Have you ever thought about why so many restaurants, cafés, and even the most successful brands invest in loyalty programs? The answer is simply because they work. 

When guests feel valued, they come back more often, bring their friends, and gradually turn into loyal fans of your brand.

In this guide, we will look at what loyalty programs are, how they work, and the main types you can use to build stronger connections with your customers.

What are Loyalty Programs?

A loyalty program is a marketing strategy that rewards customers for repeat purchases or continued engagement with a business. Its goal is to encourage customers to return, spend more, and build a lasting relationship with the brand.

Instead of being “just another transaction,” a loyalty program makes every visit feel like it counts for something more. Guests get to enjoy special perks, such as a discount, a free coffee after a few visits, or early access to something special. That small extra value makes them feel appreciated for being loyal to your brand.

The Psychology Behind Customer Rewards

A successful loyalty program is built on a simple truth: people respond to rewards. But not every reward has the same impact. Understanding what truly motivates your guests and tailoring your program to match those drivers is the most important aspect in building a successful loyalty program.

Here are two kinds of rewards to keep in mind:

• Transactional Rewards (Extrinsic): These are clear, tangible benefits such as discounts, free products, or points. They work best when you want to encourage frequent, repeat actions, like returning for a daily lunch menu or picking up coffee on the way to work.
• Emotional Rewards (Intrinsic): These go deeper. They’re about creating status and a sense of belonging. Think of VIP invitations, members-only perks, birthday rewards, or access to experiences that make your customers feel special. Emotional rewards build a stronger bond that goes far beyond price.

Choosing the right type of incentive is the first step. To build lasting loyalty, it’s essential to understand the balance between practical benefits and emotional connections that keep guests coming back.

How Does a Loyalty Program Work?

To make a loyalty program work, you first need to set up a system that rewards your customers for coming back. This could be as simple as a punch card or as advanced as a digital solution. The idea is always the same: show your guests that their loyalty matters and give them a reason to return.

Here’s how it usually works:

1. Set Up the Program: Choose a system that fits your concept, from a simple punch card to a digital platform like ORDERMONKEY’s Loyalty App.

2. Invite Customers to Join: Ask your guests to sign up in-store, online, or directly through your app.

3. Offer Rewards for Actions: Every purchase or interaction earns points, stamps, or credits toward something valuable.

4. Make Progress Visible: Let customers easily track how close they are to their next reward.

5. Deliver the Reward: Give them their perk, whether it is a free product, a discount, or an exclusive experience.

6. Repeat the Cycle: Each reward encourages them to return, restart the process, and stay connected with your business.

In short, a loyalty program works by creating a cycle of recognition and reward. When your guests feel valued, they keep coming back, and your business grows stronger with every visit.

3 Common Types of Loyalty Programs

Loyalty programs can take different shapes depending on your business goals. While there are many variations, most can be grouped into three main models:

1. Point-Based Programs

Customers collect points for every franc or euro they spend and redeem them later for rewards such as a free drink, a discount, or even a full meal. This model is easy to understand, flexible, and motivates guests to spend more to reach their next reward.

2. Tier-Based Programs

Customers move up through levels like Silver, Gold, or Platinum based on visits or spending. Each tier unlocks bigger perks and exclusive offers. This model appeals to recognition and status, making your best customers feel valued and turning them into brand ambassadors.

3. Paid Programs

Customers pay a one-time or recurring fee to access immediate benefits, such as discounts, free delivery, or members-only perks. While it requires clear value to get sign-ups, it often creates highly committed and valuable customers.

Should You Use a Digital Loyalty App?

Once you know which loyalty program fits your business, the next step is deciding how to manage it. A paper punch card can work at the beginning, but it has limits as your customer base grows. This is where a digital loyalty app becomes worth considering.

With a digital solution, you can:

• Start small: Set up a simple points program in just minutes.
• Scale up: Add VIP tiers or even paid options as your business evolves.
• Experiment: Offer exclusive rewards or seasonal perks without extra hassle.
• Stay in control: Connect with your POS and track real data to see what drives loyalty.

ORDERMONKEY was designed with this flexibility in mind, helping you adapt as your concept changes. A digital loyalty app is not only easier to manage, but it also grows alongside your business and your guests.

Make Loyalty Simple with ORDERMONKEY’s Digital App

Choosing the right loyalty program is one of the most important steps in building long-term guest relationships. With ORDERMONKEY, you do not just get software. You get a flexible platform that adapts to your concept and grows with your business.

Whether you start with a simple points system, introduce VIP tiers, or explore paid memberships, ORDERMONKEY Loyalty App gives you the flexibility to design and adjust your program as your goals evolve. Everything is connected to your POS and supported by clear data, so you can manage rewards in one place without adding extra work.

Book a free demo today and see how ORDERMONKEY can turn repeat visits into lasting success for your business!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I measure the success of my loyalty program?

The best way is to look at a few clear metrics: how many guests join your program (participation rate), how many rewards are actually used (redemption rate), and whether members visit more often or spend more than non-members. 

A good digital platform, such as ORDERMONKEY Loyalty App, that gives you these insights at a glance, so you always know how well your program is working.

2. Is an app better than a physical card?

In this day and age, yes. An app is more convenient for guests because they usually always have their phone with them. It also allows direct communication through features like push notifications, personalized offers, and valuable data on ordering behavior. This means your guests enjoy a smoother experience while you gain better insights.

3. What mistakes should I definitely avoid?

The most common mistakes are easy to prevent:

1. Complicated rules that guests cannot understand.

2. Rewards that are not relevant or attractive.

3. Poor communication, because if guests do not hear about your program, they will not join it.

Keep the program simple, offer rewards people actually want, and promote it clearly. That is the foundation of a successful loyalty strategy.

