closely with your POS provider to ensure compatibility and smooth data transfer.

Optimize Your Menu for Digital Ordering

Adapt your menu for digital platforms. Ensure that it is easy to navigate and visually appealing. Include high-quality images, clear descriptions, and appropriate pricing. A well-optimized menu enhances the customer experience and can lead to increased sales.

Enhance Your Online Presence

Promote your new digital ordering capabilities through your website and social media channels. Make it easy for customers to access your online ordering system with clear links and calls to action. Use social media to showcase your menu, special promotions, and the convenience of digital ordering.

Monitor and Analyze Performance

Track the performance of your digital ordering system regularly. Use analytics to monitor order volume, customer preferences, and peak ordering times. This data will help you identify trends, optimize operations, and make informed decisions to improve the system.

Gather and Act on Customer Feedback

Collect feedback from customers about their digital ordering experience. Use surveys, comment cards, or direct communication to understand their needs and preferences. Act on this feedback to make improvements and show customers that you value their input.

Maintain Flexibility and Adaptability

Be prepared to adapt and refine your digital ordering system as needed. Technology and customer preferences are constantly evolving, so stay flexible and open to change. Regularly review and update your system to ensure it continues to meet your business needs and customer expectations.

Conclusion

Integrating digital ordering systems into your takeaway food kiosk in Singapore can significantly enhance your operations and customer satisfaction. By following these ten tips, you can ensure a smooth transition and reap the benefits of modern technology. Embrace digital ordering to stay ahead of the competition and provide a superior experience for your customers.

iMakan

iMakan is a trusted self ordering solution that offers QR ordering , self ordering kiosks , online ordering solutions to F&B merchants in Singapore. If you are in the market for self ordering solutions, WhatsApp us or click here to send in an enquiry!

The evolution of coffee culture in Singapore

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Fri, 24 May 2024 09:53:44 GMT

Singapore's coffee culture has undergone a significant transformation over the past few decades, evolving from traditional kopi tiam (coffee shop) experiences to a vibrant scene of specialty cafes and third-wave coffee. This evolution reflects broader changes in consumer preferences, global influences, and innovative approaches by local cafe owners. Here, we explore this fascinating journey through the insights of various cafe owners who have witnessed and contributed to the growth of Singapore's coffee culture.

The Traditional Kopi Tiam Roots

The foundation of Singapore's coffee culture lies in the traditional kopitiam (coffee shop), where kopi (local coffee) is brewed using robusta beans and mixed with condensed milk or sugar. These establishments have been a staple in Singaporean life for decades, providing an affordable and communal place for locals to gather. In the past, the kopitiam was the heart of the neighborhood. People went not just for coffee but for the sense of community and familiarity.

The Rise of Specialty Coffee

The late 2000s marked the beginning of a shift towards specialty coffee in Singapore. Influenced by global coffee trends, a new wave of cafes began to emerge, focusing on high-quality beans, precise brewing methods, and innovative flavors. Many coffee lovers who had experienced the coffee culture overseas saw an opportunity to introduce Singaporeans to a different coffee experience where drinking coffee is not just about the caffeine kick but about savoring the nuances of each bean and the art of brewing.

These specialty cafes brought with them a deeper appreciation for coffee origins, single-origin beans, and various brewing techniques such as pour-over, siphon, and Aeropress. This shift also included a move towards direct trade, ensuring fair prices for coffee farmers and better quality beans for consumers.

The Third-Wave Coffee Movement

The third-wave coffee movement, which treats coffee as an artisanal product rather than a commodity, has further enriched Singapore's coffee culture. Third-wave cafes emphasize sustainability, transparency, and a more intimate coffee experience. Cafe entrepreneurs who based their cafes on the third wave coffee movement want to bridge the gap between the coffee farm and the consumer by telling the story behind each cup and fostering a deeper connection with the product.

This movement has also led to the rise of barista culture in Singapore, with more emphasis on skilled brewing, latte art, and competitions. Local baristas are now seen as craftsmen, contributing to the prestige and appeal of the coffee profession.

Innovative Cafe Concepts

In recent years, Singapore's cafe scene has become a melting pot of creativity, blending coffee with unique themes and experiences. For example, cafes like Wheeler's Yard combine coffee with cycling, while The Book Cafe offers a cozy reading space for book lovers. These cafes are aimed at creating a space that brings together patrons' passions with coffee, creating a unique and memorable experiences for customers.

These innovative concepts have helped cafes stand out in a competitive market, offering customers more than just a place to drink coffee, but a lifestyle destination.

The Impact of the Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic posed significant challenges for the F&B industry, including cafes. Many had to pivot quickly to survive, adopting delivery services, creating home-brewing kits, and enhancing their online presence. The pandemic forced many cafe owners to rethink their business model. Many cafe owners started offering online workshops and collaborated with local bakers and artists to keep their community engaged.

Despite the difficulties, the pandemic also accelerated the adoption of digital tools such as self ordering solutions like online ordering and QR ordering, and fostered a stronger sense of community support for local businesses.

Looking Ahead

As Singapore's coffee culture continues to evolve, the focus remains on quality, sustainability, and innovation. Cafe owners are optimistic about the future, seeing opportunities to further elevate the coffee experience. Many feel that the journey of coffee in Singapore is far from over and are excited to keep pushing boundaries and exploring new ways to share their passion for coffee with the world.

Conclusion

The evolution of coffee culture in Singapore is a testament to the city's dynamic and adaptive nature. From the humble kopi tiam to the sophisticated specialty cafes, each phase has added depth and diversity to the local coffee scene. Through the perspectives of cafe owners, we see a continuous commitment to quality, community, and creativity, ensuring that Singapore's coffee culture will continue to thrive and innovate for years to come.

iMakan

iMakan looks to value add cafe owners in Singapore through information sharing articles like these and F&B digital solutions such as self ordering kiosks , QR ordering and online ordering . If you are looking for such solutions, WhatsApp us or click here to send us and enquiry

10 Steps for introducting healthier options at your takeaway food kiosk

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Thu, 16 May 2024 04:17:42 GMT

In Singapore, takeaway food kiosks play a vital role in satisfying the cravings of busy customers on the go. As health consciousness continues to rise, offering healthier options at your takeaway food kiosk can not only attract a wider customer base but also contribute to the overall well-being of your patrons. Here are some essential steps to consider when introducing healthier options at your takeaway food kiosk:

Conduct Market Research:

Start by understanding the preferences and dietary habits of your target audience. Conduct surveys, analyze trends, and gather feedback from existing customers to identify demand for healthier options and potential menu offerings.

Evaluate Current Menu Items:

Review your current menu offerings and identify opportunities for incorporating healthier ingredients, cooking methods, and portion sizes. Consider replacing or modifying existing dishes to align with health-conscious consumer preferences.

Collaborate with Suppliers:

Partner with local suppliers and vendors to source fresh, high-quality ingredients for your healthier menu options. Explore organic produce, lean proteins, whole grains, and plant-based alternatives to add nutritional value to your offerings.

Menu Development and Testing:

Work with your culinary team to develop new recipes and menu items that prioritize flavor, nutrition, and presentation. Conduct taste tests and gather feedback from staff and focus groups to refine your healthier options before introducing them to customers.

Highlight Nutritional Information:

Clearly display nutritional information such as calorie counts, macronutrient breakdowns, and allergen warnings for your healthier menu items. Empower customers to make informed choices by providing transparent and easily accessible information.

Promote Variety and Balance:

Ensure that your healthier menu offers a diverse range of options to cater to different dietary preferences and restrictions. Include vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and low-sodium choices to accommodate the diverse needs of your customers.

Marketing and Promotion:

Develop a marketing strategy to promote your healthier options and create awareness among customers. Utilize signage, social media, email newsletters, and in-store promotions to highlight the availability and benefits of your new menu items.

Staff Training and Education:

Train your staff to effectively communicate the features and benefits of your healthier options to customers. Provide them with knowledge about ingredients, preparation methods, and nutritional values to address inquiries and offer recommendations.

Monitor and Adapt:

Continuously monitor sales data, customer feedback, and market trends to assess the performance of your healthier menu options. Use this information to make adjustments, introduce new offerings, and refine your strategy over time.

Seek Customer Input:

Encourage customer feedback and engagement to gauge satisfaction with your healthier options and identify areas for improvement. Implement surveys, comment cards, or digital feedback channels to gather insights and demonstrate your commitment to customer satisfaction.

By following these steps and embracing the demand for healthier options, you can enhance the appeal of your takeaway food kiosk, attract health-conscious customers, and contribute to the promotion of healthier eating habits in Singapore's vibrant F&B scene.

iMakan

iMakan is the leading self ordering solution vendor in Singapore. We look to constantly value add F&B owners in Singapore through information sharing articles like these and through our self ordering solutions such as self ordering kiosks, QR ordering and online ordering. WhatsApp us or click here to drop us an enquiry!

7 Tips to Optimize Operations at Your Takeaway Food Kiosk in Singapore

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Thu, 09 May 2024 05:04:37 GMT

Takeaway food kiosks in Singapore generally serve the demographics of Singaporeans that are looking for quick, convenient and tasty meal options. Hence, optimizing operations at your takeaway food kiosk is essential for delivering exceptional service and maximizing profitability.

With the increasing demand for quick and convenient dining options, implementing strategies to streamline processes and enhance efficiency can set your kiosk apart from the competition. Here are seven tips to help you optimize operations at your takeaway food kiosk in Singapore, leveraging self-ordering technologies and online platforms to meet customer demands and drive success.

Embrace Self-Ordering Solutions

Invest in self-ordering kiosks or QR code ordering systems to empower customers to place their orders independently. By offering self-service options, you can reduce wait times, minimize order errors, and improve overall efficiency at your kiosk. Emphasize user-friendly interfaces and intuitive navigation to ensure a seamless ordering experience for customers.

Implement Online Ordering Platforms

Extend your reach and cater to digital-savvy customers by implementing online ordering platforms for takeaway and delivery. Utilize mobile apps or web-based ordering systems to enable customers to place orders remotely and schedule pickup times at your kiosk. Provide incentives such as exclusive discounts or loyalty rewards for online orders to encourage adoption and drive sales.

Optimize Menu Selection and Layout

Streamline your menu selection to focus on popular and high-margin items, reducing complexity and speeding up order processing. Organize your menu layout logically, grouping similar items together and highlighting best-sellers or promotional offerings. Utilize digital menu boards or signage to display menu options clearly and attractively, guiding customers towards their desired selections.

Invest in Efficient Kitchen Equipment

Equip your takeaway food kiosk with efficient kitchen equipment and tools to expedite food preparation and assembly. Invest in high-quality appliances, such as commercial-grade grills, fryers, and ovens, to ensure consistent quality and timely service. Implement workflow optimizations and station layouts to minimize bottlenecks and optimize throughput during peak hours.

Streamline Order Fulfillment Processes

Develop streamlined order fulfillment processes to ensure orders are prepared and delivered promptly. Implement order tracking systems or digital ticketing solutions to monitor order status in real-time and prioritize tasks accordingly. Train your staff to work efficiently and communicate effectively to minimize wait times and maintain customer satisfaction.

Prioritize Hygiene and Safety Measures

Uphold stringent hygiene and safety protocols to ensure a clean and safe environment for both customers and staff. Implement regular cleaning and sanitation routines for all surfaces, equipment, and utensils to minimize the risk of contamination. Provide hand sanitizer stations and encourage proper hand hygiene practices among your team members.

Monitor Performance and Seek Feedback

Continuously monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) such as order processing times, customer satisfaction scores, and sales metrics to identify areas for improvement. Solicit feedback from customers through surveys, comment cards, or online reviews to gain insights into their experience and preferences. Use this feedback to iterate on your operations and enhance the overall customer experience at your takeaway food kiosk.

By implementing these seven tips, you can optimize operations at your takeaway food kiosk in Singapore, delivering fast, convenient, and high-quality service to your customers. By embracing self-ordering technologies, leveraging online platforms, and prioritizing efficiency and hygiene, you can position your kiosk for success in the competitive F&B landscape.

iMakan

Apart from looking to value add F&B owners in Singapore through information sharing articles, iMakan also provides self ordering solutions such as self ordering kiosks, qr ordering, and online ordering solutions for F&B businesses. If you are looking for such self ordering solutions, WhatsApp us or click here to drop us an enquiry.

8 Service Tips To Build Your Café Loyal Customer Base

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Fri, 03 May 2024 03:50:35 GMT

In Singapore's competitive cafe industry, providing exceptional service is paramount to standing out amidst stiff competition. With the advent of technology and changing consumer preferences, café owners must adapt their service strategies to meet the evolving needs of their customers. Here are eight service tips, incorporating self-ordering solutions and embracing digital advancements, to ensure your café remains the first choice for customers in Singapore.

Introduce Self-Ordering Kiosks

Embrace the trend of self-ordering by installing user-friendly kiosks in your café. Self-ordering kiosks empower customers to browse your menu at their own pace, customize their orders, and complete transactions seamlessly. By reducing wait times and minimizing human error, self-ordering kiosks enhance efficiency and convenience, resulting in a smoother and more satisfying customer experience.

Implement QR Code Ordering

Simplify the ordering process further by implementing QR code ordering systems. Allow customers to scan QR codes displayed on their tables or on signage to access your digital menu and place their orders directly from their smartphones. QR code ordering eliminates the need for physical menus and facilitates contactless transactions, catering to the preferences of tech-savvy customers while prioritizing hygiene and safety.

Provide Clear Instructions and Assistance

Ensure that self-ordering processes are intuitive and user-friendly by providing clear instructions and on-screen prompts. Train your staff to assist customers who may encounter difficulties navigating the self-ordering kiosks or QR code ordering systems. Friendly and knowledgeable assistance enhances the overall customer experience and instills confidence in the technology.

Offer Seamless Integration with Loyalty Programs

Seamlessly integrate self-ordering systems with your café's loyalty program to incentivize customer engagement and reward repeat visits. Allow customers to earn loyalty points or redeem rewards directly through the self-ordering kiosks or QR code ordering platform. By integrating loyalty programs with digital ordering solutions, you foster customer loyalty and encourage participation in your rewards program.

Customize Recommendations Based on Order History

Leverage data collected through self-ordering systems to personalize recommendations for customers based on their order history and preferences. Utilize algorithms to suggest complementary items or promotional offers tailored to each customer's tastes and past purchases. By offering personalized recommendations, you enhance the relevance of your offerings and increase the likelihood of upselling.

Maintain High Standards of Hygiene and Sanitization

Prioritize hygiene and sanitization protocols to reassure customers of their safety when using self-ordering kiosks or QR code ordering systems. Regularly disinfect and clean touchscreen surfaces and other high-touch areas to minimize the risk of contamination. Display visible signage outlining your commitment to cleanliness and adherence to health guidelines, instilling confidence in customers.

Foster Human Connection through Staff Interaction

While self-ordering solutions offer convenience, don't overlook the importance of human interaction in providing exceptional service. Encourage your staff to engage with customers, offer recommendations, and provide assistance when needed. A friendly smile, a warm greeting, and personalized interactions contribute to a welcoming atmosphere and enhance the overall customer experience.

Solicit Feedback and Continuously Improve

Actively seek feedback from customers regarding their experience with self-ordering systems and digital solutions. Use surveys, comment cards, or digital feedback channels to gather insights into areas for improvement and areas of strength. Incorporate customer feedback into your service strategies, iteratively refining and optimizing your self-ordering processes to better meet customer needs.

In conclusion, by embracing self-ordering solutions, such as self-ordering kiosks and QR code ordering systems, and integrating them seamlessly into your café's service model, you can elevate the customer experience and position your café as the premier choice in Singapore. By providing intuitive technology, personalized recommendations, and a commitment to hygiene and customer satisfaction, you can cultivate loyalty and differentiate your café in the competitive market landscape.

iMakan

Besides looking to constantly value add cafe owners in Singapore through information sharing articles like these, iMakan is also Singapore's leading provider of self ordering solutions such as self ordering kiosks , QR ordering , and online ordering solutions . If you are in the market for self ordering solutions, WhatsApp us or click here to send an enquiry!

8 Do's and Don'ts in Cafe Marketing

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Tue, 23 Apr 2024 09:22:34 GMT

In today's digital age, social media has become an indispensable tool for marketing, especially for businesses in the food and beverage (F&B) industry. For cafes in bustling culinary landscapes like Singapore, leveraging social media effectively can significantly enhance brand visibility, attract new customers, and foster a loyal following. However, navigating the realm of social media marketing requires finesse and strategy. To help cafe owners maximize their social media presence, here are eight crucial dos and don'ts tailored specifically for the Singaporean F&B scene.

The Dos:

1. Showcase Your Unique Offerings

Highlight what sets your cafe apart from the rest. Whether it's your signature coffee blend, artisanal pastries, or cozy ambience, use high-quality visuals and engaging captions to showcase what makes your cafe a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike.

2. Engage with Your Audience

Social media is not just a platform for broadcasting; it's also a space for building relationships with your audience. Respond promptly to comments, messages, and reviews. Encourage user-generated content by reposting customer photos and testimonials, fostering a sense of community around your brand.

3. Cultivate a Consistent Brand Aesthetic

Maintain a cohesive visual identity across all your social media channels. From your Instagram feed to your Facebook page, ensure that your branding elements such as colors, fonts, and imagery align with your cafe's unique identity. Consistency breeds familiarity and reinforces brand recognition.

4. Leverage User-Generated Content

Harness the power of user-generated content (UGC) to amplify your brand's reach. Encourage customers to share their experiences at your cafe using a branded hashtag. Repost their content on your own channels, giving credit to the original creators. UGC not only serves as authentic social proof but also encourages others to visit your establishment.

5. Offer Exclusive Promotions and Contests

Entice your social media followers with exclusive promotions, discounts, and contests. Host giveaways that encourage engagement, such as tagging friends, sharing posts, or posting photos with your products. These initiatives not only drive traffic to your cafe but also foster a sense of excitement and urgency among your audience.

6. Provide Behind-the-Scenes Sneak Peeks

Offer glimpses behind the scenes to humanize your brand and connect with your audience on a personal level. Share stories about your team, the making of your signature dishes, or the journey of sourcing ingredients locally. Authentic storytelling fosters transparency and builds trust with your customers.

7. Stay Relevant with Trending Topics

Keep your finger on the pulse of current trends and conversations within the F&B industry and Singaporean culture. Capitalize on relevant holidays, local events, and food trends to create timely and engaging content. By staying relevant, you demonstrate your cafe's relevance and adaptability to changing consumer preferences.

8. Analyze and Adapt Your Strategy

Regularly monitor your social media analytics to gauge the effectiveness of your marketing efforts. Pay attention to metrics such as engagement rate, reach, and follower growth. Use insights gleaned from analytics to refine your content strategy, identify successful tactics, and pivot away from what isn't resonating with your audience.

The Don'ts:

1. Neglect Negative Feedback

Ignoring negative comments or reviews on social media can damage your cafe's reputation. Address criticism professionally and promptly, demonstrating your commitment to customer satisfaction. Take the conversation offline if necessary to resolve issues privately and prevent further escalation.

2. Overlook Visual Quality

In the visually-driven world of social media, poor-quality imagery can detract from your cafe's appeal. Invest in high-resolution photos and videos that showcase your offerings in the best possible light. Avoid using stock photos or low-quality smartphone snaps that fail to capture the essence of your brand.

3. Spam Your Followers

Resist the temptation to bombard your followers with excessive promotional content or sales pitches. Instead, strive to strike a balance between promotional posts, engaging content, and user-generated material. Focus on providing value to your audience rather than inundating them with self-promotion.

4. Neglect Cross-Platform Promotion

Each social media platform offers unique opportunities for engagement and reach. Don't limit your cafe's presence to just one platform. Explore a diverse mix of platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok, tailoring your content to suit the preferences and demographics of each audience.

5. Underestimate the Power of Hashtags

Hashtags are a powerful tool for increasing discoverability and expanding your reach on social media. Research and use relevant hashtags that resonate with your target audience and local community. However, avoid overloading your posts with irrelevant or excessive hashtags, which can come across as spammy.

6. Disregard Consistency

Consistency is key to building a strong and recognizable brand presence on social media. Stick to a consistent posting schedule to keep your audience engaged and maintain visibility in their feeds. Whether you post daily, weekly, or bi-weekly, establish a cadence that works for your cafe and stick to it.

7. Neglect Social Listening

Effective social media marketing goes beyond broadcasting messages—it involves actively listening to your audience. Monitor conversations about your cafe, competitors, and industry trends. Take note of feedback, suggestions, and trends, leveraging these insights to inform your marketing strategy and decision-making.

8. Underestimate the Importance of Analytics

Failing to track and analyze your social media performance can hinder your cafe's growth and success. Regularly review your analytics to identify patterns, trends, and opportunities for improvement. Use data-driven insights to refine your content strategy, optimize your advertising spend, and maximize your ROI.

By adhering to these dos and don'ts of social media marketing, cafe owners in Singapore can cultivate a strong online presence, engage with their audience effectively, and drive business growth in an increasingly competitive market. With strategic planning, creativity, and a commitment to authenticity, cafes can leverage social media to become beloved destinations both online and offline.

7 Tips for Successfully Launching a Food Kiosk in Singapore

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Fri, 19 Apr 2024 09:41:26 GMT

Starting up a quick food kiosk in Singapore can be an exciting venture, but it requires careful planning and execution to ensure success in Singapore's competitive F&B landscape, with the number of competitors offering similar products and services. From selecting the right location to crafting an enticing menu, every aspect of the your preparation to set up your quick food kiosk plays a crucial role in attracting customers and establishing your brand. In this article we share are 7 essential tips to help you smoothen out the process and launch your quick food kiosk successfully in Singapore.

Thorough Market Research

Before starting your quick food kiosk, you should conduct thorough market research to understand the local food trends, customer preferences, and your competitors in Singapore. Identify gaps in the market and opportunities for differentiation to carve out a unique position for your kiosk. Analyze consumer demographics, traffic patterns, and popular dining locations to pinpoint the ideal location for your kiosk.

For example, if you are launching your bubble tea kiosk in a shopping mall in Singapore, you could conduct market research. like analysing the preferences of the mall's demographic, identified the demand for unique bubble tea flavors, and study the offers of competitors in the vicinity. This research helps your menu to cater to the preferences of your target audience and differentiate themselves in the market.

Choose the Right Location

Location is key to the success of your quick food kiosk in Singapore. Select a high-traffic area with a steady flow of foot traffic, such as shopping malls, business districts, or tourist attractions. Consider factors such as visibility, accessibility, and proximity to complementary businesses to maximize exposure and attract potential customers.

A food kiosk that is set up at a prime area with high tourist and local footfall can capitalise on the steady stream of tourists visiting the attraction and attracted locals with its innovative menu and convenient location.

Craft a Unique Menu

Develop a unique and enticing menu that sets your quick food kiosk apart from the competition. Consider Singapore's diverse culinary landscape and incorporate local flavors, ingredients, and food trends into your offerings. Keep the menu concise and focused on signature dishes or specialties to streamline operations and maintain consistency in quality.

For example, a dessert kiosk specializing in artisanal ice cream sandwiches can come up with a menu featuring locally-inspired flavors such as pandan, gula melaka, and durian. By incorporating familiar flavors with a creative twist, the kiosk appealed to Singaporeans' love for nostalgic treats while offering something new and exciting. This unique menu selection set them apart from traditional ice cream vendors and garnered a loyal following.

Invest in Quality Equipment

Invest in high-quality equipment and kitchen appliances to ensure smooth operations and efficient food preparation in your quick food kiosk. Choose equipment that is durable, easy to clean, and suited to the specific needs of your menu items. Prioritize space-saving and energy-efficient appliances to optimize the limited space available in a kiosk setting.

To illustrate this, take for example a sushi burrito kiosk invested in state-of-the-art sushi-making equipment to streamline their operations and ensure consistency in their offerings. By using specialized equipment designed for rolling and cutting sushi burritos efficiently, the kiosk was able to meet customer demand during peak hours without compromising on quality. This investment in quality equipment contributed to their reputation for fresh and delicious sushi burritos.

Create an Engaging Brand Identity

Develop a strong brand identity that resonates with your target audience and reflects the unique personality of your quick food kiosk. Choose a memorable name, logo, and visual identity that communicates your brand story and values. Create cohesive branding materials, including signage, packaging, and uniforms, to establish a consistent brand image across all touchpoints.

For example, A vegan burger kiosk in Singapore created a playful and vibrant brand identity that resonated with health-conscious consumers. They adopted a catchy name, colorful branding, and environmentally-friendly packaging to communicate their commitment to sustainability and wellness. This resonates with their target audience, which encourages more of their target audiences to patronise and develop a sense of loyalty to the burger kiosk, thus encouraging customers to share their experiences, driving word-of-mouth marketing.

Execute a Strategic Marketing Plan

Develop a strategic marketing plan to generate buzz and attract customers to your quick food kiosk in Singapore. Leverage digital marketing channels, such as social media, email newsletters, and online advertising, to create awareness and promote your launch. Partner with influencers, food bloggers, or local media outlets to generate buzz and drive foot traffic to your kiosk.

An example of executing strategic marketing plan would be a coffee kiosk collaborating with local influencers and food bloggers to create buzz around their grand opening. They hosted a series of pre-launch events and tastings, inviting influencers to try their specialty coffees and pastries. These influencers shared their experiences on social media platforms, generating excitement and anticipation among their followers. The strategic marketing efforts resulted in a successful launch and a steady flow of customers.

Provide Exceptional Customer Service

Prioritize exceptional customer service to create memorable experiences and build customer loyalty for your quick food kiosk. Train your staff to deliver friendly, efficient, and attentive service to every customer. Encourage feedback and actively listen to customer concerns to continuously improve and exceed their expectations.

For example, a noodle kiosk in a busy food court can differentiate itself by offering personalized customer service. The owner and staff can take the time to engage with customers, recommend menu options, and accommodate special requests. They could also actively ask for feedback from customers and implement changes based on their suggestions, fostering a sense of loyalty and trust. This dedication to exceptional customer service earned the kiosk a loyal customer base and positive word-of-mouth referrals.

By following these seven tips, you can lay a strong foundation for the successful launch of your quick food kiosk in Singapore. With careful planning, strategic execution, and a focus on customer satisfaction, your kiosk can thrive in Singapore's bustling F&B scene and become a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike.

iMakan

Apart from looking to value add Singapore's F&B business owners with informative articles like these, iMakan is Singapore's leading F&B self ordering solutions provider offering solutions such as self ordering kiosks , qr ordering and online ordering . If you are looking for a self ordering solution for your F&B, feel free to WhatsApp us, or click here to send in an enquiry!

8 Ways for Restaurant Owners to Reduce Cost

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Fri, 12 Apr 2024 04:45:33 GMT

Running an F&B business in Singapore is not as easy as it seems on the surface. Especially with factors such as inflated rental costs, increasing utility bills, rising labour costs, food costs levies, and more, cost-saving measures are essential for maximizing profitability and sustaining business success. For restaurant owners, finding ways to trim expenses without compromising on quality is paramount. Here are the top 10 cost-saving tips tailored specifically for restaurant owners.

1. Optimize Menu Offerings

Regularly analyze your menu to identify which items are the most profitable and which ones are not selling well. Consider factors such as ingredient costs, preparation time, and popularity among customers. Streamline your offerings by focusing on high-margin dishes and eliminating low-margin items that aren't contributing to your bottom line. Additionally, consider offering specials or limited-time promotions to highlight high-profit items and drive sales.

Analysing your menu offerings can be made easier when you adopt an F&B POS system with capabilities such as cloud reporting that lets you access reports and dashboards online to gather insights on your menu item performance. A POS system that enables you to make adjustments to your F&B outlet's POS menu online also comes in handy for timely and fuss free menu updating.

2. Reduce Food Waste

Implement strategies to minimize food waste throughout your restaurant operations. Train your kitchen staff on proper portion control techniques to avoid over-serving and encourage them to use ingredients efficiently. Keep track of inventory levels and rotate stock to ensure that perishable items are used before they expire. Consider implementing a composting program for organic waste and donating excess food to local charities to reduce waste and give back to the community.

3. Negotiate with Suppliers

Cultivate strong relationships with your suppliers and negotiate for better pricing, bulk discounts, or extended payment terms. Take the time to research alternative suppliers or wholesalers to compare prices and ensure you're getting the best value for your ingredients. Consider joining group purchasing organizations or cooperatives to leverage collective buying power and access discounted rates from suppliers.

4. Energy-Efficient Practices

Energy costs are constantly rising which results in your restaurant utility bills increasing even if your energy consumption remains largely consistent. This is bad news for your restaurant as little increases in utility bills may not seem worrying at first but it snowballs into large chunk of your cost if it goes on without proper management.

Consider using energy-efficient equipment and practices to reduce utility costs and minimize environmental impact. Replace outdated appliances with energy-efficient models, such as ENERGY STAR-certified refrigerators and dishwashers, to lower energy consumption. Install LED lighting and programmable thermostats to control energy usage more effectively. Encourage staff to turn off equipment when not in use and implement energy-saving measures, such as using natural light and optimizing heating and cooling systems, to further reduce energy expenses.

5. Employee Retention and Motivation

Invest in your employees' training and development to reduce turnover and improve morale. Provide opportunities for ongoing education and skill development to help your staff grow and advance in their careers. Recognize and reward employees for their hard work and dedication through bonuses, incentives, or employee perks, such as free meals or flexible scheduling. Foster a positive work environment by promoting open communication, providing constructive feedback, and addressing any concerns or grievances promptly. By investing in your employees' well-being and professional growth, you can cultivate a loyal and motivated team that is committed to delivering excellent service and driving business success.

6. Utilize Technology

Embrace technology solutions to streamline operations, enhance productivity, and reduce administrative overhead. Digitalise with in a modern point-of-sale (POS) system that integrates with inventory management software to track sales, inventory levels, and customer data in real-time. Implement online ordering platforms and mobile apps to offer convenience to customers and increase revenue streams. Adopt self ordering kiosks and QR ordering to help reduce the amount of manpower needed to handle order taking. Utilize automation tools and digital scheduling software to optimize staff scheduling and reduce labor costs.

7. Control Overhead Expenses

Review your overhead expenses, such as rent, utilities, and insurance, to identify areas where you can reduce costs. Negotiate with landlords for rent concessions or explore shared kitchen spaces to lower rental expenses. Implement energy-saving measures, such as installing energy-efficient lighting and equipment, to reduce utility costs. Shop around for competitive insurance rates and consider bundling coverage to save money on premiums.

8. Monitor Food Costs

Keep a close eye on your food costs by regularly tracking inventory, analyzing purchasing patterns, and monitoring supplier prices. Set targets for food cost percentages based on industry benchmarks and adjust menu prices accordingly to maintain profitability. Implement cost-saving measures, such as portion control, standardizing recipes, and minimizing waste, to reduce food costs without sacrificing quality. Consider sourcing ingredients locally or seasonally to take advantage of lower prices and support local farmers and producers.

By implementing these 8 cost-saving tips, restaurant owners can effectively manage expenses, increase profitability, and position their businesses for long-term success in the competitive F&B industry.

iMakan

Apart from looking to constantly value add F&B owners in Singapore through information sharing articles like these, iMakan is also the leading vendor in Singapore for self ordering solutions such as self ordering kiosks , QR ordering and online ordering solutions. If you are in the market for self ordering solutions, WhatsApp us, or click here to find out more about our solutions!

Infusing Local Flavors into your Quick Food Kiosk and Cafe Menus

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Thu, 04 Apr 2024 08:51:26 GMT

Incorporation of local flavors and cuisines into your quick food kiosk's menus can be a game-changer. It makes your menu special, stand out, and more desirable as compared to your competitors. In this article, we'll look into the significance of infusing Singaporean tastes into takeaway food kiosk and cafe offerings and present innovative ideas for doing so.

Food Diversity in Singapore

Singapore's diverse culinary landscape is made up of various different cultures—Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Peranakan, to name a few. Takeaway food kiosks and cafes, which are known as accessible dining options, can benefit by integrating local flavors into their menus. Singapore's food culture diversity offers a treasure trove of inspiration for quick bites and casual dining dishes.

Innovative Menu Concepts

Reimagining traditional dishes : Value add your menu by reimagining classic dishes such as char kway teow, nasi goreng, or chicken rice. As quick food kiosks are meant to offer quick and accessible takeaway dining options, you should consider offering them in convenient takeaway boxes or as grab-and-go options for busy customers on the move. Consider introducing healthier versions by incorporating whole grains or lean protein sources while preserving the authentic flavors.

Local quick bites : Add some Singaporean style quick bites like crispy goreng pisang (fried banana fritters), tangy rojak, or fragrant kaya toast. These handheld treats are perfect for customers looking for a quick snack or light meal to enjoy on the go.

Modern Fusion Fare : Push the boundaries of culinary creativity by experimenting with fusion cuisine that blends Singaporean flavors with international influences. Offer innovative creations like laksa-inspired pasta, chili crab sliders, or Hainanese chicken rice sushi rolls. These dishes bring something new to the table and appeals to those looking to try something new instead of having the same foods everyday. This way, customers may be willing to pay slightly higher to enjoy and try something new over their regular foods.

By embracing the diversity of Singapore's diverse food culture in your menu, your quick food kiosk or cafe can offer customers more than just food—they can provide a taste of Singapore's rich heritage and culinary identity and most importantly, something refreshing. Through innovative menu concepts and a commitment to authenticity, takeaway food kiosks and cafes can carve out a niche in Singapore's vibrant F&B scene while satisfying the cravings of locals and tourists alike.

iMakan

We are one of Singapore's trusted vendors in self ordering solutions such as self ordering kiosks, QR ordering and online ordering solutions. We hope to value add all F&B merchants no just through our solutions, but also through information sharing articles like these. If you are in the market for self ordering solutions for your F&B business, WhatsApp us, or click here to send us an enquiry!

Navigating F&B Taxation and Financial Management:

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Thu, 28 Mar 2024 08:36:06 GMT

In the vibrant F&B scene of Singapore, where culinary diversity meets discerning tastes, effective financial management is paramount for the success of restaurants and eateries. From managing costs to complying with tax regulations, F&B owners in Singapore face unique financial challenges that require tailored strategies and resources. In this article, we delve into essential financial management practices and specialized services within the Singaporean context to help F&B businesses thrive.

Understanding Financial Challenges in Singaporean F&B Businesses

Running an F&B business in Singapore presents distinct financial hurdles. High rental costs, intense competition, and stringent labor regulations are just a few of the factors that can impact profitability. Additionally, navigating Singapore's tax system, which includes Goods and Services Tax (GST) and corporate income tax, requires careful attention to compliance and planning.

Importance of Financial Management

Given the complexities of financial management in Singaporean F&B businesses, seeking professional assistance is essential. Engaging with accountants and tax consultants familiar with Singapore's regulatory landscape can provide invaluable support in managing finances, optimizing tax strategies, and ensuring compliance with local laws.

Key Financial Management Tasks for Singaporean F&B Businesses

1. Budgeting and Forecasting

Developing a robust budget and financial forecast tailored to the Singaporean market is crucial for F&B businesses. This includes projecting revenue streams, estimating operating costs, and factoring in seasonal fluctuations to effectively allocate resources and plan for growth.

2. Payroll Processing and HR Compliance

Singapore's labor laws impose strict requirements on employers, including payroll processing, CPF contributions, and statutory leave entitlements. F&B owners must ensure compliance with these regulations while efficiently managing payroll to maintain employee satisfaction and retention.

3. Tax Planning and Compliance

Navigating Singapore's tax regime demands proactive tax planning and compliance strategies. F&B businesses must stay informed about GST registration thresholds, input tax claims, and filing deadlines to avoid penalties and optimize tax efficiency.

4. Financial Reporting and Analysis

Regular financial reporting and analysis provide insights into the financial performance of F&B businesses. Generating financial statements compliant with Singapore Financial Reporting Standards (SFRS) allows owners to assess profitability, monitor cash flow, and make informed decisions to drive business growth.

Resources for F&B Financial Management in Singapore

1. Accounting Services

Partnering with accounting firms specializing in Singaporean F&B businesses provides access to expertise in local regulations, industry trends, and financial best practices. These firms offer tailored solutions to streamline accounting processes, improve financial transparency, and optimize tax outcomes.

2. Tax Consultants

Collaborating with tax consultants well-versed in Singapore's tax laws ensures compliance with GST and corporate tax requirements. These consultants offer strategic tax planning advice, assist with tax filings, and represent F&B businesses in dealings with tax authorities, minimizing tax risks and maximizing savings.

3. Financial Management Tools

Utilizing accounting software and F&B point-of-sale systems (F&B POS) designed for the Singaporean market enhances efficiency and accuracy in financial management. These tools automate processes, facilitate real-time reporting, and integrate with tax compliance requirements, empowering F&B owners to make informed financial decisions.

Conclusion

Effective financial management is essential for the sustainability and growth of F&B businesses in Singapore. By prioritizing tasks such as budgeting, payroll processing, tax compliance, and financial reporting, restaurant owners can navigate the challenges of the local market with confidence. Leveraging professional services and specialized resources tailored to the Singaporean context empowers F&B businesses to optimize financial performance, comply with regulations, and thrive in Singapore's dynamic culinary landscape.

iMakan

iMakan is Singapore's leading F&B digital ordering solutions provider. We look to constantly add value to F&B merchants through information sharing articles like these, and through our self ordering solutions such as self ordering kiosks, QR ordering systems & online ordering solution. If you are in the market for such solutions, WhatsApp us, or click here to drop us an enquiry!

How to manage food costs in for restaurants in Singapore?

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Fri, 22 Mar 2024 02:59:18 GMT

Being able to manage food costs properly is essential when operating an F&B business as poorly managed food costs can greatly hurt your profits. With rising expenses and evolving consumer preferences, F&B owners must implement practical strategies to control food costs, minimize waste, and optimize ingredient sourcing while upholding food quality and customer satisfaction. In this article, we'll explore actionable tips tailored to Singaporean restaurants to navigate the complexities of food cost management.

Analyze and Monitor Inventory

Conduct a thorough analysis of your restaurant's inventory regularly to identify fast-moving items, slow-moving items, and potential areas of waste. Utilize inventory management software to track stock levels, monitor ingredient usage, and set reorder points to avoid overstocking or understocking.

Optimize Menu Engineering

Take a strategic approach to menu engineering by analyzing the profitability of each menu item. Focus on promoting high-margin dishes while reconsidering or re-pricing low-margin items. Highlighting signature dishes or profitable specials can also drive sales and increase revenue without compromising food costs.

Streamline Purchasing Practices

Establish strong relationships with reliable suppliers and negotiate favorable terms for bulk purchases or long-term contracts. Consider joining group purchasing organizations or cooperatives to access discounted prices on ingredients and reduce procurement costs.

Implement Portion Control Measures

Standardize portion sizes across menu items to minimize food waste and control serving costs. Train kitchen staff to adhere to portion control guidelines and use portioning tools such as scales or scoops to ensure consistency in serving sizes.

Minimize Waste Through Efficient Kitchen Operations

Implement efficient kitchen workflows and practices to minimize food waste at every stage of production. Encourage staff to use trimmings and scraps creatively in daily specials or staff meals, and consider donating surplus food to charitable organizations to reduce waste while contributing to the community.

Embrace Seasonal and Local Ingredients

Source seasonal and locally produced ingredients whenever possible to reduce transportation costs, support local farmers, and enhance the freshness and quality of your dishes. Create seasonal menus that showcase the best of Singapore's produce, incorporating regional flavors and culinary traditions.

Monitor and Analyze Food Cost Percentage

Continuously monitor your restaurant's food cost percentage – the ratio of food costs to total revenue – to gauge profitability and identify areas for improvement. Set targets for food cost percentage based on industry benchmarks and adjust pricing or operations as needed to achieve optimal profitability.

Invest in Staff Training and Engagement

Invest in comprehensive training programs for kitchen staff to enhance their skills in food preparation, portioning, and waste reduction techniques. Engage front-of-house staff in promoting high-margin menu items and upselling strategies to increase average check size and overall revenue.

By implementing these practical tips for food cost management, restaurants in Singapore's dynamic F&B industry can achieve greater profitability, reduce waste, and maintain food quality and customer satisfaction. By continuously refining and optimizing food cost management strategies, F&B owners can navigate the challenges of the industry while thriving in Singapore's diverse culinary landscape.

About iMakan

Apart from looking to constantly value add F&B owners in Singapore through information sharing articles like these iMakan is a trusted self ordering solution provider that offers self ordering kiosks, QR ordering solutions and online ordering solutions for F&B owners in Singapore.

If you are in the market for self ordering kiosk, QR ordering, and online ordering solution, WhatsApp us, or click here to send in an enquiry!

5 Essential Solutions Every Cafe in Singapore Should Adopt for Success

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Thu, 14 Mar 2024 04:06:36 GMT

In Singapore, cafes are not just about coffee and food, but also about creating an experience for patrons. As the cafe culture continues to thrive, owners should look for new F&B tech to stand out and cater to increasingly tech savvy younger generation. Implementing technology like self-ordering kiosks, QR ordering systems and more can significantly enhance operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. In this article, we'll dive into the essential solutions every cafe in Singapore should adopt to stay ahead in a competitive market.

Self-Ordering Kiosks: Revolutionizing Customer Service

Benefits of Self-Ordering Kiosks

Self-ordering kiosks have changed how customers prefer to place orders, even in cafes. Self ordering kiosks makes order taking quicker and reducing mistakes. Customers can take their time to look through the menu, making their experience more personal and less stressful, which makes them more likely to order more thus, increasing your average bill size. Also, self ordering kiosks let cafe owners add more ordering terminals without hiring more staff. This keeps costs down and makes sure that customers don't have to wait too long, which could contribute to bad customer experience.

