PRLA Restaurant & Lodging Matters Summer 2020

Summer 2020  •  PENNSYLVANIA RESTAURANT & LODGING matters  • 15 ElectronicMenus A menu tablet at each table can replace plastic and paper options, lessening the surface area where germs live and reducing the number of items to clean after each use. As with all tabletop devices, the National Restaurant Association guidelines say they must be sanitized between seatings. Alternatively, an up-to-date menu that can be accessed on a mobile device gives guests a contactless way to decide on a dish. Tableside Ordering Taking orders and processing payments tableside cuts down on the need for paper and pens, both havens for germs. It also increases service speed and order accuracy, which is especially important to retain customers who may already be nervous simply by being in a dining room. Additionally, since wireless POS systems reduce the time spent walking back and forth to a stationary device, it can help restaurants serve more customers and boost revenue—accelerating businesses’ financial recovery. Digital Check Presenters These mobile devices allow diners to facilitate their own checkout for table service using a built-in credit card processor. Instead of a waiter disappearing into the unknown with a customer’s card, guests can quickly scan, tap, or insert their chip right from the table—preventing their card from coming into contact with contaminants. Fast check resolution means faster table turns, too. Virtual Gift Cards Robust gift card programs can boost revenue and bring in new customers. But rather than passing out physical cards, virtual options eliminate the need for person-to-person contact and keep everything conveniently stored on the cloud.