Every restaurateur knows that a loyal guest is worth their weight in gold. But with competitors only a click away and customers expecting instant convenience, retaining loyal guests has never been more challenging.

You’ve likely tried different ways to build loyalty, from stamp cards and membership programs to discounts and social media giveaways. While these can boost engagement for a while, they don’t always create lasting connections or measurable results.

True customer loyalty goes deeper. It’s built on personalized experiences, recognition, and a seamless connection between your restaurant and your customers, exactly what modern digital loyalty programs are designed to achieve.

Why Old Loyalty Programs Just Don’t Work Like They Used To

Old loyalty methods like paper cards have clear limits. They can be lost, lack personalization, and offer no insights into who your best guests are or what they like. These systems reward frequency but don’t help you truly understand or engage customers.

That’s where digital loyalty apps come in, taking customer retention to the next level through data-driven personalization, automation, and seamless integration with your ordering system.

5 Benefits of Using a Modern Loyalty App

A digital loyalty app is far more than just a digital timecard. It’s a strategic tool that directly contributes to your business goals.

Let’s take a closer look at the five biggest benefits that can boost your restaurant’s customer retention:

1. Increase Sales Through Targeted Incentives

The biggest benefit of a loyalty program is the measurable increase in sales. Loyal customers not only buy more often, but also spend more. But how exactly does this work in practice?

Instead of generic discounts, you can create personalized incentives. A guest who regularly orders coffee might receive a free muffin after their fifth purchase. The system automatically recognizes when a guest is eligible for a reward.

By integrating your loyalty program directly into the ordering process, for example, via a QR- Webapp, you make it incredibly easy for your guests to collect and redeem points. This actively encourages higher spending.

2. Valuable Customer Data

Do you know which 20% of your customers are the most loyal and likely responsible for 80% of your revenue? A paper card can’t tell you that, but an app can. Every transaction reveals valuable insights, such as what’s being ordered, how often, and at what time of day

This information is pure gold. It allows you to move toward a precise, personalized approach. Imagine being able to send all guests who have ordered a specific burger in the past an exclusive offer for a new burger creation. That’s the power of data-driven customer loyalty.

3. Attract New Customers and Turn Them into Regulars

A strong loyalty program is not only a tool for retaining existing customers, but also a magnet for new ones. In a competitive market, an attractive loyalty program can be the deciding factor in why a potential guest chooses you over the competition.

Modern apps also offer clever features for acquiring new customers, such as “refer a friend” programs. A satisfied regular guest can invite a friend via the app, and both receive a bonus on their next order.

This way, you transform your most loyal fans into active brand ambassadors and attract new guests authentically and cost-effectively.

4. Direct Communication and Personalized Marketing

How do you reach your guests when they’re not in your restaurant? Social media posts can get lost in the flood of algorithms, and emails may end up in the spam folder. An app, however, gives you a direct communication channel in your customers’ pockets: push notifications.

Use this channel to communicate in a personal and relevant way. Share your new lunch menu, send birthday gifts, or remind guests of unused loyalty points to show appreciation and keep them coming back.

5. Measurable Competitive Advantage

Ultimately, launching a loyalty app is a strategic decision that sets you apart from the competition. You get to position yourself as a modern, customer-centric business that offers a better experience. A guest will most likely choose the one that rewards their loyalty.

How to Choose the Right Loyalty App for Your Restaurant

If you’re thinking about launching a loyalty app, there are some key criteria you should consider when making your selection:

• Seamless integration: The app must work seamlessly with your existing POS system. A solution that integrates with over 40 different POS systems offers maximum flexibility.
• Easy to use: It must be intuitive and easy to use for both your guests and your staff.
• Data security and analysis: Look for a provider that meets the highest standards of data security (e.g., according to Swiss quality standards) and presents the collected data in a clear dashboard.
• Customizability: The customer loyalty program should be adaptable to your branding and specific needs so that it becomes an authentic part of your brand.

Ready to Welcome More Guests and Increase Your Revenue?

Building loyalty isn’t just about adding a digital tool; it’s about creating meaningful connections with your guests. With ORDERMONKEY Loyalty Solution, you get more than software. You get a powerful, adaptable platform that helps you turn every visit into a long-term relationship.

From rewarding loyal diners to creating personalized experiences, ORDERMONKEY makes it simple to run a loyalty program that truly fits your concept. Everything connects to your POS and runs seamlessly in the background, so you can focus on great food and service.

Book a free demo today and discover how ORDERMONKEY can help you keep guests coming back.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is It Hard or Expensive to Launch a Loyalty App?

A: Modern loyalty app platforms are no longer complicated or costly to set up. Thanks to cloud-based solutions, restaurants can launch their own digital loyalty program in just a few days without large upfront costs or complex IT work.

Some providers offer flexible subscription plans that quickly pay off through repeat visits and higher revenue.

Q: Is a Loyalty App Worth It for a Small Café or Restaurant?

A: Absolutely. Especially for smaller businesses where every guest counts, retaining regular customers is vital. The data gained through the program enables highly effective marketing on a small budget.

Q: How do I Measure the Success of the Program?

A: A professional solution gives you a clear dashboard with all key performance indicators (KPIs) such as active members, reward redemption rate, and changes in guest visit frequency. This allows you to track your return on investment (ROI) with full transparency.

When it comes to self-ordering, hardware makes all the difference. Even the smartest ordering platform won’t shine if the device can’t keep up. That’s why ORDERMONKEY teamed up with Pan Oston, the kiosk pros with over 50 years of experience building custom retail solutions.

