Eating out at restaurants is a popular pastime for many people, but the payment process can be a source of frustration. Waiting for the check to arrive, flagging down the server to take payment, and splitting the bill can all contribute to a slow and inefficient experience. In fact, the average check processing time in the US stands at a staggering 9.5 minutes, which can be a significant inconvenience for both diners and servers. Here's why the current payment process in restaurants is slow and why it needs to change.
Wait Staff Shortages
One of the main reasons for the slow payment process is the shortage of wait staff in the US. With fewer servers available to take orders, serve food, and handle payments, it can be challenging for restaurants to keep up with customer demand. As a result, servers may spend more time handling payments than attending to other customers' needs, leading to longer wait times for everyone.
Antiquated Payment Procedures
Another reason for the slow payment process is the use of antiquated payment procedures. Many restaurants still rely on traditional payment methods, such as cash or credit card transactions, which can take time to process. Additionally, some restaurants may not have the technology to split bills or process payments digitally, which can add to the payment process's inefficiency.
Inconvenient for Diners
For diners, the slow payment process can be a source of frustration. Waiting for the check to arrive, flagging down the server, and splitting the bill can all detract from the overall dining experience. Additionally, diners may feel rushed to leave once they've paid, as the table may be needed for the next customers. All of these factors can contribute to a less enjoyable dining experience.
The Need for Change
Given the challenges of the current payment process, it's clear that change is needed. The good news is that new technologies are emerging that can streamline the payment process and make it more efficient. One such solution is Tabbed, which enables customers to go into a restaurant, indulge in a meal, and leave without having to worry about payment. All transactions are charged to the user's preferred payment method, making for a frictionless and efficient payment experience.
By leveraging seamless integration with the restaurant's point of sale (POS) system, Tabbed's advanced technology dispenses with the need for additional hardware. Upon a patron's arrival, the Tabbed app identifies their presence, instantaneously initiating a tab within the POS system under the user's name. The guest then informs the server of their Tabbed membership and provides their name. As the server takes the order, items are effortlessly added to the POS system, correlating with the open tab under the user's name. When it's time to depart, patrons simply stand up and exit the establishment. The tab is subsequently closed, and the user's card is charged, inclusive of an automatically calculated tip.
Conclusion
The slow payment process in restaurants is a source of frustration for both diners and servers. With the shortage of wait staff and antiquated payment procedures, it's clear that change is needed. Innovative solutions such as Tabbed are leading the charge, making for a frictionless and efficient payment experience. By leveraging technology, restaurants can serve more customers, boost table turnover, and ramp up their revenue streams while delighting their customers every step of the way. It's time for the restaurant industry to embrace change and reimagine the dining experience for the better.