Implementing Self-Ordering Kiosks

When implementing self ordering kiosks for your cafe, consider the placement for maximum visibility and ease of access. Additionally, ensure that the self ordering kiosk you decide to adopt has a user interface that is intuitive, able to display descriptions clearly display vibrant, high resolution images of your menu items. This will make ordering fuss free for your customers making them more likely to browse your menu and order more. Placing orders is just the first part of creating a seamless, pleasant customer experience during order taking. Offering multiple payment options, including contactless payments, is equally as important as it will cater to your cafe patrons' payment preferences and enhance the overall customer experience.

QR Ordering: The Future of Table Service

Enhancing Customer Experience with QR Ordering

QR ordering allows customers to scan a QR code at their table, or from anywhere around the shop, view the menu, and place their orders directly from their smartphones. This solution not only streamlines the ordering process but also empowers customers with the flexibility to place orders and add on orders at their convenience. QR ordering also reduces the pressure on your staff during busy periods, allowing them to focus on delivering quality service and engaging with customers.

Maximizing Efficiency with QR Ordering

To maximize the benefits of QR ordering, ensure that your menu is up-to-date and that the ordering platform is user-friendly. Integrating your QR ordering system with your kitchen display system (KDS) or kitchen printers can further streamline operations, ensuring that orders are promptly prepared and delivered.

Building Recurring Revenue with Customer Loyalty Solutions (CRM)

In the competitive cafe market of Singapore, establishing a loyal customer base is as crucial as serving the perfect cup of coffee. With the proliferation of cafes and coffee shops, owners must go beyond traditional marketing strategies to retain customers. Loyalty solutions offer a strategic advantage, encouraging repeat business by rewarding customers for their loyalty. Here's how cafes in Singapore can implement effective loyalty programs to enhance customer retention and satisfaction.

Customer loyalty programs are more than just a marketing tool; they're a commitment to customer satisfaction and long-term relationship building. The benefits are twofold: customers enjoy rewards and a personalized experience, while cafes benefit from increased frequency of visits and higher spending per visit. In the context of Singapore's vibrant cafe scene, a well-designed loyalty program can set your establishment apart, fostering a sense of community and belonging among your clientele.

Leveraging Social Media for Engagement and Promotion

In today's digital age, a strong online presence is crucial for any business. For cafes in Singapore, social media platforms offer an invaluable opportunity to connect with customers, showcase your offerings, and share updates about new menu items or promotions. Engaging content, such as behind-the-scenes looks, barista highlights, and customer testimonials, can help build a loyal community around your brand.

On top of that, consumers in Singapore these days rarely find cafes through their shop front. Instead, most consumers actually found the cafe online before heading down to give it a try, which is why having at least some online presence is important for Cafes in Singapore

Adopting Sustainable Practices

Sustainability is more than just a trend; it's a responsibility. Cafes can adopt eco-friendly practices such as using biodegradable packaging, sourcing ingredients locally, and minimizing food waste. These efforts not only contribute to environmental preservation but also resonate with customers who value sustainability.

Conclusion

Adopting these essential solutions can propel your cafe in Singapore to new heights. From enhancing customer experience with self-ordering kiosks and QR ordering to engaging with your community through social media and adopting sustainable practices, the path to success involves embracing technology and innovation. Stay ahead of the curve, and watch your cafe flourish in the heart of Singapore.

For cafes looking to stay competitive and innovative, integrating these solutions can lead to increased efficiency, higher customer satisfaction, and ultimately, success in the bustling cafe scene of Singapore.

iMakan is Singapore's trusted self ordering solution provider. We look to value add F&B owners in Singapore through informative knowledge sharing on our blogs and also through self ordering solutions such as self ordering kiosks , QR ordering and online ordering solutions . Click here to WhatsApp us or send an enquiry if you are in the market for self ordering solutions.

New F&B consumer trends & preferences in 2024

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Wed, 06 Mar 2024 02:35:41 GMT

The Food & Beverage (F&B) industry is undergoing significant changes as consumer preferences evolve rapidly. Staying adaptable and proactive is crucial for businesses aiming to thrive in this dynamic landscape. This article looks at new consumer trends that require refinements in strategies for F&B establishments to remain competitive and appealing.

Health and Wellness Trends

A notable shift towards healthier eating options characterizes the current consumer landscape. This encompasses a broad spectrum of preferences, including organic, non-GMO, plant-based, and low-calorie options. F&B businesses can tap into this trend by broadening their menu to include healthier choices, highlighting nutritional information, and emphasizing the freshness and wellness benefits of their offerings.

Sustainability and Ethical Consumption

Interest in sustainability has grown from a niche interest to become a rather significant decision making factor for consumers, and will only continue to grow in significance. Modern consumers are increasingly mindful of the environmental impact of their daily life and dietary choices. Adopting sustainable practices, such as local sourcing, minimizing food waste, and utilizing eco-friendly packaging, can help F&B businesses align with consumer values and build brand loyalty.

Technology and Convenience

Technological advancements have revolutionized the F&B industry, catering to the growing consumer demand for convenience, speed, and efficiency. Innovations include online ordering, food delivery platforms, cashless payments, self ordering kiosks & QR ordering systems. By integrating these technologies, F&B businesses can enhance customer experience, streamline operations, and expand their customer base.

Online Ordering and Delivery Platforms

In our rapidly digitalising world, consumers are often spending most of their time online for entertainment, shopping and even to order food. Food delivery platforms and online ordering systems are a popular way for customers to order from their favourite F&B business and enjoy meals without leaving their homes, allowing businesses to reach a wider audience.

Cashless Payments and Self Ordering Solutions

The pandemic has accelerated the adoption of cashless payments and self ordering solutions such as self ordering kiosks and QR ordering as they were a means for customers to place orders while minimizing close contact between staff and customers. Today however, the purpose of adopting self ordering solutions and cashless payments have changed. Instead of simply tools to minimize person to person contact, they have become a convenience to customers and a way which F&B business owners can reduce the manpower reliance on order taking staff to lower their overhead.

Experience and Personalization

Offering personalised and unique dining experience is a plus point and it encourages customers to come back the next time due to good service. Utilizing data and a CRM solution to understand customer preferences and customizing service accordingly can create memorable experiences that encourage repeat visits and hence, a steady sustainable revenue flow from repeat customers.

Adapting to the Trends

For F&B businesses, staying relevant means embracing these consumer trends and adapting operations accordingly. This might involve menu adjustments, adopting new technologies, or rethinking service models to meet evolving consumer expectations.

Conclusion

The F&B industry's future lies in understanding and responding to changing consumer preferences. By focusing on health and wellness, sustainability, technological integration, and personalized experiences, businesses can not only adapt but also thrive in this ever-changing landscape. Staying informed and flexible will enable F&B establishments to continue captivating customers and leading in innovation.

iMakan is Singapore's leading F&B self ordering solutions provider and we seek to value add F&B merchants through such articles which you may find useful, and through providing productivity boosting self ordering technology such as self ordering kiosks, QR ordering & online ordering systems for F&B merchants in Singapore. If you are interested to find out more about our F&B self ordering solutions, WhatsApp us or click here to send in an enquiry!

Using technology to boost your F&B business profits

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Tue, 27 Feb 2024 09:00:00 GMT

How self ordering kiosks benefit F&B businesses

Self-ordering kiosks are a technological revolution in the F&B industry. These standalone devices allow customers to place their orders and make payments without interacting with staff, which means less manpower investment needed by F&B businesses.

Self ordering kiosks not only speeds up the ordering process, reducing wait times and improving customer satisfaction, but it also significantly cuts down on labor costs. By automating the ordering process, businesses can reallocate staff to focus on more value-adding activities, such as enhancing food quality or improving customer service and quickening service speeds. Furthermore, self ordering systems reduce human error in order taking, ensuring accuracy and reducing waste.

Online Ordering: Expanding Market Reach and Streamlining Operations

Online ordering platforms have become a crucial sales channel for F&B businesses, especially in the current digital age where people are spending huge chunks of their time daily online, on their mobile phones. By enabling customers to order food with just a few clicks from their devices, businesses can expand their reach beyond the confines of their physical locations. This not only opens up new revenue streams but also offers convenience to customers, fostering loyalty and repeat business. Additionally, online ordering systems can be integrated with kitchen operations to streamline the preparation process, ensuring that orders are managed efficiently and accurately, thereby improving operational productivity.

QR Ordering: The Bridge Between Traditional and Digital

QR ordering represents a middle ground between traditional table service and full digital ordering. By scanning a QR code placed on tables or menus, customers can access the restaurant's menu, place orders, and make payments using their smartphones. This system combines the convenience of digital ordering with the comfort of dining in, enhancing the customer experience through convenience of placing orders, ordering add ons and making payments at any time without having to wait for a waiter/waitress for assistance.

The Cumulative Impact on Profitability

The integration of self-ordering kiosks, online ordering, and QR code ordering can have a cumulative effect on the profitability of F&B businesses. While on surface it may seem like these solutions are solely focused on saving manpower costs and streamlining operation processes, self ordering solutions also help you increase average bill sizes through displaying your menu items with item images in an organized manner which encourages customers to explore the entire menu. Self ordering solutions also have upselling capabilities that prompt and push customers to order popular add ons "make it a meal" in order to boost bill sizes.

As such, self ordering technologies not only reduce operational costs by optimizing labor and reducing errors but also drive sales by improving customer satisfaction, boosting average bill sizes and expanding market reach.

Conclusion

The adoption of technology in F&B businesses is a move that can lead to significant improvements in profitability. By implementing self-ordering kiosks , online ordering systems , and QR ordering , establishments can streamline operations, enhance the customer experience, and open up new avenues for revenue growth. As the F&B industry continues to evolve, those who leverage technology to adapt to changing consumer preferences and operational challenges will be well-positioned to thrive in the competitive marketplace.

If you are looking for self ordering solutions, WhatsApp us or send us an enquiry to find out more!

Is self ordering suitable for coffeeshops and hawkers in Singapore?

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Thu, 25 Jan 2024 06:50:30 GMT

In the bustling streets of Singapore, where traditional flavors meet modern convenience, the Food and Beverage (F&B) industry is witnessing a transformative wave - the shift towards self-ordering systems. This article delves into the suitability of self-ordering methods, such as kiosks, QR code ordering, and online platforms, specifically for coffee shops and hawkers in Singapore.

Evolution of Ordering Systems in F&B: From Manual to Digital

Gone are the days of solely relying on manual order-taking. The F&B industry worldwide, including Singapore, has gradually shifted towards digital solutions. This transition has been driven by the need for efficiency, accuracy, and enhanced customer experiences.

What is Self-Ordering? Exploring the Digital Solutions

Self-ordering encompasses various technologies allowing customers to place orders without traditional waiter assistance. Key types include:

Self-Ordering Kiosks : Stand-alone devices enabling order placement and payment.
QR Ordering : Scanning a QR code to access a digital menu and order.
Online Ordering Platforms: Websites or apps for ordering from consumer's device. Mostly when consumers are not physically at the F&B shop.

Benefits of Self-Ordering for Coffee Shops: A Leap Towards Modernity

Self-ordering systems offer numerous advantages for coffee shops in Singapore, such as:

Enhanced Customer Experience: Quicker service and reduced wait times lead to better customer experience.
Streamlined Operations: Increased efficiency and accuracy in order processing.
Financial Implications: Potential cost savings and increased revenue through higher order values and reduced staffing needs.

Self-Ordering in Singaporean Hawkers: Balancing Tradition with Innovation

While self-ordering offers modernization, it's crucial to assess its compatibility the traditional operations of Singaporean hawkers. Some hawkers, especially the pioneering ones still feel that manually taking orders from customers is faster than

allowing customers to browse a digital menu and self order, a common concern raised when they are approached to switch to self ordering solutions.

Customer Perceptions in Singapore: Balancing Modern Convenience with Traditional Appeal

In the dynamic landscape of Singapore's food scene, the increasing inclination of tech-savvy, younger consumers towards digital solutions is reshaping the way quick service foods are ordered. This shift is evident in the growing preference for self-ordering methods, including self-ordering kiosks, QR code ordering, and online platforms, especially among the younger demographic.

Coffee shops and hawkers, quintessential elements of Singapore’s traditional dining experience, are also part of this quick service spectrum. As such, they are witnessing a divide in customer preferences. The younger patrons frequenting these establishments are more likely to embrace self-ordering options, drawn by the convenience and speed these technologies offer. In contrast, the older generation tends to favor the personal interaction, familiarity and convenience of placing orders directly with staff.

The difference in customer preferences across demographics is why it is important for owners of coffee shops and hawker stalls to have a deep understanding of their customer base. The decision to implement self-ordering solutions should be informed by the specific demographics they cater to, as there is no universal answer to whether such self ordering technology is appropriate or beneficial for every establishment.

For instance, a coffee shop or hawker stall whose offerings appeal predominantly to older customers might find that pushing for self-ordering could alienate its core clientele. These customers, less familiar or comfortable with technology, may perceive self-ordering as an inconvenient barrier rather than a boon, leading to a potential loss in patronage.

Conversely, if a coffee shop or hawker stall primarily attracts a younger, more tech-oriented crowd, the introduction of self-ordering solutions can be a strategic move. This demographic is not only more receptive to using technologies like self-ordering kiosks, QR code ordering, and online platforms but might also prefer these modern, efficient modes of service. In such scenarios, adopting self-ordering systems aligns with consumer preferences and can enhance the sustainability and appeal of the business.

In summary, for coffee shops and hawkers in Singapore, the decision to adopt self-ordering systems hinges on a nuanced understanding of their customers' preferences, balancing the allure of modern technology with the charm of traditional service.

If you are looking for self ordering solutions in Singapore, WhatsApp us or send us an enquiry to find out more!

How should F&B businesses deal with a slow economy

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Mon, 22 Jan 2024 03:30:27 GMT

The Food and Beverage (F&B) industry in Singapore, while resilient, often faces economic uncertainties that require adaptive strategies for sustained success. Take for example, when Covid 19 forced countries to shut its borders and Singapore's government implemented the Circuit Breaker, which meant that no one could leave their homes except for essential businesses, many F&B businesses had to shut their doors as they were unable to pull through. Even if F&B businesses were able to pull through the Circuit Breaker, some were still forced to shut as they did not have enough cashflow to keep the business afloat.

This article explores practical advice for F&B owners, offering insights into navigating financial challenges, implementing cost-effective measures, and staying agile in response to evolving consumer behaviors.

Financial Resilience Through Smart Budgeting:

Start by conducting a thorough financial analysis to identify areas where costs can be trimmed without compromising quality. Implement a robust budgeting plan that prioritizes essential expenses while identifying opportunities for savings, such as renegotiating supplier contracts or exploring bulk purchasing discounts.

Diversification of Revenue Streams:

Explore avenues for diversifying revenue streams to reduce dependency on a single source. This might involve introducing new menu items, set meals, launching catering services, setting up your own online ordering or partnering with food delivery platforms to tap into the growing demand for convenient dining options.

Embrace Technology for Operational Efficiency:

Leverage technology to streamline operations and reduce overhead costs. Invest in a Point of Sale (POS) system for efficient order processing, explore self-ordering kiosks to enhance customer experience, and utilize data analytics to identify and capitalize on popular menu items.

Agile Marketing Strategies:

Adapt marketing strategies to the changing landscape. Embrace digital marketing channels, engage with customers on social media, and consider loyalty programs to retain existing patrons. Tailor promotions and discounts to align with economic conditions, ensuring they resonate with cost-conscious consumers.

Optimized Workforce Management:

Review staffing requirements and optimize workforce management to align with customer demand. Cross-train staff to handle multiple roles, implement flexible scheduling, and consider part-time or temporary hires during peak hours to manage labor costs effectively.

Negotiate with Suppliers:

Engage in open communication with suppliers to negotiate favorable terms. Seek extended payment terms to help with business cashflow, explore bulk purchase discounts, and consider local sourcing options to reduce transportation costs. Building strong relationships with suppliers can lead to mutually beneficial arrangements.

Community Engagement and Customer Loyalty:

Foster a sense of community for your F&B establishment. Engage with local communities through events, collaborations, and sponsorships. Create customer loyalty programs to encourage repeat business, offering exclusive deals and rewards to your most valued patrons.

One way you could make managing loyalty programs simpler for you is by using a CRM solution that helps you automate loyalty points management, automated promotions, membership tier management and Voucher management.

Monitor and Adapt to Changing Consumer Behaviors:

Be updated about shifting consumer behaviors and preferences. Regularly analyze sales data, solicit customer feedback, and adapt your offerings accordingly. This flexibility ensures your F&B business remains aligned with evolving consumer expectations.

In navigating economic uncertainties, resilience and adaptability are key for F&B businesses in Singapore. By implementing smart budgeting, diversifying revenue streams, embracing technology, optimizing workforce management, and staying connected with the community, F&B owners can position their establishments for sustained success even in challenging times. Remember, the ability to adapt and innovate often distinguishes thriving businesses from the rest in a dynamic economic landscape.

If you are in the marketing for F&B solutions such as a self ordering kiosk , QR ordering or CRM solution , WhatsApp us or drop us as enquiry !

Navigating food safety: A guide for F&B businesses in Singapore

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Thu, 11 Jan 2024 08:52:24 GMT

Maintaining the highest standards of food safety is not only a commitment to customer well-being but also a legal requirement. In Singapore, there are strict laws and penalties that are put in place to ensure F&B businesses keep up hygiene. Penalties range from hefty fines to heavy to suspension of operations.

This comprehensive guide outlines key practices, licensing needs, and strategies for F&B establishments to effectively manage food safety, ensuring compliance with Singapore's F&B food safety stringent regulations.

Understanding Regulatory Requirements:

Familiarize yourself with the licensing requirements set forth by the National Environment Agency (NEA). A valid Food Shop License is mandatory for all F&B establishments, and it must be prominently displayed within the premises. Additionally, specific licenses may be required for establishments handling specific types of food, such as seafood or perishable items.

Obtaining a Food Shop License in Singapore (SFA License) is a vital process for F&B establishments to operate legally and meet stringent food safety standards. Eligibility and classification, document preparation, and ensuring all food handlers undergo the Basic Food Hygiene Course are initial steps. Submission of the application through the NEA's online portal initiates an inspection by NEA officers, focusing on hygiene and safety standards. Successful inspection leads to the issuance of the license, prominently displayed within the premises. Licenses must be renewed annually, requiring continuous compliance with food safety regulations. Specific regulations may apply based on the type of establishment, such as hawker stalls or caterers, emphasizing the importance of understanding and adhering to these guidelines for sustained legal and operational success.

Employee Training and Hygiene Practices:

Ensure that all staff members involved in food handling undergo the Basic Food Hygiene Course, a mandatory training program recognized by the NEA. This course covers essential topics such as personal hygiene, proper food handling, and safe food storage practices. Also, do ensure that employees handling food with the Basic Food Hygiene Course get their certification renewed by going for a renewal course every 10 years.

It is only an exception for staff who have just gotten their Basic Food Hygiene certification the first time to go for their refresher in 5 years and subsequently in 10 years.

Here are some places where you can enrol yourself or your staff for the Basic Food Hygiene Certification level 1 or refresher course:

Temperature Control and Storage:

Adhere to the NEA's Food Code, which outlines temperature control guidelines for the storage, preparation, and serving of food. Regularly calibrate refrigeration and cooking equipment to comply with stipulated temperature standards and keep foods fresh.

Regular Inspections and Audits:

Be prepared for regular inspections by NEA officers, who assess compliance with food safety practices. The NEA may also conduct unannounced inspections, emphasizing the importance of maintaining consistent adherence to hygiene and safety practices at all times.

On top of that, in Singapore's camera happy and society, bad and unhygienic practices by you or your staff can easily make its way online. Once it starts it spreads like wildfire, not only will your business reputation suffer, but authorities may take action against your F&B business.

Allergen Management:

Comply with SFA guidelines on allergen management, ensuring accurate labeling of allergens on menus. Staff members should be well-versed in handling allergen-related queries from customers, demonstrating a commitment to providing safe dining experiences.

To read more on protecting your customers from allergens, you could click here to find out more!

Implementing HACCP Principles:

Consider adopting the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) principles, a systematic approach to identifying and controlling potential hazards. While not a legal requirement, incorporating HACCP principles showcases a proactive commitment to food safety.

Here is a link to HACCP practices for your reference!

Regular Equipment Maintenance:

Schedule routine maintenance for kitchen equipment as part of your food safety management plan. Keep records of maintenance activities, which may be reviewed during inspections to ensure the ongoing functionality and safety of your equipment.

Traceability and Recordkeeping:

Maintain meticulous records of your food sources, supplier information, and production processes. This is not only a best practice for food safety but also assists in traceability in the event of a food safety concern.

Compliance with licensing requirements and stringent food safety practices is essential for success in Singapore's F&B industry. Beyond obtaining the necessary licenses, prioritizing employee training, temperature control, allergen management, and proactive measures like HACCP establishes your commitment to providing safe and high-quality food. Stay informed about regulatory updates, undergo regular training, and create a culture of food safety to ensure the long-term success and reputation of your F&B business in Singapore.

If you are setting up your F&B shop and looking to get a POS system, WhatsApp us or click here to send us an enquiry!

Tech Meets Taste: Elevating Your Restaurant Experience with Self-Ordering Technology

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Thu, 04 Jan 2024 09:27:11 GMT

In the dynamic Food and Beverage (F&B) industry, the integration of technology has redefined the dining experience and also a restaurant or cafe's operation processes. One notable innovation that combines tech with taste is the integration of self-ordering systems. This article explores the seamless incorporation of self-ordering kiosks, QR ordering, and POS systems into your restaurant or cafe, highlighting the myriad benefits for both patrons and owners.

Efficiency Redefined with POS Systems:

The introduction of Point of Sale (POS) systems has revolutionized how restaurants manage orders, payments, and inventory. Integrating a POS system streamlines transactions, allowing for efficient order processing, accurate sales tracking, and improved inventory management.

Interactive Ordering with Self-Ordering Kiosks

Self-ordering kiosks empower customers to take control of their dining experience. These interactive touchpoints enable patrons to browse menus, customize orders, and securely complete transactions, reducing wait times and enhancing the overall efficiency of the ordering process.

QR Ordering for a Touchless Experience

In the era of heightened hygiene awareness, QR ordering provides a touchless solution for diners. By scanning QR codes, customers can access digital menus, place orders, and make payments using their smartphones. This not only adds a modern touch but also aligns with evolving customer expectations.

Tailoring the Experience for Restaurants and Cafes:

Whether you run a bustling restaurant or a cozy cafe, self-ordering technology can be tailored to fit your specific needs. From quick-service establishments to fine dining, the flexibility of these systems ensures a seamless integration that complements the unique atmosphere of your F&B business.

Enhancing Customer Satisfaction:

The integration of self-ordering technology isn't just about efficiency; it's also about enhancing customer satisfaction. The ability to customize orders, explore menu options at their own pace, and enjoy a touchless experience contributes to an overall positive dining experience.

Operational Streamlining for F&B Success:

Beyond customer-facing benefits, these technologies contribute to operational streamlining. From reducing order errors to optimizing staff resources, the integration of POS systems, self-ordering kiosks, and QR ordering positions your restaurant or cafe for success in the competitive F&B landscape.

Conclusion:

As technology continues to advance, the integration of self-ordering systems, POS solutions, and QR ordering into the restaurant experience is not just a trend but a strategic move towards operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. By embracing these innovations, restaurants and cafes can meet the expectations of a tech-savvy clientele while creating a streamlined and enjoyable dining environment. Tech truly meets taste in the seamless fusion of cutting-edge solutions with the culinary delights your establishment has to offer.

If you are looking for self ordering kiosks and QR ordering solutions, WhatsApp us or send in an enquiry to get in touch!

From Order to Table: The Seamless Journey of Self-Ordering for F&B

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Wed, 27 Dec 2023 10:36:09 GMT

In the dynamic landscape of the Food & Beverage (F&B) industry, the evolution of dining experiences has been marked by the integration of cutting-edge technologies. This article looks into the journey of self-ordering systems, exploring the intricate process from placing an order to the moment it arrives at your table. See how self-ordering, self-ordering kiosks, and QR ordering, transforming the way we dine.

The Rise of Self-Ordering in F&B

Empowering Customers:

Self-ordering systems redefine the dining paradigm by placing unprecedented control in the hands of patrons, marking a profound shift toward customer empowerment. With intuitive interfaces, diners transition from passive observers to active participants, perusing menus dynamically and exploring culinary options at their own pace. This newfound autonomy extends to the customization of orders, allowing individuals to tailor each dish to their unique preferences and dietary requirements. From adjusting portion sizes to selecting specific ingredients, customers are no longer constrained by traditional menus, enjoying a personalized gastronomic journey that aligns seamlessly with their tastes. This customer-centric approach fosters a relaxed and enjoyable dining atmosphere, where patrons savor not just the flavors on their plates but also the freedom to shape their culinary experience according to their desires.

Browsing and customizing at customer's own pace:

Self ordering systems allow customers to take their time exploring digital menus without the social pressure of wanting to quickly complete their order when a staff is taking orders from them. It is easy for them to change and modify their orders, making sure they get exactly what they like to eat.

This way, choosing a meal becomes a personal experience with tasty options just the way customers prefer.

Types of self ordering systems

Self-Ordering Kiosks

Self ordering kiosks bring about a convenience to customers, enabling them to make orders and payments through user friendly interfaces. The self ordering kiosk's intuitive and engaging interfaces encourages patrons to explore your F&B menu allowing them to discover new dishes which increases bill sizes. Self order kiosks also facilitates order modification ensuring seamless order placement.

This is how self ordering kiosks streamlines the ordering process and contributes to an enhanced overall dining journey, where patrons effortlessly navigate choices and customize their orders with newfound ease.

QR Ordering

QR ordering is a game-changer in the self-ordering technology. It revolutionizes the traditional F&B dining experience. Patrons can effortlessly scan QR codes and browse an interactive and intuitive digital menu on their smartphones.

With QR ordering, the ordering process is made much more convenient for customers which makes them more likely to explore, customize, and place their orders, thereby helping F&B businesses increase bill sizes, boost order taking efficiency, & elevate the entire dining experience.

Behind the Scenes: How Orders are Processed

Seamless Communication with the Kitchen:

Behind the scenes of self-ordering, the orders are sent digitally to the kitchen in real time. This helps the kitchen staff prepare orders with accuracy. With quick digital communication between self ordering and the kitchen, waiting time is reduced, which boosts table turn over and service times which is beneficial to both F&B owners and their customers.

The Future of Dining: Embracing Technological Elegance

With self-ordering kiosks QR ordering, the F&B industry and customer dining experience is evolving from pen and paper ordering and order management to fully digitalised, convenient and personalised self ordering. The integration of POS, self ordering systems and kitchen systems isn't just cool; it's changing how we dine out.

Looking to digitalise your F&B business's ordering process with self ordering systems? Click here to contact us and understand more about self ordering kiosks, QR ordering & online ordering systems for F&B businesses!

Scan, Order, Enjoy: The Seamless World of QR Code Dining

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Tue, 12 Dec 2023 07:39:41 GMT

In the rapidly evolving landscape of dining, technology has introduced a seamless and efficient way for patrons to enjoy their favorite meals—QR code ordering. This article explores the convergence of online ordering , QR ordering , and self-ordering in the Food & Beverage (F&B) industry, unveiling the effortless and enjoyable experience it brings to modern dining.

The QR Code Revolution

Ever since Covid-19 happened, QR codes became popular in Singapore due to the TraceTogether check-ins. A once foreign concept of scanning QR codes to open up an app, perform a function on a user's smartphone, or to place orders, have become a common everyday technology.

This has allowed the traditional menu experience to undergo a digital makeover, and QR code ordering is at the forefront of this culinary revolution. With a simple scan, patrons gain access to a world of menu options, promotions, and tailored experiences, creating a dining journey that begins at the touch of their fingertips.

Convenience of Online Ordering

In the age of digital convenience, online ordering has become a staple for F&B establishments. The seamless integration of QR codes takes this a step further, allowing customers to navigate menus, place orders, and make payments from the comfort of their smartphones. This not only streamlines the process but also caters to the preferences of tech-savvy consumers.

What benefits do QR ordering bring to restaurants

Accessibility and Efficiency:

QR codes eliminate the need for physical menus, providing F&B patrons with instant access to digital menus and the convenience of browsing at their own pace.

Contactless Transactions:

In a world increasingly conscious of hygiene, QR code ordering minimizes physical contact. From perusing the menu to payment, the entire process is touchless and secure.

Personalized Experiences:

QR codes open the door to personalized promotions and exclusive offers. By tailoring incentives based on individual preferences, F&B establishments can create a more engaging and rewarding experience for their patrons.

Conclusion: A Culinary Future Unveiled

In conclusion, QR code dining epitomizes the marriage of technology and gastronomy, providing a seamless and enjoyable experience for both patrons and F&B establishments. As online ordering, QR ordering, and self-ordering continue to shape the future of dining, embracing these innovations positions F&B businesses at the forefront of culinary excellence. Scan, order, and enjoy—the world of QR code dining awaits, creating a culinary journey that's as effortless as it is delightful.

Are you looking for a QR Ordering solution for your business? Click here to learn more about QR ordering solutions today!

How SEO can help neighbourhood restaurants/F&B businesses

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Fri, 24 Nov 2023 10:17:12 GMT

Traditionally, when F&B businesses decide to set up shop in neighbourhood areas (not heartland areas where malls catered to neighbourhoods are located) they forgo the centralised location of heartland areas and town areas for cheaper overhead such as rent. As such, neighbourhood F&B businesses, are only able to reach residents around the neighbourhood. The way which they are able to reach their target consumers outside of their neighbourhood will usually only be through word of mouth recommendations.

However as consumers are now increasingly tech savvy and often discover new restaurants and cafes online. Hence, the success of neighborhood restaurants are able to reach a wider target audience through the online realm. Local SEO (Search Engine Optimization) has emerged as a powerful tool, connecting restaurants with their community and beyond. In this article, we'll delve into the influential role of local SEO for neighborhood restaurants, with a particular focus on the game-changing aspect of online orders.

Unlocking the Potential of Local SEO:

Local SEO is not just a buzzword; it's an essential for neighborhood restaurants looking to stand out in a crowded online landscape. Optimizing for local searches ensures that when someone in the vicinity is craving a delicious meal, your restaurant is among the top search results.

Mastering the Art of Online Visibility:

For restaurants and cafes, being easily discoverable online is akin to having an inviting storefront. Local SEO strategies, including Google My Business optimization and local keyword incorporation, such as "Prawn Noodle Singapore", "Delicious Prawn Noodle in Kallang with Rebillable Soup", can help your F&B business get to the top few of search engine results, making it more likely that locals will find your restaurant or cafe.

Seamless Online Ordering Experience:

Since you are already putting in effort to make your restaurant or cafe more discoverable by clients, why not include an online ordering link in your website or social media pages for customers to order online!

For consumers nowadays, convenience is important. Local SEO influences online ordering by ensuring that your restaurant is prominently featured when users search for "online order" or "restaurant near me." This heightened visibility translates to increased digital traffic and, ultimately, more online orders. So why not maximise your SEO efforts by enabling customers to order from you when they discover your business online!

Google My Business: Your Digital Storefront:

A Google My Business (GMB) profile that is set up well serves as a virtual storefront that entices customers to explore your menu and place online orders. From accurate business hours to mouth-watering food photos, every detail contributes to a strong GMB experience for potential customers, giving your restaurant or cafe an edge over your competitors.

Local Keywords: The Secret Sauce of Visibility:

Incorporating local keywords specific to your neighborhood is the secret sauce for dominating local search results. Craft your online content with phrases like "cafe in [your neighborhood]" or "best restaurant near [landmark]" to ensure your restaurant surfaces when locals are searching for their next dining destination.

Building a Community Connection:

Local SEO is not just about search rankings; it's about fostering a sense of community. Engage with your local audience through social media, respond to reviews promptly, and showcase your community involvement. This not only boosts your online reputation but also strengthens the bond between your restaurant and the neighborhood.

Encouraging Positive Reviews:

Many potential customers, when discovering a new restaurant or cafe online, will look at online reviews as a way to validate an F&B business's quality. Therefore, local SEO strategies should include encouraging satisfied customers to leave good reviews on platforms like Google. Not only do positive reviews influence potential customers, but they also contribute to higher search engine rankings.

In the competitive landscape of neighborhood restaurants, the power of local SEO cannot be overstated. By optimizing for local searches, mastering online visibility, and seamlessly integrating online ordering, restaurants and cafes can create a digital presence that not only attracts hungry locals but also builds a lasting connection with the community. Embrace the potential of local SEO to unlock a world of opportunities for your neighborhood restaurant.

If you are looking to get an online ordering system for your restaurant or cafe, click here to get in touch with us!

The Art of Staff Training: Building a Skilled and Motivated Team in Your F&B Business

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Mon, 09 Oct 2023 09:42:31 GMT

Your team is the backbone of your success. From the bustling kitchens to the welcoming front-of-house staff, your employees are the ones who bring your culinary vision to life. To ensure your F&B business thrives, it's essential to invest in staff training and development. This article explores the art of staff training, helping you build a skilled and motivated team that elevates your F&B establishment to new heights.

The Foundation of Success: Skilled Staff

1. Crafting Culinary Excellence

Your kitchen staff forms the heart of your restaurant or cafe. To deliver exceptional dishes consistently, invest in culinary training. Encourage your chefs to attend workshops, experiment with new ingredients, and master various cooking techniques and come up with new dishes for the menu periodically to keep customers interested as well. This commitment to culinary excellence will set your F&B business apart.

2. Service with a Smile

Exceptional customer service is non-negotiable in the F&B industry. Your front-of-house staff should undergo rigorous service training, focusing on communication skills, attentiveness, and conflict resolution. A well-trained team can turn a one-time visitor into a loyal customer.

3. Mastery of Technology

In the digital age, technology plays a vital role in F&B operations. Training your staff to use self-ordering kiosks and QR ordering systems efficiently can streamline service, reduce errors, and enhance the customer experience. Embrace technology as a tool for efficiency and convenience.

The Heart of Your Business: Motivated Team Members

1. Empowerment through Knowledge

Knowledge is empowering. Encourage your team to expand their understanding of the F&B industry. Provide opportunities for ongoing education, whether through workshops, seminars, or online courses. When your employees feel knowledgeable and confident, they perform better.

2. Recognition and Rewards

Recognize and reward outstanding performance. Implement a system that acknowledges hard work and dedication. From Employee of the Month awards to performance-based incentives, these initiatives motivate your team to consistently excel.

3. Clear Career Paths

A motivated team is one that sees a future within your F&B business. Create clear career development paths for your employees. Offer opportunities for advancement, additional responsibilities, and leadership roles. When staff members have a reason to grow with your business, they stay committed.

To ensure your F&B business thrives, incorporate these essential training and motivation strategies. By crafting a skilled and motivated team, you set the stage for culinary excellence and exceptional customer service. Customers will return not only for the delicious food but also for the welcoming smiles and seamless service they experience.

Remember, the success of your F&B business starts with the dedication and passion of your team. Invest in their growth, empower them with knowledge, and reward their hard work. As you build a skilled and motivated team, your restaurant, cafe, or F&B establishment will flourish in today's competitive market.

If you are looking for a F&B pos system, self ordering kiosks or QR ordering? Click here to get in touch with and find out more!

How to maximise the potential of your F&B online ordering

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Fri, 15 Sep 2023 09:30:47 GMT

In the ever-evolving landscape of the food and beverage (F&B) industry, adapting to changing consumer preferences and technological advancements is paramount. The emergence of online food delivery and digital ordering has revolutionized the way customers interact with restaurants, cafes, and takeaway food kiosks. This shift offers tremendous opportunities for F&B businesses to expand their reach, enhance customer experiences, and boost profitability.

The Rise of Online Food Delivery

The convenience of online food delivery has made it a popular choice among modern consumers. Whether you run a restaurant, cafe, or takeaway kiosk, embracing this trend can significantly impact your business. Let's explore the key components of harnessing the power of online food delivery for your F&B establishment.

QR Ordering: Streamlining the Ordering Process

QR ordering, a digital ordering method using Quick Response codes, has gained immense popularity. Customers can simply scan a QR code placed on tables, menus, or promotional materials to access your restaurant's digital menu and place orders using their smartphones. This innovative approach minimizes physical contact, enhances efficiency, and provides a seamless ordering experience. Integrating QR ordering into your establishment can set you apart from competitors and attract tech-savvy diners.

Online Ordering Platforms: Expanding Your Reach

Online ordering platforms have become a lifeline for many F&B businesses. These third-party applications and websites allow customers to browse menus, place orders, and arrange deliveries or pickups effortlessly. Partnering with established online ordering platforms can expose your business to a broader audience, helping you tap into new customer segments and increase revenue. Ensure that your menu is visually appealing and your pricing competitive to stand out in the digital marketplace.

Self-Ordering Kiosks: Enhancing Efficiency

Self-ordering kiosks are another game-changer in the F&B industry. These interactive touch-screen devices empower customers to browse menu items, customize orders, and pay conveniently. Implementing self-ordering kiosks can streamline your operations, reduce order errors, and boost table turnover rates. Moreover, customers appreciate the autonomy and speed that kiosks offer, resulting in improved satisfaction and loyalty.

Integration and Adaptation: The Key to Success

To harness the full potential of online food delivery, it's crucial to integrate these technologies seamlessly into your business operations. Invest in user-friendly interfaces, mobile apps, and backend systems that facilitate order management, kitchen coordination, and delivery logistics. Regularly update your online menu, ensuring accuracy and reflecting any seasonal or promotional changes. Embrace customer feedback and analytics to refine your digital offerings continually.

Conclusion

In the digital age, online food delivery has evolved from a convenience to a necessity for F&B businesses. Embracing QR ordering, online ordering platforms, self-ordering kiosks, and other digital innovations can position your establishment for success in an increasingly competitive landscape. By prioritizing customer convenience and efficient operations, you'll not only survive but thrive in the evolving world of food delivery.

As you embark on this transformative journey, remember that staying agile and adaptable is key. Keep pace with emerging technologies, monitor industry trends, and prioritize customer satisfaction. By doing so, you'll be well-equipped to harness the power of online food delivery and drive your F&B business to new heights in the digital era.

If you are looking for a self ordering kiosk, QR ordering system and online ordering system for your F&B business, click here to contact us today!

Why self ordering lead to larger order order sizes

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Fri, 08 Sep 2023 09:18:46 GMT

One transformative technology that has been gaining significant traction is self-ordering, and it's not just about convenience, it's also a powerful tool for increasing average bill sizes. In this article, we'll explore how self-ordering, including QR ordering and self-ordering kiosks , can elevate your F&B establishment's revenue.

Empowering Customers with Choices

Self-ordering technology empowers customers to explore your menu comprehensively. With a few taps on their smartphones or through user-friendly kiosks, they can access a visual, interactive menu that showcases your offerings in all their glory. This accessibility encourages customers to discover items they might have otherwise missed.

Upselling Made Easy

QR ordering and self-ordering kiosks are excellent at suggestive selling. They can intelligently recommend complementary items, upgrades, or add-ons based on the customer's initial selections. For example, if a customer orders a burger, the system can prompt them to add fries and a drink for a bundled discount. This upselling tactic gently nudges customers toward higher-value orders.

Visual Appeal Boosts Appetite

A picture is worth a thousand words, and self-ordering platforms leverage this maxim. High-quality images and vibrant descriptions of your dishes can tantalize customers' taste buds and make them more likely to order additional items that catch their eye.

Convenience Equals More Orders

The ease of self-ordering is undeniable. Customers can take their time browsing the menu, customizing their orders, and making informed choices. This convenience often leads to an increase in the number of items ordered, driving up the average bill size.

Accurate Orders and Fewer Returns

Self-ordering technology minimizes order errors. Customers can review their orders before confirming, reducing the likelihood of mistakes. This accuracy not only enhances the dining experience but also eliminates the need to comp or replace items due to order inaccuracies.

Personalization for Preferences

QR ordering and self-ordering kiosks can store customer preferences and order histories. This data enables businesses to personalize recommendations, offering items that align with each customer's past choices. A tailored approach encourages customers to explore new options while staying loyal to their favorites.

Streamlined Checkout Process

Self-ordering streamlines the checkout process, reducing waiting times. With less time spent in line, customers are more likely to order additional items they may have hesitated to purchase during peak hours.

Cashless Payment Convenience

Many self-ordering systems support mobile payments, making it convenient for customers to pay using their preferred digital wallets or credit cards. This frictionless payment experience encourages customers to add more items to their order without worrying about cash or physical cards.

Improved Table Turnover

For restaurants, self-ordering can lead to faster table turnover, allowing you to serve more customers during busy periods. This increased efficiency can significantly impact your revenue potential.

Capturing Valuable Data

Self-ordering systems capture valuable customer data, such as order history and preferences. This information can inform your marketing efforts, enabling you to create targeted promotions and loyalty programs that drive repeat business and larger orders.

In conclusion, self-ordering technology, whether through QR ordering or self-ordering kiosks, is a game-changer for the F&B industry. By enhancing customer experiences, providing convenience, and facilitating upselling, it has the potential to significantly boost your average bill sizes. To thrive in the competitive F&B landscape, consider embracing self-ordering as a valuable tool for increasing your revenue.

If you are looking for self ordering solutions such as QR ordering and self ordering kiosks for your F&B business, click here to schedule a free demo with us!