The outcome? Self-order kiosks that are fast, reliable, and built to fit any concept. Perfect for a cozy café, a busy QSR, or a multi-location chain. Rock-solid on the inside, sleek on the outside, and flexible enough for every budget.

What Does This Collaboration Mean for You?

At the end of the day, self-order kiosks are about making life easier both for your guests and for your business. By combining ORDERMONKEY’s intuitive ordering software with Pan Oston’s award-winning kiosks, you get a solution that actually works where it matters most: at the counter.

Here’s what you can expect by implementing our latest self-order kiosk:

• A smoother guest experience with clear menus, fast checkouts, and contactless payments that keep visitors happy
• Shorter lines and faster service because the kiosks stay reliable even during peak hours, and reduce waiting times
• Less stress for your team with simple integration and easy daily use, so staff can focus on hospitality
• Better business results through efficient ordering and natural upsell opportunities that increase revenue while lowering costs

Three Kiosk Models Designed Around Your Concept

Through this collaboration, your business can choose from three kiosk models: BLUE FIRE Micro, ESSENCE, and ESSENCE Outdoor. Each is designed to meet different needs depending on space and environment. Let’s take a closer look at what each model can offer your business.

1. BLUE FIRE Micro

Small in size but big in impact, the BLUE FIRE Micro is perfect for businesses that want to offer self-ordering without giving up valuable space. With a minimal footprint and a 22-inch Full HD touchscreen, it brings powerful ordering to even the most compact counters.

Why it works for you:

• Save space: Compact footprint designed for small counters and tight layouts
• Stay flexible: Choose from multiple hardware options, including integrated payment
• Start simple: A practical first step to bring self-ordering into your operations

The results you can expect:

• Shorter waiting times for guests
• Smooth integration into your daily routine
• Lower investment costs make it ideal for testing before scaling

This model is especially suited for small restaurants, cafés, bakeries, food halls, and bars that want the benefits of self-ordering without sacrificing floor space.

2. ESSENCE

The ESSENCE kiosk is an all-in-one solution built for flexibility and brand expression. Its 27-inch Full HD touchscreen with adjustable features delivers a clear, engaging ordering experience that integrates seamlessly into restaurant and retail environments.

Why it works for you:

• Flexibility: Can be used single-sided or double-sided, depending on your layout
• Show your brand: Customize colors, surfaces, and lighting to match your concept
• Adapt easily: Place it freestanding or mount it on the wall for maximum versatility

The results you can expect:

• A consistent, brand-appropriate look across multiple locations
• Menus that shine with large, high-resolution product displays
• Faster orders thanks to smart upsell prompts and saved favorites through loyalty

This model is best for quick-service restaurants and retail businesses that want a kiosk that not only performs well but also strengthens their brand presence.

3. ESSENCE Outdoor

The ESSENCE Outdoor brings the same seamless self-ordering experience to the outdoors, rain or shine. Built with a rugged design and weather-resistant features, it’s the ideal solution for drive-ups, patios, stadiums, festivals, and open-air dining spaces.

Why it works for you:

• Stay protected: Weatherproof enclosure built for outdoor conditions
• Stay visible: High-brightness, glove-friendly touchscreen that works in daylight
• Serve outdoors: Payment, scanning, and printing designed for patios, drive-thrus, and events

The results you can expect:

• Reliable self-ordering at drive-thru counters and seasonal terraces
• Less indoor congestion by shifting simple orders outdoors
• Consistent processes across your locations since the same kiosk software runs inside and out

This model is ideal for restaurants, venues, and food concepts that serve guests outdoors and need kiosks that perform just as well in the open air as they do indoors.

Find Your Perfect Self-Order Kiosk Today! 

With ORDERMONKEY and Pan Oston working together, you’re getting more than just kiosks, you’re getting a complete self-ordering solution. Intuitive software meets award-winning hardware to create a system that’s reliable, efficient, and easy to adapt to any business.

Whether you need a compact option for small counters, a sleek design for indoor dining, or a rugged model for outdoor spaces, this collaboration makes self-ordering possible for every concept. The result? Guests enjoy a smoother ordering experience, your team works more efficiently, and your brand gains a modern, consistent touchpoint across all locations.

Ready to see what the right kiosk can do for your business? Get in touch today and explore the model that best fits your concept!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Which kiosk is best suited for small restaurants?

For small restaurants, we recommend the BLUE FIRE Micro. This kiosk is compact, affordable, and fits easily anywhere, while running the same ORDERMONKEY software and processing the same payments as larger units.

2. Can I use the same software for indoor and outdoor kiosks?

Absolutely. ORDERMONKEY runs the same way on both ESSENCE and ESSENCE Outdoor, so your menus, payments, and reports all stay consistent no matter where the kiosk is placed.

3. How difficult is it to scale from one site to multiple?

Scaling is actually simple. You can start with one kiosk, get comfortable with the setup, and then easily copy your menus, settings, and workflows as you open new locations.

At first, adding a self-service kiosk might feel like a pure operations move. You expect faster ordering, shorter lines, and a small lift in revenue. That’s all useful, but it’s only part of the story. Many restaurant owners still hesitate, worried that a screen might feel cold or out of place. And they’re not wrong, especially if the kiosk looks generic or disconnected from the rest of the space.

Even so, that’s not the only way to use it. When designed with intention, a self-service kiosk does more than take orders; it becomes part of your brand. Your guests spend time with it, make decisions in front of it, look at it while they wait, and it’s a missed opportunity if the screen says nothing about your business.

In this guide, discover how to make your kiosk a revenue-generating asset that strengthens your restaurant’s bottom line.

How Menu Design Affects What Guests Order

The way your menu looks shapes more than just how it’s read. Visual design often affects trust, comfort, and appetite in ways people don’t realize.

