4 Ways the Restaurant Industry Changed During the COVID-19 Pandemic
When reflecting on the current economic situation, we mostly think about pauses and stops. In the hospitality sector, those pauses and stops have resulted in layoffs and closures. Restaurants, cafes, and bars have been hit especially hard by the restrictions placed upon them.
Amidst all the changes, there’s been one positive for the restaurant industry--the adoption of new technology. Here are the four biggest changes we’ve observed in the hospitality industry over the past year:
1. Restaurants Are Now Relying on Digital Tools
Delivery apps, online ordering sites, and other digital tools allowed restaurants to keep the lights--especially when the initial severe restrictions were in place. In a matter of days, QR codes and virtual menus began cropping up everywhere. So did custom apps that allowed for pre-order and contactless curbside pickup.
Now, consumers have come to expect the convenience of online ordering and branded apps, using them to pre-order takeout, curbside pickup, or even collect loyalty reward points.
2. Consumers Expect Contactless Pay
Cash is notoriously covered in germs. Many restaurants have suspended accepting cash in order to create a safe working environment for their front-line staff, and are encouraging customers to pre-pay online or pay by “Tap.” Tap works by simply holding the credit or debit card close to the PIN pad to pay. It’s quick, convenient, and safe. And restaurant-goers have come to expect it.
3. Smaller Crowds
When was the last time you saw a long line in front of a restaurant? It was probably pre-pandemic. Now, few people are ordering in person or lining up for a table. Ordering has moved online, to online ordering sites or mobile apps. You can choose a time to pick up your order, or when you want it delivered to your door.
4. Restaurant Owners Have Adopted Agile Mindsets
Restaurant owners have had to implement new strategies, and they’ve done it at an amazing pace.
Think of it this way. The typical app takes about four months to be developed. But restaurants needed their own branded apps overnight to begin taking online orders. So they found solutions.
At Craver, we’re happy to say that we were able to help businesses in the hospitality industry. We helped them move from paper menus and dine-in-only business models to a fully digital menu, with pre-order functionality and delivery options. And we can do it in a matter of four weeks, not four months.
If you need a tailor-made mobile app, talk to us about how Craver can make this process smooth and enjoyable for you and your restaurant, bar, or cafe.