How important is customer experience in F&B

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Wed, 30 Aug 2023 03:45:46 GMT

In the world of the Food and Beverage (F&B) industry it's not just about serving delicious food; it's about creating memorable moments that keep customers coming back for more. From the moment a customer enters your establishment to the last bite they take, every interaction contributes to the overall customer experience. So, why is customer experience so crucial in the F&B sector, and how can innovative solutions like QR ordering and self-ordering kiosks enhance it?

Enhancing Customer Satisfaction

Outstanding customer experience is the secret sauce that makes diners more willing to return. From warm greetings to efficient service, every touchpoint shapes the perception of your establishment. The convenience of QR ordering and user-friendly self-ordering kiosks adds an extra layer of satisfaction, allowing customers to navigate menus and place orders seamlessly.

Boosting Brand Loyalty

Loyal customers are the backbone of any successful F&B business. When customers have a positive experience, they're more likely to become repeat patrons. By delivering excellent customer service and embracing technology like QR ordering and self-ordering kiosks, you're investing in creating loyal brand advocates who not only return but also recommend your establishment to friends and family.

Differentiating Your Venue

In a competitive F&B landscape, standing out is essential. Customer experience is a key differentiator that sets your venue apart. The ease of QR ordering and the efficiency of self-ordering kiosks elevate your F&B business's customer experience, creating a memorable experience that customers associate with your brand.

Streamlining Operations

Efficiency is paramount in the F&B industry. QR ordering and self-ordering kiosks streamline the order process, reducing wait times and minimizing errors. This not only enhances customer satisfaction but also optimizes your operations, enabling your staff to focus on delivering exceptional service.

Encouraging Positive Reviews

In the digital age, online reviews can make or break a business. Positive customer experiences translate into glowing reviews that attract new customers. By leveraging technology like QR ordering and self-ordering kiosks, you create a positive impression that customers are eager to share with their networks.

Gathering Customer Insights

Embracing innovative solutions allows you to gather valuable customer insights. QR ordering and self-ordering kiosks provide data on ordering preferences and peak hours. This data can inform menu adjustments and promotional strategies, enhancing your ability to cater to customer preferences.

Evolving with the Times

Customer expectations evolve, and so should your approach. Implementing technology like QR ordering and self-ordering kiosks shows that your establishment is in tune with modern trends, catering to tech-savvy customers and providing a cutting-edge experience.

In conclusion, customer experience is the cornerstone of success in the F&B industry. By prioritizing exceptional customer service, harnessing the power of QR ordering and self-ordering kiosks, you're not just serving food – you're creating an unforgettable journey for your customers. With each interaction, you have the opportunity to delight, differentiate, and define your brand, all while ensuring customers leave with smiles on their faces and plans to return.

If you are looking for QR ordering and self ordering kiosks for your F&B business, click here to arrange a demo with us!

Mastering Social Media for F&B Businesses: A Guide to Effective Online Marketing

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Mon, 10 Jul 2023 10:25:21 GMT

In today's digital age, having a strong online presence is essential for F&B businesses to thrive. With the power of social media marketing, F&B businesses can effectively engage with customers, boost brand awareness, and drive online orders. In this guide, we will explore the key strategies and techniques to master social media marketing for F&B businesses, with a focus on building an effective online presence and maximizing customer engagement through platforms like QR ordering, online ordering, and more.

Build a Strong Online Presence:

Creating a strong online presence is the foundation of successful social media marketing for F&B businesses. Start by establishing profiles on popular social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Optimize your profiles with relevant keywords, appealing visuals, and a compelling description that highlights your unique selling points. Consistency in branding across platforms will help customers recognize and remember your business.

Engage with Your Audience:

Engagement is key to building relationships with your customers and fostering brand loyalty. Respond promptly to comments, messages, and reviews on your social media channels. Encourage customer feedback and actively participate in conversations. By being responsive and attentive, you can build trust and create a positive image for your business.

Utilize QR Ordering and Online Ordering:

QR ordering and online ordering are convenient and popular options for customers to place orders. Implement QR codes on your social media profiles and physical menus to allow customers to quickly access your online ordering system. Ensure that your online ordering process is seamless, user-friendly, and secure. Offer options for pre-order, takeaway orders, and delivery orders to cater to different customer preferences.

Showcase Your Menu and Promotions:

Use social media platforms to showcase mouthwatering images of your menu items. Regularly update your social media feeds with enticing visuals, detailed descriptions, and limited-time promotions to entice customers to visit your establishment or place an order. Encourage user-generated content by sharing customer photos and reviews, which can build trust and attract new customers.

Collaborate with Influencers:

Collaborating with social media influencers can amplify your brand's reach and visibility. Identify local food influencers or bloggers who align with your brand values and target audience. Engage them to promote your business through sponsored posts, reviews, or collaborations. Their recommendations can greatly impact customer perception and drive traffic to your social media platforms.

Run Targeted Ads:

Leverage the power of social media advertising to reach a wider audience. Platforms like Facebook and Instagram offer robust targeting options that allow you to reach specific demographics, interests, and locations. Experiment with different ad formats, such as carousel ads showcasing multiple menu items or video ads highlighting the ambiance of your establishment. Continuously monitor and optimize your ads based on performance metrics to maximize your return on investment.

Conclusion:

Mastering social media marketing is crucial for F&B businesses to establish a strong online presence, engage with customers, and drive online orders. By building a strong online presence, utilizing QR ordering and online ordering, showcasing your menu and promotions, collaborating with influencers, and running targeted ads, you can effectively promote your F&B business and stand out in the competitive digital landscape. Remember to monitor your social media channels regularly, respond to customer feedback, and adapt your strategies based on changing trends and customer preferences. With consistent effort and a well-executed social media marketing strategy, your F&B business can thrive in the digital world and achieve long-term success.

Interested in getting a QR ordering / online ordering solution that you can link up with your social media profiles and get pre-orders, takeaway orders or delivery orders? Click here to contact iMakan! The self ordering solutions provider you can trust.

Creating an F&B Menu That Sells

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Fri, 30 Jun 2023 08:38:00 GMT

In the competitive world of the food and beverage industry, having a well designed menu is crucial for attracting customers and achieving success. A well-designed menu not only showcases your offerings but also influences customer choices and enhances their overall dining experience. By incorporating menu design techniques, understanding menu psychology, and leveraging modern technologies like self-ordering kiosks and QR ordering , you can create a menu that leaves a lasting impression on your customers. In this article, we will explore some valuable tips and tricks to help you craft a menu that sells for your F&B business.

Menu Design: Make it visually appealing

The first step in creating an irresistible menu is to focus on its visual appeal. Use high-quality images that showcase your dishes in an appetizing way. Incorporate an attractive layout with clear sections and headings to enhance readability. Choose fonts and colors that align with your brand identity and evoke the right emotions. A visually appealing menu can capture customers' attention and stimulate their appetite.

Menu Psychology: Strategic placement and descriptions

Understanding menu psychology can greatly influence customer choices. Use strategic placement techniques to draw attention to certain items, such as placing high-profit items in prime spots or using visual cues like boxes or borders. Employ persuasive language in item descriptions, highlighting unique ingredients, flavors, or cooking techniques. Incorporate storytelling to create a connection between the dish and the customer, making it more enticing.

Cater to Customer Preferences: Variety and customization

Offer a diverse range of options to cater to different customer preferences. Include vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or allergy-friendly choices to accommodate various dietary needs. Additionally, consider incorporating customization options that allow customers to personalize their meals. This not only provides a sense of control but also enhances customer satisfaction and encourages repeat visits.

Emphasize Value: Pricing and promotions

Clearly communicate the value proposition of your menu items. Use pricing strategies that align with customer expectations and market standards. Highlight any special promotions or discounts to create a perception of value. Incorporate combo meals or bundle offers to encourage upselling and increase the average customer spend.

Modern Technologies: Self-ordering kiosks and QR ordering

Incorporating modern technologies like self-ordering kiosks and QR ordering can enhance the overall dining experience and streamline operations. Self-ordering kiosks allow customers to browse the menu, customize their orders, and make payments conveniently. QR ordering enables contactless ordering and payment through customers' smartphones. By leveraging these technologies, you can improve efficiency, reduce wait times, and provide a seamless ordering process.

Highlight Signature and Special Items

Give special attention to your signature dishes or unique offerings. Highlight them prominently in your menu to create a sense of exclusivity and intrigue. Use enticing descriptions to captivate customers' curiosity and encourage them to try these standout items. This not only adds excitement to the menu but also helps differentiate your F&B business from competitors.

Seek Feedback and Continuously Update

Regularly seek feedback from your customers to understand their preferences and improve your menu offerings. Analyze sales data and customer reviews to identify popular items and make informed decisions about menu updates. Stay updated with food trends and seasonal ingredients to keep your menu fresh and appealing.

Conclusion

Creating an irresistible menu is a vital aspect of achieving success in the F&B industry. By focusing on menu design, understanding menu psychology, catering to customer preferences, emphasizing value, incorporating modern technologies, and highlighting signature items, you can craft a menu that captures customers' attention and enhances their dining experience. Continuously seek feedback and make necessary updates to stay relevant and meet evolving customer demands. With a well-designed and enticing menu, you can attract customers, drive sales, and establish a strong foothold.

Interested to get self ordering solutions such as self ordering kiosks and QR ordering for your F&B business? Click here to speak with us today!

The Power of Menu Engineering: Maximizing Profits in Your F&B Business

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Mon, 19 Jun 2023 02:37:56 GMT

Menu engineering is a strategic approach that allows F&B businesses to optimize their menus and maximize profitability. By analyzing and making strategic adjustments to menu items, pricing, and placement, businesses can influence customer purchasing behavior, increase average order value, and manage food costs effectively. In this article, we will explore the power of menu engineering and how it can help F&B businesses drive profitability and enhance customer satisfaction.

Analyzing Sales Data and Customer Preferences:

Menu engineering begins with a comprehensive analysis of sales data and customer preferences. By examining data on the popularity and profitability of menu items, businesses can identify top performers, underperforming items, and hidden gems. This analysis helps in making informed decisions about which items to promote, modify, or remove from the menu. Additionally, incorporating customer feedback and preferences gathered through self-ordering kiosks or QR ordering can provide valuable insights to guide menu optimization efforts.

Strategic Placement and Design:

The placement and design of menu items play a crucial role in influencing customer choices. Through menu engineering, businesses strategically position high-profit margin items or signature dishes in prominent locations on the menu. Eye-catching visuals, enticing descriptions, and the strategic use of highlighting techniques can draw attention to these items and increase their desirability. Moreover, leveraging self-ordering kiosks or QR ordering technology can further enhance the visual appeal and interactivity of menus, influencing customers to explore and order more.

Pricing and Profitability:

An essential aspect of menu engineering is optimizing pricing to drive profitability. By analyzing food costs, ingredient prices, and competitive market rates, businesses can set appropriate prices that balance profitability and customer value. Menu engineering techniques such as bundling, tiered pricing, or value-added options can be employed to guide customer choices towards higher-margin items. Self-ordering kiosks and QR ordering platforms can facilitate dynamic pricing adjustments and enable businesses to experiment with pricing strategies to maximize profits.

Promotions and Upselling Opportunities:

Menu engineering provides businesses with opportunities to strategically promote high-margin items and encourage upselling. By leveraging data insights and customer preferences, businesses can design promotions or combo offers that highlight profitable items and incentivize customers to explore complementary options. Through self-ordering kiosks or QR ordering, businesses can automate upselling prompts or recommend add-ons during the ordering process, increasing the likelihood of customers ordering more and driving revenue.

Continuous Monitoring and Adaptation:

Menu engineering is an ongoing process that requires continuous monitoring and adaptation. By regularly reviewing sales data, customer feedback, and market trends, businesses can identify areas for improvement, track the success of menu engineering strategies, and make necessary adjustments. Self-ordering kiosks and QR ordering platforms can provide real-time data on customer preferences and ordering patterns, allowing businesses to stay agile and optimize menus accordingly.

Conclusion:

Menu engineering is a powerful tool that F&B businesses can utilize to drive profitability and enhance customer satisfaction. By analyzing sales data, strategically placing menu items, optimizing pricing, and promoting upselling opportunities, businesses can maximize profits and create a more engaging dining experience. Leveraging self-ordering kiosks and QR ordering platforms can further enhance menu optimization efforts, providing businesses with valuable insights and facilitating seamless customer interactions. Embracing the power of menu engineering enables F&B businesses to thrive in a competitive market and build a loyal customer base.

Interested in a self ordering kiosks or QR ordering for your F&B business? Click here to contact us!

Boosting Efficiency and Profitability: How to Optimize Your F&B Operations

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 09:15:30 GMT

Running a successful F&B business requires more than just good food and excellent service. To stay competitive and maximize profits, it's crucial to focus on optimizing your operations. By improving efficiency and streamlining processes, you can enhance customer satisfaction, reduce costs, and ultimately boost profitability. In this article, we will explore key strategies and techniques to optimize your F&B operations for success.

Effective Staff Scheduling and Training

Efficient staff scheduling is essential for smooth operations. Analyze your peak hours and allocate staff accordingly to avoid overstaffing or understaffing. Utilize employee scheduling software to streamline the process and ensure optimal staffing levels.

Investing in staff training is equally important. Well-trained employees are more productive, deliver better customer service, and contribute to a positive working environment. Provide ongoing training to enhance skills, promote cross-training, and foster a culture of continuous improvement.

Menu Engineering and Inventory Management

Menu engineering involves strategically pricing and positioning menu items to maximize profitability. Analyze your menu to identify high-margin dishes and promote them effectively. Consider removing or repositioning low-margin items that contribute little to overall revenue.

Implementing efficient inventory management practices can significantly impact your bottom line. Regularly monitor inventory levels, optimize stock rotation, and minimize wastage. Leverage technology such as POS systems with inventory tracking features to streamline inventory management.

Streamlined Ordering and Payment Processes

Optimize your ordering and payment processes to enhance efficiency and customer experience. Consider implementing self-ordering kiosks or QR ordering to reduce wait times and increase order accuracy. Offer multiple payment options, including contactless payments and online payment gateways, to cater to diverse customer preferences.

Data-Driven Decision Making

Leverage data to make informed decisions and identify areas for improvement. Utilize analytics tools to track sales, customer preferences, and operational metrics. Analyze the data to identify trends, understand customer behavior, and optimize various aspects of your operations, such as menu offerings, marketing campaigns, and resource allocation.

Efficient Supply Chain Management

Effective supply chain management is crucial for cost control and timely delivery of ingredients. Build strong relationships with suppliers, negotiate favorable terms, and explore bulk purchasing options. Regularly review and optimize your supply chain processes to minimize delays and reduce costs.

Embrace Technology Solutions

Invest in technology solutions tailored for F&B businesses to streamline operations and enhance efficiency. Implement a robust POS system that integrates with inventory management, kitchen display systems, and customer relationship management tools. Leverage automation and digital solutions for tasks such as order processing, inventory tracking, and customer communication.

Conclusion

Efficiency and profitability are the cornerstones of a successful F&B business. By optimizing your operations through effective staff management, menu engineering, streamlined processes, data-driven decision making, supply chain management, and leveraging technology solutions, you can achieve higher profitability and gain a competitive edge in the industry. Remember, continuous evaluation and improvement are key to ensuring long-term success. Take the necessary steps today to boost efficiency and profitability in your F&B operations and pave the way for a thriving business.

Interested in getting self ordering kiosks, QR Ordering solutions to boost your F&B busines's operation efficiency? Click here to get in touch with us!

The Benefits of QR Ordering for Self Collection in F&B Businesses

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Fri, 28 Apr 2023 09:56:46 GMT

In today's fast-paced world, customers are always on the go and constantly looking for ways to save time. F&B businesses, such as restaurants and cafes, are recognizing this need and turning to technology to provide a solution. QR ordering is a relatively new concept that has become increasingly popular among F&B businesses, as it offers the convenience of pre-ordering and self-collection.

In this article, we will explore the benefits of QR ordering for F&B businesses, and how it can help streamline operations and improve the customer experience.

Pre-Ordering Made Easy

With QR ordering , customers can easily pre-order their meals before arriving at the restaurant or cafe. This not only saves them time but also allows them to choose their preferred pickup time, ensuring their meals are ready upon arrival. This eliminates the need for customers to wait in long lines or for their food to be prepared, improving the overall customer experience.

Streamlined Operations

QR ordering not only benefits customers but also F&B businesses. By allowing customers to pre-order and self-collect, it reduces the workload on staff, allowing them to focus on other tasks, such as food preparation and customer service. This, in turn, helps improve order accuracy and reduces wait times, ensuring that customers receive their meals promptly and accurately.

Contactless Transactions

In today's world, contactless transactions have become the norm, and F&B businesses are no exception. QR ordering allows for a contactless transaction, as customers can easily pre-order and pay through their mobile devices, eliminating the need for cash transactions or physical contact with staff. This helps promote social distancing and ensures a safe and hygienic dining experience for customers.

Improved Sales and Customer Loyalty

QR ordering not only streamlines operations but also provides an opportunity for F&B businesses to increase sales and improve customer loyalty. By offering pre-ordering and self-collection, businesses can serve more customers and generate more sales within a shorter period.

Additionally, satisfied customers are more likely to return, leading to increased customer loyalty and repeat business.

Cost-Effective Solution

Adopting QR ordering may seem like a costly investment for F&B businesses, but it can actually be a cost-effective solution in the long run. By streamlining operations and reducing wait times, businesses can serve more customers and generate more revenue. Additionally, the implementation of QR ordering is relatively simple and does not require a significant investment in infrastructure or hardware.

In conclusion, QR ordering for self-collection is a game-changer for F&B businesses. By offering a convenient, streamlined, and contactless solution, businesses can improve the customer experience, streamline operations, and increase sales. The benefits of QR ordering are undeniable, and F&B businesses should consider implementing this technology to stay competitive and meet the changing needs of their customers.

If you are looking for a QR Ordering system to provide pre-ordering to your customers, click here to get in touch with us!

iMakan Self-Ordering Kiosks in F&B: A Cost-Effective Solution for Business Owners

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Wed, 05 Apr 2023 03:34:59 GMT

Self-ordering kiosks are becoming increasingly popular in the food and beverage industry, particularly in cafes and restaurants. These technological innovations are revolutionizing the way customers place their orders, pay for their meals and interact with the establishment. In this article, we will explore the benefits of self-ordering kiosks in F&B and how they can be a cost-effective solution for business owners.

What are self ordering kiosks

Self-ordering kiosks are touch screen machines that allow customers to place their orders and make payments without the need for human interaction. Self ordering kiosks are especially useful in busy establishments, as it can open up more order taking terminals to reduce queues, wait times, and manpower costs.

From a customer's point of view, the convenience, speed of self-ordering kiosks, the ability to fully control their own ordering process and make payments through cashless methods greatly elevates their customer journey.

Automated upselling

Cafes and restaurants that use self-ordering kiosks can also benefit from increased sales and profitability. Self ordering kiosks can be programmed to upsell additional items, such as side dishes, drinks, and desserts, to customers. Apart from increasing bill sizes, self ordering kiosks reduces costs of food wastage by improving order accuracy, as they eliminate the risk of human error when taking orders.

Solve manpower issues

Another significant advantage of self-ordering kiosks is that they free up staff to focus on other essential tasks, such as food preparation and customer service. This means that businesses can reduce staffing costs, hire fewer staff, or allocate existing staff to more important areas. As a result, establishments can improve their operational efficiency, save money, and allocate resources more effectively.

Elevate customer experience

Self-ordering kiosks are also highly customizable and flexible, allowing businesses to tailor them to their specific needs. They can be integrated with point-of-sale systems, loyalty programs, and marketing campaigns, allowing businesses to collect valuable data on customer behavior and preferences. This data can then be used to optimize menus, promotions, and marketing strategies.

Conclusion

In conclusion, self-ordering kiosks are a cost-effective solution for F&B businesses looking to improve their operational efficiency, reduce staffing costs, and increase profitability. By providing customers with a convenient and personalized ordering experience, businesses can also improve customer satisfaction and loyalty. As technology continues to advance, self-ordering kiosks are set to become even more prevalent in the food and beverage industry, and businesses that embrace this technology can gain a significant advantage over their competitors.

Looking for a self ordering kiosk with powerful integration possibilities? Click here to speak with us!

How Self Ordering Kiosks have influenced F&B customer buying behaviour

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Fri, 31 Mar 2023 06:23:58 GMT

With the advent of technology, the food and beverage industry has seen a rapid transformation in recent years. Self-ordering kiosks are one such innovation that has gained widespread popularity in the industry. These kiosks have transformed the traditional ordering process by allowing customers to place their own orders, customize their meals, and pay for their meals with ease. In this article, we will explore how self-ordering kiosks have influenced customer buying behavior in the F&B industry.

Giving customers more control over their orders

One of the significant advantages of self-ordering kiosks is that they provide customers with more control over their orders. Customers can browse through the menu at their own pace, select the items they want to order, and customize their meals as per their preferences. They can also see the price of each item and the total cost of their order, which helps them make informed decisions. This level of control has made the ordering process more comfortable and convenient for customers, leading to a positive impact on their overall experience.

When customers use self-ordering kiosks, they tend to spend more

Studies have shown that customers tend to spend more when using self-ordering kiosks compared to traditional ordering methods. According to a recent report by Tillster, customers using self-ordering kiosks at quick-service restaurants spend an average of 30% more per order. The report also found that customers are more likely to order additional items or upgrades when using kiosks compared to when they order from a cashier.

Taco Bell recently announced that orders made via their new digital app are 20% pricier than those taken by human cashiers, largely because people select additional ingredients. This increase in bill sizes is because kiosks never forget to upsell, and customers are open to ordering more when they are not doing so through a cashier staff.

The ease of use and convenience of self-ordering kiosks have also led to an increase in repeat customers. Customers who have had a positive experience with self-ordering kiosks are more likely to return to the same restaurant and use the kiosk again. This increase in repeat business is a significant advantage for restaurant owners.

Conclusion

Self-ordering kiosks have transformed the F&B industry by providing customers with more control over their orders, making the ordering process more comfortable and convenient. The ease of use and convenience of these kiosks have also led to an increase in bill sizes and repeat customers. Restaurants that have not yet implemented self-ordering kiosks are missing out on an opportunity to enhance the customer experience and increase revenue. With the current trend of digitalization, the adoption of self-ordering kiosks will only continue to grow in the future.

Looking for self ordering kiosks for your F&B business? Click here to contact us for a demo!

Why is F&B self ordering solutions so important in 2023

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Mon, 20 Feb 2023 11:06:53 GMT

In today's fast-paced digital age, self-service technology is becoming increasingly popular in various industries, especially in the food and beverage industry. With the increasing need for speed, efficiency, and convenience, restaurants and cafes are turning to self-ordering solutions like QR ordering and self-ordering kiosks to meet their customers' needs.

The value of QR ordering

QR ordering has become a common feature in many restaurants and cafes. This self-service solution allows customers to scan a QR code using their smartphones to access the restaurant's menu, place an order, and make a payment. As more people use their smartphones to access services and products, QR ordering provides a convenient way for restaurants and cafes to enhance their customers' ordering experience.

According to a study, QR code usage grew by 96% in 2018 to 2020. This surge can be attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced many restaurants to adopt contactless ordering and payment methods. QR ordering has not only provided a safer way for customers to place orders and make payments, but it has also enabled restaurants and cafes to adapt to the changing business landscape.

The value of self ordering kiosks

Self-ordering kiosks are another self-service solution that is gaining popularity in the food and beverage industry. These interactive kiosks allow customers to browse menus, place orders, customize meals, and make payments without the need for staff assistance. Self-ordering kiosks provide a fast and efficient way for customers to place orders, while also reducing the workload of staff.

In addition to the benefits mentioned above, self-ordering solutions can lead to increased sales for businesses. Studies have shown that customers tend to order more when they have the opportunity to browse menus and place orders at their own pace. A study revealed that self-service technology can increase order size by up to 30%. With self-ordering kiosks and QR ordering, restaurants and cafes can take advantage of this opportunity to increase sales and improve profitability.

Self-ordering solutions also provide businesses with valuable data on customer preferences, order patterns, and sales performance. This data can be used to optimize menus, promotions, and staffing levels. With self-ordering kiosks, restaurants and cafes can gather data on customers' meal choices, add-ons, and payment methods. QR ordering can provide information on the popularity of certain dishes and drinks, and which times of the day are the busiest.

In conclusion, self-service technology like QR ordering and self-ordering kiosks are valuable tools for businesses in the food and beverage industry. These solutions not only provide customers with a fast and efficient way to place orders and make payments, but they also provide businesses with valuable data and the opportunity to increase sales. As the adoption of self-service technology continues to grow, more businesses will likely implement self-ordering solutions to improve their customers' experience and stay competitive in the industry.

Looking for self ordering solutions to tackle manpower shortage and reduce operating costs at your F&B business? Click here to speak to iMakan's F&B self ordering solution experts.

How Lola's Cafe uses iMakan QR Ordering to simplify ordering in its 3 storey cafe

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Mon, 13 Feb 2023 08:55:23 GMT

Lola's Cafe is a popular neighbourhood cafe that has expanded to 2 outlets in Singapore. Serving delicious food and aromatic coffee, Lola's Cafe attracts a diverse crowd of families and young to middle aged patrons all day.

Lola's Cafe adopted iMakan QR ordering to simplify the order taking and management process at their latest 3 storey Holland Village outlet without having to hire more staff.

Once customers scan a QR and self order through their phones, the orders are sent to a kitchen display which helps the kitchen staff easily communicate order preparation status orders to service staffs across the 3 storeys. When orders are prepared, service staffs will collect them from the kitchen to serve.

On top of that, LOLA’s Cafe makes it easy for their customers to signup as a member which allows them to collect & redeem points through iMakan QR Ordering. Thus, boosting overall operation efficiency and customer retention rate to achieve better profits.

How Picotin, a neighbourhood bar, utilised iMakan QR ordering

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Mon, 13 Feb 2023 08:31:28 GMT

As a bar-bistro, it is common for customers to add on drinks and and finger food orders throughout the night. iMakan's QR ordering enables Picotin's customers to add on orders quickly and conveniently by scanning a QR code to self order through their phones.

With iMakan's QR ordering, Picotin's customers would not have to wait for a service staff to take orders. These add on orders will be added towards the total bill automatically. As such, Picotin is able to tackle manpower shortages and enhance their customers' experience by making add on orders convenient and fuss free.

How iMakan Self Ordering Kiosks Helped Anyi Noodles

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Mon, 13 Feb 2023 08:03:01 GMT

Anyi Noodles is a chinese noodle quick service restaurant serving up delicious bowls of Dan Dan Mian and a wide selection of beef noodles. In order to keep operational costs low, the F&B outlet is run by just the founder and her mother.

Located in a popular office building in Singapore's CBD, Anyi Noodles relies mainly on just the few hours during the office lunch hour to generate revenue.

Hence, Anyi Noodles adopted iMakan Hybrid and iMakan self ordering kiosk to take large volumes of orders and process cashless payments without hiring cashiers while the founder and mother pair can focus on speeding up service time during their peak hours.

This enabled Anyi Noodles to make the most out of the office lunch crowds while minimizing overheads.

Smile Martabak Success Story - iMakan Hybrid

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Mon, 13 Feb 2023 07:44:01 GMT

Smile Martabak is a takeaway food kiosk in Singapore with outlets in Funan and ION Orchard. Smile Martabak uses home grown ingredients from Indonesia to recreate the most authentic martabak in Singapore, prepared by Indonesian chefs. Combines one of Indoneasia’s most popular street foods with a Singaporean twist for unique flavors.

Common challenges faced by expanding F&B chains would be to hire adequate manpower to open up outlets and the training duration needed to familiarise staff with cashiering dutires.

By adopting iMakan Hybrid, a 2-in-1 solution that combines a self ordering kiosk and a POS system, Smile Martabak may proceed with outlet expansion without having to rely heavily on cashiering manpower and at the same time, shorten the learning curve for staff as customers can self order and make payment through iMakan Hybrid.

Important F&B customer experience statistics in 2023

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Mon, 06 Feb 2023 04:57:19 GMT

F&B business are in the service industry, hence, customer experience is very . Many people believe that customer service is only important when there is interaction between service staff and customers but customer experiences goes way beyond.

What is customer experience?

Customer experience is the customer’s impression of your brand when they interact with your business through throughout the customer journey. Customer experience affects your customer’s perception of your brand and directly affects your F&B business’s revenue.

The customer journey of an F&B business refers to the customers ordering food at your physical store through a service staff or through self ordering solutions like QR ordering and self ordering kiosks .

On top of ordering at your physical F&B store, the buying journey also refers to customers ordering online without being at your stall.

A good customer experience often builds your F&B brand’s reputation and builds up word of mouth marketing for your F&B business.

To help you identify the latest F&B customer experience trends here are some key statistics you should know.

Online customer experience

Often, when it come to new customers, their customer journey begins when they discover your business online. 66% of consumers say that a bad web or online experiences negatively affects their opinion of the brand and 55% say that they will be less likely to engage with a company if they have had a bad online experience.

In an F&B business context, this means that consumers expect a smooth and easy to navigate website when they search for your F&B business, especially on their mobile phones.

For F&B businesses that have or are planning to adopt a QR ordering solutions that allows customers to scan a QR code through their mobile phones and order through a webpage, it is important to adopt a QR ordering solution that has an intuitive interface and runs smoothly and reliably. A hard to navigate QR ordering interface that often faces technical issues makes for a bad customer buying journey at your F&B outlet.

Get feedback, no matter good or bad

Research shows that about 72% of customers will share good experiences with a business to about 6 other people which is great for word of mouth marketing.

On the other hand, if customers are not satisfied with their experiences at your F&B business, only 1 in 26 will make a complaint while the rest will stop coming back to your F&B business.

The best way to gauge customer satisfaction is to get customers to do a simple anonymous online survey where they are more likely to be honest with their feedback.

Consumers leaning towards self service

In the past, consumers preferred to interact and place orders with a service staff. Today however, 67% of customers will opt to use self service technology whenever possible.

For F&B businesses, self service technology would refer to QR ordering and self ordering kiosks. This is due to modern F&B consumers looking for the most convenient and fastest way to place orders rather than waiting or queuing up to place their orders.

Moreover, today’s F&B consumer have more confidence in self ordering technologies such as QR ordering and self ordering kiosks, taking their orders accurately as compared to a service staff.

Looking for a F&B self ordering solutions?

Setting up or operating a restaurant, cafe, quick service restaurant or take away food kiosk in Singapore and looking for an F&B self ordering kiosks or QR ordering that integrates with your POS system?

Click here to find to learn more about iMakan QR ordering and self ordering kiosks!

How to Enhance Your Customers' Experience At Your F&B Outlet?

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Thu, 19 Jan 2023 04:12:29 GMT

When customers dine out at restaurants it is more than just good food they are looking for. A good customer experience is also something they are looking for when they choose to dine in at your restaurant.

A survey found that 86% of customers are willing to pay more for a better experience. This makes customer experience an important factor in your restaurant's success.

Here are 6 ways to enhance your customer's experience at your restaurant.

Identify your restaurant's target audience

Different F&B concepts target different groups of audiences that have different expectations when they dine at a restaurant of their choice. Different types of customers have their own set of expectations when dine in at a restaurant of their choice. That is why identifying your target audience is vital to providing the right experience to the customers your restaurant attracts.

For example, if you are operating a cafe, it would be inappropriate to be playing loud and up beat music as your customers are looking to have a peaceful environment to dine or even work.

Here are the common types of F&B business concepts and what customers who patronise them generally expect:

Takeaway food kiosk

Usually operating in small floor spaces, these F&B businesses do not offer the option to dine in and provides above average food quality with the emphasis on service speed.

Customers of takeaway food kiosk are looking for a tasty quick bite to have on the go, or to buy back home. Hence, seating areas are not as important.

Quick services restaurants

Order & pay then dine in is the typical customer flow for quick service restaurants. These restaurants typically have a larger floor space and provides a comfortable area for customers to dine.

Upon placing orders, service staff provide table service and are trained to be customer service oriented, almost similar to a full service restaurant.

These restaurants usually attract consumers looking to enjoy dining out with loved ones without having to pay as much as full service restaurants

Fast food restaurants

McDonald’s and KFC, etc are well known examples of fast food restaurants. They generally focus on providing value for money food and fast service speed to the mass public.

Fast food restaurants typically get their customers to order and collect their own food and provides a dining area for customers to enjoy their meals, and often target those who are looking to get a quick, cost effective meal.

Restaurants

Get a table, have your orders taken by a staff, enjoy table service and enjoy dinner with loved ones or business partners at a comfortable dining area is what restaurants are all about.

Restaurants focus on providing good food with great customer service. This combination draws crowds that are prepared to pay more and come with the expectation of good customer service and food experience.

For this article, we will focus on tips to improve customer service at restaurants.

Stay tuned to our next article to find out how to boost customer experience for each F&B concept.

Build your team with the right people

While a waitress/waiter job may seem like an easy job that anyone is able to take up, it is not, especially for service oriented F&B concepts like restaurants. When hiring your service crew, you should consider if your candidate posses the following qualities:

Empathy: The ability to understand a situation from the customer’s point of view
Clear communication skills: Service staff have to possess the ability to communicate effectively, clearly and professionally even under pressure.
Calmness: Service staff need to be able to keep calm when customers are making a big fuss out of nothing or are impatient to avoid further aggravating a tense situation.
Multitasking: Service staff have to handle multiple tasks at once like serving dishes, getting orders, attending to miscellaneous requests by customers.
Thick skin: Service staff need to have a thick skin in handling complaints and difficult customers who are unhappy with them.

Provide and refresh staff service training

Even though the staff you hired may have strong service oriented personalities and skills, it is important for them to go through a service training before starting work at your restaurant and also during .

This is to not only brush up on any areas that need improvement, or to impress upon your service staff the standard prices of customer service at your restaurant to ensure a fair and standardised service level.

Product knowledge training

Providing your service staff with adequate and updated product knowledge is important. This allows staff to make recommendations based on customer’s liking and upsell dishes that customers may enjoy to boost the overall experience.

On top of that, equipping your staff with updated product knowledge helps them to avoid the awkward situation where they are puzzled by a customer’s request.

Value your staff

Happy staff makes happy customers which are more inclined to spend more, making a happy boss. Creating the right working environment and throwing in the right mix of incentives for your F&B staff is crucial to ensuring that your staff will be motivated to provide better customer service.

Digital ordering solutions

Did you know that digital ordering solutions like QR ordering systems actually help increase customer satisfaction?

With a QR ordering system, your customers can scan a QR code to place orders through their smartphones when seated. Add on suggestions will also be presented to customers to ensure that they do not miss out and to increase your average bill size.

Apart from that, staff are not burdened with the mundane task of entering orders into the restaurant POS system and can focus on providing value added services such as making recommendations, helping customers out when they are facing difficulty order and conversing with customers to show that they care.

Not only does QR ordering systems benefit your customers, but also your restaurant business, by helping you to lower manpower costs, get orders more accurately and receive orders simultaneously to prevent ordering bottlenecks.

In the market for a self ordering solutions like self ordering kiosk and QR ordering systems? Click here to arrange a demo on iMakan self ordering solutions that are pre approved for subsidies.

5 Ways To Encourage Customers To Use QR Ordering At Your F&B Outlet

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Wed, 16 Nov 2022 07:31:19 GMT

Is your F&B business planning to adopt a QR ordering system to reduce manpower cost and improve ordering efficiency? Before adopting a new solution for your restaurant your will need a game plan to roll it out to your customers so that it will not be a white elephant purchase.

In this article, we will share 5 ways that restaurants, takeaway food kiosks and cafes that have implemented QR ordering with great success use to drive customer’s usage of QR ordering systems.

Keep your QR ordering menu updated

While keeping your QR ordering menu updated may seem like common sense, there are still many F&B outlets with outdated QR ordering menus whereby latest promotions, new dishes or updated pricing do not correspond with promotional banners or physical menus at the outlet.

This confuses customers who will then have to approach F&B service staff for clarification which will then lead to customers opting to place order with the staff instead.

Ensure your QR ordering systems is properly configured

When you decide to adopt a QR ordering system, ensure that your QR ordering solution provider properly sets up your QR ordering systems that runs in line with pre-agreed expectations. Make sure that you do a test run to ensure that menu items are properly mapped so that your customers get what they order.

Also, it would be good to learn basic troubleshooting skills from your QR ordering solution provider just in case a hiccup comes up to ensure that you are able to quickly identify and solve issues to keep your F&B operations running smoothly.

Get a reliable internet connection at your F&B outlet

Digital solutions require stable internet connection to work properly. QR ordering solutions are no exception. In order for customers to be able to send orders to your POS and kitchen printers.

Without a stable internet connection, there will be instances of slow loading menus which negatively affect the customer’s ordering experience. Also, with an unstable internet connection, orders may not be sent through to your POS system and kitchen printers which results.

Get an easy to use QR ordering system

An easy to use ordering system with a clean and simple user interface makes placing orders a fuss free experience for customers. This helps to build the perception among customers that ordering via QR ordering is much simpler and more effective than waiting for a service staff to take their orders.

Thus, encouraging the uptake of QR ordering at your F&B outlet.

Move away from manual order taking

Given a choice, customers will always choose the most familiar way of ordering food, which is through a service staff, hence the low uptake in customers ordering through QR ordering solutions in some F&B businesses.

In order to implement QR ordering successfully, your service staff have an important role to play. They have to actively encourage customers to order through QR ordering and offer help when customers are facing difficulties.

On top of that, you could consider relieving your staff from cashiering duties and get them to focus on order collection instead. The lack of cashiers to take orders will automatically motivate customers to use QR ordering instead as it will be the next most convenient ordering channel.

Start your QR ordering journey with iMakan

Looking to digitalise your F&B business through QR ordering? iMakan is the trusted QR ordering solutions provider of F&B merchants all over Singapore with clientele in the restaurant, cafe, and takeaway food kiosk sectors.

Click here to request a free demo for iMakan’s QR ordering solutions today.

Why F&B customers prefer self service kiosks

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Mon, 31 Oct 2022 02:54:48 GMT

Self ordering kiosks can be seen in many F&B establishments such as takeaway food kiosks, cafes, quick service restaurants, and even full service restaurants in Singapore. When self ordering kiosks were first introduced in Singapore’s F&B market, it was slow to gain traction as many consumers still preferred ordering through cashiering staff as it was a more familiar way of placing orders.

Today, if a self ordering kiosks is available at an F&B outlet, customers will prefer ordering through self ordering kiosks instead of ordering from a staff when possible. Find out how it became a habit for Singaporean F&B consumers to use a self ordering kiosk whenever possible..

Getting over the barrier of unfamiliarity

Mcdonalds was one of the first F&B businesses that implemented self ordering kiosks in their outlets. However, it was initially an unsuccessful attempt to digitalise taking as people still preferred to order through cashiers as that is what they were familiar with.

McDonalds then took a step in the right direction to push its customers to use self ordering kiosks by no longer asking staff to man the cashiering systems. On top of that, they deployed one staff to direct customers to order at the kiosk and to help out if customers face any trouble in ordering.

This forced consumers to get used to ordering through self ordering kiosks. Following such a success in educating Singapore F&B consumers to use self ordering kiosks, many F&B businesses quickly followed suit, thus, self ordering kiosks are quickly becoming a norm in Singapore’s F&B scene.

More Convenient Than Ordering At Counter

A major driving factor behind the uptake of self ordering kiosks among F&B consumers is ease of use. It is important for F&B businesses who are looking to digitalise to source for self ordering solutions that are intuitive for their customers.

If customers perceive that ordering through a self ordering kiosk is fuss free and quicker than ordering from a cashier, it is natural that customers will opt to self order rather than place order through a service staff.

Information Readily Availble

A commonly overlooked factor of F&B consumer motivation to use self ordering kiosks is how informative a self ordering kiosk can be. Hence, it is important for F&B businesses looking to adopt self ordering kiosks to source for ones that are able to accommodate their full menu offering, promotions, and also advertise latest deals to customers.

Getting a self ordering kiosk for your F&B business?

Looking to digitalise your F&B business through self ordering kiosks? Click here to get a free demo of our iMakan self ordering kiosk solutions.

How to use technology to improve customer service at your restaurant?

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Fri, 23 Sep 2022 08:34:20 GMT

Restaurants for years, have been trying to improve customer service, loyalty and relationships by constantly offering new deals or special member promotions. While this is still a working strategy, there is a better way to build lasting relationships with your customers. That is to enhance your restaurant’s customer experience through technology.

Here are some ways you could enhance your customer’s experience with technology.

Self ordering technology

Self ordering technology includes self ordering kiosks, QR ordering and online ordering . These solutions improves the process of customer ordering. Traditionally, restaurants staff takes orders from customers, often resulting in a bottleneck when there are too many customers for staff to process orders quickly which results in a negative customer experience.

By adopting self ordering kiosks or QR ordering systems , customers are able to place orders whenever they are ready. On top of that, these self ordering solutions automatically upsell through add-on suggestions to value-add customers and at the same time, increase your restaurant’s bill size.

Another benefit that self ordering solutions bring to boosting customer service standards is through giving customers more control over their orders. As customers place their own orders, order accuracy increases as the order transmission from customer to kitchen is fully digitalised, removing chances of human error.

Offering more digital payment options

Digital payments have been growing and Covid19 has contributed to quicken that growth. Singaporeans nowadays generally prefer to make payments through digital means it is a more convenient way to pay.

Hence, integrating multiple digital payment modes allows fuss free transactions for your customers to smoothen the transaction process.

On top of that, you reduce chances of fraud at your restaurant through going cashless. To your surprise, fraud involving cash payments at restaurants are more common than expected.

Chatbots on your restaurant website

Many established restaurants have adopted chatbots and integrated it to their website. These chatbots helps to attend to any customer queries, complaints, direct them to the respective customer service representatives and even help book a reservation.

