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Handheld POS Systems - 3 Reasons You're Losing Profit

August 11, 2023
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In today's rapidly evolving restaurant POS landscape, technology continues to reshape the way businesses operate and interact with customers. One such innovation making waves is the handheld POS (Point of Sale) system. In this article, we'll delve into the advantages of using handheld POS systems in restaurants, explore the financial impact they can have, and identify the types of eateries that can best harness their potential.


Financial Impact of Handheld POS Systems

Given our experience at Chowbus POS, the average restaurant owner using our suite of POS products (including handheld tablets) saves up to $8,000/mo on labor costs.

  • Increased Revenue Generation: The ability to take more orders quickly and accurately can lead to increased table turnover and a higher volume of sales during peak hours. This heightened efficiency translates to more revenue for the business. For example, the average Chowbus POS customer often sees a 20% increase in their monthly sales!

  • Improved Customer Satisfaction: Enhanced tableside service and accurate order processing lead to satisfied customers who are more likely to return and recommend the restaurant to others. Positive word-of-mouth can contribute to sustained revenue growth.

  • Reduced Order Errors and Remakes: Minimizing order mistakes means less food waste due to remakes, saving costs on ingredients and resources. Accurate orders also prevent the need to comp or discount items for dissatisfied customers.


Benefits of Using Handheld POS Systems

  1. Mobility and Flexibility: Handheld POS systems untether staff from fixed checkout counters. Servers can take orders, process payments, and update menus from anywhere on the premises, leading to faster service and reduced wait times.

  2. Enhanced Order Accuracy: By allowing servers to input orders directly into the system at the table, handheld POS systems minimize the chances of miscommunication between staff and kitchen. This leads to more accurate orders and happier customers.

  3. Tableside Service Improvement: With handheld POS systems, servers can spend more time interacting with customers at the table. This personalized service enhances the dining experience and can lead to increased tips and customer satisfaction.

  4. Upselling Opportunities: Servers equipped with handheld POS devices can suggest additional items, specials, or promotions to customers while taking their orders. This proactive approach to upselling can contribute to higher average check sizes.

  5. Efficient Split Bill Management: Splitting bills among groups is made easy with handheld POS systems. Servers can accurately divide the bill based on each customer's order, reducing errors and disputes during payment.

  6. Real-Time Menu Updates: Handheld POS systems can be synchronized with the main POS system, ensuring that servers always have access to the latest menu items, pricing, and availability. This prevents confusion and miscommunication.


Restaurants That Benefit from Handheld POS Systems

  1. Full-Service Restaurants: Full-service establishments, where personalized service is a priority, can greatly benefit from handheld POS systems. Waitstaff can provide attentive service and process orders more efficiently, improving the overall dining experience.

  2. Upscale and Fine Dining: Upscale restaurants that emphasize attentive service and offer complex menus can elevate their level of service with handheld POS systems. Servers can offer wine pairings, specials, and take custom orders with ease.

  3. Outdoor and Patio Dining: Restaurants with outdoor seating can efficiently serve customers on patios and terraces without the need to constantly move back and forth from a fixed POS station.

  4. Fast-Casual and Quick-Service: While traditionally associated with full-service restaurants, handheld POS systems can also benefit fast-casual and quick-service establishments during peak hours. They enable faster order taking and processing, reducing wait times.

  5. Events and Catering: Handheld POS systems are invaluable for events and catering, where mobility and real-time order processing are essential. Servers can efficiently manage orders and payments in various locations.


Final Thoughts on Handheld POS

In conclusion, handheld POS systems are revolutionizing the way restaurants operate by offering mobility, accuracy, and efficiency. Beyond enhancing the dining experience, these systems contribute to increased revenue, improved customer satisfaction, and cost savings through reduced errors and waste. While a range of restaurant types can benefit from using handheld POS systems, those that prioritize personalized service, efficient table management, and accurate order processing stand to gain the most from this innovative technology. By embracing handheld POS systems, restaurants can elevate their operations and position themselves for success in the competitive dining industry.

To learn more about POS systems and what might be the right fit for you, book a POS demo/consultation with Chowbus! We're the #1 POS tech system for US-based restaurants!

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