If your restaurant uses warm wood tones, soft lighting, and elegant fonts, but your kiosk shows neon colors and slick icons, it feels disconnected. That kind of mismatch creates friction, making guests hesitate, feel unsure, or even ignore the kiosk altogether.

Good design helps guests feel at ease. When your digital menu fits the space and matches your brand, it builds confidence. People are more likely to engage with the screen, trust the ordering process, and make decisions faster.

Here are a few design elements that make a real difference:

• Color: Use the same colors guests see throughout your space. Familiar tones feel more natural and intentional.
• Font: Stick to the same typeface you use on printed menus or signs. This adds consistency and avoids confusion.
• Images and Logo: Show your food the way it looks in real life. Include your logo to remind guests who they’re ordering from.

Clear layouts and high-quality photos turn browsing into appetite, often leading to more upsells and smoother ordering. Instead of reading a list, guests browse with their eyes, and that’s what sparks appetite.

Look for Features That Support Your Brand

Once you decide to bring a self-service kiosk into your restaurant, the details matter. The right features make the difference between a screen that feels out of place and one that strengthens your brand.

Here’s what to look for:

• Customizable Interface: Choose a kiosk that lets you set your own colors, fonts, and layouts. A few generic templates are not enough if you want the screen to reflect your brand.
• Personalized Home Screen: Greet guests with a seasonal special, a short video, or a welcome message. Small touches make the experience feel personal.
• Branded Hardware: The frame and casing matter too. Wrapping, casing colors, or branded finishes help the kiosk fit into your space.
• Multilingualism in One Click: If you serve tourists or international guests, quick language switching is essential. A simple toggle shows every guest they’re welcome.

These features don’t just make the kiosk look better. They make it feel like part of the restaurant instead of a separate piece of tech.

Simple Marketing Tactics for Your Self-Service Kiosk

After your self-service kiosk looks like part of your brand, the next step is using it to sell smarter. Every guest who orders through the kiosk spends time with the screen. That’s a direct line to their attention, and it’s a chance to guide choices in a way that helps both them and your business.

1. Strategic upselling and cross-selling:

Staff know which drink completes a dish, and a well-designed kiosk can deliver the same upsell every time. When someone orders a burger, show an option for extra cheese or sweet potato fries. Because all it takes is a simple one tap, guests are more likely to add upgrades.

2. Targeted promotion of offers:

These aren’t ordinary offerings: lunch menus, weekly specials, and limited cocktails are high-impact drivers of guest interest and revenue. Instead of relying on signs or word-of-mouth, place them on the kiosk home screen or as a banner during the order. You can update offers daily without printing costs.

3. Establish a customer loyalty program:

Use checkout to invite guests into your loyalty program. Offer a free coffee on the next visit or a small discount for signing up with an email address. Every interaction builds loyalty, all whilst giving you data to grow your business.

Grow Sales and Loyalty with ORDERMONKEY Self-Service Kiosks

A self-service kiosk is more than an efficiency upgrade. It’s a tool to strengthen your brand, raise guest satisfaction, and open new sales opportunities. When the design matches your restaurant and the features are used strategically, the kiosk becomes part of the guest experience instead of a piece of hardware in the corner.

ORDERMONKEY helps you achieve this with kiosks and a QR Webapp built to match your brand, integrate with your systems, and support upselling and loyalty features. Whether you run a chain, a café, or a hotel restaurant, our solutions turn every order into a branded interaction that drives repeat business.

Ready to see it in action? Contact us today and learn how ORDERMONKEY can customize a kiosk solution for you!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is customization expensive and time-consuming?

Not with the right system. ORDERMONKEY kiosks are built for quick setup. Logos, colors, and fonts can be customized in minutes, not weeks. And the investment pays off fast through higher average receipts and stronger guest loyalty.

Don’t we lose personal contact with the guest through terminals?

No. The opposite happens. When kiosks handle ordering and payment, staff spend less time on routine tasks. That frees them to welcome guests, answer questions, and provide real hospitality.

Are guests ready for this technology?

Yes, absolutely. Acceptance of self-order solutions in the hospitality industry has increased enormously in recent years. People are accustomed to it from online shopping and airports. An intuitive, attractively designed self-order kiosk is quickly adopted. Furthermore, by combining a terminal with traditional QR code ordering, you can offer various options to suit different preferences.

A challenge facing many restaurateurs is the noticeable shortage of skilled workers. Every day, they face the challenge of providing the same or even better service with fewer staff. Therefore, considering the use of technology is no longer a question of “if,” but rather “how.” 

Many fear that screens will replace the humanity, warmth, and hospitality that define a restaurant. However, when used correctly, self-order kiosks will free up your team to focus on what really matters, the guests’ experience, and in the process, your profits.

 

The Benefits Of Self-Order Terminals For Your Team

Your staff’s primary task isn’t taking orders. Their true value lies in their ability to recommend a wine to a guest, respond competently to an allergy, or defuse a tense situation with a smile. But in our hectic daily lives, time is often lacking for precisely these things.

Self-order terminals take care of repetitive jobs, such as taking orders, processing payments, and forwarding everything flawlessly to the kitchen. With the time saved, your staff can benefit from:

• Less stress: Instead of juggling between the cash register, the telephone, and waiting for guests, your service staff can focus on table service and the quality of the experience.
• Customer satisfaction: The time saved is used for tasks that a machine could never perform: personalized advice, sophisticated upselling, and solving complex queries. All of these are essential for high customer satisfaction.