This once again, provides customers with quick and effective solutions to their needs, thus boosting customer satisfaction with the restaurant.

Looking to adopt self ordering solutions like QR ordering, self ordering kiosks and online ordering for your F&B business? Click here to get a demo of iMakan’s solutions that have been industry proven and adopted by F&B merchants all over Singapore.

4 Types of F&B concepts & reccomended tech solutions to adopt

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Thu, 15 Sep 2022 08:58:43 GMT

Before starting your first F&B business, apart from identifying the type of concept your F&B business is, it is also important to know what technological solutions your F&B business should adopt in this digital day and age.

In this article, we share the 4 common types of F&B concepts in Singapore and recommend the technologies each should adopt.

Quick Service Restaurants

Quick service restaurants are also known as casual dining restaurants. These types of restaurants, as the name suggests, focuses mainly on dine in customers, often having a large floor space to accommodate more customers during peak periods.

Quick service restaurants often operate with an order and pay before dining model. After payment, food is either self collected by customers or served to the table with service staff.

Technologies that Quick Service Restaurants should consider

QR Ordering

Quick service restaurants can adopt QR ordering systems that are integrated with online payment gateways. This enables restaurants to receive payments digitally before food is prepared, and also simplifies the ordering and payment process for their customers.

On top of that, a QR ordering system also reduces the reliance on cashiers to reduce manpower costs for quick service restaurants.

Self Ordering Kiosk

A popular alternative to QR ordering to digitalise ordering and reduce reliance on cashiers is through adopting self ordering kiosks . Self ordering kiosks however, often require extra floor space in your quick service restaurants.

Alternatively, if you are keen on adopting a self ordering kiosks but are facing space constraints, you could consider a hybrid ordering kiosk or a counter top ordering kiosks that first on your countertop, taking up not much more space than a regular POS system.

LCD Number Calling System

If customers at your quick service restaurant are required to self collect their food, you may consider getting a LCD Number Calling System. A LCD number calling system displays both preparing and ready to collect order numbers to your customers so that they are constantly updated on their order status.

Fast Food Restaurants

Fast food restaurants are similar to casual dining restaurants or quick service restaurants. The difference between the two is that fast food restaurants focus on takeaway orders as much as dine in orders.

With an emphasis on food being served as quickly as possible and keeping food costs low, fast food restaurants should adopt technology that helps keep operational costs low while enhancing efficiency.

Technologies that Fast Food Restaurants should consider

Online ordering system

As fast food restaurants prioritise takeaway orders just as much as dine in orders, adopting an online ordering system will help fast food restaurants get takeaway pre-orders from customers through an ordering URL that can be attached in their website, social media and Google Business profile.

Apart from getting orders online, an online ordering system can promote brand loyalty by allowing customers to accumulate and redeem points easily through the online ordering platform.

Self ordering kiosks

Self ordering kiosks are great ordering productivity boosters and manpower cost saving tools, which is why many fast food restaurants have adopted self ordering kiosks.

LCD number calling system

As the majority of fast food restaurants do not have service staff to provide table service, getting an LCD number calling system allows your customers to get live updates of their order status, whether it is preparing or ready to be collected.

Full service restaurants

Full service restaurants are focused on dine in customers and collect payment after customers have finished their meal. Often, service staff will bring the bill to the table for settlement.

Technologies that Fast Food Restaurants should consider

QR ordering system

QR ordering was originally developed to be used by full service restaurants before capabilities were included to make it applicable to most F&B concepts.

Wireless payment terminals

Most customers pay via cashless payments nowadays. Typically, a service staff has to collect the card from the customer, process payment at the cashier then return the card to the customers. Instead of having your service staff walk back and forth, why not adopt a wireless payment terminal that is linked with your POS system, allowing your service staff to process payment at the table.

Takeaway food kiosks

This F&B concept is a common sight in Singapore. Almost every mall will have one or two levels where there are rows of F&B shops that sell takeaway food. These F&B concepts focus only on takeaway orders, hence will have to meet their customers online as that is where many of their customers place their pre-orders with them.

Technologies that takeaway food kiosks should consider

Online Ordering System

An online ordering system helps takeaway food kiosks meet their customers where they are ordering food, which is online. On top of that, an online ordering system, differs from food delivery platforms as it allows you to build your customer base for marketing purposes. Whereas, food delivery systems do not share customer information with F&B merchants.

Self Ordering Kiosk

To reduce spending on manpower on dedicated cashiering staff, takeaway food kiosks can opt to adopt self ordering kiosks. On top of that, self ordering kiosks are able to double as advertising banners when not in use to showcase your promotions to passersby on the high resolution touchscreens.

If you are facing space constraints in your takeaway food kiosks, you could go for compact countertop kiosks or even a hybrid which combines a POS system and a self ordering kiosks into a dual touchscreen device that fits on your countertop.

Adopting self ordering solutions

iMakan provides self ordering solutions such as QR ordering, self ordering kiosks and online ordering solutions that helps your F&B business digitalize order taking to reduce dependency on manpower and receive more orders during peak hours.

Click here to get a free demo of iMakan’s self ordering solutions for your F&B business

5 Ways to improve Cafe earnings without relying heavily promotions

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Tue, 30 Aug 2022 04:36:37 GMT

To increase revenue and profits, cafes and restaurants look toward creating promotions and running attractive customer rewards programs but this eats into profit margins and is not a sustainable business model.

However, cafes differ from restaurants as customers are not there just to have a good meal. Often patrons at cafes consist of 4 main groups. Those that are looking for a place to eat, those that want to hang out with their loved ones over food and drinks, those who use your cafe space for work and those who are looking for a place to sit down for a beverage and snack and to unwind or “chill”.

Sell cooking or beverage-making classes

Café setups are often conducive environments for work and thus conducting classes as well. Since the pandemic happened, self-cooking has become an interest and hobby of many Singaporeans.

Your café can capitalize on this consumer trend and host some cooking, baking or coffee-making classes during your off-peak hours.

This serves as an additional revenue stream for your café and also helps build your cafe’s brand awareness.

Start selling alcohol

Quiet hours of cafes are usually after 9 pm where most people have already had their meals, and most cafes start closing for the day. If you are looking to extend your operating hours well beyond that, your café has to offer food and drinks that consumers look for during those hours which include finger food and alcoholic beverages.

This will help you reach out to a larger group of consumers beyond your usual target audience and extend your operating hours thus, increasing revenue

Host events

Another way to increase customer awareness of your café and in turn, is through hosting events such as networking sessions, cooking classes, etc.

When hosting these events you can choose to charge a fee for the use of your café space and also serve food and drinks to people attending the events. This way, earn from rental of space at your café, and let more consumers try out your cafe’s food and beverages to boost café awareness.

Offer free WIFI when customers order food and drinks

Many consumers go to cafes for a place to study and work. During off peak hours, you may want to consider offering free WIFI to customers who spend at café. This is similar to what Starbucks offers to their customers.

By allowing consumers to access your WIFI for free when they purchase from you, your café attracts more customers during off peak hours to boost revenue.

Sell some merchandise

Selling merchandise branded with your cafe’s brand like tote bags, tumblers, bottles, and even your own coffee beans adds a revenue stream to your café and also boosts brand awareness and loyalty.

This is because branded merchandise helps your café stay on top of the minds of your customers.

iMakan’s solutions for cafes and restaurants

Click here to get a free demo of iMakan’s self ordering solutions for your F&B business

4 reasons self ordering help raise service quality at F&B outlets

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 07:15:07 GMT

Customers who visited F&B outlets that offer self ordering solutions as their main mode of ordering have been observed to have less complaints about their overall customer experience.

In a survey by Institute of Service Excellence's Customer Satisfaction Index of Singapore (CSISG) 2018 for the Food and Beverage and tourism sectors, customers who frequently order through self ordering systems agreed that ordering process is simpler than ordering through a service staff.

Here are 3 reasons how self ordering systems help raise food and service quality at F&B outlets.

Ordering is made simpler
Less disputes in orders
Self ordering solutions provides a standardised high level of service to customers

Ordering made simpler

The right self ordering systems make ordering at an F&B outlet straightforward and fuss free. That is because customers can browse images of your menu items and better understand what your F&B business has to offer before placing their orders. As opposed to making decisions on their orders based on text descriptions on a traditional menu.

On top of that, many consumers nowadays are getting increasingly tech savvy, hence, ordering from self ordering systems such as QR ordering and self ordering kiosks will be easy for them.

Less disputes in orders

Missed orders and getting orders wrong is bound to happen in any F&B outlet, especially when orders are taken manually through a service staff. These often lead to dissatisfied customers and a bad customer experience at your restaurant, negatively affecting your restaurant’s customer retention.

With self ordering systems, orders will be digitally sent to your POS system and kitchen without the need for staff to manually enter orders. This eliminates human error and reduces disputes in orders.

Standardise a high level of customer service

Self ordering solutions offer descriptions and images for each dish. On top of that, it offers suggestions for customers on suitable or popular dish or drink pairings for their mains. As compared to ordering with a service staff, the level of service and suggestions provided to customers is dependent on the experience and quality of the service staff which varies.

Self ordering systems on the other hand are able to standardise service levels provided to your customers so that they enjoy a consistent high quality service that enhances their customer experience at your F&B outlet.

Getting self ordering solutions for your F&B business

Interested to get a self ordering solution such as QR ordering systems and self ordering kiosks for your business, click here to get a FREE demo of iMakan’s self ordering systems which have been adopted by many F&B establishments in Singapore.

How to push on with F&B outlet expansion amid manpower shortages

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Mon, 15 Aug 2022 07:50:05 GMT

Many F&B businesses face the issue of wanting to open up more outlets to grow their business but are usually faced with difficulty hiring more staff for the next outlets or are put off by the high manpower costs.

In this article we share some tip on how to push on with F&B outlet expansion amid manpower shortages

Use self ordering solutions
Be open to hiring part timers
Partner with other organisations
Be creative with recruitment ads

Use self ordering solutions

Self ordering solutions such as QR ordering and self ordering kiosks are great ways to help reduce your F&B outlet’s reliance on manpower to handle customers’ orders. QR ordering allows your customers to scan an ordering QR code in your restaurant when seated, or around your takeaway F&B outlet to browse your menu and place orders without having staff to manually take orders from them.

You can further reduce manpower reliance with QR ordering at your F&B outlet by enabling online payments. This allows customers to make payment online after adding items to cart to confirm their orders.

Self ordering kiosks on the other hand, are ordering terminals that you can set up in your F&B outlets for customers to place orders and make payments on their own. While most self ordering kiosks take up quite abit of space at F&B outlets, which holds some F&B outlets may not be able to accommodate, iMakan’s self ordering kiosks come in 3 variations, regular full sized 24” Kiosks that can be wall mounted or set up with a floor stand, a counter top self ordering kiosk and a Hybrid.

A Hybrid kiosks is essentially a POS and a kiosk combined into a dual touch screen terminal that takes up no more space than a regular POS system.

Both of these solutions put ordering back into the hands of your customers to help your F&B outlet depend less on manpower.

Be open to hiring part timers

People looking for full time F&B work are hard to come by due to the long and tough working hours. On the other hand there are many people who are willing to work on a part time basis for extra cash. Hence, if your F&B business is not having luck in hiring full timers, you may want to consider hiring a number of part timers and work out a roster rotate your part timers according to your operational needs.

Make your recruitment ad interesting

With the labour shortage ongoing, hiring for F&B business is competitive. With every restaurant and F&B business posting up similar ads, hiring for similar job scopes and working hours, it all comes down to which F&B business is willing to offer a higher salary.

Besides an attractive remuneration package, you could include your F&B business’s positive working environment and opportunities for staff’s self improvement and career progression.

There are ways in which you could attract more potential candidates to apply for your F&B business’s job opening.

Getting a Self Ordering Solution

If you are looking to get a self ordering solution such as a QR ordering system or a self ordering kiosk, for your outlet, click here to schedule a FREE demo on iMakan’s self ordering solutions that have been adopted and trusted by leading F&B brands in Singapore.

3 ways to grow F&B sales through online ordering?

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Fri, 05 Aug 2022 10:37:41 GMT

Almost every successful F&B business in Singapore has adopted online ordering . You may have considered or are looking to get an online ordering system to add a revenue stream for your F&B business.

In this article, we share 3 tips on how to use an online ordering system to boost your F&B business profits.

Ensure that your online ordering system is easy to use
Leverage your social media presence
Run promotions through online ordering systems

Ensure that your online ordering system is easy to use

Online ordering systems are meant to provide a convenience to customers. That is the appeal of ordering online. This is also the reason why the online ordering system your F&B business chooses to adopt has to be easy to use.

Getting an easy to use online ordering system improves customer take up rate of ordering from your F&B business online. On the other hand, a difficult to navigate F&B business’s online ordering system, a higher cart abandonment rate, resulting in a loss of potential customers.

Leverage on social media presence

Have a well established social media presence and brand awareness? Use that to your advantage. Link your menu to your social media platforms and website to make it easily accessible to customers.

You could also turn your online ordering URL into a QR code and include it with your posts as a call to action for customers to easily scan and order.

Run promotions through online ordering systems

Changes to your online ordering menu are easy and instantaneous. An online ordering system gives you the test bed to try out bundles, promotions and discounts to see what works before rolling them our to your F&B outlet.

On top of that, these promotions can be advertised to attract new customers to give your F&B business a try.

Looking for an online ordering system?

iMakan provides PSG grant pre approved online ordering systems to F&B merchants all over Singapore. Interested to adopt an online ordering system with up to 80% of its costs subsidized? Click here to get a FREE demo!

3 Common Restaurant Digitalization Challenges and Solutions

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Thu, 28 Jul 2022 09:44:44 GMT

Running a modern restaurant is more than just serving great food to your customers. A modern restaurant usually involves lots of technology and heavily rely on computers and the internet to provide customers with a good level of service.

For example, many restaurants use QR ordering, self ordering kiosks, online ordering and food delivery platforms to provide a fuss free and convenient ordering experience. The orders are then sent to the restaurant POS system which then sends orders into the kitchen.

However, the challenge with relying heavily on technology as an integral part of your restaurant business is technical difficulties.

What are the most common digitalization challenges that restaurants face

Lack of Infrastructure
Customer Uptake
Maintenance

Lack of Infrastructure

While there are some restaurants that have their own IT department to manage their own tech solutions in their outlets. However, this type of resources may not be available to small F&B businesses.

For small F&B businesses looking to adopt new technologies, always do an objective analysis on how the solution would come to benefit your restaurant instead of jumping in head first in the heat of the moment, only to realise that the new solution you bought does not work out for your restaurant.

Adopting solutions that help digitalise ordering, POS systems and kitchen solutions , however, is usually worth the investment, as it forms the bulk of your restaurant operations.

Customer Uptake

After successfully adopting a solution, you have to find a way to introduce it to your customers, especially the regulars.

For example, when adopting a QR ordering system for your restaurant, your regular customers may not take to it at first as they are used to the more traditional way of placing orders with a service staff.

Hence, you will have to make it a point to use your new solution at your restaurant the primary mode of ordering. While you may experience push back at first, customers will get used to it in the long run.

Maintenance

When you have decided to get a tech upgrade for your restaurant, you may want to consider your vendor’s maintenance plan, especially after the initial warranty or covered support period that comes with the initial purchase.

This will help with any maintenance cost as your solutions experience wear and tear over the year.

Going digital with ordering

If you are looking to digitalise your restaurant with QR ordering, self ordering kiosks or online ordering solutions, click here to get a FREE demo of iMakan, a digital ordering solution provider that works with a wide clientele of F&B businesses in Singapore, providing the most easy to use, digital ordering solution with top customer support.

5 Ways To Improve Employee Retention at Your Restaurant

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Fri, 22 Jul 2022 09:07:32 GMT

In 2021, amid the pandemic, there was a surge in the number of employees leaving their jobs not only in Singapore but also globally. This trend was named The Great Resignation . Among those who left their jobs, a quarter were from the hospitality and service industry.

With many restaurants in Singapore still facing manpower shortages, how can your restaurant boost employee retention? Here are 5 ways to improve employee retention.

How to improve employee retention?

Reduce unnecessary stress caused by equipment
Give recognition and feedback to employees
Offer opportunities for career advancement and development opportunities
Improve employee benefits
Offer a competitive pay

Reduce unnecessary stress caused by equipment

Restaurant staff have a lot on their plate at work. Taking orders, managing tough customers, ensuring that orders are prepared up to standard and served as quickly as possible and many more.

The last thing they would want to happen is to have equipment such as the restaurant’s POS system, QR ordering, Self ordering kiosk, kitchen printers etc, to break down.

Hence, as a restaurant owner, you should ensure that such equipment is able to work reliably day in and out. Updating your systems periodically and replacing old hardware should help keep equipment failure at bay most of the time.

Give recognition and feedback to employees

Make your employees feel appreciated at work to improve retention rates. Remember to give positive feedback and encouragement to your employees from time to time to make them feel appreciated as a part of the team.

On the other hand, when there is something that needs to be brought to their attention, provide constructive feedback on how employees can improve instead of constant warnings and negative feedback which reduces employee morale, resulting in higher turnovers at your restaurant.

Offer career development opportunities

Invest in upgrading your employees through courses, mentoring or letting employees take on new opportunities will help them gain work experience in different aspects of a restaurant’s business.

This also helps to change things up for your employees to prevent “boreout”, a new term used to describe employees getting bored of their repetitive job scope to the point where they feel like their job scope is pointless.

Improve employee benefits

Free lunch and dinner for employees if they dine at your restaurant, staff discounts, bonuses, childcare time off or leave, are some employee benefits that show them that you, as a restaurant owner, care about their well being.

Employees that feel well taken care of will likely be more motivated and are more likely to stay.

Interested to get a QR Ordering System or Self Ordering Kiosk?

If you are looking to digitalize your restaurant’s ordering and order management process, click here to contact iMakan for a free demo.

5 Things to Remember When Adopting a Self Ordering System

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Wed, 22 Jun 2022 05:32:51 GMT

Ever since Covid19, self-ordering solutions have become popular among F&B businesses. The main reason could be due to restaurants wanting to reduce contact between their staff and customers and the manpower shortages brought on by border closures.

After seeing the benefits that self-ordering solutions like QR ordering and self-ordering kiosks bring to F&B businesses, you may be interested in adopting one for your F&B business.

Before you dive into committing to a self-ordering solution, have a read about the 5 important things to keep in mind when deciding on a self-ordering solution.

How to choose a self ordering solution?

Have a clear understanding of your restaurant’s operations
Easy to use an online portal
Intuitive customer ordering interface
Integrated with contactless billing options
Integrated with your POS system

Have a clear understanding of your restaurant’s operations

Your restaurant’s operational flow is the most important thing you should keep in mind when choosing a self-ordering solution. Is your restaurant pay before dining or pay after dining? Would you allow your customers to pay online or pay at the cashier or both?

These are just some of your restaurant operation flow scenarios you should keep in mind, and pick the self-ordering solution that is able to accommodate your restaurant’s operations.

Easy to use online management backend portal

An easy to use online backend portal for your self ordering solutions enables you or your restaurant managers to easily manage your self ordering system’s menu, and other backend settings.

Without an easy to use online backend portal for your restaurant’s self-ordering system, it will be tedious to manage, and you may not be able to maximize your self-ordering system’s full potential.

Intuitive customer ordering interface

Most customers will pick the more convenient method of ordering. If your self-ordering system offers an intuitive interface that makes ordering seamless for your customers, it will encourage them to self-order instead of placing orders with your staff.

Integrated with contactless/online billing methods

Contactless payment methods or online payment has risen in popularity in Singapore. As more customers opt to pay via cashless means, it is important that your self-ordering system is integratable with contactless/online billing methods to ensure a smooth transaction for your customers.

Integrated with your POS system

Every restaurant has a POS system. Having your self-ordering system integrated with your POS system makes it easier for order and menu management. Staff will not have to manually re-enter orders into the POS system as orders from your self-ordering system is automatically sent to your POS system.

Menu updates will only have to be done once as your self-ordering system’s menu is synced with your POS system.

All in all, you will be able to reduce the hassle of multi device management which is more effective and less prone to human error.

If you are looking for a self ordering system for your restaurant

Cick here to arrange a free demo with us!

5 benefits of adopting QR Ordering for your Japanese Restaurant

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Fri, 17 Jun 2022 09:10:45 GMT

Considering adopting QR ordering for your restaurant? In this article we will share on 5 benefits that Japanese restaurants enjoy when they digitalize with QR ordering.

Benefits of adopting QR Ordering

Less Dependence on Manpower
Improve Order Taking Efficiency
Bridge Language Gap
Better Table Turnover Rates
Allow Staff to Focus on Better Food & Service Quality

Less Dependence on Manpower

In Singapore, hiring staff for your Japanese Restaurant is expensive and tough due to the long working hours and strict regulation on hiring foreign labour.

With QR ordering, you allow customers to self order through their phones by scanning a QR code. This reduces dependence on manpower to take orders from customers manually.

QR ordering empowers you to choose not to hire more staff even as customer volumes increase, keeping your operational costs low.

Improve Order Taking Efficiency

Traditionally, customers have to wait for staff to come around to take their orders or to add on orders. This creates an ordering bottleneck.

With QR ordering, you are able to receive orders from customers simultaneously as they can send in their orders anytime they are ready without having to wait for a staff to place their orders. Thus, breaking down the ordering bottleneck to improve order taking efficiency.

Bridge the language barrier

Your Japanese restaurant, while based in Singapore where the majority of us understand English, will attract customers from Japan who may face difficulties understanding your menu in English.

A QR Ordering solution like iMakan , that features the option to display your menu in the Japanese language will help bridge the language barrier between your restaurant and native Japanese customers.

On top of that, Japanese customers that are stationed in Singapore for work will find a homely feeling of your restaurant when presented with a menu in the Japanese language.

Apart from bridging the language barrier between your restaurant and your customers, it also helps your kitchen staff understand orders better.

Running Japanese restaurant, your chef may be from Japan whose first language may not be English. A QR ordering system that is able to link up with your kitchen printers or display to print orders in Japanese is of great help to your chefs in understanding orders better.

Better Table Turnover Rates

The success of any restaurant is dependent on your table turnover rate.

With a QR Ordering system, as mentioned in a previous point, you are able to remove the ordering bottleneck.

This decreases the table occupancy time at each table by reducing waiting time to place orders with a staff. Hence, improving your japanese restaurant’s table turnover rates.

Allows Your Staff to Focus More on Quality

As many of us know, Japanese restaurants are famous for their food and service quality. By adopting QR Ordering, you reduce the manual order taking workload of your staff, enabling them to focus more on customer service, or help out in food preparation.

Interested in QR ordering for your Japanese restaurant?

Click here to get a free demo of iMakan’s QR Ordering system.

3 Ways to Make Your Restaurant Digital Menu Sell More for You

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Tue, 07 Jun 2022 04:57:09 GMT

Adopted a digital ordering solution such as a QR ordering system or self-ordering kiosk for your F&B business? It's time enhance your F&B digital menu to get the most out of it.

Here are 3 effective ways:

Customize your ordering flow
Automate upselling
Food photography

Optimize Ordering flow

Depending on your F&B operation, your ordering flow may differ from other F&B businesses. Hence, it is important for you to set up your digital menu’s ordering flow to make it easier for customers to self order.

An ordering flow that is intuitive for customers will make the ordering process comfortable and convenient for your customers.

Automate upselling

Your QR ordering & self ordering kiosk, allows you preset add on suggestions to automatically upsell to your customers.

This way, your F&B business will never miss out on any opportunity to increase bill sizes by automating upselling to your customers.

Food photography

Using professionally captured, appetizing pictures of your menu items makes a huge difference in terms of beautifying your QR ordering & self ordering kiosk interface, and helping your customers gain a better understanding of your menu.

Apart from helping customers understand your menu, the high quality images help whet their appetite and increases the likelihood of customers ordering more.

Getting a digital ordering solution

Interested in getting a QR ordering or self ordering kiosk for your F&B business? Click here to get a free demo.

5 Qualities To Look Out For When Hiring A Restaurant Manager

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Wed, 01 Jun 2022 07:07:46 GMT

As a restaurant owner, you may not be able to stay in your restaurant to oversee operations all the time. Even more so if you are planning to operate multiple restaurant outlets.

Hence, hiring managers that are capable of doing so for you is important so that you can focus on other aspects of your restaurant business.

In this article, we share with you the 5 key qualities that you should look for when hiring a manager for your restaurant.

What is the job scope of a restaurant manager?

A restaurant manager is usually responsible for overseeing the back and front of house operation of a restaurant, ensuring that operations run smoothly and customers are satisfied.

Restaurant managers are also responsible for onboarding new staff, working with kitchen staff to revamp menus, monitor restaurant equipment, inventory and attend to customer’s complaints.

Lastly, working hours of restaurant managers are not any less than regular restaurant staff and may even be longer as they are usually the last to leave work.

If your restaurant adopts digital solutions like QR ordering , self ordering solutions and POS systems , it makes the restaurant manager’s job less tedious by digitalizing your restaurants ordering process. This allows them to focus more on other key aspects of restaurant operations.

5 Qualities and skills that a restaurant manager should possess

Strong leadership skills
Customer management
Able to multitask
Ability to think on their feet
Good communication skills

Strong leadership skills

A restaurant manager is responsible for leading the restaurant’s back and front of house team. Hence, having strong leadership skills and the ability to keep the team united and motivated is essential.

A good restaurant manager will have the skills to reduce the high turnover rates restaurants commonly face.

A restaurant manager that leads by example, is attentive to the team’s needs and gives clear instructions, keeping the team happy and engaged is more likely to create a highly productive work environment.

Customer management

A restaurant’s manager may be required to check on customers as they are dining from time to time, handle difficult customers and come up with solutions to many customer related issues throughout the day.

A restaurant manager coupled with a POS system or self ordering solution that has CRM capabilities is a sure fire way to boost your restaurant’s customer retention.

Able to multitask

Throughout a work day, a restaurant manager will have many tasks to handle simultaneously. For example, a restaurant manager has to maintain inventory and negotiate with the suppliers.

On top of that they may have to juggle tasks such as discussing menu changes with the kitchen staff and prepare a monthly budget plan.

So, in order to oversee a smooth operation, he or she has to be able to identify, prioritize, and handle multiple tasks at the same time.

Ability to think on their feet

During their work days, a restaurant manager may need to “firefight” problems. Since these issues are usually unexpected and never encountered before, restaurant managers have to be able to think and react quickly.

Even if restaurant managers are facing an operational nightmare, they have to ensure that the restaurant’s customers have a pleasant dining experience.

Good communication skills

On a daily basis, restaurant managers have to communicate with a diverse range of people, like service staff, kitchen staff, bosses and customers.

Having strong interpersonal skills is a must in order to ensure clear communication while maintaining healthy relationships with all stakeholders and their ground team.

If you are interested in a QR ordering system or self ordering kiosk, click here to get a free demo.

Customer Success Story: Song Fa Kway Chap Self Ordering Kiosk

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Tue, 24 May 2022 07:40:33 GMT

Image credits: 8days SG

Song Fa, being Singapore’s household name for delicious Bak Kut Teh, has started a venture with another one of Singaporeans' popular comfort food: Kway Chap. Their first Kway Chap outlet, Song Fa Kway Chap has launched at a new shopping mall, Northshore Plaza, and have adopted two of iMakan's self-ordering kiosks.

Adopting iMakan self-ordering kiosks

Song Fa adopted 2 iMakan wall-hung self-ordering kiosks to encourage customers to self-order. In doing so Song Fa was able to enjoy these benefits to their business:

Less dependence on order taking manpower

By encouraging customers to self-order through the self-ordering kiosk, Song Fa Kway Chap will not have to hire a team of service crew in order to take orders from customers.

Improve ordering accuracy

By adopting iMakan’s self-ordering kiosks, Song Fa Kway Chap gives customers full control of ordering.

On top of that, orders are sent digitally from the self-ordering kiosks to the POS system, which will itemize the orders and send each order item to its respective kitchen section’s printers.

Hence, eliminating chances of human error and miscommunication during the manual order taking process.

Go fully cashless

Cash management can be a tedious task for managers and is prone to employee fraud, which occurs in any industry.

iMakan’s self-ordering kiosk integration with cashless payment terminals that handle a wide range of cashless payment methods enabled Song Fa Kway Chap's customers to pay with any cashless payment method of their choice. This helps Song Fa Kway Chap to move towards a fully cashless operation.

This saves Song Fa Kway Chap’s store managers the hassle of tallying cash at the end of each day’s operations and also helps to safeguard their revenue.

Getting a Self-Ordering Kiosk

If you are interested to adopt a self-ordering kiosk that comes with government grants for your F&B business, click here to request a free demo with our solution consultants.

Customer Success Story: Downstairs iMakan Self Ordering Kiosk

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Wed, 04 May 2022 04:50:41 GMT

Downstairs is a local themed casual dining restaurant with decors that resembles Singapore’s HDB void decks and coffee shops, and serves food that is popular in our local “downstairs coffeeshops”.

On the other hand, Downstairs blends traditional Singaporean heritage with digital solutions to help ease its operations.

iMakan Self-ordering kiosks

To seamlessly blend the self-ordering kiosk into their traditional shop decor, they chose iMakan’s wall-hung self-ordering kiosk option instead of our floor standing and countertop self-ordering kiosks, to be mounted in payphone booths that were commonly found in Singapore in the earlier days.

By adopting iMakan’s self-ordering kiosk, Downstairs was able to reduce reliance on order taking staff by encouraging customers to self-order through the kiosks. When customers took charge of ordering, it also helped to eliminate miscommunication and human errors when order taking.

On top of that, Downstairs presets add on suggestions that would automatically prompt when customers are placing orders to increase bill sizes.

iMakan’s self-ordering kiosk has also helped Downstairs in moving towards a completely cashless operation. This could only be achieved by integrating payment terminals with their self-ordering kiosks that accepts a wide variety of cashless payment methods so that customers could pay with their preferred means, other than cash.

By completely moving away from receiving cash in their operations, Downstairs safeguards their revenue from potential fraud and makes end of day closing easier for their managers.

Conclusion

By adopting iMakan’s self-ordering kiosk, Downstairs has digitalized order taking to reduce dependency on staff to take orders, achieve the best order accuracy, increase bill sizes through automated upselling & transform into a cashless operation to prevent cash discrepancies.

If you are interested in digitalizing your F&B operations to reduce costs and improve efficiency through a self-ordering kiosk, click here to speak with our solution consultants.

Singapore’s Major lifting of Covid19 Restrictions: How QR Ordering Helps your Restaurant Cope?

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Tue, 26 Apr 2022 04:18:34 GMT

26th April 2022 will be a special day for Singapore as almost all activities can be conducted with pre-Covid19 normalcy. It is expected that large groups of people will be dining out. Find out how QR ordering helps your restaurant prosper amid manpower shortages & large crowds.

Even as border measures have been relaxed, many F&B businesses find difficulty in hiring. Additionally, the high cost of manpower also flows over to their profits, hence, F&B businesses may think twice before hiring.

However, not hiring adequate manpower may translate into slow service times, slower table turnover & poor customer experience.

How QR ordering helps your restaurant?

Allows customers to self-order
Automates upselling
Pre-order in the queue
Helps customers understand your menu better
Timely menu updates

Allows customers to self-order

With QR ordering, your customers can self-order by simply scanning an ordering QR code. It allows customers to send in their orders anytime without having to wait for staff to take their orders.

This allows your restaurant to get orders from customers simultaneously to speed up the ordering process.

Your existing staff can focus on tasks that speed up service time without having to be distracted by order taking.

Automates upselling

When order taking staff are overwhelmed by large crowds during peak hours, they may not have the time, or miss out on opportunities to upsell and promote new dishes and offers.

By adopting QR ordering, you are able to preset automated suggestions and banners to pop up during and before they place their orders. This helps your restaurant automate upselling to avoid missing out on any opportunities to increase bill sizes.

Pre-order in the queue

With restrictions lifted, long queues may be returning to your restaurant. Instead of letting customers get frustrated in the queue, allow them to scan a QR code in the queue to browse your digital menu and save items to your cart.

This helps to shorten the time taken for your customers to browse through your menu and place orders at the table, which cuts down table occupancy time to boost turnover rates.

Helps customers understand your restaurant’s menu better

Often, customers may not be willing to order that extra or new dish because they do not know if it is something that they would like. A QR ordering system’s menu presents your menu to customers with high-resolution images and allows you to write up short descriptions of your dishes.

This will help your customers get a better understanding of that dish they are contemplating ordering without having to call for a service staff for help. This will also translate to a bigger bill size.

Timely menu updates

New trends come and go quickly. In order to remain competitive, your restaurant may come up with new offers and dishes. A QR ordering system’s digital menu can be instantly updated through an online portal.

This helps your restaurant push new offers and dishes out to customers on a timely basis without having to wait and pay for menu reprinting.

Get a QR ordering system for your restaurant

If you are interested to get a QR ordering solution for your restaurant, simply click here to get a demo.

How QR ordering systems help your quick service food kiosk save & profit more?

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Mon, 18 Apr 2022 04:44:45 GMT

Many full-service dine-in restaurants have adopted QR ordering as they have recognized the benefits of manpower savings revenue gain by improving the efficiency of their operations.

How does QR ordering benefit your quick service food business?

Manpower cost savings
Improves high order volume handling capability
Increases average bill sizes
Achieve 100% order accuracy

Manpower cost savings

Almost every Singaporean will have heard of the famous quick-service food brand, WOK HEY. They were one of the pioneers in adopting QR ordering system at their food kiosks and were able to operate without a dedicated cashier to take orders from customers.

By setting up a banner with an ordering QR code at their quick service food outlets, WOK HEY’s patrons are able to scan the QR code with their smartphones, place their orders and pay online without having to wait in line for the cashier to take their order. Thus, saving on manpower spending.

Improves high order volume handling capability

QR ordering systems help you take more orders, especially during your peak hours. Most quick-service food businesses have one or two cashiers at the outlet.

However, when it comes to peak hours, there will be a queue of customers waiting to place their orders with the cashier. This results in an ordering bottleneck.

By adopting a QR ordering system, your quick service food outlet will be able to receive orders from customers simultaneously. This will directly lead to an increase in revenue for your quick service food business.

Increases average bill sizes

Being able to automate upselling by presetting add on suggestions is one of the beauties of the digital menu in QR ordering. With automated upselling quick service food business will never miss out on any upselling opportunities.

Get 100% order accuracy

By digitalizing ordering and order management in your quick service food business, the chances of human error and miscommunication between customers is almost zero. This leads to better customer satisfaction and less food wastage

Thus, attracting return customers and reducing operational costs with lower food wastage.

Getting a QR Ordering System

If you are interested to get a QR ordering system for your quick service food business, click here for a free demo.

How to improve your restaurant customer retention

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Mon, 11 Apr 2022 07:32:44 GMT

Customer loyalty is important in any type of business, including restaurants. If your customers are one-time visitors, you will eventually run out of customers to visit your restaurant. Hence, having good customer loyalty will get you a steady flow of customers for more predictable revenue and better sustainability.

In order to gauge your restaurant’s customer loyalty, you have to take a look into your customer retention rates.

How to calculate your customer retention rate?

Select a timeframe(e.g. The month of April 2021)
Find out the total number of customers you have at (30 April 2021) ( E )
Find out the total number of customers you gained throughout the month of April 2021 ( N )
Find out the number at the start of your time frame (01 April 2021) ( S )
Follow this formula to calculate your customer retention rate: [( E - N) / S] x 100

Example

You start your month of April 2021 With 300 customers and end the month of April 2021 with 280 customers. In the month of April 2021, you gained 90 new customers. Your customer retention rate would be:

[(280 - 90) / 300] * 100 = 63.33%

What is a good customer retention rate for restaurants?

According to Statista , the average retention rate of restaurants worldwide is 55%. That means anything above that percentage, and your customer retention rates are good.

How to improve customer loyalty?

After calculating your customer retention rates, it is important to act on this data. In this article, we will discuss some ways how you can improve your restaurant’s customer loyalty.

Listen to customer feedback

Listening and responding to customer feedback is important as it shows them that you care and that makes them feel more connected to your restaurant brand.

Even if some of your customers are leaving bad reviews, it is important that you reply tactfully, so that they know that their issues are being addressed and that you value them.

This helps your restaurant brand build trust with your customers and trust is what keeps them coming back.

Email Marketing

A perfect example would be Shopee and Lazada, sending you marketing emails and notifications from their apps, so that whenever you are looking to buy something online, you will instinctively head to their ecommerce platforms. You could achieve the same effect with your restaurant too!

If you have a membership programme in place, you should leverage on it to keep your customers coming back. Have a schedule where you send your customers attractive deals in your email newsletter, or new dishes that your restaurant chefs have come up with.

By having a routine schedule of reaching out to your customers through email newsletters, you ensure that your restaurant brand is always on their mind.

Loyalty programme

Most restaurants with great customer loyalty have set up an attractive loyalty programme. The problem with most loyalty programmes is the sign up process. Most restaurants and F&B outlets will have their customers sign up at the counter when placing an order. While this allows your staff the opportunity to explain the benefits of a membership, it slows down order taking.

On top of that, your customers may feel pressured by the long line of waiting customers and may simply reject the membership offer.

If your restaurant is using iMakan's QR ordering system they can sign up to be a member to earn and redeem points by simply filling up their name and contact number just before they send in their orders.

A fuss free and quick membership signup usually encourages customers to sign up for a membership and be a part of your loyalty program.

Good menu design

While a good menu design does not seem directly relatable to improving customer loyalty, it has an impact on customer experience, which in turn, affects customer loyalty.

If your menu is difficult to understand with a complicated ordering process, customers are less likely to return as it contributes to a bad experience.

Having an easy to order menu will not only contribute to a good customer experience, but also encourages your customer to order more. How so? For example, if your restaurant is using iMakan QR ordering, it allows you to attach appetizing images to each menu item and automatic add on suggestions to help your customers to better understand your menu. Coupled with an intuitive interface, your customers ordering process will be fuss free.

Conclusion

It is important boost your customer loyalty as this will contribute to the scalability and sustainability of your restaurant. If you are looking for an ordering solution which facilitates quick and fuss free ordering and member signups, give iMakan QR ordering system a try!

Simply click here to arrange a free demo session with us!

Benefits of QR Ordering Apart From Manpower Savings

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Mon, 11 Apr 2022 04:58:00 GMT

Most F&B business owners know about one of the main benefits of QR ordering, which is manpower savings.

However, there are other lesser-known benefits of adopting a QR ordering system such as:

Increase in average bill sizes
Increase in table turnover rates
Timely menu changes

Increase in Average Bill Sizes

As reported by several of iMakan’s clients who have adopted our QR ordering system, they have experienced an increase in bill sizes. This is the result of 3 features of a QR ordering system:

Automated add on suggestions
High-resolution images for each menu item
Easy to order add on items at anytime

Automated add on suggestions

QR ordering systems usually allow you to preset add on suggestions that will automatically upsell as your customers are placing their orders, increasing the likelihood of customers ordering more.

High-resolution images for each item

A QR ordering system’s digital menu allows you to attach high-resolution images of your menu offerings to help your customers have a better understanding of your menu items.

By doing so, customers are more willing to order more dishes that they are not familiar with as they have a better idea of what they are getting.

Easy to order add on items at anytime

With QR ordering, your customers will not have to wait for staff to take orders whenever they want to order something extra.

With this convenience in adding on orders at any time through QR ordering, customers are more likely to do so and this increases your bill sizes.

Increase table turnover rates

Table turnover rates are a focal point for many restaurants that want to capitalize on their peak hours. Here are 2 ways in which QR ordering helps to boost table turnover rates:

Improve order handling capability
In-Queue ordering

Improve Order Handling Capability

With QR ordering, your customers do not have to wait for service staff to take orders and can place orders whenever they are ready.

Likewise, your restaurant can accept customers’ orders simultaneously, thus reducing waiting time which in turn, speeds up table turnover.

In-Queue Ordering

Have a queue of customers waiting to be seated? Why not enable them to browse the menu and save their orders to cart while waiting.

This practice saves on the time taken for customers to browse your menu and place orders only after they are seated. Every few minutes saved contributes to faster turnaround times to capitalize on your restaurant’s peak hours.

Timely menu changes

Consumer trends change fast in the restaurant industry. To be able to keep up with the fast moving industry, making changes to your menu must not be delayed by factors such as menu reprinting time.

QR ordering’s digital menu is able to be updated instantly through an online portal to push your latest dishes and promotions to your customers as quickly as possible, so that your restaurant does not fall behind competitors.

Getting a QR ordering system for your restaurant

If you are interested in adopting a QR ordering system for your restaurant, click here for a free demo.

Increase restaurant profitability through QR ordering.

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Tue, 29 Mar 2022 07:38:04 GMT

QR ordering is a popular ordering solution among restaurants in Singapore. Could it be time to adopt one for your restaurant if you have not? Let’s explore the estimated cost savings & extra revenue you stand to gain by adopting a QR ordering system for your restaurant.

Manpower Cost Savings

Manpower savings are one of the key benefits of adopting a QR ordering system for restaurants. But just how much are you able to save?

Based on estimates, a restaurant’s service staff wage is approximately S$2,000 per month.

A medium to a large sized restaurant will need an estimated of 5 service staff.

Based on these estimates, your restaurant will spend an estimated of S$10,000 per month or S$120,000 per year on service staff wages

A QR ordering system for restaurants in Singapore costs approximately S$12,000 with first year of subscription included. While it may seem like a huge investment, pre-approved solution costs are supported up to 80% ( valid at the time of publishing this article 29/03/2021 ). This equates to approximately S$3,600 after the grant.

