The transition took time because specialized equipment used to be required to read QR codes. The upfront cost of a scanner was prohibitive for the average business owner. However, modern mobile devices come with QR code scanning capabilities. Businesses are turning to QR codes in the face of a pandemic to facilitate Contactless Ordering and Contactless Payment.
QR Code Technology: Its many advantages
QR codes are more valuable than barcodes because they can store many details. When used correctly, QR codes offer many advantages for the dining experience.
Safety
Customers can download the menu to their smartphones or tablets by scanning QR codes strategically placed at your restaurant. This can be done without touching the communal menus. Customers can also check QR codes using contactless technology when paying the bill. Customers can skip signing receipts or sharing credit cards.
Contactless payments reduce transmission risks and are less susceptible to fraud because customers keep their mobile phones or credit cards with them throughout the transaction. This reduces theft and abuse.
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QR code scanning, a self-service system, can reduce the staffing cost of your restaurant. You can save money on printing by not having to print and update menus. This is particularly true because:
- Online generators make it easy to create static QR codes.
- If you have a mobile phone, there are no scanner costs.
It is also better for the environment to use less paper. This will allow you to reduce your carbon footprint.
Dynamic content
Digitizing your menu will allow you to include photos, videos, and other multimedia and dynamic pricing. This ensures multilingual support as each phone defaults to the customer’s preferred language. The hardcopy menus are locked in once they have left the printer.
Speed up
The QR code can save time for everyone involved. Customers no longer have to flag down waitstaff to get menus or place orders. Employees can spend less time updating orders and explaining the day’s specials. This results in a more enjoyable dining experience and more tables served per unit of time.
What is a QR code for restaurants?
You must set up your restaurant’s payment and order systems to accept QR codes. However, your customers don’t need to download an app to use QR codes. The camera on most modern smartphones is linked to QR code scanning technology. Users can scan and download menus by simply tapping the camera icon. Customers can pay by QR code if they pre-load their debit or credit card details into a mobile wallet, such as ApplePay. They can manually enter the account number and expiration dates in a hosted payment form.
Here is an example of how QR codes work for restaurants:
Ordering via QR code
After you create QR codes, place them all over your restaurant, including the entrance, near the cashier, and at individual tables. These two-dimensional matrixes store all the information a customer might need – including today’s specials, holiday greetings, and allergy warnings. You can even include interactive videos depicting food prep or ingredient selection. There are many possibilities.
Customers can relay the information to an employee or send their order directly to the kitchen using a mobile device. This is a safer option, as it reduces the amount of face-to-face interaction between staff and customers.
Paying with a QR Code
A server will bring a QR code to the table after the meal. This can be on a receipt printed on paper or displayed on the screen of a mobile device. This QR code lets the customer get a detailed bill, including taxes, gratuities, and loyalty points. Customers can either open their mobile wallet and approve the payment or manually input credit card details, email addresses, and mobile numbers into the checkout form. Both parties receive confirmation of the charge on their respective devices.