 

The Benefits Of Self-Order Terminals For Your Restaurant

Self-order terminals offer many advantages not only for your staff but for the entire business in general. Why? Here are the answers:

• Shortened waiting times: Guests order and pay at their own pace, without having to wait in line. Throughput increases noticeably.
• No missed order: Misunderstandings during processing are a thing of the past. Every order is transmitted exactly as it was entered.
• Increased sales: Intelligent cross-selling and upselling suggestions demonstrably lead to higher average order values. An ORDERMONKEY terminal, for example, consistently recommends the right side dishes to go with your burger.
• Multilingualism at the touch of a button: Especially in tourist destinations, it’s particularly convenient if the entire ordering process can be easily conducted in another language. International guests can easily select their language and order seamlessly.

How To Inspire Your Team To Embrace Change

Switching to self-ordering can feel like a big shift, especially for teams who’ve followed the same routine for years. That’s why it’s important to guide the transition with clear communication. Help your team see that this isn’t about learning a machine, but about gaining a tool that supports their daily work.

Here are 3 tips to inspire your team when switching to a self-order terminal:

• Transparency from the start: Explain the “why” behind the decision. Show how the terminals make everyday work easier and reduce stress.
• Focus on the new roles: Train your team not only in how to operate the terminals, but especially in the new advisory tasks.
• Positive reinforcement: Highlight successes. If wait times are shorter and guests are happier, this is a direct result of the team’s collaboration with technology.

Why Wait? ORDERMONKEY Self-Order Terminals Speed Things Up

ORDERMONKEY’s Self-Order Terminals offer a wide range of benefits for your business, your customers, and your staff. With the right strategies, you can easily unlock their full potential.

Our flexible self-ordering solutions can be customized to your restaurant’s specific needs, leading to increased revenue and higher efficiency. Self-order terminals are the future of the food service industry and a must-have for all modern restaurants!

Ready to take control of your revenue? Let’s talk. Contact us today to learn how you can benefit from self-order terminals!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How can I be sure that the self-order terminals won’t eventually replace my staff?

Self-order kiosks replace tasks, not people. They simply take care of repetitive processes, allowing your staff to focus on the human aspects of service. This will allow you to achieve more with your existing team and increase both employee and guest satisfaction.

What about guests who are not tech-savvy?

A self-order terminal is an option, not a requirement. In a hybrid model, your staff is always present to assist, answer questions, or take orders as usual. Experience shows that the intuitive interface of the ORDERMONKEY terminals is quickly adopted by most guests.

Is investing in a self-order terminal really profitable?

Yes, absolutely. Profitability results from several factors: increased order values through targeted upselling, higher throughput due to shorter wait times, and lower personnel costs for routine tasks. Many companies see a return on investment in a very short time.

How difficult is the integration into my existing cash register system?

We place great emphasis on easy integration. ORDERMONKEY’s self-order terminals are compatible with numerous common POS systems and payment providers such as Worldline and Nexi. The integration is designed to minimize disruption to your business operations.

Most restaurant owners are considering investing in self-order kiosks to speed up processes and reduce staff workloads efficiently. While these are important considerations, a well-configured kiosk can do much more. It’s your best salesperson, working around the clock to increase the value of every single order.

But how exactly does this work? How do you turn a technical device into a sales engine? The answer lies in sales psychology and strategic menu design. Most of those are about offering guests exactly the right options that enhance their dining experience and, at the same time, enhance your profits.

 

Why Do Guests Spend More At The Self-Order Terminal?

Have you ever wondered why guests often order more when using a screen than when ordering from a person? Here are some of the reasons:

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  Visual stimuli 

  
  

A picture is worth a thousand words, especially when it comes to food. Professional photos of juicy burgers, crispy fries, or an extra-creamy milkshake instantly pique the appetite. Unlike a menu consisting of pure text, kiosks with visually appealing images can trigger a reflex in guests to absolutely want to eat that dish.

• 
  

  Less pressure, more control

  
  

At a terminal, guests feel like there is no rush. They can explore the menu at their own pace, without the pressure of a queue or an impatient server breathing down their necks. This encourages them to treat themselves to an extra side dish, dessert, or a more expensive drink, a decision they might not have made under time pressure.

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  Discrete Upselling

  
  

A simple question like “Would you like to upgrade your menu with sweet potato fries?” or the automatic pre-selection of a dip for the main course is surprisingly successful. The guest doesn’t have to consider whether they want to order something extra actively. The system makes this decision for them and presents an attractive option.

At this point, you might wonder whether this subtle influence might seem intrusive. That’s precisely the point: A well-designed system often doesn’t feel like forced upselling, but rather like a helpful service that wants to enhance the customer’s experience.

 

4 Concrete Upselling Strategies For Your Self-Order Terminal

With an understanding of the sales psychology behind a self-order terminal, it’s now time to put concrete strategies into practice. A system like ORDERMONKEY’s gives you the tools to put these principles into practice.

1. Context-related recommendations

The classic “Would you like fries with your burger?” is just the beginning. An intelligent system can suggest targeted combinations that actually make sense.

• Example: If a guest orders a spicy chicken burger, the terminal might ask, “A cold beer goes perfectly with that. Should I add it now?”
• ORDERMONKEY Advantage: You can define fixed rules in the backend that determine which products are displayed as recommendations for which dishes. This ensures that the suggestions are always relevant and appealing.

2. Premium options and upgrades

Make it easy for guests to spend more by offering attractive upgrades.

• Example: Instead of just offering “burgers,” you could display options like “Double meat for +3 CHF” or “With premium alpine cheese for +1.50 CHF” directly when selecting.
• ORDERMONKEY Advantage: The flexible menu design allows you to easily manage modifiers and additional options for each product. Changes are implemented with just a few clicks and are immediately live on all terminals.