With QR ordering, your restaurant can operate with two service staff. This is a saving of $116,400 in the first year.

Second-year onwards, the average estimated cost of subscription per month for QR ordering solutions in subsequent years is approximately $150 per month, which is way lower than the cost of hiring one service staff for your restaurant.

Increase table turnover

The estimated time for a restaurant service staff to take order from a table of customers is about 3 minutes.

Most restaurants have peak hours that last around 2 hours twice a day which equates to 4 hours of peak hours a day, and the average estimated time of customers dining in is roughly 45 minutes, which means that for every peak period, a table can be turned thrice, translating to 6 times a day over 2 peak hours.

Take a restaurant with 8 tables with and 2 service staff allocated to take orders for an example. It would take 12 minutes to take orders from the first wave of customers. If tables are turned 6 times a day across 2 peak periods, it equates to 72 minutes a day spent on manual order taking.

This 72 minutes could be used to accommodate another wave of customers. If each table’s average spending is S$90, it translates to an extra of S$720 per day or S$207,360 per year.

Conclusion

With such huge cost savings and potential revenue gain, it is no wonder that QR ordering are popular in restaurants, especially those of big F&B establishments with multiple outlets.

If you are interested in getting a QR ordering system for your restaurant, click here to get a free demo.

** Important note: The calculations above are estimates and does not reflect the actual amounts. iMakan will not be held responsible for any differences in estimates.

Does QR ordering really make the food business cold?

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Tue, 29 Mar 2022 03:39:08 GMT

Ordering food at restaurants through QR codes is common nowadays. Using QR ordering at your restaurant or cafe increases your order taking capability, allowing you to take more orders during peak hours and remove the ordering bottleneck.

On top of that, it reduces your manpower dependence on order taking staff. F&B owners like you may already know the high cost of labour and the difficulty in hiring staff in Singapore’s F&B industry.

This makes QR ordering the best choice to boost your front of house efficiency while lowering costs and increasing profits with little or no hardware and maintenance investment.

However, some restaurant and cafe owners are hesitant to take up the solutions as they feel that being in the food and beverage industry, human touch and communication is a must.

How to implement QR ordering at your restaurant/cafe without losing the human touch?

With QR ordering, there is little to no interaction between customers and your staff during order taking. However, interacting with customers does not end there.

In fact, most of the time, a good customer experience does not come from order taking alone. Following up with your customers; asking if they would like any add ons, if they enjoy the food, and fast service time often elevates customers’ experience at your restaurant or cafe.

Another way you could promote communication between customers and your staff is to have your service staff make recommendations on food and drinks that might suit the customers' taste.

This leaves a lasting impression on customers and increases the likelihood of them becoming returning customers.

Offer QR ordering to your regulars who know what they are looking for as a quick and convenient way of ordering. Or customers who are not in the mood for conversation.

Getting a QR ordering system for your restaurant or cafe

If you are interested to get a QR ordering system for your restaurant or face, click here for a free demo.

Increase Restaurant Profitability By Boosting Operational Efficiency

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Wed, 23 Mar 2022 04:51:00 GMT

When it comes to increasing a restaurant’s profitability, most restaurant owners often look towards customer acquisition.

Hence, they spend a substantial amount of their budget on marketing.

While marketing is necessary for customer acquisition to bring in more revenue, investing in making your operations run as efficiently as possible pays dividends towards your restaurant’s profitability.

A restaurant’s operation can be broken down into 3 key areas.

Front of house operations: Ordering
Back of house operations: Order preparation
Restaurant Management operations: Inventory management, End of Day Sales closing, reporting.

In this article, we share about how you could optimize your restaurant’s operational efficiency to boost profits.

Front Of House Operation Efficiency

Traditional restaurant order taking is heavily dependent on manpower.

As a restaurant owner, you know that recruiting manpower is tough. Even if you are successful at recruitment, labour cost is high and turnover rates are high.

To bring down manpower costs, self-ordering solutions like QR ordering systems and self-ordering kiosks are popular solutions.

By allowing your staff to self-order, you reduce manpower dependence, therefore bringing down operational cost.

On top of that, self-ordering solutions help your restaurant increase order handling capability.

Multiple self ordering kiosks can be set up to reduce queueing time. QR ordering systems can be deployed where customers scan a QR code to self order whenever they are ready. Thus, breaking the ordering bottleneck.

As you know, the more orders you can receive during your peak hour will translate into more revenue.

With lower manpower cost and higher order handling capability, you reduce operational cost and boost your revenue, making your restaurant more profitable.

Back of House Operation Efficiency

Efficient order management is key when you increase your order receiving capability. Without an effective order management system, your kitchen staff will be easily overwhelmed during peak hours.

This slows down service time and reduces order accuracy.

Slower service times lead to slower table turnover or frustrated customers that may not come back.

Reduced order preparation accuracy means incurring more food wastage thus, increasing operation cost.

A great solution adopted by many restaurants is a Kitchen Display Solution (KDS), which is a tablet based kitchen.

The KDS gives your food preparation team a centralized overview of order items to prepare. This allows them to mark order items as done when prepared.

This gives your kitchen staff a systematic way of managing orders, for efficient and accurate food preparation.

Getting self-ordering solutions to boost your operation productivity

iMakan is integrated with MEGAPOS POS systems, seamlessly linking up your self-ordering solutions with your POS system and kitchen order management system.

This unlocks the full potential of adopting a self-ordering solution for your restaurant.

If you are interested in getting self-ordering solutions like QR ordering systems or self-ordering kiosks, click here to schedule a free demo of iMakan.

What are the benefits of Self Ordering Kiosks apart from manpower savings?

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Wed, 16 Mar 2022 09:51:56 GMT

It is well known that adopting a self-ordering kiosk reduces your restaurant’s dependence on manpower. Apart from labour savings, self-ordering kiosks bring many other benefits to your restaurant.

Read on to find out more in this article.

Handle more orders with accuracy

Self-ordering kiosks enable your customers to place orders digitally. This gives you the flexibility to set up multiple ordering stations to get more orders during peak hours without needing extra manpower.

When properly set up, orders will be handled with full accuracy, linking up your front and back of house seamlessly.

Orders placed on the self-ordering kiosks will be sent to your POS system which then itemizes the order and sends each menu item to its specific kitchen section’s printers or displays to be prepared.

Timely updates to your menu

Have a new dish to launch or a new promotion for your restaurant? With a self-ordering kiosk, you will not have to wait for menu and poster printing to launch new dishes and promotions.

Simply use the online portal to create new dishes and promotions and it will be instantly updated on your self-ordering kiosk’s digital menu. Never miss out on trends due to long printing times again.

Increased average bill sizes

Self-ordering kiosks feature a digital menu that allows you to preset add on suggestions to upsell to your customers while they are placing orders.

This feature helps you capitalize on every upselling opportunity and safeguard your revenue.

Getting a self-ordering kiosk for your restaurant

If you are interested in getting a self ordering kiosk food your restaurant, click here to schedule a free demo

Is Integrating Your Contactless Ordering Solutions to Your POS System Necessary?

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Mon, 07 Mar 2022 09:31:13 GMT

contactless ordering solutions like QR ordering systems, self-ordering kiosks and online food ordering systems are well-known for bringing operational cost savings, increased revenue and better overall productivity. However, optimizing efficiency for front of house operations for your restaurant is only half the job done.

Linking front and back of house restaurant operations

For a restaurant to operate efficiently, your front and back of house operations have to work hand in hand. When adopting a contactless ordering solution, this should be one of the top priorities.

When adopting contactless ordering solutions, integration to your POS system is the link between your front and back of house restaurant operations.

Without this link, your back of house operations may get overwhelmed by the increased orders flowing in from multiple contactless ordering systems which would result in an overall drop in productivity.

How does the integration of contactless ordering solutions and POS systems work?

Adopting self-ordering solutions allows your customers to self-order through a QR ordering system, self ordering kiosk or order from your restaurant online. The orders are then sent digitally to your POS system, which is a central hub for to manage orders from multiple ordering channels.

Your POS system then itemizes each order and sends each order item to its specific kitchen section’s kitchen printer or a tablet kitchen display solution.

By digitalizing your restaurant’s entire ordering process, you are able to save on labour costs for order taking staff, open up multiple ordering channels to add different streams of revenue while handling high order volumes accurately.

On top of that, you create a seamless customer experience which promotes customer satisfaction.

Getting a contactless ordering system that integrates with a POS system

Looking for a QR ordering system, self-ordering kiosk or online food ordering solution for your restaurant? iMakan’s contactless ordering solutions are seamlessly integratable with MEGAPOS POS systems to maximize your restaurant’s productivity potential.

Click here to get a free demo on iMakan's contactless ordering solutions that integrates with MEGAPOS POS system.

iMakan Hybrid Self Ordering Kiosk

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Mon, 28 Feb 2022 08:12:27 GMT

iMakan’s hybrid self-ordering kiosk is one of the latest product developments by iMakan. It was developed to match the needs of many F&B businesses, especially those that are operating on quick service, pay first dine later flow.

What is iMakan Hybrid?

iMakan Hybrid is a dual touch screen solution that combines a cloud POS system together with a self-ordering kiosk and fits on your F&B countertop.

What are the benefits of iMakan Hybrid?

Solves manpower challenges
Accurate order taking
Increases average bill sizes
Centralizes order management
Centralizes menu management

Solves manpower challenges

High manpower cost and generally low demand for F&B related jobs in Singapore contribute to manpower challenges that are commonly faced by the F&B industry. With iMakan Hybrid, your customers can self order through the self ordering kiosk screen.

This reduces the dependence on staff for order taking. Your existing staff can be reassigned to help with order management and food preparation to speed up service time and capitalize on peak hours.

Accurate order taking

By allowing your customers to self-order through the self-ordering kiosk, you let your customers take charge of their orders. When their orders are placed, it is digitally sent to your POS system which fires the order to the kitchen display or printers.

This eliminates the chance of miscommunication or human error.

Increases average bill sizes

The customer facing self ordering kiosk automatically prompt add on suggestion that you can configure to upsell to your customers. This helps you or your staff to capitalize on every opportunity to upsell.

Centralizes order management

The staff facing POS system forms the centre of operations. It helps to centralize order and menu management from multiple ordering channels for example, QR ordering, self-ordering kiosks, and GrabFood.

This allows for a seamless operation flow by linking up front of house operations (ordering) to back of house operations (food preparation). On top of that, menu management across all digital platforms are also simplified through one platform.

Centralizes menu management

Apart from centralizing menu management, order management can also be centralized through an online portal. This makes it easier for you to manage your self-ordering kiosk, QR ordering and GrabFood menus.

iMakan’s online portal is easy to manage even if you have different prices for GrabFood and in-store self-ordering menus.

Getting a iMakan Hybrid

If you are interested in iMakan Hybrid self ordering kiosk, click here to speak with our solution consultants today!

3 F&B trend predictions in 2022

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Fri, 25 Feb 2022 03:22:37 GMT

The new year brings new opportunities and consumer trends. Just like in 2021, we share 3 F&B industry trend predictions for the year 2022.

Rise in takeaway food popularity

Due to the dine out restrictions brought about by the pandemic (current restrictions of up to 5 pax to dine in), many will still opt to order takeaway food from their favorite restaurants if they are dining with family or friends with more than 5 people.

Hence, it is important to digitize your F&B business infrastructure with the right digital tools to be able to easily manage takeaway food orders. Some of these digital tools are:

Online food ordering solutions

Online food ordering platforms are like an eCommerce site for your F&B business. When you adopt an online food ordering solution, you will be given a URL that you are able to put up on your social media channels e.g.Instagram, Facebook, Google myBusiness so that your customers are able to order from your F&B business for with the option to select delivery or self collection.

This is a great way to expand your F&B business’s reach online and improve your brand awareness.

Unlike food delivery platforms like FoodPanda, GrabFood and Deliveroo, online food ordering platforms allow you to develop your own customer base as you can collect your customer’s data, which you can use for marketing purposes to re-engage them to boost customer loyalty.

Food delivery platforms

Food delivery platforms are popular channels where consumers order from you. Food delivery platform should be a staple in every F&B business today as it allows your F&B brand to tap into these food delivery platform’s customer base to grow your brand awareness.

QR ordering system

While QR ordering systems is mostly used to improve the efficiency of dine-in order taking, it can also be used to boost takeaway food order taking capability.

This concept is currently being adopted by a famous chain outlet in Singapore, Wok Hey. By putting up a banner of their ordering QR code at their quick service food kiosks’ shopfront, they encourage customers to self order by scanning the QR code with their smartphones.

Dine-in Contactless ordering solutions will be more widespread

An increasing number of restaurants are taking up contactless ordering solutions such as QR ordering. This is because it helps them to reduce dependence on order taking staff, thus saving costs and increase order taking capabilities by allowing customers to self-order and send in orders simultaneously whenever they are ready.

On top of that, contactless ordering solutions like QR ordering will help you to increase upselling through automatic add on suggestions, achieve 100% order accuracy as customers take charge of their ordering and make timely changes to your menu to capitalize on consumer trends.

Hence, in order to remain competitive in the F&B industry, your restaurant has to adopt contactless ordering solutions and digitalize.

Contactless payment will be the norm

Since the pandemic and the ever-increasing options of contactless payments like PayNow, PayWave, GrabPay, and especially SG QR, Singapore has seen a rapid rise in the number of consumers opting to pay via these methods, which is in line with Singapore’s objective of going cashless.

In order to provide a better customer experience for your customers, adopting contactless payments is essential as it allows your customers to choose the payment method that is convenient to them.

Getting contactless ordering solutions

iMakan has helped F&B merchants and enterprises digitalize and reap the benefits of adopting contactless ordering solutions such as QR ordering and self-ordering kiosks.

Click here to speak with our solution consultants today.

Boost revenue by making your F&B business mobile friendly

chanatda.s@megasafe.com.sg (Chanatda Sang) — Mon, 14 Feb 2022 04:02:22 GMT

Research has shown that Singaporeans spend an average of 3 hours and 12 minutes of our time on mobile phones every day, hence, reaching out to your customers through mobile-friendly platforms very effective, and important for your F&B business.

On top of that statistic, about 81% of restaurant/cafe goers search for new places to eat on their smartphones, and 75% make their decisions based on that search result.

How can you, as an F&B business owner, use these statistics to your advantage? Here are some ways.

Make your F&B business searchable on Google

When it comes to being searchable on Google, spending lots of effort on Search Engine Optimization, and spending money on paid Google ads comes to mind. However, there is an easier way to get your business searchable, with all the necessary information that your potential customers may need.

Use Google MyBusiness to get searchable on Google. When you set up your Google MyBusiness account, information such as pictures of your F&B outlet, food images, address, opening hours, a link to your website, your customer reviews and your menu is available to your customers. The more information your target audience know about your F&B business, the higher the chance of them becoming your customers.

Get a digital menu

When potential customers are browsing the web to find a suitable F&B outlet to dine at, it mostly comes down to what the F&B outlet has on their menu. Getting a digital menu helps you put your menu on your website, social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook, or your Google MyBusiness link.

Providing potential customers with information on what your F&B business has to offer, increases the chances of them picking your restaurant over others, which may not have their menu on display.

On top of that, a digital menu can serve as an additional source of revenue. It can be used as a platform for you to get orders from customers who want to pre-order for self pick up, or delivery .

Get on social media

Social media is a great marketing tool for business to consumer marketing. With good social media marketing practices, you can reach more than 4.7 million Singaporeans through social media marketing.

Getting on social media makes your brand more relatable to your customers through interactions with them in the comments sections or by doing polls. By creating a community on social media, you can also boost customer loyalty.

Be contactable

Potential customers may have been drawn in through your social media marketing efforts or your digital menu, and are looking to contact you to make a reservation or to enquire more. When potential customers are at this stage, they are one foot in the door of your F&B business.

Be sure to have your F&B business contact number on all your websites and social media platforms so that these customers can easily contact you.

Get reviews

Use QR codes around your F&B business to get customers to do a review of your food and services with ease. By collecting more positive reviews, you build your F&B business credibility. Potential customers are more likely to pick a shop with more positive reviews over those with little or no reviews.

Use QR Ordering

As we have mentioned, customers these days spend lots of time on their smartphones. Using QR ordering, where customers scan a QR code to place orders helps you to generate more revenue on each order.

QR ordering turns your customers’ smartphones into a digital menu and ordering device. This allows you to attach attractive images to each dish to whet your customers’ appetite, or help them understand your menu items better. On top of that, QR ordering’s digital menu helps you upsell automatically to your customers when they place an order, never missing an opportunity to upsell.

Apart from additional revenue generation, QR ordering also helps reduce operational costs by lowering your dependency on manpower for manual table to table order taking, helping you to scale your F&B business.

Conclusion

It is crucial to keep up with the times and get your F&B business mobile-friendly. This way, you can stay ahead of the competition. Other than improving your business mobile-friendliness to boost customer acquisition.

If you are interested in QR ordering for your F&B business, do drop us your contact information and we will be happy to arrange a free demo with you!

iMakan x GrabFood Integration. What it is & what's in it for F&B merchants

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Wed, 09 Feb 2022 04:55:28 GMT

iMakan has integrated our QR ordering system, self-ordering kiosk and GrabFood’s order and menu management into a single iMakan online portal.

What is iMakan?

iMakan looks to help F&B merchants digitalize their order taking processes with digital solutions like QR ordering and self-ordering kiosks.

Benefits of Digital Ordering

Manpower

Through digital ordering solutions, F&B merchants are able to reduce dependence on manual work, therefore lowering their manpower costs.

Larger Average Bill Size

On top of that, some of our clients have also reported an increase in average bill sizes. This could be attributed to the upselling function of iMakan’s digital menu that provides customers with add on suggestions when they place their orders.

Digital ordering solutions, especially a QR ordering system allow your customers to browse your digital menu and have a better understanding of your menu items at their own pace. This gives your customers a comfortable environment to order without the pressure of making quick decisions when an order taking staff is around, which contributes to larger orders.

Removes ordering bottlenecks

By adopting a contactless ordering system your customers do not have to wait for an order taking staff to place their orders.

With a QR ordering system, your customers scan an ordering QR code and place their orders whenever they are ready. This will allow your customers to place orders simultaneously without waiting for an order taking staff to be available, thus removing ordering bottlenecks.

With self-ordering kiosks, you are able to deploy multiple ordering kiosks to add ordering stations to your F&B outlet, thus, moving the queue faster.

Accurate order management

As orders are sent digitally to your POS system which then itemizes the orders and sends order items to each kitchen section’s respective kitchen printers. By digitalizing ordering and order management, your F&B business is able to achieve 100% order accuracy.

GrabFood Integration with iMakan

Why GrabFood

After gathering feedback from our F&B clients, GrabFood came up as the most widely adopted online food delivery platform and contributes to the highest amount of online food orders that our F&B clients receive.

Hence, the iMakan prioritized GrabFood as the first online food delivery platform to kick start our integration with various food delivery platforms in Singapore.

How does the iMakan x GrabFood integration work?

Order management

When orders come in from the GrabFood platform, they will be sent to your POS system and your iMakan order management device. Your POS system will automatically itemize orders and fire them to the respective kitchen sections.

This eliminates the need for your staff to re-enter orders from the GrabFood order management device into the POS system, which is a manual process susceptible to human error.

Menu Management

With iMakan’s integration to GrabFood, you are able to manage your QR ordering system, self-ordering kiosk and GrabFood menu through a single portal. This means that updating your menu across all digital ordering platforms to include new dishes, set menus or promotions can be done from a single online portal and your digital menus across all platforms will be instantly updated.

If you are interested in getting iMakan digital ordering solutions with GrabFood integration, click on this link to speak with our solution consultants today.

Brotherbird Cafe QR Ordering Use Case

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Fri, 28 Jan 2022 03:10:46 GMT

Image credits: Daniel Food Diary

Brotherbird is a bakery-cafe located in Singapore at Bali Lane. They feature soft-serve desserts with unique flavours of house-made soft serve with mochi bursts and doughnuts. Their mochi croissants and cruffins are also a hit among their customers.

Why did Brotherbird adopt iMakan QR ordering system?

As Brotherbird offers the option for their customers to dine-in at their seating area, they were faced with a common challenge among many order and pay first F&B outlets which is overcrowding in their shops.

This is due to the customers placing their orders at the cashier terminal, only to realise that there are no more tables available.

The result will be customers waiting around in their cafe dining area for tables, which is commonly seen at coffee shops and hawker centres in Singapore.

This makes it difficult for them to adhere to the Safe Management Measures (SMMs) that were put in place due to the pandemic. Hence, Brotherbird decided to adopt iMakan’s QR ordering system to digitalize ordering and make tweaks to their operations to better manage customer crowds.

How did Brotherbird implement iMakan QR ordering?

Brotherbird printed static QR codes that were pasted on each table for customers to scan and place orders.

Instead of having their customers queue up at their cashier counter to place their orders before getting seated, their customers were now able to look for an available table and scan the QR code on their tables to browse the menu and place their orders.

By adopting this workflow, Brotherbird’s staff were able to stop customers from entering their shop once tables were fully occupied which helped them to eliminate overcrowding at their cashier counter and dining area.

Unique billing concept for a cafe

iMakan offers merchants the choice of accepting customers’ payments through online payment or receiving payment from customers at the cashier.

Brotherbird on the other hand decided to use a unique payment collection method often seen in restaurants but with a twist.

After customers’ food has been served, instead of waiting for customers to call for the bill after finishing their meal, Brotherbird allocates staff to collect payment from their customers through a wireless contactless payment terminal or by collecting cash.

This ordering flow further reduces crowding at their cashier counter. Hence, Brotherbird has been able to control their customer crowd by implementing iMakan’s QR ordering to help digitalize order taking to adhere to SMMs and maintain a comfortable environment in their cafe for their customers.

Adopting iMakan QR ordering system

Looking to digitalize your ordering through QR order to enjoy benefits like better order taking capability, lesser reliance on manpower and boost your revenue? Drop your contact details through this link to get a free demo of iMakan QR ordering system.

Why Contactless QR Ordering Is so Popular in Singapore

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Tue, 04 Jan 2022 05:08:19 GMT

F&B industry leaders believe that contactless ordering will likely be popular with consumers due to the convenience it offers.

The implementation of Trace Together, where Singaporeans are required to scan a QR code to “check in” before entering shopping malls or shops for contact tracing has educated locals on the use of QR codes.

Hence, the concept of scanning a QR code to view menus and place orders have become less abstract than in the past.

This, combined with the fact that Singaporeans love speed and convenience in everything we do has played a major role in driving the use of QR ordering in restaurants further.

Customisable & Timely Updating of Menus

Consumer trends are constantly changing, especially among Singaporeans. In order to keep up with the times, your menu has to be able to be updated in a timely manner.

Regular customers will be attracted to keep coming back if your restaurant’s menu is refreshed from time to time which boosts customer loyalty, an important part of your restaurant business.

This is where contactless ordering’s digital menu comes in handy. Contactless ordering digital menus are updated through an online backend portal. As digital menus do not require reprinting, it can be updated in a timely manner through the online backend portal.

This timely update of your menu allows you to quickly launch new dishes or promotions to capitalize on new trends.

No Miscommunication

Miscommunication is inevitable when it comes manually taking orders from customers. This could be due to differences in native language or human errors.

When restaurants adopt contactless ordering, miscommunication between staff and customers are reduced to almost zero.

Customers are given full control over their own orders and your staff do no need to worry about forgetting customers’ orders or preferences. This will lead to a better customer experience.

Better Reporting

Closing restaurant operations can be a headache for restaurant managers when sums do not add up.

When your restaurant adopts contactless ordering, all orders and payments are logged online and add on a layer of security to help safeguard your revenue.

On top of that, having order details logged in an online portal that is accessible at any time. This provides you will easily accessible data to identify new trends which your restaurant could work towards to generate more revenue.

Getting a contactless ordering system

If you are keen on finding out more about ordering contactless ordering solutions for your F&B business, contact iMakan through this link to get a free demo on our QR ordering system, self ordering kiosk and online food ordering system.

Going contactless. The future of restaurant ordering.

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Tue, 04 Jan 2022 04:27:56 GMT

Ever since the pandemic started, contactless ordering and payment have soared in popularity. Even as Singapore is recovering and slowly easing restrictions, contactless ordering and payment popularity is still at an all-time high.

Why so? That could be due to the upsides that restaurants have experienced since adopting contactless ordering and payment methods.

In this article, we share more about contactless ordering and payments and how your business can benefit from adopting these solutions.

What is contactless ordering?

Contactless ordering means that your customers are able to place their order and even pay without needing to be in proximity with other customers or restaurant staff, through the use of their mobile devices. From there, the customer places their order and then enters their credit card data to pay.

Some examples of contactless ordering solutions would be QR ordering solutions, online ordering solutions or even self-ordering kiosks.

How contactless ordering helps?

Less manpower dependence

With contactless ordering, your customers are able to self-order.

This means that you can rely less on staff to take orders from your customers, which lowers manpower costs. Which is Singapore’s F&B industry, is expensive and scarce.

Remove ordering bottleneck

By allowing your customers to self order through their smartphones, you remove physical queue. With current Safe Management Measures (SMM) in place, it may be tedious to manage physical queues.

Contactless ordering methods such as QR ordering lets your customers simply scan a QR code with their smartphones to browse your menu and place their orders. This way, your customers are able to place their orders whenever they are ready without having to wait in line for their turn to order, or for a staff to take their orders at the table.

The result would be better order taking capability, allowing you to capitalize on your peak hours to

Reduces contact between staff and customers during ordering

Contactless ordering reduces customer and staff interaction by digitalizing the ordering process. This not only helps save manpower but also protects your staffs and customers from the virus.

On top of that, your staff can be freed up from order taking duties and focus on other important duties in your restaurant.

Such as providing support to the back of house staff to speed up service time, or interacting with customers, checking in with them, to boost service standards in your restaurants.

Kick off your restaurant digitalization with contactless ordering

Interested in exploring contactless ordering solutions for your restaurant? Click here to drop us your contact information through this link to get a free demo on iMakan’s contactless ordering solution.

How to use data to boost your restaurant revenue?

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Tue, 21 Dec 2021 07:10:56 GMT

The use of data for analytics to improve business functions and revenue is a common practice among F&B establishments, which is why they are seeing so much success in expanding and scaling their businesses.

Even if you are not planning to turn your restaurant into a chain operation, data analytics is important to you too. Let’s discuss this in this article.

Forecasting consumer trends

Going through your monthly reports on your revenue streams will help you to forecast and catch on to the next big market opportunity. For example, if you realise a gradual increase in the number of takeaway orders for your dine-in restaurant, you may want to build up your operations in those areas.

Deploying a self-ordering Kiosk is an efficient way to cope with long takeaway queues. Your takeaway customers can place their orders through the self ordering kiosk instead of through service staff. This ensures that your existing staff are still focused on your main business operations, dine in.

Maximize Marketing ROI

It is important to know which of your marketing channels are working best for your restaurant’s target audience. Use data analytics tools to derive which one of those channels will be worth your effort and money to beef up, and which of those can your restaurant do away with.

Better manage inventory levels

Data analytics can also help you identify your best selling dishes. Once these dishes are identified, you may want to stock up on the ingredients for your restaurant’s bestsellers, and revamp those dishes which are not doing too well.

Enhance your menu

As a F&B operator, it is essential to review your menu from time to time, making changes to ensure your menu is up to date with current consumer trends. Using data analytics, you are able to identify your restaurant’s popular dishes, which you may use to create attractive promotions to attract more customers.

Data analytics also helps you identify popular add on or ala carte dishes, so that your staff or self-ordering system can upsell these dishes during the ordering process.

Contactless Ordering Solutions

Combining data analytics with digital ordering solutions is a powerful revenue booster for your F&b business.

As we know, customer trends are constantly changing. Contactless ordering solutions such as QR ordering systems, online food ordering solutions and self ordering kiosks can uses a digital menu that can be updated instantly from an online backend portal.

This means that your best selling dishes category, add on suggestion presets and promotions can be updated in a timely manner to capitalize on new customer trends without having to spend extra time and money on menu reprinting.

If you are interested in getting digital ordering solutions such as QR ordering system, self ordering kiosks, online ordering system (pre order for pick up or delivery), do leave us your contact details below and we will be happy to arrange a free demo session with you!

Should you start a cloud kitchen?

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Mon, 20 Dec 2021 04:29:54 GMT

Cloud kitchens are an upcoming trend in Singapore, which can be attributed to the Covid 19 pandemic circuit breaker. With the rise in consumers using online ordering for food delivery, F&B owners found that they could open up new outlets without having to have a physical shop front.

Instead, they could simply leverage online food ordering platforms to get customers’ orders and rent cheaper kitchen space to have the food prepared.

Why Cloud Kitchens Have Gained Popularity

Market Opportunity

Instead of dining out or cooking at home, consumers enjoy the convenience of using online food ordering platforms to pre-order their meals and have them delivered to their doorstep or self collect their orders at their preferred time.

As more ordering food online has become popular among consumers, it only makes sense for F&B business owners to open up low-cost cloud kitchens that generate revenue from online orders.

Low investment

To open up a cloud kitchen, you do not need to look for a prime location in the heartlands to ensure that you have a steady stream of patrons. Most of the time, the better the location, the higher the rental rates. All you need to a kitchen space which suits your operational needs.

On top of that, you are able to operate multiple F&B brands out of your cloud kitchen instead of the traditional one brand one shop concept.

Easy brand experimentation

As mentioned above, operating multiple brands in a single cloud kitchen outlet is entirely possible.

Have a new F&B brand idea? Try it out by using the same kitchen infrastructure you have in your cloud kitchen and get orders from your customers through online food ordering.

Since you are using your existing cloud kitchen and an online food ordering system to run your new F&B brand, you do not have high overhead costs and can simply pull the plug once you feel that it is not working as envisioned.

Getting an online food ordering system

If you are looking into setting up your cloud kitchen, you should look for a reliable online food ordering system as well. Here at iMakan, we offer the most user-friendly, online food ordering system that is integrated to third party delivery platforms to solve your logistical headaches.

Drop us your details here and we will be happy to arrange a free demo session with you!

Why Should You Move Your Customers to a Virtual Queue?

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Mon, 06 Dec 2021 03:38:39 GMT

Singapore’s relaxing of Covid 19 restrictions has brought back long queues at popular F&B businesses. However, with the social distancing regulations still being enforced, you may need to deploy extra manpower to help manage the queues, which adds to your operation costs.

A solution to this is moving your customers to a virtual queue. This solution has already been implemented by many F&B industry leaders to reduce operational costs, handle higher order volumes and increase customer satisfaction.

Using contactless ordering to move customers to a virtual queue

The most cost effective way to put your customers is a virtual queue is through contactless ordering. contactless ordering refers to solutions like QR ordering systems and online ordering systems. Let’s dive deeper into how you can implement each of these contactless ordering solutions to remove physical queues at your shopfront.

QR Ordering System

QR ordering systems works by simply allowing your customers to scan an ordering QR code through their smartphones, which links them to your digital menu where they can self order. Once your customers confirm their order, they are able to make payment through an online payment gateway and receive real time order status updates through the ordering page or through SMS.

Your customers are free to move around instead of having to wait at your store for their orders to be prepared. Once they receive the "food is read for collection" notification, they can proceed to your collection counter to collect their orders.

Online Ordering System

Online ordering system allows customers pre-order via a website before self pick up or delivery. Customers will have to make payment online for their orders before it is sent to kitchen for preparation to prevent fraudulent orders. Customers will also receive order status updates through the webpage or SMS.

Benefits for merchants

By using QR and online ordering to replace physical queues, your ordering taking capability is not limited to the number of ordering stations you have.

Your restaurant is able to accept your customers’ orders simultaneously, allowing you to receive high order volumes with ease.

Less dependence on order taking and crowd control staff coupled with increased order handling capabilities will lead to increase in profits for your restaurant.

Benefits for your customers

Contactless ordering systems allow your customers to place their orders once they are ready and will updated them on their order status in real time, giving them the flexibility to attend to other matters in the meantime.

This enhances your customers’ satisfaction by providing them with a seamless, fuss free experience from food ordering to food collection, thus, promoting your takeaway food kiosk’s customer retention rates.

Interested to enjoy the benefits of implementing contactless ordering systems? Simply leave your contact details below and we will be happy to arrange a free demo with you.

The gaining takeaway food trend

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Mon, 29 Nov 2021 04:30:26 GMT

The pandemic has reshaped the restaurant industry. Even as dine-out restrictions are relaxed as Singapore is recovering from Covid19, the takeaway food trend is still gaining due to the convenience it brings.

In this article, we share a few tips for restaurant owners to adapt and capitalize on the upward trend of takeaway food.

How should restaurants adapt to the new takeaway food trend?

Many consumers order takeaway food from online. It is important to recognize that and meet your consumers where they are shopping. There are 2 ways you could achieve this. Food delivery platforms or setting up an online food ordering system.

Food Delivery Platforms

These are popular platforms like GrabFood, FoodPanda and Deliveroo. Many restaurants have taken to such platforms to start selling online. These platforms are great tools to reach more consumers as you tap on their vast customer base and food delivery is handled through them, making it a good option to quickly reach out to online consumers.

However, there are downsides to using these platforms. First being that you unable to collect your customer’s data to create your own customer base. Thus, unable to create a loyal customer following.

Second and one of the most talked about would be the high commission rates that these platforms draw from each of your orders. In order to maintain profits, many F&B merchants had to raise their prices, but this could discourage customers from ordering.

Online Food Ordering Systems

The difference between online food ordering systems and food delivery platforms is that online ordering systems are often web based and you would have to acquire your own customers. Also, food delivery and collection has to be handled by the restaurant.

However, with proper marketing and order management, your online ordering system can outperform food delivery platforms in terms of customer retention rate and profitability.

An online ordering system allows your customers to focus on your brand and offer. This prevents them from hopping to your competitors on the same platform.

By using an online ordering system, you are able to build your restaurant's fanbase for better customer retention to generate more revenue for your restaurant in the long run, without high commission rates charged per order by food delivery platforms.

Which to use?

To achieve the best results, having a strong online presence is important for your restaurant. Hence, using only one of these solutions is inadequate. By using both food delivery platforms and online food ordering systems hand in hand, will help you increase your restaurant’s online presence and meet your customers where they are shopping.

Self ordering kiosk

How does a full service restaurant that prioritizes dine-in adopt self-ordering kiosks?

When customers head to restaurants to takeaway, your restaurant has to divert extra manpower to get orders from these customers. If takeaway order volumes are high, you will have to divert even more manpower from your dine-in operations to handle high volumes of takeaway orders. This negatively affects your efficiency and you may even have to expand your restaurant’s floor space to accommodate more cashier terminals.

By adopting self-ordering kiosks, you are able to open up more takeaway ordering counters without the need to allocate manpower to take orders manually. As self-ordering kiosks take up less space than cashier terminals, you will not have to increase your restaurant’s floor space, hence, saving on rental costs.

On top of that, self-ordering kiosks allow you to preset add on suggestions to promote new dishes, promotions or popular add ons to your takeaway customers.

When the self-ordering kiosks are not in use, they can be used to display attractive images of your best-sellers and promotions that will help to attract walk-in customers.

Should Your Adopt QR Ordering or Self Ordering Kiosks?

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Mon, 29 Nov 2021 04:05:46 GMT

Self-ordering solutions have gained traction in the F&B industry. Many new F&B startups and existing businesses are looking to digitalize using tools like QR ordering and self-ordering kiosks for the benefits they bring.

3 main Benefits of self-ordering solutions for F&B businesses

Lower manpower cost

By enabling your customers to self-order, you rely less on manpower to take orders. In the past, F&B businesses would hire more to cope with an increase in order volumes. However, the high cost of labour in Singapore, both local and foreign, means greater expenses for their F&B businesses. This would often flow over into their profits.

With self-ordering systems, you get to reduce dependency on manpower, thus, increasing your business’s profitability.

High order handling capability

Order taking staff can only take orders from one customer at a time. On the other hand, self-ordering systems like QR ordering and online food ordering systems, allows you to receive orders from your customers simultaneously.

Hence, you are able to accept multiple orders at the same time and manage them through an order management system. This allows you to handle high order volumes without having to hire more order taking manpower.

Increase average bill sizes

Self-ordering systems allow you to pre-set add on suggestions. By pre-setting add on suggestions, you automate the upselling process whenever a customer self-orders.

This helps you to capitalize and never miss out on any upselling opportunities to increase your average bill size, in turn, boosting your F&B business revenue.

Differences between QR ordering systems and self-ordering kiosks

QR ordering system

This type of self-ordering system often does not require investments in hardware as customers scan an ordering QR code and place their orders through their smartphone. Essentially turning their smartphones into order-taking devices.

QR ordering systems are popular among F&B businesses that offer the option of dining-in as QR codes are either placed on tables for easy access or handed to customers in a form of a receipt printout.

Self-ordering kiosk

Self-ordering kiosks, or self-service kiosks, on the other hand, are more popular among fast-food restaurants and takeaway food kiosks.

Self-ordering kiosks provide an avenue for restaurants with some space to spare, an avenue to open up multiple order taking stations without hiring more staff. By adopting self-ordering kiosks, F&B chains are able to get in more orders during peak hours without hiring more.

On top of that, self-ordering kiosks also possesses the capability to upsell automatically when your customers are ordering. This allows you to capitalize on upselling opportunities, increasing your revenue.

Getting self-ordering solutions for your F&B business

Interested in the benefits self-ordering solutions can bring to your F&B business? Simply drop iMakan your contact details below and we will arrange a free demo to help you find a self-ordering solution that fits your F&B business.

Using QR Ordering In "Pay First Dine Later" Restaurants & Cafes

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 08:45:22 GMT

Does your cafe or restaurant offer the option to dine-in and operate on a “pay first dine later” operation model? If so, this article may help you improve your restaurant or cafe’s ordering & operation efficiency, to reduce costs and even generate more revenue.

How does a QR ordering flow work in your restaurant or cafe?

Customers get seated at any available tables.
Customers scan a QR code on their tables with their smartphones to browse your digital menu & place an order.
Customers are presented with 2 options of payment:
Pay at the counter.
Online payment through their phones.
If the customer chooses to pay at the counter, you have 2 options for payment collection:
Customers join a queue at your cashier to make payment before food is served or collected.
Your service staff that serves food to customers' tables collects payment from them. Either through cash payment, or through a wireless contactless payment terminal.

What are the benefits of using this ordering process at your cafe or restaurant?

Less contact (staff to customers, customers to customers).

As Covid19 is still a highly contagious virus, using QR ordering allows your customers to order from their tables and prevents overcrowding at your ordering counters. Thus, Safe Management Measures can be properly observed to reduce chances of infection.

On top of that, your staff will not have to take orders from customers, further reducing staff to customer contact, keeping both customers and staff safe.

Less reliance and spending on order taking manpower.

QR ordering systems encourages your customers to self-order as it offers them a convenient way to order without having to head over to the cashier. This helps your restaurant or cafe reduce dependence on order taking staff to drive down labour costs.

Accept more orders during peak hours than before.

Self-ordering solutions like QR ordering systems help you to break the ordering bottleneck that causes long queues at your cashier terminals. They so do by turning your customer’s smartphones into ordering devices, enabling them to send in orders once they are ready instead of having to wait in line.

This allows your restaurant or cafe to accept high volumes of orders from your customers simultaneously, which every F&B owner will know is crucial for capitalizing on daily peak hours to boost your revenue.

Many restaurant owners and operation managers often worry about confusion in back of the house operations which slows down service times during peak hours. Good QR ordering systems come with an easy to manage kitchen management system.

The kitchen management system provides you with a systematic and “at-a-glance” solution allowing your kitchen staff to easily cope with the high order volumes without confusion.

Another recommended alternative would be to integrate your QR ordering system with your POS system , allowing you to use your Kitchen Display Solution or kitchen printers to manage your orders.

Increase average bill sizes.

How does QR ordering help to increase your average bill sizes? Here is how.

Through appetizing pictures and descriptions of your dishes, your customers are able to visualize your menu, which encourages them to order more or try something extra.
QR ordering systems allows you to preset add on suggestions to upsell to your customers as they are placing their orders. For example asking your customers if they would like to make it a meal for better value, or suggesting some popular add on dishes, encourages your customers to spend more, thus increasing your bill size.
You may also include a promotional banner that pops up when your cafe or restaurant customers scan the ordering QR code. It could include your latest promotions, newest dishes that might interest your customers.

A seamless experience for your customers.

QR ordering not only benefits your restaurant or cafe operations but also your customers.

Through QR ordering systems, your customers can enjoy a seamless experience at your cafe or restaurant once they grabbed a table. Your customers no longer have to wait for their orders to be taken by a service staff or join the queue at the cashier to take orders.

This means that they are able to place orders once they are ready, and order add ons while having their meals by simply scanning an ordering QR code with their smartphones.

The order handling accuracy of QR ordering systems also ensures that miscommunication during order taking never occurs, ensuring that your customers are treated to good food and a pleasant time at your cafe or restaurant. This makes them more likely to return and recommend your cafe or restaurant.

Interested in knowing more about a QR ordering system for your restaurant or cafe?

Simply drop your contact details below and iMakan will be happy to arrange a free demo with you.

Taking an Omnichannel Approach to Digitalize Your Restaurant

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Thu, 11 Nov 2021 09:04:01 GMT

F&B businesses digitalization has been happening over the past few years and has been sped up even further by Covid19. The reason why many F&B businesses are digitizing at such pace is mostly due to the benefits it brings. Digital solutions have helped F&B businesses to streamline their processes, link up front and back of the house operations seamlessly to increase operational efficiency and reduce operational costs.

