It is an undeniable reality today that the Internet of Things (IoT) continues to take the world by storm and is gradually becoming more mainstream. Global connectivity is no longer a buzzword but a new norm without which life seems incomplete now. Our homes and cars are already on the way to becoming “smart” and relieving us of the mundane tasks that can be overwhelming otherwise.
The Internet of Things has revolutionized and transformed several businesses, and the restaurant industry is undoubtedly one of them. Without a doubt and exaggeration, we can say that the Internet of Things is rapidly taking over the world. So, it comes as no surprise that there are several gadgets available now, which can transform your restaurants and small coffee shops to increase efficiency significantly. All you’ll have to do to turn this vision into a reality would be to get a good internet connection. For that, you can consider a high-quality Internet Service Provider (ISP) such as Cox. It offers faster internet with good bandwidth. Additionally, their Cox customer service number gives you access to their representatives around the clock, in case of any issues you may face as you implement the new IoT systems.
There are several ways IoT can benefit your restaurant. This article aims to shed some light on those. However, first, let us give you some insight into what IoT is.
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What is IoT?
If you are new to this concept, the Internet of Things is the way to connect anything and everything to the World Wide Web. Beyond already connected devices such as computers, mobile phones, and high-tech machines, the term now includes everything from coffee machines to air conditioners.
The Internet of Things has revolutionized and transformed several businesses, and the restaurant industry is undoubtedly one of them. Without a doubt and exaggeration, we can say that the Internet of Things is rapidly taking over the world.
Types of IoT for Restaurants
The Internet of Things makes it easy for restaurants to manage all of these things, from the kitchen to inventory to workforce management. Here, we have shared some of the best and most practical IoT solutions we are currently seeing being implemented in the restaurant industry. Let’s look at it briefly.
1. Quality Control
One way the hospitality industry, particularly restaurants, is using the Internet of Things is to improve food safety. Instead of paper-based manual processes, more operators are investing in sensors that frequently monitor the condition and temperature of refrigeration.
These devices can then send automatic alerts to restaurant managers’ phones, whether they are on-site or not, so they can take appropriate action to prevent the contents of the refrigerator from being destroyed.
IoT technologies such as temperature sensors, barcode scanners, and infrared RFID readers are also used before ingredients reach the restaurant kitchen to track deliveries and monitor changes in temperature, humidity, and other factors that affect food quality throughout the kitchen supply chain.
2. Ordering and billing system
There are times when customers have to wait many hours before placing an order. This type of procedure is also quite frustrating for clients. In such situations, customers can order directly from the table using IoT. You will receive a device with which you can immediately place an order.
Another way restaurants can take advantage of the Internet of Things is to allow customers to pay bills directly at their tables. Similar to ordering clients from a tablet, this process can save the server some time. It can also help change tables faster so the restaurant can make more money.
3. Systemized logistics
IoT, like any other industry, is of great help to the food and beverage logistics industry. From real-time inventory, and tracking to supply automation based on restocking requests, or forecasts, IoT can be used in many ways. Additionally, RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) transmitters, together with GPS, help to effectively control the supply chain.
4. Traceability
The Internet of Things can make the whole process convenient and efficient. Implementing traceability and clearness helps the consumer track every detail of the products they want to buy. The consumer can find out how the product is made, what ingredients it contains, the date of manufacture, the date of packaging, and how safely it was delivered to the store for sale. This will directly or indirectly help customers make smart buying decisions. As a result, the credibility of your brand or company increases.
Bottom Line
Automation through IoT has the potential to revolutionize and change any industry if it is implemented. IoT is a growing field. IoT-based solutions are useful for utilizing the maximum amount of resources at the minimum cost and in less time. With the spread of technology, restaurants should adopt an IoT-based application in the near future. The restaurant industry needs to focus on one goal, which is to improve the customer experience. And most importantly, it is important to benchmark restaurants already using IoT as they have captured the right market and provided an optimal customer experience.