3. Targeted add-on queries in the ordering process

The best time to offer an add-on is when the customer is already ready to buy. Integrate add-on suggestions effectively and logically into the ordering process.

• Example: After the guest adds a main course to the cart, a pop-up appears: “Complete your meal: Extra sauce, side salad, drink?”
• ORDERMONKEY Advantage: The order flow is designed to place such dynamic queries at the appropriate points without disturbing the customer or complicating the process.

4. Attractive menu bundles and combos

Bundle products together for an attractive total price. Your guest feels like they’re getting a good deal, while you increase the total revenue per order.

• Example: A lunchtime deal including a burger, fries, and a drink for a price just under the sum of the individual items.
• ORDERMONKEY Advantage: Creating and managing combos and menu deals is straightforward. You can even set time limits for offers to specifically promote lunch or dinner business, for example.

 

How To Design Your Menu For Maximum Profit

Many restaurateurs simply upload their existing menu to the terminal and wonder why they’re not having a big hit. However, most forget that there are different things to consider with a digital menu than with a printed one. Here are the three most important points to keep in mind:

• Strategic placement: Place your most profitable dishes, or those you want to sell the most, in a prominent location. This is usually the top middle or top right corner of the screen, as that’s where the eye will go first.
• Visual hierarchy: Take advantage of the size and quality of the images. A large, appealing photo of a special product draws more attention than a small image of a standard product. This allows you to draw attention to your high-margin items.
• Smart pricing: Avoid listing prices in a neat column, as this encourages people to simply compare prices. Instead, integrate the price discreetly into the description of the dish and, if possible, omit the currency symbol. Numbers like “14.5” seem psychologically more favorable than “14.50 CHF.”

 

Ready for the Right Self Order Terminal?

ORDERMONKEY’s Self-Order-Terminals offer a variety of different advantages, one of the most important being efficiently generating more revenue for your restaurant. With the right upselling strategies, you can easily realize the full potential of your offering. Self-order terminals are the future of the restaurant industry and a must-have for all restaurants!

If you are ready to actively shape your sales, we can help you with that. Contact us today and find out how ORDERMONKEY’s targeted upselling features can make your business more profitable!

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is the cost of investing in a terminal too high?

The purchase is an investment, not just an expense. Due to the proven increase in average orders and the simultaneous reduction in staff workload, the system often pays for itself faster than expected. For example, an increase of CHF 1-2 per order quickly adds up to a considerable amount over the course of a day.

Won’t I lose personal contact with the guest?

No, quite the opposite. When your staff no longer has to worry about simply taking orders, they have more time for what really matters: genuine hospitality. The service staff can look after guests’ well-being, help with questions, or simply create a pleasant atmosphere.

What if my guests are not tech-savvy?

Modern interfaces like ORDERMONKEY’s are designed as intuitively as a smartphone. Large images, clear instructions, and a simple ordering process ensure that even less tech-savvy guests can quickly find their way around. Our experience shows that acceptance is very high across all age groups.

How difficult is the integration into my existing cash register system?

This is a legitimate concern for many restaurateurs. That’s why we at ORDERMONKEY have focused on maximum compatibility. Our solution connects to over 40 common POS systems, ensuring seamless integration into your existing processes.

Self-order kiosks, such as those from ORDERMONKEY and Samsung, offer an innovative solution for meeting requirements such as customer satisfaction and efficiency in the hospitality industry. In this article, we compare kiosk systems from ORDERMONKEY and Samsung Kiosks. They give you an overview of which system best suits your business’s needs.

Overview: ORDERMONKEY Kiosks

ORDERMONKEY offers a range of self-order kiosks specifically designed for the needs of restaurants, cafes, and bakeries. These kiosks are known for their ease of use, quick integration into existing systems, and their ability to accelerate customer flow and increase efficiency.

Advantages:

1. Customized solutions: ORDERMONKEY customizes its kiosks to meet the specific needs and branding of each restaurant.
2. Integrated payment receipt printer: For a fast and smooth payment process.
3. Modular design: Allows easy expansion and adaptation to changing business requirements.
4. Antibacterial function: Ensures hygiene and safety by preventing the spread of bacteria and viruses.

Overview: Samsung Kiosk

Samsung also offers state-of-the-art kiosk systems that impress with their sleek appearance and advanced technology. These kiosks are ideal for companies that value design and high-tech solutions.

Advantages:

1. All-in-one solution: Integrated system with touchscreen, printer, scanner, and payment terminal.
2. High resolution: 1920×1080 pixels with a 24-inch screen for clear and appealing visuals.
3. Robust design: Suitable for intensive daily use in busy environments with shatter-proof and disinfectable glass
4. Mounting options: The kiosk offers the possibility of mounting on stands, the wall, or directly on the counter

Comparison of Functionalities

Both systems offer state-of-the-art technology and design, designed to simplify the ordering process and enhance the customer experience. While ORDERMONKEY scores with its customized customization and focus on local businesses, Samsung stands out for its technological superiority and all-in-one functionality.

Areas of Application

ORDERMONKEY is particularly suitable for businesses seeking a solution that can be easily adapted to specific needs. The Samsung Kiosk is an ideal, ready-to-use, and technologically advanced solution.

Conclusion

The combination of a Samsung kiosk with ORDERMONKEY software offers the perfect solution for your business if you want to combine technological progress and flexibility.

Contact

Ready to increase your restaurant’s efficiency and improve customer satisfaction? Contact ORDERMONKEY today to learn more about our customized kiosk solutions and how we can help you streamline your operations.