While you can digitalize your F&B operations in a multitude of ways, it has been proven by F&B establishments that adopting an omnichannel ordering approach is the most effective, and the best and easiest way to start your digitalization journey. Why is that so? Find out more by reading on!

Evolution of smartphones

The internet of things have boosted the connectivity and convenience of our daily lives. In the past, when we needed to access the internet, we had to have access to a personal computer and establish an internet connection through dial up.

Today, most of us have easy access to the internet from anywhere at any time through our smartphones, which is why you should leverage your customers’ personal smart devices and turn it into a food ordering channel!

The increasing importance of ordering connectivity

Consumers nowadays want to be able to order their food from anywhere instead of just at your outlet. Especially with the uncertainty of sudden tightening and relaxing of Covid19 regulations and recurring waves of infections these days, omnichannel ordering is a tool you want to have in your kit.

By allowing your consumers to browse your menu and order online, it not only adds an income channel for your F&B business, but is also a great way to let potential customers know about your F&B business. This allows your potential customer to browse and understand your menu, try your food through ordering online and in the future, become your walk in customers.

New generation of consumers

The younger generation are getting increasingly tech-savvy as they grew up with technology at their fingertips. This will cause a shift in consumer behaviour where your new customer demographic gravitate towards digital ordering channels such as qr ordering , self ordering kiosks and self pickup and delivery online food ordering.

This is a strong reason to digitalize your F&B business and take up an omnichannel approach to ordering as you may lose out to your competitors who offer omnichannel food ordering as customer demographics shift toward the young tech-savvy generations.

Increase your order sizes

By adopting omnichannel ordering through digital food ordering tools, you can attach attractive images to every option in your menu, which simplifies your the ordering process for your customers by allowing them to easily understand what your F&B business offers, which encourages larger order sizes.

Another way digital food ordering tools helps you boost order sizes is by empowering you to set up add on suggestions which automatically prompts when your customers places their orders, so that you never miss out an opportunity to upsell. Also, customers tend to react positively towards digital upselling as they do not feel pressured to buy more.

More emphasis placed on hygiene

The pandemic has everyone on their toes when it comes to cleanliness and hygiene. Through omnichannel food ordering, you can do away with physical menus which have been passed from hand to hand. Contactless ordering also reduces contact between your staff and your customers and keeps everyone safe.

Getting your F&B business onboard omnichannel food ordering

Omnichannel food ordering means getting orders from multiple ways and channels. This may be tough as you would have to source for these digital food ordering systems individually and ensure that they are able to work together.

iMakan is a one stop provider of digital ordering solutions, so you can be rest assured that you will find the solutions you need with us. Simply drop us your contact details below, and we will be happy to arrange a free demo with you!

Handling Restaurant Growth the Right Way

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Wed, 10 Nov 2021 09:52:00 GMT

Your efforts are paying off, your restaurant’s customer base is constantly growing, your restaurant is packed during peak hours and your queues are getting longer. You may feel like you can finally take a breather and let your restaurant run by itself.

However, managing fast growth in your restaurant will prove to be an uphill battle.

As your restaurant grows, there are more aspects of operations to manage. Things like hiring and manpower planning, inventory management, food quality control, equipment upgrades to handle your current volume, etc., will require much of your attention.

In this article, we discuss how to handle your quickly growing restaurant customer base.

Find out what contributes to your restaurant growth

One of the first things you should do when you are experiencing restaurant growth is to find out what is contributing to its popularity gain. Could it be your marketing efforts, great customer service, your best selling dishes, word of mouth or a recent food exhibition you participated in?

It is essential to identify what works for your restaurant and focus more effort on those areas.

Control your costs

It is easy to spend unnecessarily on things like additional decor, food costs, overpriced rental for a new outlet, over hiring, etc., with your new-found growth in revenue. However, overheads like these could easily send your restaurant into the red.

Instead, don’t let the sudden boost in revenue get to your head. Exercise careful planning to make smart business decisions and keep your costs as low as possible so that you can enjoy the extra revenue you are getting.

Keep up good customer service

With more customers, customer service becomes even more crucial, as it can make or break any F&B business. Bad customer experiences can cause you to lose customers to your competitors.

However, with sudden restaurant growth, it may be hard to keep up with your previous levels of customer service quality due to the increased workload they are experiencing.

In Singapore, hiring extra manpower may not be the best solution to the high workload as labour cost is high in Singapore, which will eat into your profits. A popular and effective alternative that many F&B businesses have taken up is self ordering solutions like QR ordering systems and self ordering kiosks.

Such solutions help you reduce manpower dependency for order taking as customers can self order through these solutions, so that your existing manpower will be freed to perform other tasks to boost service time and customer satisfaction.

Review your existing systems

You may have heard the phrase “don’t fix what’s not broken” and may even swear by it, but in a fast-paced business environment like your restaurant, this may actually break down your restaurant’s operation flow, resulting in low productivity.

As the volume of patrons increases, your existing systems which were adequate to run your restaurant’s operations before, might not suffice. You should consider upgrading your kitchen equipment to smart kitchen solutions, your operation management systems especially your POS system to an enhanced cloud-based POS system.

On top of that, we highly recommend that you take up self ordering solutions such as QR ordering systems and self ordering kiosks. Many F&B businesses that have taken up such self ordering solutions including our clients, have feedback to us that they experience huge productivity gains in their ordering process and even reported that it has increased their table turnover and average order sizes!

If you want to experience the same productivity gains as F&B businesses that have adopted self ordering solutions, simply drop us your contact details below and we will be happy to arrange a free demo with you!

Key Considerations Before Adopting a Restaurant QR Ordering

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Sun, 31 Oct 2021 13:44:50 GMT

COVID19 has pushed many restaurants to take up QR ordering in order to help with the manpower shortage, to reduce contact between staff and customers and to do away with physical menus that require sanitizing after each use.

Restaurant owners like yourself are always thinking of ways to flourish and earn good profit. In order to do so, your restaurant must have an efficient order taking system that enables customers to place orders at their convenience. A QR ordering system streamlines and quickens the food ordering process. A robust QR ordering system can help in enhancing the speed and efficiency of service and improve customer satisfaction. Increased service efficiency ensures more table turnovers, resulting in higher revenues.

You as a restaurant owner may be excited to jump on the bandwagon and enjoy the benefits of ordering automation so in order to help your choose a right QR ordering system for your restaurant. Hence, we have listed below some key areas to take note when shopping for a QR ordering system!

Define the needs of your restaurants

Every restaurant has its own operational needs. It is important to find out what your own restaurant’s operational needs are, as each restaurant is unique. A good QR ordering system gives you the option to make changes that are specific to your restaurant to boost its ordering productivity.

Ordering and payment flow options

Order first, pay later

Most restaurants adopt an order first and pay later operation flow which your QR ordering system should be able to handle. On top of that, to ensure order and billing security, your QR ordering system should be able to generate dynamic QR codes that deactivates once the customer has been billed, preventing “ghost” orders ( dine-in customers sharing the QR code with others who may place an order when they are not present ) from happening.

Order and pay first before dining

Casual dining restaurants usually adopt this usage flow, where customers place orders and make payment first, before their orders are prepared. With this flow, your QR ordering system should allow your customers to choose online payment methods, saving them the hassle of queuing at the counter before to make a payment. This also encourages customers to add on orders as and when they want to as they can conveniently order and pay through their smartphones.

Delivery & Self Collection Options

Delivery and self-collection orders have been picking up for restaurants recently. This could be attributed to the circuit breaker period where people are restricted from dining out and could only order online for delivery and self collection. Post circuit breaker, this has become a habit for many consumers.

Hence your QR ordering system should be able to handle delivery and self collection orders. A good QR ordering system allows you to link up the ordering URL to your website or social media, and automates delivery driver assignment for you, should you choose to use a third-party food delivery service.

User-Friendly Interface

The importance of a user friendly ordering interface cannot be emphasised enough. Any IT product has to be user friendly to appeal to its target users. QR ordering systems included. A user friendly interface helps your customers understand your menu better and encourages them to order more through strategic add on suggestions and appetising images.

On the contrary, if your QR ordering system does not have a user friendly interface, your customers will either give up using it and ask for a physical menu, or they will be frustrated with the QR ordering system which reduces customer satisfaction.

Getting QR Ordering System

If you are looking for a QR ordering system, drop us your contact details below and we will be happy to arrange a free demo of our QR ordering system which has helped many F&B restaurants and establishments boost their restaurant’s ordering efficiency and service speed.

Online Ordering Solution for Home Based F&B Businesses

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Mon, 25 Oct 2021 04:04:11 GMT

Home-based businesses are rising in popularity especially since the pandemic hit. Many aspiring F&B entrepreneurs found that starting up from home is a cost-effective and viable way to kick start their F&B business before committing to a shopfront.

Most home-based businesses reach their customers through social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram and get orders through direct messages, which is a great way to engage with your customers to offer a personalised touch.

However, as order volumes increase, it becomes an inefficient method of order taking, hence, online ordering systems.

Why should home-based businesses get online ordering systems?

An effective, less labour intensive way to get handle more orders

As order volumes increase, you may not be able to attend to every direct message from your customers and may reply late or completely miss out on their messages. This will lead to lost opportunities for your home-based F&B business and may cause you to lose potential and even loyal customers.

An online ordering system features a digital menu that displays your full menu to your customers. It helps them to understand each menu item through high-resolution images and descriptions. They can then add their preferred menu items to the cart and checkout with the option to self collect or have their food delivered.

This creates a seamless ordering experience for your customers as they do not have to enquire through direct messages and wait for a reply. Furthermore, it automates the ordering process so that you do not have to attend to enquires manually, making the ordering process more efficient and less labour intensive.

Never miss out orders

Taking orders through direct messages presents another challenge. This manual order taking method will require you to update your order lists manually. It can be a challenge when managing food preparation and order taking, resulting in missed orders.

Online ordering systems help you keep track of your orders through an order management solution. You will be able to view all confirmed, pending, completed orders and their remarks at a glance. For delivery orders, you may choose to enable the online ordering system to automatically assign a third party delivery agent to collect the orders at the specified time.

Consolidate your sales amounts

Order preparation, order taking and marketing your business on social media already takes up a huge chunk of your time, leaving you with little time to consolidate and manage your sales figures. This can lead to spending more than you are making from your home-based F&B business and put you in the red.

Online ordering systems help by consolidating your sales data and providing you with powerful reports and dashboards which provides you with valuable insights into your home-based F&B business.

The time saved from manual order taking and consolidating sales figures can be spent on R&D of new food products or strategising ways to sell more. This helps you earn more and take a step closer to your probable end goal of having your own outlet.

Getting an online ordering system for your home-based business

Online ordering systems are not costly. iMakan’s online ordering system is pre-approved for government grants that subsidize up to 80% of the costs of adopting an online ordering system.

Interested to get an online ordering system for your home-based F&B business? Drop iMakan your contact information below and we will be happy to arrange a free demo with you!

3 Solutions your Restaurant Should Adopt

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Tue, 12 Oct 2021 07:53:59 GMT

Restaurant establishments have always been looking for ways to better their operations for efficiency and reduce operating costs. In this article, we share 3 solutions that restaurant operators should adopt to boost efficiency and lower costs!

Self-ordering solutions

Self-ordering solutions such as QR ordering and self-ordering kiosks are well-known restaurant technology. This is attributed to labour cost savings, increased order handling capabilities leading to increased profits.

QR ordering & self-ordering kiosks give your restaurant the ability to accept more orders without having to hire more by enabling your customers to self-order. On top of that, these self-ordering solutions allow you to pre-set add on suggestions to automate upselling and increase your restaurant’s average bill size. What’s not to love about QR ordering and self-ordering kiosks?

Cloud-based POS system

A POS system is the command centre of your restaurant’s operations. It not only processes bill transactions, but also manages table occupancy, inventory, orders from different ordering channels, staff, and many more.

Hence, getting a modern POS system that enables you to centralize your restaurant’s operation management is beneficial for your restaurant’s productivity. On top of that, modern POS systems are often cloud-based, which means that you will be able to manage your restaurant remotely. Tasks such as updating menus and analysing reports and dashboards can be done from your laptop anywhere.

If you are looking for a modern cloud-based POS system for your restaurant, head over to MEGAPOS’s website: https://www.megapos.com.sg/contact to arrange a free demo.

Kitchen technology

Kitchen efficiency is important to build a successful restaurant. Some worthy examples of kitchen technology commonly adopted by restaurants are automatic dishwashers and kitchen display solutions.

Kitchen display solution

A tablet-based solution that displays orders systematically according to table numbers. It gives your kitchen staff a bird’s eye view of all orders so they can use the appropriate food preparation strategies. Thus, reducing service time and food wastage.

Kitchen printers may not be able to print out changes or cancellations of orders due to slow printing speed during peak periods. Kitchen display solutions, on the other hand, are able to reflect changes and cancellations of orders instantaneously on the tablet screen.

Automatic dishwasher

A concept that is widely received in restaurant establishments. Automatic dishwashers have been proven to wash a restaurant’s dirty dishes faster and are more sanitary than manual washing.

This makes it a perfect piece of kitchen technology to adopt in order to bring down labour and utility costs while improving your restaurant’s kitchen efficiency.

Getting a self-ordering solution for your restaurant

To find out more about self-ordering solutions drop us your contact details below, and we will be in touch to arrange a free demo on iMakan’s self-ordering solutions!

How do different F&B concepts adopt Self Ordering Kiosks?

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Fri, 01 Oct 2021 10:37:30 GMT

Self-ordering kiosks bring huge upsides to F&B businesses that adopt them. For example, elevated ordering efficiency without extra manpower spending and increased average bill sizes.

Self-ordering kiosks may have risen to popularity through fast-food chains like Mcdonald’s, hence, the common assumption is that self-ordering kiosks are only suitable for the fast-food concepts.

However, that is far from true. In this article, let’s discover how self-ordering kiosks can be implemented in different F&B concepts to enjoy similar benefits.

Benefits of adopting self ordering kiosks

Wondering about the benefits that self-ordering kiosks bring to your F&B business and why you should adopt them? Here is a list of benefits of adopting self-ordering kiosks:

Increased average bill sizes
Reduce customer waiting times
Increase order handling capability. Get more orders during peak hours.
Improve order handling accuracy
Save on labour costs
Keep your staff and customer safe by minimizing contact

Quick service restaurants

Casual dining restaurants, fast-food restaurant, or any F&B concept that operates on a order and pay first, dine-in later concept can be considered quick service restaurants. These restaurants often have multiple cashiers operating during peak hours to handle higher order volumes and shorten queuing time.

However, it means investing more on manpower during peak hours works against your profits. This is where self-ordering kiosks make a difference. They allow you to open up more ordering terminals to handle high order volumes accurately without hiring more.

Furthermore, high resolution images on your self-ordering kiosk’s digital menu will help your customers better understand your dishes. Add on suggestions can be automated to upsell to your customers, increasing your average bill size.

Takeaway food kiosks

Takeaway food kiosks run on a similar concept as quick service restaurants, only without the option to dine-in. Similarly, adopting self ordering kiosks at your takeaway food kiosk reduces queuing time for your customers while helping you take in more orders during peak hours without extra manpower.

Automated add on suggestions also help you increase your bill sized by upselling as your customers self order.

Dine-in restaurants

Can full service dine-in restaurant operating on a dine first pay later model benefit from self ordering kiosks? They definitely can, but from a different approach. Many full service restaurants have customers that come specifically to order takeaway.

By implementing self-ordering kiosks for your takeaway counter, you will not have to hire extra manpower, or divert staff from dine-in duties to serve takeaway customers. In this sense, self-ordering kiosks help your restaurant generate an additional stream of revenue through takeaway customers without having to expand floor space to set up a full sized takeaway section, thus keeping cost low.

Furthermore, when kiosks are not in use, the high resolution screens can be used to display appetizing images of your latest dishes, best sellers or promotions to capture the attention of passers by.

Getting a self-ordering kiosk

Interested in enjoying the benefits self ordering kiosks bring to your business? iMakan’s self-ordering kiosks are pre-approved by IMDA for government grants like the Enhanced Productivity Solution Grant (PSG). The grant subsidizes up to 80% of the cost of adopting iMakan’s self-ordering kiosks.

To learn more about iMakan’s self-ordering kiosks, simply drop your contact details below and we will be in touch with you to arrange a free demo.

What makes a user friendly self ordering interface?

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Fri, 17 Sep 2021 11:09:45 GMT

You must have came across countless self ordering solution vendors claiming that they have the most intuitive, or easy to use self ordering solution interface. So how do you identify a truly user-friendly self ordering solution i.e. QR ordering system, self ordering kiosk?

Read on to find out how.

It runs smoothly

A smooth-running self ordering system will elevate your customer’s experience at your F&B outlet.

No one likes to use a laggy application or browse a slow loading website. The same applies to self ordering solutions like QR ordering systems and self ordering kiosks. A well-designed solution will run smoothly and perform as expected by the user, your customers.

On top of that, a smooth-running self ordering system guides the user through the ordering process, helping them place their own orders without asking for help.

Easily understandable at a glance

A user-friendly ordering interface does not require your customers to constantly wonder what is the next steps to complete an order.

For example, menu categories and items should be neatly categorised and visible to users at one glance. The view cart page should be organized, allowing users to easily verify their orders before sending them in.

Simply put, your customers should not be confused, have to think hard to complete each step of the order, or have to squint and re-read when verifying their orders.

Easy to access

When your customers patronise your F&B outlet, they expect a smooth and quick process when placing their orders. Hence, your menu items and categories should be accessible at first glance, instead of having customers fill in their names, contact details and number of guests. If it is necessary, these should be requested just before your customers submit their orders.

Otherwise, having to fill up many details before being able to browse your F&B menu and place orders makes for a very off-putting experience for your customers.

Getting a user-friendly self ordering solution

Self ordering solution breaks the norm. Your customers place orders through their own smartphones or a self ordering kiosk instead of a staff. Hence, it has to be user friendly and convenient enough for your customers to make the switch from ordering from staff to self-ordering.

At iMakan, we realised this early on and developed our self ordering solutions i.e. QR ordering and self ordering kiosks, to be as intuitive as possible, to provide your customers with a seamless, effortless self ordering experience. In doing so, we ensure that by adopting iMakan’s self ordering solutions, your F&B business enjoys great benefits like manpower cost savings, and increased order size and order handling capability.

Interested in getting a user-friendly self ordering solution? Simply drop us your contact details below and we will be in touch to arrange a free demo with you.

Digitalization: An essential F&B business success ingredient

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Tue, 07 Sep 2021 07:25:53 GMT

The F&B industry has been badly hit by the COVID19 pandemic. Sudden tightening and relaxing of measures due to waves of infections makes operating an F&B business even more unpredictable than before.

Ever since the circuit breaker back in 2020, the F&B sector has evolved through adapting to challenging times in order to survive. This gave birth to the new F&B landscape.

Digital self-ordering solutions are not a trade secret anymore

For many years, government bodies and solution providers have preached the importance of digitalization. While digitalization in the F&B sector did gain in popularity, the growth was slow. COVID19 was the catalyst to show F&B businesses that digitalization is a crucial ingredient for survival in tough times.

Singapore’s government also advocated for F&B companies to take up digital solutions in order to adapt to the new normal that is likely here to stay.

The benefits of digitalizing F&B operations and processes are evident in F&B establishments. Those who took up digital solutions like online food ordering and self-ordering solutions like QR ordering systems and self-ordering kiosks saw an increase in the number of online food orders during the circuit breaker which helped them pull through during the suspension of dine-in.

When dine-in crowds returned in force, these F&B operators were not fazed by the sudden high volume of orders and lack of manpower due to border restrictions as they had already adopted self-ordering solutions like QR ordering and self-ordering kiosks to handle high order volumes efficiently.

This also boosted their profit margins as they are able to reduce spending on manpower which is one of the largest expenses in any F&B business while handling even higher order volumes with better accuracy.

Rise of cloud kitchens

Cloud kitchens or ghost kitchens have also gained traction since COVID19. These kitchens have no shopfront and their customers can only order from them through online platforms. Cloud kitchens are low cost to start up and keep in operation due to lower rental and less manpower needed.

With less overhead, F&B owners who run a cloud kitchen can focus more efforts on marketing to build up a strong following and branding before considering opening up an F&B store with their own shopfront. Cloud kitchens also make it cost-effective for F&B owners to experiment with new dishes as their online food menu can be updated instantly. They are also able to and run multiple brands with different concepts to see what works as they only require one kitchen space.

Building a strong F&B brand online

With tight COVID19 restrictions making moving about inconvenient, more consumers are discovering new F&B brands online.

Apart from adopting digital self ordering solutions, F&B businesses that focused efforts into building a good online presence for their F&B brand website and social media have effectively reduced the impact of unforeseen circumstances such as the closure of dine in.

It is important, now more than ever, to build a resilient F&B business through adopting digital ordering solutions and focusing efforts on increasing your F&B brand awareness online in order to pull through challenging times which we may face in the future.

It is not too late to start now! With government grants to tap on, it is a perfect chance to find out more about digital self ordering solutions and start your digitalization journey.

To find out more about digital ordering solutions, drop iMakan your contact details below and we will be happy to arrange a free demo on our self ordering solutions with you!

Why is an easy to use backend for self-ordering systems important?

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Fri, 03 Sep 2021 10:03:13 GMT

Self ordering solutions like QR ordering and self ordering kiosks are great ways to improve your productivity. By allowing your customers to self order through these solutions, you are able to effectively handle high order volumes with less manpower. This way, you will be able to increase your restaurant’s profitability.

However, restaurant operators are still putting off adopting self ordering due to the complicated backend portal used to manage these self ordering systems. That is why an easy to use online portal is important. When looking for a self ordering system, do keep the next few points we are about to share.

Easy access to essential information

Seeing too many page transitions during a demo when performing a task? That is an obvious red flag for user-friendliness.

A well designed backend for self ordering systems will have essential features and information available at a glance. Just a few simple clicks and the task is complete with minimal effort. Bear in mind that a fancy backend interface may not always suit your operational needs.

A backend portal that is feature-rich but maintains its simplicity is more often than not, the better tool for the task.

Not overly feature packed

A feature rich backend that enables you to set up your self ordering systems in a way that suits your restaurant is great to have. However, some self ordering solution vendors may include features that are simply there for the “wow factor” and are seldom used by restaurant operators.

When attending a demo, it may be difficult to differentiate between such features and practical functionality that your restaurant needs. Hence, it is important to have a clear understanding of your restaurant’s operational needs. This will help you choose that the self ordering system has the capability to meet your restaurant’s ordering requirements.

Easily accessible reports and dashboards

Secure yet easy access to your business data is crucial to your restaurant’s success. When choosing a self ordering system, you should keep an eye out for its reporting capabilities. Does it have easy to read dashboards? Are you able to view reports directly from your backend portal before downloading them? Are there adequate reports for you to conduct meaningful analysis?

Asking these questions during a demo will help you understand if the self ordering system’s reporting capabilities meet your requirements. It also ensures that your restaurant’s data is easily available to you from anywhere, at any time.

If you are looking to get a self ordering system such as QR ordering system, self ordering kiosk or an online food ordering system, do drop iMakan your contact details and we will be in touch with you for a discussion!

Ways to implement QR Ordering for any F&B Concept

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Mon, 23 Aug 2021 06:24:57 GMT

QR ordering systems are most commonly seen in F&B outlets that offer the option to dine in. Even so, QR ordering systems are actually applicable to most, if not all F&B concepts.

What is QR ordering?

QR ordering systems are digital tools that help F&B businesses boost their productivity while lowering labour costs by providing a platform for their customers to self-order.

Contrary to table iPad ordering or self-ordering kiosks, QR ordering systems do not require heavy hardware investments. Those hardwares will incur inevitable hardware maintenance costs as wear and tear sets in.

How does QR ordering systems work?

To place an order, customers simply use their smartphones to scan a ordering QR code at your F&B outlet which directs them to your digital menu. From there, your customers browse an intuitive digital menu filled with high resolution pictures and item descriptions, helping them to better understand what your F&B business offers.

On top of that, automatic add on suggestions will help you upsell to your customers at every opportunity to increase average bill sizes.

How to implement QR ordering in your F&B concept?

Restaurants

This is where QR ordering systems are usually adopted. The labour cost savings is the main reason why QR ordering systems are well received in restaurants.

In restaurants, ordering QR codes are placed on tables for customers to scan with their smartphone and self order. The orders linked to an order management system, often a POS system. The orders are then categorised and sent to its respective kitchen sections to be printed out through a kitchen printer or displayed on a kitchen display solution.

In order to boost order security, to prevent fraudulent or “ghost” orders where orders are placed by a user that is not in store, some restaurants opt to have a dynamic QR code.

A dynamic QR code is one that changes once the customer has been billed after their meal. This prevents users who are not in your restaurant’s premises from sending, resulting result in food wastage.

Apart from in your restaurant, QR ordering can also be implemented for your queues. This allows your customers to browse your menus and save their orders to cart while in the queue. The orders will only be sent to the kitchen once your customers have been seated. This will help you increase table turnover rate by reducing the time taken for customers to browse and place order at the tables, in turn, increasing your revenue.

Cafe with dine in concept

QR ordering systems are not limited to dine first pay later restaurants. They can be seamlessly adopted by cafes that offer the option to dine in. Your customers simply scan a QR code in your cafe to browse your digital menu and place orders.

Your customers will then make payment online, or pay at the counter before the orders are sent to an order management device. The device then breaks up and forwards orders to its respective kitchen sections.

You could choose to adopt a TV numbering system which helps you manage food collection with ease. Your customers will also be updated with their order status on the TV screen under the “preparing” and “ready” sections.

Takeaway food kiosks

If takeaway is the only option for your F&B business, QR ordering system can still be adopted to save on order taking manpower, and accommodate more orders during peak hours.

Simply put up ordering QR codes around your takeaway food kiosk for customers to scan and self order through their smartphones. By doing so, your customers need not queue up to place their orders from your staff, allowing you to accept high order volumes simultaneously, thus, breaking the ordering bottleneck. On top of that, customers will receive live updates on their order status through the ordering page.

This gives your customers to freedom to shop around while waiting for their orders. Once the order is ready for collection, customers will be updated through the order confirmation page or via SMS notification.

Getting onboard QR ordering

Adopting QR ordering systems at your F&B outlets brings more benefits than just labour cost savings. Increased bill sizes and better customer experience are also benefits that iMakan’s customers have highlighted.

To enjoy similar gains in your F&B business, contact iMakan by dropping us your contact details below, and will will be in touch to arrange a free demo on our QR ordering system.

5 Benefits Of Digitalizing Your F&B Business

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Fri, 20 Aug 2021 10:45:48 GMT

Long-running F&B businesses and fast-rising F&B brands have one thing in common. They keep up with the times and utilize digitalization to bring out their F&B business’s maximum potential.

Traditionally, advertising was done through print, radio or television. Orders are taken by service staff. Kitchen dockets were passed to kitchen staff manually by kitchen staff. However, an increasing number of F&B businesses have started digitalizing these processes and here’s why.

Reduce spending on manpower

An F&B business operation is heavily dependent on manpower. Unfortunately, in Singapore, hiring for F&B positions is tough and expensive. This can be attributed to the long working hours of the F&B industry and high levies on foreign manpower.

To solve this recurring problem, leaders in the F&B industry have transitioned to self-ordering systems. By using digital solutions such as self-ordering kiosks and QR ordering systems, they reduced dependency on heavy manpower by allowing customers to self-order.

By reducing manpower dependency, these F&B businesses have also successfully brought down operational costs. Hence, making it easier to scale by digitalizing their ordering process.

Faster table turnover

A fast table turnover rate is important for F&B businesses that offer dine in. The more customers an F&B business are able to seat during their peak periods directly translates into revenue. Digitalizing your ordering process with QR ordering or self ordering enables you to get orders from your customers before they are seated.

The kitchen can then prepare orders in advance so that food is served once your customers are seated. This highly efficient ordering flow reduces the time taken for customers to browse your menu before placing orders, and quickens service time. Hence, giving your table turnover a boost, which increases your F&B business’s revenue.

Ability to handle high order volumes accurately

More customers is a good sign for every F&B business. However, it also means that you might have to increase your expenditure on manpower to handle the increased order volumes. As mentioned earlier, getting more manpower is costly and difficult. Sounds like a headache, right?

That is not necessarily the case if you have digitalized your ordering flow. By enabling your customers to self order through QR ordering or self ordering kiosks, the increased order volumes will be handled with 100% accuracy, without the need to expand your service crew.

Timely launch of promotions and new dishes

New trends come and go quickly. In order to make the most of these opportunities, new promotions and dishes have to be launched fast. Self ordering solutions have digital menus which can be instantly updated from an online backend portal.

This helps you launch new promotions and dishes on a timely basis, without risking delays in the reprinting of menus, which could result in a missed opportunity.

Increase average bill size

In order to maximise revenue for your F&B business, it is important to get your customers to order more to increase the average bill size.

Busy service staff may miss opportunities to upsell while taking orders. QR ordering and self ordering kiosks will not. You can preset add on suggestions to automatically prompt while your customers are ordering.

This will ensure that upselling opportunities are not missed, and your F&B business’s revenue is safeguarded.

Start your F&B digitalization journey

If you are looking to enjoy the benefits mentioned above, kick off your F&B digitalization journey with the right solution provider. iMakan has a proven track record of satisfied, well known F&B clientele that have benefitted from embarking on their digitalization journey with us.

Drop iMakan your contact information below to schedule a discussion!

Key considerations when setting up an F&B business

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Fri, 06 Aug 2021 03:05:10 GMT

You are preparing to start up your own F&B business where you can be your own boss, make your own decisions and do what you love. This is a dream come true for many F&B entrepreneurs. However, there are some aspects of setting up an F&B business that you need to take into consideration before jumping in head first. Here are some.

Suppliers

Your ingredient quality directly influences the taste of your food. However, as an F&B business, getting only top grade ingredients is not a feasible solution, unless your target market is the big spenders. Hence, it is important to source for suppliers that are able to provide you with fresh ingredients of average or above quality at a lower price consistently.

Also, you should keep multiple suppliers in your contact in case your go-to ingredient supplier does not have sufficient stock or is raising their prices. By doing so, you will be able to keep your food quality and pricing consistent and also ensure that your ingredients are always in stock.

Takeover or Start Up

While most F&B entrepreneurs choose to start up their own business, taking over of F&B business is another way you could own an F&B business. Taking over an F&B business means that you buy over the entire business, including the name, branding, equipment, licences and the physical shop of the F&B business.

While many may think that a business owner willing to sell his/her F&B business means that there is something amiss, it is often not the case. Their decision to sell off their business could also mean that they may not have the passion in the industry anymore, want to move on to the next phase in life or work on another project etc.

It may initially seem costly to takeover an F&B business, however, it is already a working business model which you just need to manage and make improvements on. Often, setting up your own F&B business means lots of learning things the hard way which often incurs costs.

Hence, you should weigh the pros and cons of taking over an F&B business or starting up one on your own.

Location

Where you set up shop is crucial to your F&B business success. Simply put, if less people see your F&B outlet, your customer base will be small. Hence, you should do some surveying of potential shop outlets and look out for the following:

Is human traffic high during peak hours?
What are the peak hours and days
What are the demographics of people who frequent the area? Are they your target market?
Are there any of your direct competitors in the shop’s vicinity

Service Style

What is your F&B business service style? Would it be full service dine in, casual dining, or a quick takeaway food kiosk? Before setting up your F&B business, you should have your ideal service style in mind.

Service style is an essential building block of your F&B branding, menu, target demographics, the type of shop you have to rent, manpower resources and many more. Hence, give your F&B business service type a deeper though as it would be an integral part of your business.

Manpower

Manpower is what powers your F&B business but is also often the biggest expense of a restaurant. Before setting up shop you should have a good idea of how much manpower is needed for each role, and how much your budget for manpower should be.

The F&B industry is one of the toughest to be in with long working hours, mostly standing, and little to no public holidays. Hence, you should hire staff that have a passion for working in the food industry. Often, it is the passion of being in the food industry which drives your staff to do their best even during the tough times.

Consider adopting digital solutions

Digital solutions like QR ordering systems and self ordering kiosks not only significantly help to reduce your dependency on manpower, but also increase your F&B business’s productivity by seamlessly linking up back and front of the house operations.

Though it may require an initial investment, there is long term savings to be gained among many other benefits brought about by digital ordering solutions, which is why they are becoming increasingly popular.

If you are looking for digital ordering solutions to lower your operating cost and increase productivity, drop iMakan your contact details below and we will be happy to arrange a free demo with you!

How to reduce your restaurant’s operating expenses

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Thu, 29 Jul 2021 08:16:03 GMT

The key to having a successful restaurant business is to keep your restaurant expenses low while maximizing revenue. In these challenging times, a lean operation will also help your restaurant tough it out despite a drop in revenue.

In this article, let’s discover some ways you could reduce your restaurant’s operating expenses.

Manage your inventory well

Your restaurant stock and raw materials make up for a large portion of your restaurant’s expenses, hence, it is important to ensure that your inventory is optimised.

Make sure that you conduct stock take in regular intervals in order to quickly recognise any over stocking that leads to wastage and increased restaurant expenses, or under-stocking that results in a potential loss of revenue. This is where a good cloud based inventory management system comes into play as you will be able to view your inventory anytime and anywhere.

In times like these where there is sudden tightening and relaxing of Covid19 measures, it becomes even more crucial that you are familiar with your inventory so that you can make adjustments for your next stock in cycle to prevent over stocking.

Reduce food wastage

Food wastage does not only come from over stocking your inventory but also during food preparation. In order to reduce food wastage to a minimum your could adopt these practices in your restaurant kitchen:

Create a preparation list for your kitchen staff which defines the food preparation best practices to avoid over preparation or wastage of materials.
Practice the first in first out rule: Label and arrange your stocks and raw materials so that the oldest ingredients gets used first to avoid having to throw away ingredients just because they have gone bad.
Try to cut every ingredient to its maximum potential. Many restaurants tend to discard any extra cut off ingredients or leftovers during food preparation, which is not a cost effective practise.
Reuse any ingredients which can be reused. You could use.

Keep in mind, ingredients in the bin are equivalent to money in the bin!

Reduce food cost

While it is important to keep food wastage low, reducing the cost of your raw materials is also key to minimising your restaurant’s expenses. Without practising food cost control, you may slip into the red even without realising it.

This is where keeping tabs on your cost prices from your various suppliers is important. By using an enhanced cloud based POS system, you will be able to record your cost prices from various suppliers and even pull out reports on total costs, revenue and profits over a period of time. This is valuable data for you to be able to perform food cost control effectively for your restaurant.

It is also a good idea to constantly source for new suppliers who are able to provide low cost and good value raw materials to keep your options open.

Focus on your staff

Your team is what keeps your restaurant in operation. It is important to provide proper training for your staff and keep them in high morale, especially in difficult times, so that they will be equipped with the skills and motivation to perform at their best.

A high performing team with low employee turnover will significantly contribute to reducing your expenses on manpower.

Embrace productivity boosting technology

Technology in the F&B industry has been rapidly evolving over the years. There is a common reason behind big restaurant establishments making the move towards digital tools such as self ordering kiosks and QR ordering.

Such digital tools have empowered restaurant owners to reduce dependence on large manpower for efficiency by reducing the need for repetitive manual labour such as order taking and order entry.

With digital solutions, you can reduce your restaurant’s expenses by cutting down on labour costs and at the same time streamline your entire restaurant operations through digitalization, to help you run a lean restaurant operation, maximizing your profits.

If you are looking for digital ordering solutions like QR ordering, self ordering kiosks and online food ordering systems to boost your restaurant’s productivity and streamline your operations to reduce operating expenses, drop us your contact details below and we will be happy to arrange a free demo with you!

Menu Enhancements That Will Boost Your F&B Business Revenue

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Mon, 26 Jul 2021 08:42:04 GMT

Reviewing your menu from time to time is a good practice to keep up with consumers’ ever-changing behaviours and stay ahead of your competition. In this article, we will run through some ways you can enhance your menu.

Create Set Meals or Bundles

Set meals are a great way to boost your sales and introduce new dishes to your customers. For instance, a family of five may not know what to order when they are looking through your menu.

By offering a set meal catered for 5 people, you make it easier for them to make a decision and at the same time, you could introduce new dishes through these set menus. Easing your customer’s decision process will also help improve customer satisfaction and speed up order placing, which leads to better table turnover rates.

Add in Kids Meal Options

When a family dines out with their kids, a common challenge would be not being able to find food suitable for their young ones.

By offering kids specific meal options, your menu will be much more attractive and family-friendly as compared to your competitors, attracting more diners with kids to patronise your restaurant, boosting your revenue.

Have Healthier Food Options Categories

Consumers are becoming increasingly health-conscious and will opt to eat healthier foods even when dining out.

In your menu, you could have a healthier foods section and you could even indicate the calories each of these foods contains. This way, your menu will be a lot more attractive to health-conscious individuals, which encourages such customers to patronise your restaurant.

Digitalize Your Menu & Ordering

Incorporate digital ordering solutions such as self ordering kiosks and QR ordering systems into your restaurant to automate upselling and educate your customers on your menu.

You can preset add on suggestions when your customers places their orders through your self ordering kiosk or QR ordering system. With add on suggestions, your customers may order an extra side dish or drink which they passed up while deciding on their main dishes.

On top of that, digital ordering systems enables you to attach attractive images to each dish to whet the appetite of your customers and help them better understand your dishes, something that is not possible on physical menus due to spatial constraints.

With digital ordering systems, you are able to maximize your existing manpower, as your service staff do not have to take orders from customers manually, which frees them up to perform tasks that value adds your customer’s experience and your operational efficiency.

If you are interested in getting a digital ordering solution (self ordering kiosk or QR ordering system), do drop us your contact details below and we will be happy to arrange a free demo with you!

Overcome these 3 Common Challenges When Opening Your First Restaurant

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Fri, 09 Jul 2021 07:01:10 GMT

Opening a new restaurant of your own is a dream come true for many entrepreneurs. Before opening your restaurant, you will need to know some key challenges that lie ahead. How well you handle these obstacles will either make or break your restaurant.

In this article, we share 3 key challenges every restaurant operator faces when opening a new restaurant.

Location

Often, the first challenge you will be met with is looking for a suitable location for your restaurant. To have a better idea of what you are looking for, it is important to have a clear idea of 3 things:

Your restaurant concept (i.e. Full service dine in, casual dining, takeaway food kiosk, or a hawker/coffee shop stall.)
Your target audience.
Who are your direct competitors? Are they near the area that you are setting up shop?

When you have a clear picture of these 3 key aspects of your restaurant business, you will have a better idea of where you may want to start your first restaurant outlet.

Finding the right suppliers

The next challenge you will face is finding the right suppliers. You will have to look for ingredient suppliers that can provide you with good quality ingredients consistently at a good price.

The internet is a great way to start looking for suppliers. However, to get the best deals, you may have to look for suppliers around you and talk to someone, even if it is a salesperson, to see things in person and help you through the decision process.

Manpower

This is one of the most challenging to manage in any F&B business. In Singapore, many locals are not willing to work the long hours that the F&B industry requires. Most are part-timers and they will not commit for long. This forces many restaurant operators to look for foreign manpower which is not cheap, given the high levies imposed by the government.

Self Ordering Solutions: A great alternative to manpower
A great alternative is to use self ordering digital solutions to reduce your restaurant’s reliance on manpower. QR ordering, self ordering kiosks and online food ordering can handle high order volumes with 100% accuracy.

While these digital solutions require an upfront investment, it is subsidized by government grants. In the long run, it will be more cost-effective than hiring more manpower to match the demands of your growing restaurant.

If you are looking for digital self ordering solutions that are subsidized by government grants, drop iMakan your contact details below, and we will be in touch to schedule a demo with you!

How to Boost Your Karaoke Business Revenue?

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Wed, 02 Jun 2021 03:35:00 GMT

Operating a karaoke business and wondering how to give your revenue a boost? This is what every business owner wants and is not easy at the start, but gets easier as time goes by through your customers’ word of mouth and consistent marketing efforts.

Ways to boost your karaoke business:

Have a good website
Social media marketing
Provide food and beverage as part of the karaoke experience
Membership and loyalty programs
Paid advertising

Create a good website

Google search is where you will gain the most awareness. Whenever people are looking for something, be it a new karaoke to visit or new food etc., a Google search will most of the time be done. Hence, having a good website will be beneficial for you to get your karaoke business in front of others.

If your website looks outdated and lacks crucial information, it will leave a bad impression on potential customers. This causes you to lose customers before they even reach your karaoke.

You do not need to be an expert programmer to build your own website, simply look for drag and drop website builders like Wix and Duda and get started!

Social Media Marketing

About 79% of Singaporeans use at least one platform of social media. If your karaoke business is not on social media, it is losing a whole lot of exposure. That being said, social media marketing is a consistent effort.

One-hit wonders on social media are few and far between, hence, it is important to focus on consistent posting, engaging with your audience in the comments sections and conducting polls to expose your brand to more people.

Membership and loyalty programmes

Return customers play a huge role in sustainable revenue generation. Creating a membership and loyalty programme encourages your customers to keep coming back, collecting points to enjoy member benefits such as free gifts or good discounted rates.

Paid Advertising

Paid advertising does not always have to be costly television commercials, radio advertisements or newspaper print advertising. In the digital age of today, there are better, more effective and cheaper ways to advertise.

Remember the previous point of having a good website and social media advertising? You could use these high traffic channels to reach more of your target audience through pay per click social media advertising and Google ads.

Offer food and beverages as part of your karaoke experience

Food and drinks go well with almost any leisure activity. Beef up customer’s experience by offering food and beverages as part of their karaoke experience. This also adds an extra stream of revenue for your business.

