How Contactless and QR POS Ordering Increases Table Turnover

If you’ve ever wondered how contactless & QR POS ordering increases table turnover, you’re in the right place. Imagine giving your customers a quick way to scan a code, browse the menu, and order, without waiting for a server to arrive with pen and paper. 

When customers can place and pay for their orders on their own devices, you not only reduce wait times but also free your team to tackle other tasks. It’s an approach that’s growing in popularity, and for good reason: it keeps orders flowing, speeds up table turnover, and gives guests more control over their dining experience.

Below, you’ll find a clear breakdown of the benefits of contactless ordering. Whether you run a coffee shop, restaurant, or retail store that offers eat-in services, these practical tips can help you decide if QR-based ordering is your next smart move.

Embrace contactless ordering

You’ve probably seen some venues offering digital menus through QR codes. 

As a business owner, it’s worth considering how this technology might work for you. Contactless ordering eliminates the need for physical menus and cash transactions, which enhance safety and ease for both your customers and staff.

Increase efficiency and speed

• Fewer back-and-forth trips for servers mean orders get sent to the kitchen more quickly.
• Customers can review menu details at their own pace, which cuts down on ordering indecision.
• Your team can refocus on prepping meals, clearing tables, or greeting new arrivals instead of juggling menu handouts.

Use QR codes effectively

The key to a smooth QR code experience is making it incredibly easy for customers to spot, scan, and order. Want your patrons to feel comfortable right away? Place signage on tabletops or use table tents with a clear instruction to “Scan here to order.” Include simple steps and a friendly note saying something like, “Need help? Just ask!”

Keep menus intuitive

• Present your digital menu in logical sections (like “Starters,” “Mains,” “Specialty Drinks”).
• Offer clear images or short descriptions for each dish.
• Use concise labels for modifiers, such as size or toppings, so customers aren’t scrolling through endless options.

Streamline your table turnover

Let’s be honest, every minute counts when your place is busy. 

Quick ordering translates into quicker food delivery, which leads to shorter dining times. If customers pay through the same system, you eliminate the wait for a check to arrive.

Minimise downtime

• Encourage your staff to check in once the order is placed, just to confirm no extra help is needed.
• Prompt digital payment the moment customers finish, rather than waiting for a server to drop off a receipt.
• Adopt push notifications (if your ordering platform offers them) so staff at the counter or kitchen can see new orders the second they come in.

Train your staff

One of the biggest hurdles with any new system is getting your team on board. A smooth introduction to contactless and QR code ordering means not only teaching them how the technology works but also showing them how it makes their jobs easier. Once they see it in action, they’re far more likely to embrace the change.

Conduct direct demonstrations

• Start with a quick staff-wide demo, letting employees place test orders on their phones.
• Encourage your team to ask questions or raise concerns right away.
• Hold short weekly check-ins after launch, to catch any ongoing issues.

Look to future trends

Contactless ordering is more than a passing fad. As technology races forward, so do the expectations of customers who want effortless service. Virtual menus are just the beginning. Automated upselling, tailored loyalty programmes, and table-specific data analytics can help you forecast demand and sharpen your operations even further.

Simplify growth opportunities

• Think about integrating contactless ordering with your existing loyalty scheme.
• Gather data on peak ordering times and popular menu items, then refine accordingly.
• Explore add-ons like digital waitlists or quick person-to-person messaging for staff.

Conclusion

Contactless and QR code ordering can transform the way you serve customers, manage your team, and increase table turnover. 

When you give people the freedom to browse, order, and pay instantly, you’re reducing downtime and boosting efficiency in one fell swoop. Ready to see how Payflo can help make it happen? 

Reach out via our contact page, and discover a tailored solution that fits your venue’s needs.

FAQs

What devices do customers need for QR ordering?

A smartphone or tablet with a camera is typically all that’s required. Once they scan the code, the menu and payment process load in a web browser.

Will contactless ordering replace servers entirely?

No, it just shifts their role. Staff can spend more time engaging with customers, delivering orders, and ensuring everyone has a great experience.

Is QR ordering only for restaurants?

Not at all. Coffee shops, bakeries, and even some retail businesses that serve food or drinks are finding creative ways to incorporate QR-based ordering.