Efficient F&B Point-of-Sales systems lead to greater overall operational efficiency and improved customer satisfaction. In most cases, a POS system helps business owners track data more effectively, cut down on labor costs and improve accuracy. However, it’s important to note that not every POS system is created equal.
To help you understand the benefits of a kitchen POS system beyond its basic functions, we’ve compiled a list of five myths associated with it.
Check out the five myths below and then read about reality. POS systems can help your business run more smoothly, accurately and efficiently than ever before.
MYTH 1: The POS is expensive!
Reality: There are many different kitchen POS system providers out there that offer very competitive pricing, especially when it comes to buying the whole hardware package (POS + software).
For example, you can buy a brand new iPad Air 2 (good enough for most restaurant applications) for around $450 (with no sales tax), tablet stands can cost around $30, and software is free to download. After all this you still have money left over to buy some thermal printers (~$150 each).
It’s also worth mentioning that most POS providers offer affordable monthly payment plans which are especially helpful for restaurants that make cash-only sales (which is very common in the food and beverage industry).
MYTH 2: You must have a computer at every kitchen station to use a POS.
REALITY: This isn’t true at all. For example, POS systems allow you to set up an unlimited number of stations (restaurant speaks for “grill”, “pasta”, “salad”, etc.). All these additional stations are only $10/month each and come with their own iPad and cash drawer.
This is very low cost and the great thing about Square is that you don’t need to worry about buying separate hardware or software as everything is done by them (iPad, peripherals, etc.).
MYTH 3: You must have a dedicated printer for each kitchen station.
Reality: Again not true. As mentioned above, POS systems allow you to have an unlimited number of stations, all with their own cash drawers and printers. They can be either thermal or laser printers (of course it’s better to go with a laser printer which is what most POS providers offer).
All these additional devices are very affordable when compared to buying separate hardware for each station.
MYTH 4: All POS systems are the same.
Reality: There’s more than one way to solve a problem.
Like most technology, POS systems use different types of software to track data. For example, the best POS system for a restaurant might not be the right choice for an ice cream shop. Having this knowledge in advance can save time when it’s time to make a purchase.
MYTH 5: F&B POS Systems are difficult to manage.
Reality: All POS Systems have a system administrator login, so you can always change the way the system works and works best for your business. You will also have user-level access so you can train respective employees with their responsibilities within your store
Although there are several benefits associated with POS systems, not every business needs one. If you still aren’t sure whether or not POS systems are right for your needs, consider visiting a location that has one and speaking with its owner. In addition to taking notes about what you do and don’t like, ask for a tour of the business’s POS system.
Once you have more information on how POS systems can help improve customer service and sales, you’ll be able to make an informed decision about whether or not you need to update your point-of-sales system.
