New innovative digital table-ordering solution for SA restaurants launches

A new digital platform aimed at simplifying and transforming the restaurant ordering process in local restaurants has launched. Mr Yum is an innovative platform that uses QR Code mobile table-ordering. 

The web-based digital menu allows customers to view, order, and pay directly from their phones assisting in social distancing and a step towards the prevention of the spread of Covid-19. Digital menus have reportedly led to an increase in meal spending from 20% to 45%.

Table-ordering technology implemented in SA restaurants through the expansion of Mr Yum

The age of digitisation is transforming the way that all sectors function, including the restaurant industry. Restaurants are adopting and implementing strategies to improve customer loyalty and increase spending. 

In an official press release, Gary Harrod, COO of Mr Yum SA explains that the business aims to adapt to consumer needs which include digital technology solutions. 

“Unlike other industries, restaurants have remained largely unchanged by technology, even as customers have changed their purchasing behaviours. Consumers are using technology in more parts of their daily life and their expectation is that restaurants will offer a seamless technology-enabled experience. Mr Yum has stepped up to transform dining out in the same way that Shopify transformed retail shopping.”

Mr Yum

Since March 2020, Mr Yum, the global business that focuses on restaurant ordering technology has reportedly grown by 20 times. Mr Yum attracts more than one million users to its platform every month. 

The idea of combining dine-in table ordering, pickup, and the delivery of food was implemented through Mr Yum in SA by a team of local entrepreneurs. The technology that was launched locally targets restaurants to accelerate profit. 

Cape Town-based, Harringtons Cocktail Lounge, Surfa Rosa, Latitude Cafe, and Peddlars were the early-adopters of table-ordering technology.

How it works

Customers are able to access the real-time digital menu through a QR-code without the need to register or download an application.

The table-ordering technology used creates an interactive and visual menu that improves customer experience and assists the kitchen and bar staff. 

The platform allows diners to order and pay immediately, place multiple orders, and batch orders per table for the kitchen and bar staff, directly linking to the point-of-sale.

Ray Endean from Latitude Café explains that the implemented technology assists staff members by reducing time spent on admin related tasks.

“We find our team is spending way less time on admin tasks like taking orders, punching them into the point-of-sale, manually processing payments or splitting bills. Instead, we have more time to do what we love most being hospitable and having more meaningful interactions with customers.”

Mr Yum caters to local restaurants and has no sign-up cost, fixed costs, or lock-in contracts. The global business does require a transaction fee of 4.9% but allows volume and group discounts to remain available. The payment gateway fee, free point-of-sale integrations, staff training, and unlimited customer support are features provided by Mr Yum.

Currently, Mr Yum is only available in Cape Town but it plans to expand to other major cities in South Africa including; Johannesburg, Pretoria, and Durban.

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Featured Image: Louis Hansel @shotsoflouis via Unsplash