Do Customers Want Mobile Payment Options for Their Restaurant Tab?
Scott Samuels
CEO | Connecting Leading Hospitality Companies with Exceptional Management Talent
Mobile pay has been a great success for businesses like Starbucks, which conducts nearly 9 million mobilese transactions per week in their U.S. stores. Your business model may be nothing like Starbucks, but they are industry leaders, and it only makes sense to consider the implications for your restaurant. Consumers are getting accustomed to paying for meals by smart phone. You’d better be ready. If you are in a major market like New York, Chicago or Los Angeles, you may have already seen increased demand.
Why Do Consumers Like Mobile Payment?
It’s quick. There is no fumbling with cash or swiping cards. Diners never have to worry about not having cash on hand. When they finish their meal, diners are ready to leave and get frustrated waiting for the server to accept their payment. Paying with a smart phone app also provides a measure of security because the transaction is conducted right at the table. Rampant credit card fraud has made diners wary about allowing their card and server out of their sight.
Why Should Restaurants Like It?
Mobile payment can provide a better consumer experience. That can encourage people to dine-out more frequently. Paying the check is the last part of the dining experience. Making it quick and seamless will leave the consumer with a great final impression. Tips have increased in restaurants that allow mobile pay options, which will make your servers happy.
How Does Mobile Pay Work?
The consumer simply links a credit card or PayPal account to one of the many available apps. Options include:
Virtual Wallet Apps
These general apps can be used many places, not just restaurants.
- Apple Pay
- Samsung Pay
- Google Wallet
- Square
Restaurant Payment Apps
Some also include online reservation services or the ability to split checks between diners.
- OpenTable
- Cover
- Dash
- Tabbed out
Keeping up with the latest trends is an important part of operating a successful restaurant and hospitality business. To learn more, visit the Horizon Hospitality Blog. If you need help finding great people, contact our restaurant executive search specialists. One of our restaurant recruiters will help you find a diverse range of experienced, talented people looking for hospitality careers.
Director Food, Beverage, Operations | CFBE, Food & Beverage | Open to new opportunities
8 年This is a new technology that slowly took off the last couple of years with more small and big business embracing it. I am sure in a few more years this revolution will reach across the board. The bottom line it’s a “win-win" situation for business and consumers.
Business Development, Strategic Management & Consulting
8 å¹´I could see an auto pay application working for beverage carts and food / beverage locations on the course. Not sure about quick adoption of the technology in the grille room or dining room. Using one's member number and then walking away is the ultimate mobile payment method.
Retired GECKO HOSPITALITY RECRUITER
8 å¹´Very concise summary Scott. With a few new options. Will eventually trickle down to contemporary private clubs. Thanks for sharing.