Running a restaurant means staying efficient while still giving guests the service they expect. That is not always easy when staff are busy, tables are full, and orders need to move quickly. To fix that, business owners are turning to digital tools such as self-ordering apps to make daily service smoother.

So how do these apps work, and what advantages could they bring to your restaurant?

What Is a Self-Ordering App?

A self-ordering app is a digital menu on your guest’s phone. Instead of waiting for staff, they scan a code, open the menu, and place their order themselves. Payment happens in the same step, so there is no need to come back with a card terminal or handle cash.

This means fewer interruptions during service in your restaurant. Orders arrive clearly and directly in your system, so mistakes are less likely. Menu changes take effect right away, which helps when prices shift or an item sells out.

What Are the Benefits of Using a Self-Ordering App?

A self-ordering app does more than replace the paper menu. It changes how service flows in your restaurant. Orders go in faster, staff stay focused on hospitality, and guests feel more in control of their visit.

Here are a few advantages your restaurants can see when using this app:

1. Faster service processing: Orders are immediately transmitted electronically to the kitchen, significantly reducing waiting times.

2. Increased customer satisfaction: Guests enjoy the freedom to order without waiting, which positively impacts the overall experience.

3. Efficient order management: The app integrates seamlessly into existing POS systems and enables efficient processing.

4. Increase sales through upselling: Customers receive personalized suggestions for additional products based on their preferences, which increases the average receipt.

How Does a Self-Ordering App Work?

A self-ordering app keeps the process simple for both you and your guests. The entire flow is designed to remove friction: guests order at their own pace, your team gets orders without delay, and payments are handled on the spot.

Here’s how it works:

1. Scan and Open

Guests scan a QR code placed on the table, counter, or poster. The digital menu opens instantly on their phone without downloads or logins.

2. Browse the Menu

Your menu appears with categories, add-ons, and photos. Specials and price changes update in real time, so guests always see the current offer without waiting for staff to explain.

3. Place the Order

Guests select their items, confirm details, and send the order directly. Since the information goes straight to your system, there is no need for staff to retype or repeat it. This means fewer mistakes during busy hours.

4. Pay Securely

The app offers multiple payment options, including cards, wallets, and local methods like Twint. Guests pay when ordering, which speeds up service and removes extra steps for your team.

5. Receive Confirmation

Guests get an order number or confirmation screen right away. Meanwhile, the kitchen or bar sees the order instantly, so preparation begins without delay, and service flows smoothly.

How Can a Self-Ordering App Adapt to Your Restaurant?

Every restaurant is different, so a self-ordering app should match your brand and the way you work. That means flexible menu design, preferred payment options, and quick updates for seasonal items or promotions.

Adaptability also means smooth integration with your existing tools. In practice, this tool is an app that connects directly to your POS, resulting in your team avoiding technical headaches and a service that runs consistently.

This flexibility is the approach we follow at ORDERMONKEY. From design and setup to ongoing support, our goal is to give you a system that feels like a natural part of your restaurant. The result is digital ordering that works the way you want it to, without adding stress to your staff.

Ready to Try a Smarter Way of Ordering?

If you are thinking about adding a self-ordering app to your restaurant, we would be glad to help. At ORDERMONKEY, we design tools that make service faster, lighten the load on your staff, and give guests a better experience from start to finish. Our team will guide you through setup, connect everything to your existing systems, and keep the solution updated so it always works the way you need.

Contact us today to see how ORDERMONKEY can support your restaurant with self-ordering, kiosks, digital payments, and more!

Nobody enjoys waiting in line, and your guests are no exception. A self-ordering app puts them in control of ordering and paying at their own pace. The result? Faster service for them, less stress for your staff, and more time to create a memorable dining experience.

But how does this upgrade actually benefit your business? Let’s break it down.

5 Benefits of Implementing a Self-Ordering App

Self-ordering is more than a convenience feature. It changes how your guests order, how your staff work, and how smoothly your operations run. Here are five ways it delivers clear advantages for your business.

1. Turn tables faster without rushing guests

During peak dinner hours, guests place orders directly from their table using a tablet or their own phone. Orders reach the kitchen faster, food arrives sooner, and your team spends less time taking orders. As a result, you serve more guests without making them feel rushed.

2. Cut pickup wait times to nearly zero

A customer orders and pays through your app before leaving the office. By the time they arrive, their coffee and sandwich are waiting. No line, no delay. This small change saves them time and keeps your staff free to serve the next guest.

3. Make delivery smoother for both sides

Orders flow straight from the guest’s phone into your delivery platform. Payments are settled before the food is served. Your staff avoids manual entry, and your guests enjoy a quicker, more reliable service.

4. Offer payment options your guests already trust

One guest prefers Twint, another uses Adyen. By supporting Wordline, Wallee, Nexi, Adyen, Twint, and more, you give every guest the freedom to pay their way. This flexibility makes your guest experience more seamless.

5. Keep drive-through lines moving

Commuters order at a kiosk, pay instantly, and pick up their coffee without slowing traffic. Meanwhile, your team focuses on preparation instead of transactions. The result is shorter lines, faster service, and higher throughput.

How Does a Self-Ordering App Work?

At its core, self-ordering is more than a convenience feature. A self-ordering app changes how your guests order, with each of these steps designed to speed up service and reduce errors:

1. Guests place orders in a few taps

They browse the menu and order from a touchscreen terminal or their own phone. Clear layouts and quick navigation keep the process smooth and fast.

2. Orders go straight to the kitchen

Once submitted, requests appear instantly on your kitchen display or printer. This speeds up preparation and reduces mistakes caused by manual entry.

3. Payments are settled on the spot

Guests pay securely with their preferred provider, whether that’s Wordline, Twint, Adyen, or others. The process feels seamless and removes bottlenecks at checkout.