However, serving food and beverage would traditionally require more staff to go around the karaoke rooms to take orders which increases your labour costs. There is an alternative which you should explore which is QR ordering. QR ordering systems like iMakan allow you to place a QR code in each room which your customers can scan with their smartphones to browse your F&B menu, promotions, and place their order straight away.

As iMakan QR ordering requires no app download, it provides a convenient and fuss-free food ordering experience that will definitely encourage your customers to place orders. You can now boost your food and beverage revenue stream without hiring more.

Getting a QR ordering system for your karaoke

If you are interested in getting a QR ordering system to help generate an extra stream of revenue without increasing your labour costs, drop us your contact details below and we will be happy to arrange a free demo session with you!

How to Boost Revenue of Your Bistro & Bar Business

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Tue, 25 May 2021 07:08:09 GMT

With the number of bistros and bars in Singapore, the competition is stiff. Many bistro and bar outlets are forced to close as quickly as they pop up due to high operational cost and stiff competition. How can you thrive in such a competitive industry? In this article, we share 5 ways.

Turn your customer base into your promoters

Your existing customers are not only important to your bar and bistro in terms of generating return sales, but they are one of the best ways to promote your brand. Try to identify your regulars and remember their common orders, which also helps you recommend some dishes for which they may like to try out.

This helps you offer a more personalized touch to improve your regular customers’ experience, making them more inclined to come back with their friends and family, spreading awareness of your bar and bistro through word of mouth.

If you find it hard to remember each of your regular’s common orders, you can register them as a member in your POS system’s customer module, allowing you to access all their previous orders.

Promoting on social media

79% of Singaporeans are on social media. Not using social media platforms to promote your bistro and bar means you are missing out on a huge platform for creating brand awareness.

Set up a social media account for your bar and bistro and upload posts consistently. It takes consistent effort in social media marketing to reach more potential customers.

On top of that, advertising on social media platforms is a cost-effective way of getting your brand in front of people, as you pay based on impressions and clicks on your ad, instead of a one-time lump sum which may not guarantee results.

Happy hours and special promotions

Offering attractive promotions for happy hours to attract more customers is a common affair for bars and bistros and if you are not doing so, you may be falling behind.

However, happy hour promotions are not easy to keep up, especially with the different item combinations and different promotions happening every day. A POS system with promotion scheduling will come in handy, as your staff will not have to remember all the promotions your bar and bistro is running.

As long as the conditions are met, the promotion will be activated automatically by the POS system. This helps to ensure that all your customers enjoy the same benefits and service standard is consistent throughout.

Hosting events

Hosting events such as comedy night, karaoke night, guest performances, will not only encourage existing customers to patronise your bar on the event night, but also draws crowds of potential customers who otherwise would not have heard of your bar and bistro.

This will not only bring a boost in sales on the event night, but if the new crowd you draw likes the vibe of your bar and bistro, they will turn into long term customers as well.

Increase bill size with QR ordering

When it comes to generating more revenue for an F&B business, boosting table turnover comes to mind. However, when it comes to operating a bar and bistro, trying to increase table turnover may not work for you. That may even backfire as your customers are not there to have a quick meal, but to enjoy the ambience and company of their friends or family.

Instead of trying to increase table turnover, why not try increasing your average bill size? The longer your customers are occupying the table, the more likely it is that they will want to order some add on drinks or snacks.

Make adding on orders convenient and fuss free for your customers by providing them with a QR code at their tables so they can scan and place their add on orders. Your customers will not have to wait for your busy service crew to serve food and drinks to them, as some customers may give up ordering their add ons once they have waited too long to be attended to.

If you are looking to boost your ordering productivity and increase average bill size with a QR ordering system, do drop us your contact details below and we will be happy to arrange a free demo with you!

4 Game-Changing Innovations Every Restaurant Should Adopt

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Fri, 21 May 2021 08:38:19 GMT

F&B businesses, whether quick service restaurants, full service dine in restaurants or takeaway food kiosks, have rather complex operations which require both back and front of the house to run efficiently in sync.

With advancements in both back and front of house technologies, restaurants that adopt such solutions will reap the benefits of cost savings and increased productivity. Enabling them to continue growing in the years to come.

1. Smart Kitchen Equipments

Productivity boosting kitchen equipment like kitchen display solution, automated fryer, automated dishwashing machine, automated drinks dispenser etc., are solutions which help boost your back of the house operation efficiency and save on your manpower spending. By automating repetitive tasks in the kitchen you reduce your dependency on manpower to run a kitchen efficiently, hence, reducing spending in the long run.

These smart kitchen equipment should be easy to operate so that it can flatten your staffs' learning curve, allowing new team members to add value to the team with as little training time as possible, increasing manpower efficiency.

2. Energy Efficient Equipment

Electricity and water bills take up a substantial part of your operational costs. Hence, getting equipment that saves energy and water is essential.

On the market today, there are a wide range of fryers, steamers, griddles and convection ovens with energy-efficient heat recovery systems or boiler-less design. These items consume much less water and energy during heavy usage and on the long run. This not only saves on water consumption, but it also cuts down on electrical bills and use.

3. Cloud POS Systems

A POS system is an important piece of equipment for your restaurant as it is not only a transaction point, but also serves as a central operations control. Hence, investing in a complete robust POS system is a must.

With the increasingly digitalizing world, cloud POS systems are getting more and more popular among businesses. However, there is a common misconception that a cloud POS has to be a tablet based POS system.

A cloud POS system is any type of POS system regardless of its hardware (POS terminal, desktop, or tablet), that has its data and back end settings backed up in a cloud portal. With your POS data backed up in the cloud, it is easy to view real time business data from your restaurants and make changes to your backend settings like your menu, remotely at any time. This makes managing and scaling your restaurant much simpler and efficient.

4. Digital Ordering Solutions

Apart from optimizing back of the house operations, it is important to take care of customer-facing operations as well. Digital Ordering solutions such as QR ordering systems, self ordering kiosks and online ordering systems (pre order for self pick up or delivery) helps boost your operational efficiency, lower manpower costs and may even give your revenue a boost.

Digital ordering solutions help you remove ordering bottlenecks caused by manual order taking. Letting your customers use their own mobile devices to scan a QR code for menu browsing and order placing allows you to get their food orders simultaneously. This helps you significantly boost table turnover rates during your peak hours. The QR ordering solution even takes care of your customers' add on orders to make sure you won’t miss out potential revenue because of manpower shortage.

On top of that, a digital ordering solution allows your customers to browse through your digital menu with images attached to each dish, helping them to understand and try out dishes which appeal to them, instead of sticking to the same few dishes every time they come back.

Upselling plays an important role in increasing your revenue. By automating your upselling process through self ordering kiosks, QR ordering systems and online ordering systems, you will never miss out on a revenue boosting opportunity.

If you are interested in getting a QR ordering system, self ordering kiosk, or an online ordering system, drop us your contact details below and we will be happy to arrange a free demo with you.

Get orders online during recent suspension of dine in

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Mon, 17 May 2021 05:48:45 GMT

In today's news(14/05/2021), Singapore has announced the suspension of dining in WEF 16/03/2021. This is news that we at iMakan never wanted to hear again. However, these are necessary measures to keep Singapore safe.

Hence, adapting to the uncertain times during this pandemic is the best way to overcome these challenges.

For iMakan’s Existing F&B Merchants

You are all set. iMakan is ready with self-collection and delivery capabilities. We have been boosting up our features throughout the past year and will ramp up our support levels to help you adapt and ride through these challenges. So, maximise the use of iMakan self-ordering for self collection and delivery to reduce the impact of dine-in suspension.

For F&B merchants who are not on board with iMakan yet

We got you covered! In light of the new Covid 19 restrictions announced, we have launched iMakan Lite, a solution that helps you get online food orders from your customers, who can then self collect or choose to have their food delivered to them, with no setup or onboarding cost and low delivery/online payment transaction fees (8% commission).

How iMakan differs from food delivery platforms

Even though well-established food delivery platforms like Grab, FoodPanda and Deliveroo are great ways to get more orders online, they offer tons of F&B brands and promotions to consumers which sways them away from your F&B brand.

Instead iMakan will help you to:

Keep your customers on your own ordering channel rather than being distracted by other F&B’s promotion from the same food ordering platform. So your customers can zoom into what you have to offer and order from you.
Grow your repeat customer base and boost their retention rates by collecting member's data which you can use for retargeting and promoting, running a loyalty programme based on a points system.
Build your brand awareness among consumers. Consumers who order from food delivery platforms may not even remember the F&B brand they ordered from due to promotional distractions.
Boost revenue by getting more orders through multiple channels while managing them on a centralized system.

iMakan helps F&B merchants to digitalize ordering process through multiple channels such as QR ordering, self ordering kiosk. Full iMakan version is seamlessly integrated with MEGAPOS POS system to consolidate all your orders into one device for easy operation.

Contact us to transform your business today with iMakan to build a sustainable F&B business during these uncertain times by simply dropping your contact details below!

How Does QR Ordering Boost Your F&B Revenue?

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Mon, 10 May 2021 04:26:37 GMT

QR ordering is rising in popularity among dine-in restaurants and some takeaway food and beverage kiosks as well. In previous posts, we have been sharing about the effectiveness of QR ordering in increasing the productivity of an F&B business. Today, let’s take a look at some ways which QR ordering is able to give your revenue a boost too!

Appetizing images to educate your customers on your menu

When browsing through a physical menu at an F&B outlet with limited pictures of its dishes, customers tend to fall back on the dishes they have already known and tried, missing out on new food. Especially with the pressure of order taking staff waiting to take their orders.

By using QR ordering, your customers can browse and understand your menu with the help of pictures and descriptions attached to each dish, helping them discover new dishes that they may want to order.

Set upsell suggestions

Traditional upselling is unreliable. Not that your service crews are unreliable, but there are times when they are too busy with the tasks in hand and just do not have the time to upsell. Another downside to traditional upselling through your staff is that customers may feel like they are constantly being pressured to buy more, which may make them react negatively.

On the other hand, using a QR ordering system ensures that upselling is done at every opportunity by presetting add on suggestions. Digital upselling is a more subtle approach as compared to traditional upselling through your waiters and waitresses. This way, your customers are more likely to react positively and purchase the add on that was suggested.

Instant menu updating

The importance of being able to upload your menu in real-time is often overlooked as F&B owners have been used to redesigning menus and waiting for printouts to be ready for a long time.

However, by being able to update your menu digitally in real-time, you save on menu reprinting cost and time. You can roll out new dishes and promotions on a timely basis without having to wait for menus and promotion posters to be printed. Editing your menu such as changing price also can be done swiftly through the backend portal. These minimise the chance of missing out on the opportune time to launch your new dish or promotion and help make sure your pricing strategies are carried out in a timely manner.

Pop up promotions

QR ordering’s flexibility allows you to bring your promotions to your customers instead of your customers looking up at a promotion notice or billboard for the latest updates. By setting promotion popups before your customers start ordering or send an order, your customers will never miss out on promotions which you have spent hours brainstorming on.

Also, by bringing these promotions to your customers’ smartphones, it is perceived with a more personal touch, which encourages your customers to react positively to it.

Membership rewards programme

A huge part of boosting your F&B business’s revenue is making sure that your customers come back. Offering attractive prices and delicious meals is just one of the many ways you could achieve that. You should take it a step further and build a customer loyalty programme that keeps your customers coming back to you.

A QR ordering system can do just that. Simply provide the option for your customers to key in their mobile phone number and name to sign up for a membership just before they send in their orders. From there, you can pre-set reward points or personalized promotions which will prompt when your customers are eligible.

Go beyond inhouse ordering

Consumers nowadays often discover new F&B outlets through google search or social media. Hence, getting your restaurant online to meet your customers where they are shopping is crucial for customer acquisition.

A capable QR ordering system is not just limited to ordering within your restaurant. Instead, it can integrate your digital menu into your website or social media platforms to allow your potential customers to browse your menu or pre order from your F&B outlet for delivery or self collection. This allows you to take an omnichannel approach on customer acquisition to boost your revenue.

Getting a QR ordering system

Like what you have just read and want to find out more about QR ordering? Drop us your contact information below and we will be happy to arrange a free demo session on iMakan’s QR ordering system!

5 Tips To Build an Efficient & Profitable Restaurant Business

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Fri, 30 Apr 2021 09:41:53 GMT

2020 has been a tough year for business owners, and the F&B sector is one of the hardest hit, forcing many F&B businesses to shut their doors. Many F&B business owners moved quickly to implement strategies to build a sustainable F&B business model to keep their heads above water in 2020 and will thrive in 2021 as economies rebuild.

We have compiled 5 effective strategies which helped these F&B businesses stay afloat in 2020 so that your F&B business can remain competitive when the economy rebuilds in 2021 and even the years after.

Refine your delivery & takeaway process

Even before the pandemic happened, food delivery and pre-order have been gaining popularity.

The pandemic and circuit breaker measure has given its popularity an extra push and even after the circuit breaker, there is still a substantial number of people ordering food delivery or pre-ordering food for self collection due to its convenience.

Review Your Menu Options

With the pandemic shaping new consumer behaviours, it is necessary to review your menu and come up with new menu options which suit new customer trends. For example, with more people opting for takeaway options, you may consider offering set meals or promotion bundles.

You could even promote your new dishes through promotion bundles and they may become a new favourite among your customers!

Redesigning your menu options to suit new trends makes your F&B restaurant more accessible to customers as it appeals to new trends and caters to new customers' needs.

Use Online Reservation Tools

Digital tools like QR ordering systems, food delivery platforms become popular among consumers due to the convenience they bring. Customers are less likely to stand in the queue to wait for a seat as they are now given more flexibility to roam around with a virtual queue.

Online reservation tools allow customers to view time slots for which they are able to make reservations and conveniently book a slot. This not only convinces customers but also reduces staff workload as they do not need to rush to the phone to pick up calls during peak hours.

More Marketing

Have you ever come across new F&B businesses on social media and when you get there to try their food, it is always a full house. These are not one-hit wonders, but they have built up their brand awareness and customer base through consistent marketing efforts through social media, email marketing, display advertising etc.

Over time they have attracted the attention of their target market and built strong brand awareness for themselves, leading to great customer acquisition results.

You should try doing the same to attract more customers to your F&B business too! But do keep in mind that it is a consistent effort and you are unlikely to get a sudden boost in customers when you are just starting out.

Implement Contactless Ordering & Payments

Following the pandemic, hygiene is of top priority for diners. Hence, staff have an additional duty to sanitize common items like tables, chairs and even your menu constantly.

To ease the workload of your staff and improve restaurant hygiene, you should consider implementing contactless ordering (QR ordering systems) and accept more cashless payment methods, where customers simply wave their phones or cards over a terminal to make payment.

QR ordering systems digitalizes your physical menu so that when customers scan a QR code with their smartphones, they will be directed to your online menu to browse and place orders. This saves the time taken to constantly sanitize your physical menus, and reduce contact between staff and customers.

Apart from that, QR ordering systems value adds to your business by removing ordering bottlenecks caused by manual order taking, lowering labour cost through customer self-ordering and increasing average order sizes through automated upselling suggestions.

If you are interested in getting a QR ordering system for your F&B business, do drop us your contact details below and we will be happy to arrange a free demo session with you!

How to boost your F&B restaurant sales with online ordering

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Wed, 07 Apr 2021 09:16:17 GMT

The online food ordering marketing is booming, mostly due to the recent circuit breaker, where dining out and even going out was restricted. As consumers enjoy the convenience of simply ordering food online and having it delivered to their doorstep, or self collect their orders at a specific time, skipping the queue, the habit of online food ordering has gradually developed and will be here to stay.

As such, it is vital to develop an online food ordering strategy for your F&B business with an easy to use and reliable online ordering system , to generate more revenue.

Skip Food Delivery Platforms

Well, don't completely skip food delivery platforms, in fact, if your F&B business is new, food delivery platforms like Grab, Food Panda, Deliveroo, etc., are good ways to boost your brand awareness as users will be able to see what your F&B outlet has to offer.

However, if your F&B business’s brand awareness has been established through social media or word of mouth, you should cut back reliance on these platforms, as they do take a relatively high commission off each order. On top of that, you are directly competing with other F&B businesses featured on these food delivery platforms.

Alternatively, you could use an online ordering system which only features your menu. These online ordering systems feature your digital menu, which can be embedded in QR codes, on your websites or even on your social media links, allowing your customers to focus on ordering and studying your menu instead of getting distracted by other suggested brands.

Integrate Your Online Orders

By integrating online ordering with your POS system, you can boost your profitability in the long run.

How so? With the online ordering and POS system integrated, you streamline your ordering process, reducing hardware investments ( an additional device for receiving and managing online orders ), and also helps you to manage your orders better ( no need to go back and forth between POS system for in-store orders and order management device for online food orders) .

Apart from having a streamlined and easy to manage ordering process, the integration also helps you collect more data by combining POS order details and online food order details. This helps you achieve better food ordering planning and improve future marketing & business strategies.

Promote Your Online Food Ordering

Getting the online food ordering system is not enough. You need to let your customers know about it. Here are some ways you could promote:

Give customers a flyer with a QR code that links to your online food ordering menu for them to take home
Use social media
Link your online food ordering menu to your beautiful website
Link your online food ordering menu to your Google MyBusiness card
Use email marketing to send online ordering promotions to your members

Finally, give your customers a reason to order online. Run an online ordering promotion where customers can enjoy benefits like discounted delivery pricings for their first online order with you.

Ensure Speedy Delivery

Once bitten twice shy. Customers who tried online food ordering but had to wait ages before their food arrives will never come back to that F&B business. Make sure your delivery is as quick as possible to keep customers coming back. You may stack orders to achieve optimal delivery efficiency, but it must not come at the cost of lousy delivery quality and slow delivery times.

Getting an Online Food Ordering System

Looking to capitalize on the in demand online food ordering market? Drop us your contact details below and we will be happy to share about our online ordering system with you!

All You Need To Know About Online Food Ordering

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Thu, 01 Apr 2021 03:17:59 GMT

Online food ordering marketing is booming but some restaurant owners are still reluctant to jump on the hype train as it seems like a time-consuming process to implement and high commission charges charged by delivery platforms will eat into their profits.

However, it will be a pity if you were to pass up on the opportunity to get a slice of the online food ordering pie. Hence, we have compiled a few key considerations when getting an online food ordering platform in this article.

How does Online food ordering work?

Before getting into the details of getting an online food ordering system, let’s take a look at how it works.

You link your digital menu to your social media pages like Facebook, Instagram and your website.
Potential customers browsing social media platforms or looking for food on Google come across your online menu, browse through it and place an order
The order is sent to your order management device (smartphone, tablet or POS) where you can review and prepare the order.
The prepared orders will be picked up by a delivery courier, or your customer if they chose the self pick up option

What to consider when getting an Online Food Ordering System

When getting an Online Food Ordering System, it is important to have these considerations in mind:

It should not eat up too much of your restaurant’s profits.
It should be easy to manage and navigate by non tech people.
New staff should be able to learn how to use your online food ordering system easily.
It should be easy to use for your customers and helps you to upsell to increase average order size.

Not taking up too much of your restaurant’s profits

Food delivery platforms are known for their notoriously high commission rates, leaving restaurant owners like yourselves with not many earnings. While these platforms are great ways to boost brand awareness and attract more patrons, it is not sustainable in the long run.

On top of that, food delivery platforms list your restaurant alongside other F&B businesses which creates a very competitive environment. We suggest that you build your restaurant’s social media presence which will be beneficial to your restaurant’s customer acquisition in the long run. Coupled with a zero commission online food ordering system which is easily integratable with your social media platforms and website, your restaurant will be able to generate a consistent, sustainable flow of revenue through online food ordering.

Easy to manage by non-tech people

You and your staff’s expertise is in creating delicious food and providing a great experience to your customers. Hence, your online food ordering system should be easy to navigate and not take up too much time to manage, enabling you and your staff to remain focused on key restaurant operations.

An easy to manage online food ordering system makes it easy for your new staff to take up, shortening their learning curve, allowing them to quickly provide value to the team.

Intuitive ordering interface and automatic upselling

Your online food ordering system should not only have an easy to use backend for you and your staff, but also an intuitive ordering interface that encourages your customers to continue browsing and ordering from your digital menu.

Upselling is an essential part of boosting revenue by increasing average order size. Your online food ordering system should allow you to preset add on suggestions to pop up automatically when customers place their orders so you never miss an upselling opportunity, safeguarding your revenue.

Getting an Online Food Ordering System

If you are interested in getting an online food ordering system, drop us your contact details below and we will be happy to arrange a free demo session with you!

3 Trends to Look Out For in 2021

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Fri, 26 Mar 2021 10:01:00 GMT

The Covid 19 pandemic has been tough on the F&B industry and has pushed F&B business owners to adapt to the tough times and this has given rising trends. It is more important than ever for F&B business owners to keep up with these trends as they will give rise to new market opportunities and customer expectations.

Here are 3 F&B market trends you should keep a lookout for.

Cloud Kitchen

Cloud kitchen or ghost kitchen’s rise to popularity can be attributed to the popularity of food delivery platforms among consumers. Cloud kitchens are a viable option for F&B owners who are looking to expand while keeping their costs low amid the ongoing uncertainty.

Operating entirely from the back end brings down overheads, enabling F&B owners to shift their focus to sourcing for quality ingredients to improve their food quality for a better customer experience. F&B owners can also operate multiple brands from their cloud kitchen using the same kitchen setup, moving away from the traditional F&B business model of one shop for one brand.

Contactless Dining

Covid 19 has made hygiene a top priority for consumers when they are dining out. Many restaurant owners have made the shift to contactless QR ordering where customers scan a QR code with their smartphones to browse your digital menu and place orders. This saves restaurant service staff the hassle of sanitizing physical menus after every use.

Adopting a contactless QR ordering system brings about many benefits apart from hygiene. Here are a few examples.

Appetizing images and descriptions of your food can be attached to each dish, educating customers on your menu and attracting them to order more, or try a new dish.
Handle high order volumes simultaneously without having to increase your operational costs. QR ordering helps restaurant owners to break free from the cycle of hiring more to handle more customers, thus increasing the restaurant’s profitability.
Contactless QR ordering also helps generate additional revenue by allowing restaurant owners to set up add on suggestions that will automatically pop up when customers place their orders. This will safeguard a restaurant owner’s revenue as upselling opportunities will never be missed.

The most important thing to realise all the benefits listed above is that the QR ordering system you choose must be easy to use and doesn’t require app downloads to encourage customers to self order.

Online Ordering for Delivery or Self Pick Up

During the circuit breaker, customers were not allowed to dine out at restaurants or F&B outlets, hence, consumers turned to order food online for self pick up or have it delivered to their homes. Online food ordering which was already popular among consumers, became even more widely used with the convenience it offers. Even after the circuit breaker had ended, many consumers are still ordering their food online instead of dining out or cooking at home.

F&B business owners should capitalize on this market opportunity by adopting a reliable, easy to use online ordering system to boost revenue. F&B business owners can also use online food ordering systems to receive orders from customers for their cloud or ghost kitchens, making the online food ordering system a must-have asset for restaurants and F&B businesses.

Tap onto the new market opportunities through online ordering

Digitalization of the F&B industry is speeding up rapidly amid the pandemic. Hence, having the right tools to adapt to the new business environment is crucial for your business. Did you realize that most of the new and upcoming trends which present new opportunities are made possible with digital and online food ordering?

If you are interested in getting an online food ordering system, QR ordering system or even a self ordering kiosk for your F&B business, do drop us your contact details below and we will be happy to arrange a free demo session with you!

How to Improve Your F&B Queue Management with QR ordering?

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Wed, 17 Mar 2021 07:08:05 GMT

Crowds have returned to F&B outlets in droves since dine in restrictions were further relaxed. Long queues outside F&B outlets have become a common sight around F&B outlets in Singapore. How should you, an F&B operator/owner, capitalize on the returning queues to increase your revenue and enhance your customer's experience? Find out how in this article.

Use QR Ordering to your advantage

QR ordering solutions allow customers to self-order digitally instead of placing their orders through a cashier.

By using QR ordering, you allow customers to pre order and collect their orders at a specific timing pre order for delivery, or order at the outlet and wait for their order numbers to be called. As such, you are placing your customers in a virtual queue.

In this article, we shall dive deeper into how QR ordering can help you better manage your queues.

Better manage safe distancing at your shop

Even as dine in regulations were relaxed, safe distancing measures are still being enforced. To better cope with this situation, many F&B operators encouraged their customers place orders digitally, making it easier for them to manage queues at their shopfront.

By doing so, the F&B operators do not need to maintain a physical queue. Their customers can place orders from anywhere and collect their orders at a specific time, or wait for their order numbers are called.

Remove ordering bottleneck

By removing the traditional physical queue, your order taking is not limited to the number of cashiers you have. Instead, your customers can send in their order simultaneously through their smartphones by scanning an ordering QR code at your shop.

With a QR ordering system, you can get your customers orders first, then place them in a virtual queue to wait for their orders to be prepared. This way, you minimize the chances of losing customers to long waiting times in the ordering queue and allow your customers have the freedom to do some shopping while waiting.

Better customer satisfaction

A QR self-ordering system helps you to free up your staff from order taking so that you can divert them to tasks that speed up order preparation to maintain high, consistent food and service standards.

A QR ordering system also enables you to be transparent with your customers about the order preparation time by letting you specify the estimated waiting time on a banner in the digital menu. Long waiting times without knowledge of the estimated waiting time almost always leads to bad customer experience.

On top of all that, by removing the physical queue and allowing your customers to self order simultaneously, you half their waiting time by doing away with the ordering queue. Hence, your customers will only have to wait for their orders to be prepared. Less waiting time equals happier customers.

Conclusion

Looking to get a QR ordering system for your F&B business? Drop us your contact information below and we will be happy to arrange a free demo session on our QR ordering system with you!

How to design an F&B menu that sells more?

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Tue, 09 Mar 2021 06:49:31 GMT

Strong marketing is one part of the story to a successful F&B business. After getting people to know your F&B outlet, the next steps are to get them to order more and then, keep them coming back.

In this article, we will be giving some pointers on how to get your customers to order more when they come to your restaurant.

Use Pictures and Icons

Pictures and icons are effective at drawing people’s attention to items on your menu. On top of that, they help improve the aesthetics of your menu and helps your customers understand your menu items better. Helping your customers to understand and familiarize with your menu encourages them to order new dishes or add ons to try out.

When people get familiar with your menu, they tend to come back to your F&B outlet again. Customers usually go back to F&B outlets that are familiar with.

Make Price a Small Issue

Your menu should always aim to get your customers to focus on what you have to offer instead of how much each item costs. Promoting cheaper deals and items may work, but not for every F&B business.

One way to divert your customer’s attention away from price would be to reduce the font size of the prices, keeping it smaller than dish names. Taking away the dollar sign is also a good way to divert your customers’ attention away from pricing to what you have to offer.

Ultimately, you want your customers to order based on what looks good instead of what is the cheapest on your menu.

Promote Your Best Selling Items

Best selling dishes are usually your best dishes. Which is what keeps your customers coming back for more. Some F&B owners feel that they should turn their promotion focus to the dishes that are not doing so well to increase sales, but you should do the exact opposite.

Keep promoting your best selling dishes to attract more returning customers, and eventually, they will try your other dishes too.

Item Placement

Position your best sellers in an equilateral triangle with the tip pointing downwards. How does the golden triangle work? Research shows that when we browse a menu, our eyes typically move to the middle first before travelling to the top right corner and then, finally, to the top left. This has been dubbed the ‘Golden Triangle’ by menu engineers.

Use colour highlights to further emphasise on these best selling dishes to capture the attention of your customers.

Use Specific Terms

Refrain from using general terms like breakfast, lunch and dinner when categorizing your dishes. Instead, group your menu items into specific categories like “Pastas”, “Steak”, “Salad”, etc. This way, you help your customers understand your menu at a glance, which is especially important if you want to keep your customers focused on what you have to offer instead of prices.

If customers are confused by your menu, they will turn to something they will never be confused about to help their ordering decision. Your pricing.

Use Digital Ordering Solutions

Digital Ordering Solutions are things like a QR code ordering system or a self ordering kiosk. Digital ordering solutions feature digital menus which removes the space constraints of a traditional physical menu, allowing you to attach appetizing images of your menu items which helps your customers understand your menu and encourages them to order dishes which are not their usual choice.

On top of that, digital ordering solutions allow you to preset add on suggestions which pop up when your customers place an order. This way, you grab every opportunity to upsell in a subtle way, which encourages customers to react positively and order more.

Getting a Digital Ordering System

If you are interested in digital ordering solutions like self ordering kiosks and QR ordering systems, drop us your contact details below and we will be happy to arrange a free demo with you.

How to leverage your online presence to get more online orders?

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Thu, 04 Mar 2021 10:11:35 GMT

In our previous article , we gave 5 ways to market your F&B business on social media. Today we will discover how to leverage your successful online marketing efforts to get more orders through your online presence.

Adding ordering links to your website

Already have a well-designed website online? Use that to your advantage and include online ordering links to your website. This not only helps you get online orders, but helps consumers understand your menu through item descriptions and attractive food images, bringing more customers to your F&B business.

When people know your menu, they are more likely to pick your restaurant over those they are not familiar with.

Setting up Your Google MyBusiness account

Setting up your Google MyBusiness will help your potential customers get information about your business with ease. By searching for your restaurant on google, a “card” with all your business information will appear on the right of the screen, with links to your business website, location, ways to contact your restaurant and other important business information of your restaurant such as operating time.

You can even set up your online ordering link to be displayed on your Google MyBusiness card, to provide a direct link for your potential customers to browse your menu and order from you.

Online Ordering links in your social media accounts

Out of our population, 79% are active social media users, meaning most people will discover your F&B business through social media such as Instagram, the most popular social media platform.

With the recent update, Instagram has included a new feature for F&B business accounts to link their online ordering menu through an “Order Now” button. By setting this up, you make it easier for your potential customers to find more information on your menu offering and place orders from your restaurant online.

Final thoughts

In order to leverage your online presence and generate more revenue for your F&B business, you will first need a user friendly online ordering system that allows you to not only receive orders but also configure delivery and self pickup settings.

If you are interested in finding out more about online ordering systems, drop us your contact below, and we will be in touch with you to arrange a free demo session to help you get the best online ordering system for your business.

How Self Service Ordering Kiosks Help F&B Businesses Sell More

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Fri, 05 Feb 2021 10:47:50 GMT

Self ordering kiosks are a massive hit for F&B businesses. Self ordering kiosk has enabled F&B businesses to make significant savings on labour costs, by helping F&B business owners like yourself, break away from the cycle of hiring more to cater to more customers, making F&B business more scalable.

Apart from saving on labour, which is well known, another main benefit of the self ordering kiosk is helping F&B businesses to sell more through digitalising the ordering process. Here’s how:

Effective promotion banner on homes screen

When running a promotion in your F&B outlet, it is common practice to print posters to advertise your latest promotions and new dishes. With self ordering kiosks, you can save time and money on printing and instead, display your promotion banner digitally, on its home screen.

By doing so, you capture your customers’ attention before they start making their orders, which significantly increases the effectiveness of your promotions.

Improve menu attractiveness

Ever been in the situation where you go to an F&B outlet, browse through a physical traditional menu, and order the same old dish or drink over and over again because you don’t know what the other dishes are? Even when detailed descriptions of the “other” dishes are provided, you might still be reluctant to order one, having no idea how it would look like. Well, your customers could be doing the same.

Food images have an ability to appeal to consumers’ emotions, making them more inclined to try a new dish. However, physical printed menus lack the space to display images of all your dishes, making the customers to eventually fall back on what they are familiar with.

The self ordering kiosk is a powerful tool that helps you break through the challenge of spacial constraints of a traditional menu, allowing you to display unlimited attractive images and descriptions to your customers digitally. With just a few simple clicks on the self ordering kiosk touch screen panel, your customers can better understand and familiarize with your menu and place their orders right away. By visually improving menu information, you are empowering your menu to provide a greater understanding of your dishes to your customers, increasing the chances of being ordered.

Robust upselling tool

During peak hours, your staff may be overwhelmed with order taking that they miss out the chance to upsell. By using a self ordering kiosk, you set add on suggestions to automatically pop up when customers have placed their orders. On top of that, upselling digitally is perceived as a more subtle approach of upselling and your customers are most likely to react positively, as compared to traditional face to face upselling.

Boost takeaway revenue digitally

Dine in restaurant business owners find using a self ordering kiosk is a good way to extend their outreach to their take away crowds. As a dine in a restaurant operator, your main source of revenue is your dine in section and your manpower should be focusing on that aspect of your business. However, the takeaway market is growing and the income generated from this section is very appealing to F&B operators as they can increase revenue while maintaining the same restaurant size.

With self ordering kiosks, you can get orders digitally from customers who come to buy takeaway food from your restaurant. The self ordering kiosks empowers you to get takeaway orders digitally without hiring more staff, which allow you to earn more while saving more.

Getting a self ordering kiosk

If you would like to get a self ordering kiosk to sell more and save more, drop us your contact details below and we will be happy to arrange a free demo with you!

Should Takeaway Food Kiosks Use QR Ordering?

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Mon, 01 Feb 2021 06:24:46 GMT

Takeaway food kiosks are popular in Singapore and are popping up everywhere all the time. Mostly taking the form of bubble tea shops, Long queues of customers lining up for food and drinks at these shops are a common sight in shopping malls. For takeaway food kiosk F&B business owners like yourself, it has always been a challenge to take and prepare orders faster to generate more revenue during peak hours.

QR ordering

You may have noticed that an increasing number of restaurants have been using QR ordering, where customers scan a QR code to place orders through their smartphones. This technology can not only benefit dine-in restaurants, but also takeaway food kiosks like yours! Let’s take a look at what are the key improvements to your takeaway food kiosk with the implementation of QR ordering solution.

Better queue management

Getting bugged by your mall management to keep your snaking queues in check, or finding it hard to ensure safe distancing in your queues? By using QR ordering, you can remove the physical queues outside your shop. Instead, your customers are placed in a virtual queue. Simply place some ordering QR codes at your shop front, on the counter or even on the social media for your customers to scan and order through their smartphones. All that’s left for your customers is to wait for their order numbers to be called.

Getting your customers orders simultaneously

In the previous point, we mentioned that your customers do not have to line up to place orders one at a time at your ordering terminals, removing the ordering bottleneck. Your customers can send their orders through their smartphones whenever they are ready to place an order. All orders can be received simultaneously, which helps you get more orders during peak hours and prevent customers from being turned away by the long queues.

Staff duty reallocation and manpower optimization

There are much more critical areas of your takeaway food kiosk operations than just taking orders and managing queues. Wouldn’t it be better if you could allocate more staff to boost service speeds? With QR ordering solution, your customers can perform self ordering. This means freeing up your order taking crews as there are no more physical queues to manage and no more manual order taking. Now you can reallocate your staff to other operational tasks to boost your productivity and service quality.

Boost average order size

Without the pressure of quickly placing their orders with the long queue of other customers breathing down their back, and aided with attractive images attached to each menu item, plus add on suggestions, your customers can take their time to browse through your digital menu and make better decisions on their orders. Often, they will be inclined to try something new or get the items offered on your add on suggestions.

Timely roll out of new items and promos

QR ordering system promotes the use of digital e-menu. It allows the food kiosk operator to skip the physical menu reprinting wait and cost and launch promotions and dishes digitally. Festive seasons promotions, happy hours or any discounts and combo can be easily rolled out to provide a swift response to the market trends and business strategic decisions. QR ordering solution helps maximize promotional campaign effectiveness to gain better competitive advantage.

Digitalize your membership system

Running a member loyalty program is a great way to boost customer loyalty. However, members forgetting or losing their membership cards are common. QR ordering helps you do away with physical membership cards, to prevent such unfortunate events from happening and helps you save on card making costs.

After your customer sends their orders, they can simply input their name and phone numbers to register as a member. If customers would like to claim rewards, they can simply key in their phone numbers to redeem before they place their orders. An efficient and cost-effective way to manage your members and ensure they receive the benefits they should have.

Getting a QR ordering system for your takeaway food kiosks

If you are interested to get a QR ordering system for your takeaway food kiosk, drop us your contact below and we will be happy to arrange a free demo session on iMakan’s QR Ordering with you!

Should Dim Sum Restaurants use Self Ordering Kiosks?

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Thu, 17 Dec 2020 10:35:09 GMT

In the previous articl e , we covered how useful QR ordering is for dim sum restaurants. In this article, we discuss how a self-ordering kiosk could be the secret weapon for your dim sum restaurant. As we all know, self-ordering kiosks are popular for takeaway kiosks, quick service food and fast food chains as they have an order, pay and collect ordering flow and self-ordering kiosks are great for that.

So how exactly can you use self-ordering kiosks for your dim sum restaurant?

Your takeaway section

Dim sum is a dish loved by Singaporeans and is a really versatile type of food. Suitable as finger food, breakfast, supper and definitely great to share at the table with loved ones. Dim sum takeaway section becomes more popular as customers love to take away some dim sum goodies after dining in, or have come to specifically buy some dim sum home.

Allocate more staffs to your dine-in section

As a dim sum restaurant, your dine-in section is the main source of your income and more resources should be channelled there. However, there are times when your takeaway section gets so busy that some of your staff have to be fully committed to man ordering stations at your takeaway counter or are required to manage dine-in and takeaway customers simultaneously, negatively impacting the productivity of your dine-in operations.

This is where self-ordering kiosks come in. You can station self-ordering kiosks at your takeaway counters to digitalize the ordering process and shift the focus of your service crews back to your dine-in section, while still getting orders from takeaway customers through self-ordering kiosks.

Educate customers on your menu and boost order size

Customers who have come to order takeaway may not be your regulars and do not know what you have to offer. Self-ordering kiosks have a digital menu where appetizing images and descriptions can be attached to each dish so your customers can understand your full dim sum menu offering to make informed decisions when ordering.

A self-ordering kiosk not only takes orders, it also boosts sales. You may preset popular add on choices for your dim sum and have them pop up when customers place their orders. By automating upselling, your customers may order the dish they never knew they wanted.

Display menu image for all dishes

The ability to display attractive menu images determines whether the customer will want to try your dish or not as the images bring visual temptation and convey the specific mood that influences the emotion. Thus, it is important for most people to see menu photos to assist them to make a choice.

A great example would be Macdonalds. When you crave for fast food, MacDonalds is more often than not, the first that comes to mind not only because of their strong industry presence but because you have a clear understanding of what they offer, appealing to human nature of the tendency to go back to what is familiar.

Promote new or popular dishes

Relying on service crews to promote your new or popular dishes is not as efficient as system automated promoting. There are times whereby your service crew may be too busy with other tasks to promote add on dishes. Your initiative of launching a new dish may not go far.

Luckily, digitalised self-ordering kiosks give you an alternative option. By pre-setting your self-ordering kiosk to display your dim sum items on promotion as add on suggestions or pop-ups, you need not worry about customers missing out on the latest promotion information. Helping you to safeguard your revenue without overloading your service crew.

Quick, hygienic and secure billing

Self-ordering kiosks are mostly integrated with cashless payment solutions to make the billing process fuss-free, more hygienic and secure. A fast, easy and accurate checkout enhances your customers self-ordering experience which helps minimise rate of abandon carts. Furthermore, you will not need to worry about missing cash or payment discrepancy as all payment settlements are digitalized, eliminating human error, increasing efficiency and speed to achieve cost savings.

Pre-ordering in the queue

Self-ordering kiosks are also applicable to your in queue ordering. Stationing some self-ordering kiosks along your queue helps you to get your customers orders before they are seated, saving on table ordering time and boosting your turnover rates, which is key to increasing revenue. Every 5 minute saved on table occupancy through pre-ordering in the queue, goes a long way.

Self-ordering kiosks can also help you to keep your customers engaged in the queue as they browse your menu. By keeping customers engaged while they are queueing, you reduce the chances of losing customers in the queue.

Government grants on self-ordering kiosks

To push for digitalization of the F&B industry, and help F&B merchants cope with post covid new normal, our government has increased subsidies from up to 70% to up to 80% on self-ordering kiosks for pre-approved vendors such as iMakan to help defray the cost of digitalizing your business.

If you are looking to explore using self-ordering kiosks for your dim sum restaurant, do drop us your contact details below and we will be in touch to arrange a free demo session!

Should your dim sum restaurant use QR Ordering Systems?

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Thu, 17 Dec 2020 07:28:50 GMT

In recent times, we see QR ordering in many restaurants we dine at. This trend could mostly be attributed to the ongoing pandemic. With restaurants facing staff shortages and the need for better hygiene standards, most have turned to QR ordering systems. If you are planning on starting up a dim sum restaurant or shopping for self-ordering solutions for your dim sum restaurants, QR ordering systems are the way to go. Here's why.

Better hygiene

By using QR ordering, there is no need for shared physical menus, where the virus may linger for a long time, transmitting from one person to another. QR ordering turns your customer's smartphones into your menu and ordering device. By simply scanning a QR code, your customers can browse your full menu offering and start to place their orders right away.

Faster and more accurate order taking

Traditionally, your service crew will go from table to table to take your customers' orders and manually enter them into the POS system. This is a time-consuming process and prone to human error. QR ordering digitalises the whole ordering process by allowing your customers to browse your digital menu and place their orders on their smartphones. The orders will then be sent to an order management device or your POS system if integrated.

By implementing a QR ordering system, you achieve maximum order taking productivity. All customers in your dim sum restaurant can send orders simultaneously through their smartphones, removing the bottleneck of waiting to place orders. As the orders are sent digitally from customers’ smartphones to the order management device, QR ordering systems eliminate orders transmission errors made by your service crew.