4. Staff focus on service, not transactions

With orders and payments automated, your team spends less time on routine tasks. They have more time to create a better guest experience.

How to Integrate Self-Order Into Your Restaurant

For self-ordering to succeed, it has to fit smoothly into your daily routine. Guests need clear menus, staff need the right training, and your systems need to connect without extra steps. When everything works together, adoption is high and frustration stays low.

To make integration simple, focus on these five steps:

1. Keep the interface intuitive so guests of all ages feel comfortable ordering.

2. Train your staff to guide customers and handle questions with confidence.

3. Connect the system directly to your POS, payment providers, and kitchen display.

4. Place kiosks or QR codes where guests naturally look for them.

5. Gather feedback from both staff and customers, then refine the setup based on real use.

The provider you choose also plays a big role. Look for options that match your menu and brand, perform reliably during busy hours, and come with dependable support.

Ready to Try Self-Ordering with ORDERMONKEY?

Adding self-ordering should feel simple, not complicated. That’s why ORDERMONKEY offers intuitive self-order terminals and QR web apps that are quick to set up and easy for guests to use. More than just checkout tools, our system adapts to your restaurant. From small cafés to busy high-volume restaurants, we are well-equipped to help you speed up service, reduce costs, and deliver a smoother guest experience.

Ready to take the next step? Schedule an online meeting today and see how ORDERMONKEY can bring these advantages to your business right away!

Self-service systems are digital solutions that allow your customers to complete orders independently, without direct assistance from your employees. Some examples include QR-Webapp, Selforder-terminal, and more. These systems will help your business to reduce operational costs and improve the overall user experience.

However, poor implementation often leads to frustration and wasted investment. To avoid these pitfalls, this guide provides practical steps and best practices for successfully implementing self-service systems, ensuring long-term value for your business.

What Are the Benefits of Self-Service Systems?

Let’s start with the benefits of self-service systems. The right setup improves the customer experience while reducing the everyday strain on your employees.

Here’s why self-service is worth the investment:

• Lower staff workload and costs
  Your guests place their own orders and even pay through the system, which frees up your staff to focus on service instead of routine tasks.
• Faster ordering and checkout
  QR menus and kiosks reduce wait times, speed up table turnover, and keep queues short during busy hours.
• More accurate ordering
  Customers input their own selections, which minimizes mistakes and reduces wasted food or awkward apologies.
• Better customer experience
  Your customers will be able to freely customize meals, split bills, or pay when they’re ready without flagging down staff. They also feel no pressure when ordering, which makes the whole process more comfortable.
• Get actionable business insights
  Every interaction generates data on popular items, peak times, and spending patterns, helping you to make smarter business decisions.

5 Best Practices for a Smooth Self-Service System Setup

Once you’ve chosen a self-order solution, the real work begins: making sure it fits seamlessly into your restaurant’s day-to-day operations. A strong setup isn’t just about installing kiosks or posting QR codes, it’s about creating an experience that customers trust and staff can support.

These best practices will help ensure your setup runs smoothly and delivers real results:

1. Design with the customer in mind

The self-order experience should be simple, clear, and intuitive. If customers feel lost, they will go back to the counter. Keep the interface easy to navigate with clear categories, visuals, and straightforward prompts. A well-designed QR web app or self-order terminal should feel natural for both tech-savvy guests and those less comfortable with technology.

2. Train your staff to support the system

Even though customers place their own orders, staff remain essential. Employees need to be trained to help guests who have questions or run into issues. This ensures the system feels reliable and welcoming rather than intimidating. When staff understand the system well, they can encourage customers to use it with confidence.

3. Integrate it into your existing workflow

A self-order system should not create extra steps. Make sure it connects smoothly with your POS, payment processors, and kitchen display systems. Orders should flow directly to the kitchen, and payments should sync without manual input. The more seamless the integration, the more efficient your restaurant will run.

4. Place kiosks and QR codes strategically

Visibility and convenience are everything. Self-order terminals should be positioned where customers naturally stop, without blocking traffic. For QR ordering, signage and table tents should be easy to find and simple to scan. Good placement encourages adoption and prevents confusion.

5. Collect feedback and keep improving

No system is perfect from day one. Listen to both your customers and your staff after launch. Pay attention to where people get stuck or what features they like most. Use this feedback to improve the design, adjust the workflow, or refine the menu presentation. A self-order system should keep evolving to stay effective and user-friendly.

How to Choose the Right Self-Order System

Before you launch, it’s critical to select a solution that sets your restaurant up for long-term success. The right self-order system should be reliable, intuitive, and adaptable to your business needs, not just a piece of technology.

Here’s how to make the right choice:

• Work with a provider that offers customization
  A system tailored to your menu, service style, and branding will feel natural to customers and fit smoothly into your operations.
• Test the system for ease of use
  Make sure the interface is simple and intuitive so that any diner can place an order without confusion or hesitation.
• Check the speed during peak hours
  A responsive system keeps lines moving, tables turning, and prevents frustration when your restaurant is busiest.
• Choose a provider with proven reliability
  Look for strong uptime, dependable support, and a history of stable performance so your service never gets interrupted.

Ready to Implement Self-Service Systems with ORDERMONKEY?

Setting up self-service should feel straightforward, not overwhelming. That is why ORDERMONKEY offers both self-order terminals and QR web apps that are easy to roll out and simple for guests to use. More than just tools, we give you a system that grows with your restaurant. Whether you are running a small café, a casual dining spot, or a busy high-volume restaurant, our platform adapts to the way your business operates.

Ready to get started? Request a demo today and see how ORDERMONKEY can help your restaurant implement self-service systems the right way!