Instant menu & promotion updates

With a digital menu, your dishes and promotions can be updated in real-time. There’s no need to wait for menu reprinting to launch a new dish or a promotion. Simply update your menu in your backend cloud-based portal from anywhere, and your new dishes and promotions will be reflected on your customers’ smartphones instantly.

Furthermore, you will save on menu reprinting costs and time. This allows you to flexibly adjust your promotions and festive menu without worrying about the extra reprinting costs and waiting time incurred.

Boost average order size

A common challenge faced by dim sum restaurants would be squeezing images and descriptions into your menu, jam-packed with dim sum goodies. With a traditional physical menu, pictures cannot be displayed for each dish due to space constraints, otherwise, it would be a dim sum encyclopedia. However, on a QR ordering digital menu, images and descriptions can be attached to each dish, educating your customers on your menu offering. This way, they discover new dishes and will be inclined to try.

Another way QR ordering systems boost your average order size is through automated upselling. Most customers are more likely to order more when an automated add on suggestion pops up.

Boost table turnover rates

Not only does QR ordering systems speed up order taking time by enabling you to receive orders from your customers simultaneously, but it can also be deployed in the queues to allow your queuing customers to browse your menu and place their orders before being seated. This helps you minimise table ordering time to boost table turnover rates. Saving 5 minutes of ordering at the table for each customer group goes a long way.

Thus, getting a QR ordering system will significantly boost table turnover rates, capitalising on your peak hours.

Lower labour costs

It is a known fact that labour is expensive in Singapore and the levees are ever-increasing. Traditionally, you will need to hire more to cater to more customers. This practice will greatly affect the scalability of your business. Luckily, you can adopt QR ordering to empower your customers to self-order, reducing the time-consuming task of manual order taking.

Your existing staff can turn their focus to performing value-added jobs such as improving customer experience and other productivity-boosting tasks.

Getting a QR ordering system for your dim sum restaurant

If reading this article has piqued your curiosity in QR ordering systems, feel free to drop us your contact below, and we will be in touch to arrange a free demo session, all about QR ordering for your dim sum restaurant!

Benefits of using QR Ordering for restaurants

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Fri, 11 Dec 2020 04:34:57 GMT

QR ordering has been growing in popularity recently, especially since circuit breaker. It is quite common to be handed a QR code and asked to order your food by scanning it with your smartphone these days. With the recent growth in popularity, you are probably wondering if you should implement QR ordering for your restaurant. Here are some benefits of using QR ordering in your restaurant.

Get more orders accurately

By allowing customers self-order through their smartphones, your service crew does not have to go from table to table to get orders from customers and manually key them into the POS system. Instead, your orders are directly sent from customers’ smartphones to your POS and kitchen, enabling them to order simultaneously.

On top of that, order taking will be more accurate, as self-ordering through QR ordering removes the need to re-enter orders manually into your POS system, eliminating human error.

More Hygienic

With COVID19 around, people are paying more attention to hygiene. If you are still using printed menus, chances are, your service crew have to spend time sanitising these menus. By using QR ordering, you turn your customers' personal smartphones into your digital menu, order taking device. Hence, reducing their contact with common items, and minimising the spread of germs.

Instant Menu Updating

Have a new promotion or dish you want to promote? Traditionally you would have to wait for menu reprinting or remind your service crews to keep informing every single customer of the promotion. However, with QR ordering, changes you make to your menu will be immediately reflected on your customers’ smartphones when they scan your ordering QR code.

Lower Labour Cost, Increased Productivity

Most restaurants are stuck in the cycle of hiring more to handle the increasing number of customers, which reduces their profit margins and makes their business less scalable. By using QR ordering, you will be able to handle higher order volumes with fewer staffs. Furthermore, your service crews can be redeployed to focus on areas of your operation to increase your restaurant's productivity.

Quick Table Turnover

QR ordering can also be implemented when your customers are waiting in queues. This reduces the time spent at tables browsing your menu and placing orders, which greatly increases your table turnover rates. On top of that, tables can be ready for the next customer quicker, as your service crew does not have to sanitise physical menus.

Highlight your Brand with Customisable Menu Themes

Digital menus give you the flexibility to customise the aesthetic aspects of your menu to match or enhance your branding. Aesthetically pleasing menus have been known to increase your average order sizes too.

No App Downloads

Making your customers download apps to order from you actually discourages them from self ordering through their smartphones. Easy and fuss free food ordering experience keeps your customers happy.

Easily Integrate Your Menu with Social Media and Website

Capitalize on your online and social media presence by including your QR ordering digital menu to your website, and social media platforms, to allow your followers to browse your menu, or even pre order for self collection or delivery.

Implementing QR Ordering for your restaurant

If you are interested in learning more about QR ordering, or implementing a QR ordering system in your restaurant, drop us your contact below and we will be in touch with you to arrange a free demo session!

What is QR Ordering?

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Fri, 11 Dec 2020 04:16:28 GMT

The ordering process has always been a huge part of the F&B business and owners have always been looking to improve their ordering process, making it more customer-friendly and productive. Hence, F&B ordering has always been evolving. From manual order taking, to the latest, QR ordering.

To understand what QR ordering is, we have to first understand what a QR code is.

What is a QR code?

A QR code (abbreviated from Quick Response code ) consists of black squares arranged in a square grid on a white background, which can be read by an imaging device such as a camera, and processed using Reed–Solomon error correction to extract and display the stored data in the QR code.

What is a QR Ordering?

QR ordering is a digital ordering solution that makes use of QR code to direct customers to a specific webpage for food ordering purposes. The customer will need to use their smartphones to scan a QR code, commonly placed on tables in restaurants. They will then be taken to a webpage containing a full menu, coupled with appetising images and descriptions, where they can place their orders digitally.

How do restaurants/cafes receive orders placed through QR Ordering?

If your QR ordering solution is integrated with your POS system, the orders received through QR ordering will be sent directly to your POS system. Your POS system will then fire the order to your kitchen.

On the other hand, if no integration with POS has been done, the orders will be sent to an order management device, usually a tablet, from which your kitchen staff can prepare and manage the orders.

How to make QR ordering work for my F&B Business

QR ordering is a great fit for most F&B businesses. Here are some considerations you should have when thinking of implementing QR ordering:

1) Ordering flow:

Depending on your F&B business concept, your ordering flow might differ. For example, some restaurants will only allow their customers to place orders when seated, while others may want customers to start placing orders in the queue.

Takeaway food kiosks may also want to encourage their customers to pre-order by scanning a QR code outside their shops, on their website, or social media.

2) Delivery & pre-order:

Apart from ordering for dine in, QR codes are great for pre-ordering, and delivery orders as well. Have these QR codes placed around your shop, printed in your receipts, or uploaded in your social media and website to allow customers to pre-order for self collection or delivery.

3) Order Security:

While QR codes are a great way to boost ordering efficiency, it may backfire if there are inadequate safety nets to filter out "ghost orders". These "ghost orders" usually come from customers sending the QR code to their peers, who might accidentally send an order, causing confusion among kitchen and service crews, and food wastage.

Good QR ordering systems like iMakan , have safety nets in place, for example, deactivating a QR code after a certain time limit, or after the customer has been billed or only sending the order after the customer has made an online payment for the order.

How do I find out more about QR ordering or deploy it at my F&B shop?

To find out more about QR ordering systems, simply drop us your contact details below, and we will get in touch with you to schedule a free demo session on iMakan QR ordering system !

Minister of Trade on F&B Digitalisation: Swee Choon Visit

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Tue, 01 Dec 2020 04:17:54 GMT

Yesterday, Singapore's Trade Minister, Mr Chan Chun Seng, visited Swee Choon Tim Sum Restaurant Pte Ltd , a traditional family-run dim sum restaurant that has been established for almost 55 years.

Starting from a single unit shop-house in Jalan Besar, they have since grown to occupy six connecting shop-houses. Mr Chan Chun Seng said on his post on Facebook: " What was most impressive to see, is how Swee Choon, one of the oldest dim sum restaurants in Singapore has embraced digitalisation, and pivoted online to remain competitive during this challenging time. As a result of their ability to adapt quickly, Swee Choon’s revenue is now back to pre-COVID-19 days thanks to revenue generated from their food delivery business. "

Analysing data from their food delivery business, Swee Choon found a huge customer base in the East, and has since opened up a cloud kitchen in Tampines.

" COVID-19 has exacerbated many existing challenges faced by the F&B industry. To seize growth opportunities in the new operating environment, our F&B players must embark on transformation efforts to diversify into new revenue streams. Companies need to accelerate their efforts in digitalisation, productivity, innovation, and internationalisation to remain competitive, and continue to invest in human capital capabilities to support their business transformation needs.

The F&B sector’s road to recovery might be challenging, but there are still growth opportunities for companies that are willing and able to adapt, and relook their business models and product offerings. The Government is committed to supporting our companies and workers in this journey. By transforming, innovating, and building up new capabilities, I am confident that our F&B sector can remain competitive, and emerge stronger when the situation gets better. " said Mr Chan Chun Seng.

Remaining sustainable and competitive in this current economy has been a challenge for businesses of all types, especially in the F&B industry. With the world becoming increasingly interconnected through the internet, it is prime time to start getting your business online and reach out to your customers and potential customers online.

Contact us at (+65) 6271 5788 or request a free demo below to learn how to embark on your digitalisation journey for your F&B business today!

Why Takeaway Food Kiosks Should Use Self Ordering Kiosks

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Fri, 27 Nov 2020 04:00:20 GMT

All over Singapore, we see Self Ordering Kiosks popping up everywhere, especially in takeaway kiosks like takeaway food kiosks and Fast food chains. Today, let's dive into why takeaway food kiosk owners are taking up the idea of self ordering kiosks rapidly.

Self Ordering Kiosks - A cost effective solution to long queues

Long queues at you F&B outlets is a good sign and a good challenge to have. However, if not handled properly, it might turn customers away.

Opening up multiple ordering terminals

Traditionally, F&B businesses would hire more staffs to handle more orders during peak periods. Food kiosks like yours might not have the luxury of hiring more staffs due to space constraints. Furthermore, labour in Singapore is costly.

By using self ordering kiosks, you are able to fit more ordering terminals into smaller spaces, as self ordering kiosks these days come in different shapes and sizes. Read up on our previous article to find out more about the different types of kiosks!

By setting up more ordering terminals, you are able to move your queues faster and convert your queuing customers orders into revenue for your business. On top of that, your F&B business will be more profitable as you will not need to hire more staff to handle higher ordering volumes.

Higher Average Order Size

Self ordering kiosks have been proven to increase average order sizes with automated upselling, and enticing images of your menu offerings. Unlike traditional menus, you can add images to every food item you offer, educating your customers on your menu. Your customer may order items they never knew you had.

Promotions and New Menu Items

Who would dislike new menu items or promotions? With self ordering kiosks, your promotion campaign and new menu items do not have to wait till physical menus are printed. Simply set a price, attach appetising images, and it is ready for ordering. This not only lower your menu reprinting costs, but also makes your business more productive.

If you are interested in self ordering kiosks for your F&B business, do give us a call at (+65) 6271 5788, or drop us your contact to arrange a free demo session on our range of different self ordering kiosks, to suit your business setting.

Which Type of Self Ordering Kiosks is Suitable For Your F&B Business?

Tue, 17 Nov 2020 07:31:56 GMT

Looking for a self ordering kiosk for you business? You may have came across the most commonly seen, standing kiosks. But did you know there are different types of kiosks in today's self ordering kiosk market which may better suit your business needs? Let's explore some of these in this article.

Standing Self Ordering Kiosks

Standing kiosks are the most commonly seen self order kiosk types in Singapore. Predominantly in fast food restaurants and quick service restaurants or take away kiosks like bubble tea shops. Standing self ordering kiosks broke into the Singapore scene when MacDonalds started implementing them in its outlets. Since then, other F&B businesses have followed suit.

Standing Self Ordering Kiosks are usually bigger in size, hence, requires more shop space to accommodate. Nevertheless, they are great productivity and revenue boosters for your F&B business.

iPad Self Ordering Kiosk

iPad self ordering kiosks are smaller in size and can be mounted to the wall or placed on a table top for shops with smaller spaces. Their smaller size allows you to fit more self ordering kiosks into your shop, maximising your order taking capability and lowering manpower cost for you F&B business.

Table Top Kiosks

Table top kiosks are best for F&B businesses who are looking to replace some of their cashier terminals with self ordering kiosks to lighten their dependency on manpower.

Research has also shown that using self ordering kiosks boost average order size by automating upselling, and displaying your full menu offering to your customers with enticing images and descriptions.

Do you want to give your F&B business a productivity & revenue boost? Contact us at (+65) 6271 5788, or drop us a request to find out more about our self ordering kiosks!

How to deal with manpower shortage due to Covid19?

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Fri, 23 Oct 2020 05:08:42 GMT

Due to Covid19, restaurant owners are facing even greater manpower challenges. According to a Business Times article , it is estimated that around 150,000 foreign F&B workers have left Singapore. With businesses resuming and the lack of people who want to work in the F&B industry, manpower shortage has become an even greater challenge.

Here are some tips for overcoming manpower challenges

Hire Part Timers

There are many students who are looking for part time jobs to earn some extra allowances or even finance their education. Rethinking your restaurant's job schedule for more flexibility will attract this talent pool as they have to juggle between work and school.

An example of this would be Jumbo Group of Restaurants, which have tapped into the part time talent pool, and even went as far as hiring part timers of suitable age and experience to successfully manage their outlets.

Tap Into The Older Workforce

Many have the perception that hiring elderly to work in their F&B restaurants will slow down their operations. However, the older generation often bring vast job experience. Moreover, with rising healthcare costs and a fitter older generation, they are more motivated to seek employment even in their late 60s to 70s.

Therefore, providing training and employment opportunities to the older generation, and matching them with job scopes based on their abilities, will give your restaurant manpower a boost. A great example would be McDonalds.

QR Ordering Systems

In the past, an increase in business leads to restaurants hiring more to handle the high order volumes. Although restaurants like these may see an increase in revenue, they may not be as profitable due to rising manpower costs. A way to break the cycle of hiring more to handle more orders, is adopting a reliable QR Ordering System.

QR Ordering Systems place ordering back into the hands of your customers, by allowing them to scan a QR code and self order through their smartphones. This removes the need for manual table to table order taking and entry, which saves manpower and order taking time, allowing you to divert your existing staffs to focus on other important aspects of your operations.

Government Grants Available to Aid Your Digitalisation Journey

Productivity Solution Grant (PSG)

As iMakan QR Ordering Systems is a PSG pre-approved solution, you will be able to enjoy 80% grant until 31/12/2020, before reverting to the original grant amount of 70%.

For more information on PSG grants, click here !

Digital Resilience Bonus (DRB)

iMakan is also a DRB pre-approved solution, which means that by using iMakan, you are one step closer to getting the $2,500 payout in category 1 of the Digital Resilience Bonus.

For more information on DRB, click here !

If you are looking to solve your manpower challenges and increase your profitability, give us a call at (+65) 6271 5788, or drop us your contact details below to schedule a free demo session today!

How to use QR codes in your restaurant/cafe?

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Tue, 20 Oct 2020 06:34:07 GMT

QR codes have been around for a long time, but not many of us paid much attention to these ingenious digital tool. Ever since circuit breaker in Singapore, the usage of QR codes became part of our everyday lives. Since consumers have become accustomed to scanning QR codes, it is a great time to start leveraging QR codes for your business.

What is a QR code?

A QR code is a two dimensional version of a barcode, that can be used to store and convey a wide variety of information with a scan of a smartphone.

What are the common uses of a QR code?

Here are some examples of common uses of QR codes. Which

Safe entry - Well, this is the most common use of QR codes which most, if not all Singaporeans are familiar with. Scan the QR code before entering malls, shops, etc., for Covid19 contact tracing.

E-payments - QR codes can also be used the handle E-payments. By scanning a QR code, you can make payments, or perform a bank transfer through your smartphones. Some everyday examples include, SGQR, PayNow and PayLah.

Advertising & promotions - Some businesses that advertise on print display ads such as billboards, newspapers, etc., often use QR codes to embed a link to their website's landing page which may contain information on their new product launch, new promotion, etc.

How to use QR codes in your restaurant?

Increase your social media following

Social media is one of the best ways to market your restaurant. A significant amount of people discover new restaurants through social media. Placing a QR code on one of your restaurant's QR code stickers to link your social media accounts is a great way to increase your social media presence, as your customers can easily follow and tag your restaurant in their posts.

Get more reviews

Reviews is a great way to build the trustworthiness of your brand. Most new customers will look at reviews before deciding on which new restaurant to try out. Using QR codes to embed your Google reviews link is a good way to get a quick review from your customers

QR Ordering

Restaurants in Singapore have been making the switch to digital ordering ever since circuit breaker was lifted. This is a more hygienic way of ordering as physical menus have passed through the hands of countless people.

QR ordering is also a more efficient way of ordering as less manpower is needed to go from table to table to take orders. Instead, orders are sent from your customer's smartphones to the kitchen directly.

If you are interested in getting a QR ordering system for your restaurant to boost revenue while saving on manpower costs, give us a call at (+65) 6271 5788 or drop us your contact details below to arrange a free demo with us! Free yourself from the cycle hiring more to cope with higher order volumes today!

What is SGQR?

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Wed, 14 Oct 2020 10:06:40 GMT

You might have seen the QR code in the picture above in the coffee shops you frequent, but never took notice, or realise what it was. Yes, it is SGQR, the world's first unified payment QR code. A scan of the QR code and you will be able to pay through any one of the multiple payment modes a merchant accepts.

With Wirecard recently ceasing its operations in Singapore, SGQR is one of the various alternatives you could use for e-payment processing.

Should you apply for SGQR?

If you are looking to accept e-payment at your F&B business, you should. Here are some benefits of using SGQR:

Declutter your storefront . Display one unified QR code label instead of multiple QR codes
Avoid customer confusion. Your customers can choose from the different payment methods you offer just by scanning one QR code.
Hardware-less. By using SGQR, you transform your customer's smartphones into payment terminals. No need to manage multiple payment terminals when billing your customers.

How to apply for SGQR?

If you have adopted one or more payment service providers, you can get in touch with your payment service providers for more information on how to deploy SGQR in your store.

If you would like to adopt e-payment service providers who are onboard with SGQR, click here to see the full list of SGQR members.

What to do if you are affected Wirecard ceasing operations in Singapore?

liangwei@megasafe.com.sg (Liang Wei Liaw) — Wed, 14 Oct 2020 04:12:21 GMT

Wirecard Singapore, a popular payment processing service provider among merchants in Singapore, has ceased its operations in Singapore. Hence, leaving many merchants in limbo.

What are some e payment alternatives?

Other forms of e-payment like SGQR, PayNow and Nets are available in Singapore as well. Customers can pay through their mobile phones with SGQR, or PayNow, as well as through their Nets cards through Nets payments.

SGQR allows your customers to scan a QR code and pay through any one of the multiple payment gateways that your business accepts.

Alternative payment processing service providers

Merchants who have not made alternative e-payment arrangements can approach DBS, UOB, OCBC and Nets for merchant acquisition services.

The list of exempt entities who are currently providing merchant acquisition services, but have yet to obtain licences under the PS Act, can be found here

What to do if you lose internet connection in your shop?

Thu, 08 Oct 2020 07:29:00 GMT

The internet is an important fundamental for every business, as most digital solutions in the modern age rely on it to a certain degree.

How do you know if your internet is down

If you are unable to receive QR/online orders on your POS, you might be having an internet connectivity issue.

Before calling Singtel, do a simple check

Check your internet router for internet lights and wifi lights. Both internet and wifi lights should be lit up in green as shown in the picture below

If these lights are not on, you can reboot all your internet modem and routers. If the problem still persists, you may have an internet connectivity issue or router hardware issue. In both cases, you should contact your internet service provider (Singtel, Starhub, etc.) ASAP.

The two fastest ways to reach your internet service providers are through phone calls or their twitter accounts.

Singtel Support Twitter: @SingtelSupport

Starhub Support Twitter: @StarHubCares

Here's what you could do before your ISP fixes the issue

1. Connect your main POS to your mobile hotspot. You should be able to receive iMakan online orders.

2. If mobile hotspot is not available, you can pause QR ordering by tapping on "Stop Ordering" on your order management device, and provide other means of ordering to your customers.

3. Feel free to let us know of your internet connectivity issues, so we can help set expectations for other merchants.

QR Ordering - The future of restaurant ordering?

Fri, 25 Sep 2020 07:29:01 GMT

Changes in human behaviour after pandemics are common in human history. These changes usually prevail and shape global and domestic industries. In Singapore's F&B scene, the change is evident. Post Circuit Breaker, restaurants have opened up and people have returned to dining in. However, there is one common change among most restaurants; they have adopted QR ordering or have embedded their menu into a QR code.

To provide a safe environment for customers and returning staff during the current Covid19 pandemic, many restaurants realised that traditional menus shared by multiple customers daily are not a viable option. The virus is known to survive on surfaces for an estimated 72 hours.

What is the best way to display menus to customers without a physical menu? Use a digital one.

After embedding digital e-menus into a QR code for customers to scan and browse, many restaurants have started to consider and even implement QR ordering in their restaurants. With QR ordering, restaurants not only enable e menu browsing on customers' smartphones but also allowed customers to place orders digitally.

While reducing contact between staff and customer, and hygiene might be the main driving benefit of restaurants implementing QR ordering, many other benefits will give a restaurant's profitability and efficiency a boost.

Reduced labour cost

Going from table to table will be a thing of the past when your restaurant has deployed a QR ordering solution. Your staff can be redeployed from manual order taking to other key areas of your restaurant operations. With a QR ordering solution, you no longer need to hire more to cater to more customer orders, improving the profitability of your restaurant.

Faster table turnover & remove ordering bottleneck

QR ordering is not just limited to customers who are seated in dine-in restaurants. Ordering in the queue is also a mode available for iMakan's QR ordering solutions . By encouraging your customers to order in the queue, the time taken for customers to browse your menu and place orders will be saved. This will greatly increase your table turnover rates during peak hours, allowing you to accommodate more customers, increasing your revenue.

Handle high order volumes with accuracy

Ever had customers making a scene because of wrong orders? QR ordering eliminates the human error in the ordering process. Your customers scan a QR code and place their orders through their smartphone, which is directly sent to your POS and the respective kitchen sections for preparation.

Is QR ordering the "new normal" for restaurant ordering? I would say it is. With the productivity and operational cost savings QR ordering bring, it is only a matter of time before the most restaurants implement this solution.

If you are a proven QR ordering solution by restaurant establishment such as Swee Choon Tim Sum Restaurant, Song Fa Bak Kut Teh, etc., contact us at (+65) 6271 5788, or drop your contact details below and we will be in touch real soon!

%Arabica

Wed, 23 Sep 2020 04:30:01 GMT

%Arabica was founded by now owner, Kenneth Shoji, on March 11, 2011. He had a mission to grow %Arabica across the world, so that young baristas can "See The World Through Coffee", which is also %Arabica's tagline.

%Arabica has since grown into a worldwide brand, known as a great place for excellent, aromatic coffee, brewed using beans from its own coffee farm in Hawaii and from around the world. With its global fame and great branding, %Arabica started attracting an ever-growing following in Singapore, across its multiple outlets.

%Arabica’s popularity in Singapore spurred them to search for new productivity-boosting technologies to help them maximize their revenue during peak periods, hence, leading them to adopt iMakan QR ordering system.

Throughout this project, our team worked hand in hand with %Arabica to understand the challenges they faced and provided solutions for them.

Challenged and solutions during %Arabica project

Due to its ever-growing popularity in Singapore, %Arabica needed a way to ease the long queues that form outside their outlets during peak hours. In order to do so, %Arabica had to get their queues moving faster for a better customer experience and to serve more customers. This is where iMakan QR ordering makes a difference.

Previously, %Arabica opened up several ordering counters to facilitate faster order taking. However, it was still not efficient enough and raised labour cost as each ordering counters were manned by staff.

iMakan solved this challenge by putting up QR codes around %Arabica’s outlets and along their queue lines for their customers to scan the QR code through their smartphones, browse the menu, and place orders. However, this did come with drawbacks, as anyone could scan the QR codes to place a “ghost order”.

To tackle this challenge, iMakan integrated with Stripe payments to enable online payments which allowed %Arabica to receive payment before the customer’s orders are sent in for preparation.

This opened the door to other possibilities such as customers pre ordering from other places and self collecting at a specific timing.

Since %Arabica successfully implemented iMakan QR ordering system, they were able to ease the ordering queue, and divert their staff from order taking to drinks preparation, which shortened serving time to improve customer satisfaction and maximize the orders they could take during peak hours to boost revenue!

Try and see for yourselves!

Head over to %Arabica to try out their variety of aromatic, freshly brewed coffee, and experience their efficiency with the help of iMakan QR ordering system.

If you are interested in getting iMakan QR ordering system for your F&B outlet, do drop us your contact details below and we will be happy to arrange a free demo with you!

Using digital tools to build resilient F&B businesses.

Mon, 21 Sep 2020 05:42:50 GMT

Since the pandemic, things are not the same as before. We are still adjusting to the “new normal” brought about by measures put in place to curb the spread of Covid19. The new normal has brought about lesser manpower availability, less dine in spaces, and most of all, heightened sensitivity to cleanliness in the public. Thus, to build a resilient F&B business, incorporating digital tools in the right areas is essential.

Helping employees feel safe returning to work

The risk of a second wave of infections is a big cause of concern, especially for those working in the service line. F&B staff are in direct contact with hundreds of customers daily, increasing the risk of them catching the virus.

Digital Ordering Solutions

Digital ordering solutions like iMakan, can help build resilient work places in many aspects. Here are some:

1. Reduces heavy dependence on manpower, which is a challenge to get in the F&B industry. Customers placing orders through their smartphones by scanning a QR code, allows you to receive high volumes of orders simultaneously without the need for order.

Without digital ordering solutions it is difficult toi ncrease revenue without increasing operational expenditure on manpower.

2. Practice safe distancing and contactless ordering. Do away with physical menus which have to be sanitized from time to time as studies have shown that the virus can stay on a surface for up to 72 hours.

As customers scan a QR code and order through their smartphones, your staff can reduce interaction with customers, reducing the risk of virus transmission.

On top of that, iMakan digital ordering solution also gives you the option to use e payments for contactless payments.

3. Limited seating in restaurants has caused long queues which can be hard to manage. Digital ordering enables your customers to place orders in the queue, keeping them engaged, and reducing ordering time at the tables. This will greatly greatly increase your table turnover.

4. Food delivery and self collection ordering. iMakan digital ordering integrated with delivery partners to enable you to open up multiple ordering channels for maximum revenue growth.

During the circuit breaker, online food ordering surged in popularity. Due to the public’s concern of being outdoors for long, putting themselves at a risk of infection, many have turned to pre ordering food online for delivery and self pick up.

This has formed a new consumer behaviour that, if you do not tap into, your are missing out on a lucrative market.

Shop cleanliness

The importance of cleanliness in your F&B outlet cannot be reinforced enough. Even without the pandemic going on, outlet cleanliness should be a big part of your staff’s duty. Everyone has a part to keep each other safe.

Contact Tracing

Contact tracing has one of the biggest part in Singapore’s success in being able to contain the virus. With the systems and capabilities to quickly track where a cluster has formed, it can be contained more effectively. Encourage staff and customers alike, to check in and out with SafeEntry once they enter or exit your premises.

With the above suggestions put into place, you will be able to build a resilient F&B business, to remain sustainable and even prosper throughout this pandemic.

For more information on iMakan solutions, leave us your contact below, or call us at (+65) 6271 5788. Stay safe and stay healthy!

Use the most powerful, and overlooked digital business-enabling tool everyone has

Wed, 09 Sep 2020 09:10:46 GMT

Everyone has a powerful yet often overlooked digital tool, smartphones, credited for the rapid digitalization across the world. With its ever-expanding range of features and capabilities, the smartphone will eventually replace the need for a laptop or computer. With recent events, online transactions and activity have significantly increased.

However, many retail/F&B businesses are slow on the uptake of digitalization. Often, business owners take a “wait and see” approach when digital tools are made available to them, and losing out on potential revenue their competitors are making. Another key factor for the slow digitalization of small businesses would be the misconception that digitalization requires huge investments on hardware like immobile servers and IT infrastructure, which is not true. Here are some ways to digitalize your retail/F&B business without heavy hardware and infrastructure investment.

Reach out to your customers digitally

A big part of running an F&B or retail business is about customer acquisition. Traditional methods such as print advertising and flyers are certainly an effective outreach channel but come at a high cost. Small businesses may not be able to upkeep such outreach methods consistently enough to reap the benefits.

Digital marketing is a much cheaper and effective outreach method. Effective simply because most consumers are constantly on their smartphones, scrolling through social media or browsing websites of interest.

Therefore digital marketing is a means for you to get your brand and products in front of consumers, where they are spending a bulk of their time. For digital marketing tips, click here !

Set up your own website

A business website should be one of your priorities if you have not set one up yet. Research from Blue Corona shows that 90% of consumers will check a company’s website before emailing or calling them. While it may seem like an uphill task to set up your own website, many platforms like duda.co provide a modern, stylish and customisable template for you to build your website. Spend some time on these website development platforms and choose one which you are most comfortable building your website with.

Your website plays a big role in attracting customers. Design wisely.

Turn to Digital Ordering

With the recent occurrence of the pandemic, most consumers are turning to order food and products online. This consumer trend will be here to stay. Hence, it is important to meet your customers where they are buying.

Digital ordering solutions like iMakan , will help F&B businesses go online, tapping into a lucrative online market.

Meanwhile, retail business owners can use tools like Shopify to build their own e-commerce sites to let consumers buy from you online.

Manage your business from anywhere

You may always have to be at a hundred places at once. However, this can be a source of concern for small business owners. A great solution for this is to get a POS solution, like MEGAPOS , with cloud-based backend, allowing you to see insights and manage your business at your fingertips from anywhere.

Lumpsum or subscription payment

Gone are the days of pouring a huge amount of cash to invest in IT Infrastructure and hardware for digitalization. Cloud-based solutions these days usually allow subscription-based payments, making it easier for you to kick off your digital journey.

To conclude, we are all going digital some way or another in our lives. Therefore, business owners like you, have to evolve to keep up with the times.

To find out more about iMakan digital ordering solution , contact us at (+65) 6271 5788 for more information, or leave us your contact details below and we will be in touch with you.

8 things to know before you start your F&B business

Wed, 02 Sep 2020 08:37:18 GMT

Singapore’s food and beverage scene is known for its diverse range of cuisines. From Asian to western, we have it all. Restaurants and food businesses are popping up everywhere. You might be one of these entrepreneurs that are looking to set up your own food and beverage business.

Before diving headfirst into setting up shop, there are some important aspects that you must know. Here are 8 things that you should know that could save you thousands of dollars.

Getting the right licences

To set up your food and beverage business, you need the right licences. However, information is not very easily found, and different people may give you varying information on what licences to apply for. Here is a government website that may help in your F&B license application.

https://www.gobusiness.gov.sg/licences/foodservices

Labour is scarce, and expensive

Manpower has always been a common challenge for food and beverage businesses. Ask any experienced F&B owner, and he will tell you about his struggles with scarcity, and the rising cost of manpower in Singapore.

Locals are demanding higher work pay and are unwilling to work the long hours that F&B requires and part-timers come and go often. On top of that, the quota for hiring foreigners is tightening up, making labour a major headache for F&B owners.

A quick fix for this is to use digital tools like iMakan , to reduce heavy manpower dependence on order taking staffs by digitalizing your ordering process. Food establishments like Swee Choon Tim Sum Restaurant, BBQ box, Song Fa Bak Kut Teh, etc, have also adopted iMakan to help with their manpower hurdles.

Marketing Strategy

Before setting up shop, it is important to define your unique selling point and come up with a plan on how to get customers. Opening up a shop and praying that customers find you seldom works.

Test out your marketing strategy and see what works for your business before dumping your life savings into your shop, securing your road to bankruptcy. Look to some F&B establishments and get some ideas from their marketing strategy helps as well.

Getting the right location

Before committing to a location, decide on your target audience demographics. Spend some time on surveying different locations to see if your target demographic frequent the area you intend to set up shop.

Avoid rushing into decisions when choosing a location. It is easy to to make the mistake of compromising on location due to rent or impatience, which will be regretted eventually.

The chef

Did you know that some restaurants that were doing well close down overnight when their chef decides to leave? It is important to not depend on a sole person that knows how to cook.

Either learn it yourself, or take up preventive measures like legal agreements, giving equity as ownership and documenting cooking techniques along the way. Hiring someone to replicate the taste of your previous chef is not an easy task.

Service standard

Good food and good service go hand in hand. Even if you have really good food, but provide poor customer service, customers may not return, and returning customers are very important to an F&B business.

Getting a trusty POS system

Running an F&B operation can be complicated. Therefore, investing in a trusted POS solution is essential. A POS solution not only acts as a billing terminal but also helps in your operation management. For example, table management, inventory management, promotion management, and kitchen printing management as well.

Many food business owners have made the mistake of getting a cheap POS but eventually grow out of it. Investing in a trusted POS solution like MEGAPOS helps you manage your operations effectively and does not trouble you with technical difficulties. In the long run, saving you extra money.

Look out for grants in Singapore to save you cost

There are grants put up by the government to help businesses defray the cost of acquiring equipment or solutions that boost productivity through digitalization. For example, the Productivity Solutions Grant subsidises up to 80% pre-approved equipment and solutions, and the Digital Resilience Bonus gives a payout of up to $10,000 to help businesses defray the cost of adopting digital tools.

Going Digital - Your F&B Businesses Should Too

Tue, 25 Aug 2020 08:17:07 GMT

Digitalisation has occurred at a rapid pace in recent years and the Covid19 pandemic has given it a major push in Singapore. There is an increasing number of retail stores setting up their e-commerce sites and government services are rapidly going online with the launch of LifeSG .

F&B businesses are also picking up on digitalisation to remain sustainable. Some examples would be setting up PayNow corporate accounts for e payment collection, using a digital menu for customers to browse, dine in digital ordering, and online ordering for self pick up and delivery.

Align your F&B business with consumers new lifestyles and needs

As businesses digitalise, an increasing amount of services which were only available at the shopfront, are now available online. Bringing greater convenience to customers than opening multiple outlets around the country.

Given a choice, consumers will take the easier option. Therefore, it is recommended that you take your business online to access broader consumer markets and generate more revenue.

With strict safe distancing measures implemented, seating capacity in F&B outlets has also been reduced, causing long queues to form. By going digital and allowing your customers to pre order in the queue you will cut down on menu browsing and order taking time when your customers are seated. Hence, increasing table turnover rates.

For F&B businesses without dine in, digital ordering in the queue also helps to remove the ordering bottleneck by allowing your customers to pre order and collect only when their orders are ready. This way, you are able to accept high volumes of orders at once as compared to losing customers in the queue.

Reducing the cost of going digital

Adopting solutions to go digital may incur cost for your business. Hence, government grants such as the Productivity Solutions Grant (PSG) and Digital Resilience Bonus have been set up to help defray these costs.

Find out more about these grants here:

Productivity Solution Grant

https://www.imakan.com.sg/psg-grants-available

Digital Resilience Bonus

https://www.imakan.com.sg/digital-resilience-bonus-drb

Start your digital journey today

If you have not adopted solutions to digitalise your business, don’t miss out and start your digitalisation journey with iMakan Digital Ordering Solution .

iMakan Digital Ordering Solution offers a reliable digital ordering platform for online delivery and self pick up orders, as well as QR queue and dine in ordering. On top of that, e payment and delivery rider assignment are fully integrated.

To find out more, drop us your contact information below, or call us at (+65) 6271 5788 today.

Should Quick Service Restaurants Use Digital Ordering?

Thu, 13 Aug 2020 08:51:04 GMT

Quick service restaurants usually have simple operations to speed up customer service. Some examples of quick service restaurants would be: Cafe, Coffee Kiosk, Bubble Tea Shops, Salad or sushi kiosk, casual dining restaurants, takeaway kiosks etc. If your F&B business has a similar concept to any of these, digital ordering solution is for you.

Why Should Quick Service Restaurants Adopt Digital Ordering Solutions?

Quick service restaurants are mostly focused on speed and quality of food and an efficient ordering process is key. Traditional ordering process involves customers queuing up to place their orders at the cashier terminals, which are costly to upkeep due to the ever-rising cost of manpower.

Your quick service restaurant can improve the ordering process efficiency and reduce manpower costs. Here’s how.

Removing ordering bottlenecks

With traditional ordering, long queues form at the bottleneck of the ordering process, ordering terminals. By using digital ordering, you can do away with ordering terminals and instead, allow your customers to place orders digitally through their smartphones in the queue or at your table.

Handle large volumes of orders at once

Using digital ordering solution, helps you get all your customers orders at once. Order taking is no longer limited to the number of ordering terminals you have.

Less manpower needed to man ordering terminals

With lesser ordering terminals, the amount of manpower you need to man these ordering terminals will be reduced. Existing staff can be re-tasked to customer-service-oriented tasks like assisting customers who need help with digital ordering.

Opens up multiple ordering touchpoints

Digital ordering is not only limited to in queue and table ordering. It can also be used for online ordering for self-pickup and delivery orders. Thus, opening up multiple ordering touchpoints, making it easier for your customers to buy from you, generating more revenue for your business.

Get started with digital ordering today

iMakan Digital Ordering Solution is a solution that gives F&B merchants the above benefits, and more. For more information. drop us a demo request below, or contact us at (+65) 6271 5788 for a free consultation.

Digital ordering - Key to success in the new normal for F&B businesses

Wed, 05 Aug 2020 10:11:57 GMT

Ever since dining out in restaurants was allowed in phase 2, Singaporeans have begun to flock to their favourite restaurants. However, due to the strict safe distancing measures, seating capacity was greatly reduced, which resulted in long snaking queues outside restaurants. While it may seem like a great sign at first, long queues can be a double edged sword.

Long queues drive potential customers away

Have you ever given up halfway in the queue, or avoided a restaurant due to their long queues. Same goes for your customers.

Your manpower may be overloaded

Due to the strict measures to curb the spread of COVID19, your staff have to juggle between enforcing safe distancing and contact tracing measures and taking orders. Either that, or you are spending extra one getting more manpower to enforce these measures.

How can digital ordering help?

To manage your queues, lessen dependency on manpower and generate more revenue, you could turn to digital ordering solutions.

Queue management

Use digital ordering to allow your customers to pre order while waiting, cutting down on the time needed for menu browsing when they have been seated, increasing the table turnover rate.

Furthermore, if your restaurant is focused on takeaway orders, your customers can pre order, and they will receive a message notification when their order is ready.

Online Orders

Customers who do not want to queue for their food, can simply place orders online via a URL for self pickup or delivery. They can even specify a date and time of which they want to receive or collect their food.

This way, you not only reduce the number of people in your queue who are ordering for takeaway, you also open up multiple ordering touchpoints for your customers.

Increase average order size

With programmable add on options, appetising images to depict your dishes, your customers may order that dish that they never knew they wanted or never know your had

Want a complete digital ordering solution?

If you are looking for a digital ordering solution for your F&B business which can handle delivery, self pick up and in store orders, all without requiring your customers to go through the process of downloading another app, look no further.

iMakan digital ordering solution has helped many SME F&B businesses and establishments like Swee Choon Tim Sum Restaurant, BBQ Station, %Arabica etc., digitalize their ordering processes and enjoy the full benefits of digital ordering.

The New Norm of F&B: Tips on how to be successful while adjusting to the “new normal”

Mon, 27 Jul 2020 08:44:16 GMT

F&B businesses in Singapore are in the midst of adjusting to the “new normal” brought about by stricter measures to keep COVID19 under control. Many of these F&B businesses have to deploy extra manpower to ensure strict compliance with the new measures. Coupled with the lower revenue generated in the recent months, business is not as profitable as before.

To help you generate more revenue while adjusting to the new normal, we came up with some tips on how to be more successful while adjusting to the new normal.

Digital Marketing

While digital marketing sounds like it may cost you a bomb, it is actually the most cost effective way of marketing to consumers. With 79% of Singaporeans being active social media users, according to Talkwalker , there is a huge pool of potential customers you can reach out to through social media marketing.

For more tips on social media marketing, you can read more about it in our previous article.

Also, claim your business on Google My Business, to show up on google searches with links to your address, website or even to give you a call.

Keep the hygiene standards up

With the tension caused by COVID19, most of us are still very worried about getting infected. Keep up with good hygiene practices to give your customers a peace of mind while eating.

F&B outlets are generally avoided by customers nowadays if they do not practice good social distancing and hygiene practices.

To enhance safe distancing and protect your staff and customers, consider taking up a QR code self ordering solution for contactless ordering and contactless payment collection.

I ntegrate online ordering into your ordering channels

Ordering food online is a popular option for Singaporeans. 60% of Singaporeans order food online at least once a month, and this study was way before COVID19 happened.

Therefore, getting an online ordering solution will help you tap into this lucrative market of online food ordering.

Government Subsidies

Integrating technology may be expensive and during times like these, you may want to reduce your expenditure. Hence, we have linked these government subsidies which will help significantly lower the cost digitalizing your business.

Digital Resilience Bonus: https://www.imda.gov.sg/drbonus?utm_medium=sem&utm_source=google&utm_campaign=sg-digital&utm_content=drbonus

Productivity Solutions Grant(PSG): https://www.smeportal.sg/content/tech-depot/en/psg.html

A complete digital ordering solution for F&B

If you would like to have a digital ordering system that provides contactless QR ordering for dine in , and online ordering for self pickup and delivery orders , with the option to handle e payment and delivery automation , let us know in the request form below, or ring us at (+65) 6271 5788.