The Age of Technology Expansion in the Food Service Industry
As technology continues to advance rapidly, food chains and large-scale restaurants are increasingly adopting tools that allow them to expand, enhance customer experiences, and optimize their operations. This blog explores how technology is transforming the food service industry, drawing from Deliverect's "2025 and Beyond" report, which highlights the latest industry trends and includes insights from thought leaders, this article focuses on the positive impact of technology as outlined in that report.
Technology as a Growth Catalyst in Foodservice
The digital revolution has firmly taken root in the food service industry. From optimising operations to enhancing the customer experience, technology is playing a crucial role in driving growth. For large-scale restaurant chains, implementing the right tech solutions can mean the difference between thriving in a fast-paced market and lagging behind.
According to a recent Statista report, the global restaurant technology market is expected to grow to £270 billion by 2027, with a compound annual growth rate of 12.1%. This surge highlights the importance that food service leaders place on technology. Businesses are increasingly aware that leveraging technology is not just an option but a key driver for growth and a pathway to gaining a competitive edge.
Improving the Customer Experience with Technology
Technology can make or break the overall experience in an era of evolving customer expectations. Food chains are turning to digital solutions that help personalise service, reduce waiting times, and provide a frictionless dining or delivery experience.
Self-Service Kiosks
For instance, self-service kiosks are being widely adopted across large chains in the UK to give customers more control over their orders. McDonald's reported that kiosks boosted average order values by 15% compared to traditional counters. This trend highlights how customer-centric technology solutions can drive profitability.
Optimising Operations for Efficiency
Operational efficiency is critical, especially for large food chains managing hundreds of locations. Technology solutions like inventory management software, integrated POS systems, and predictive analytics are becoming industry standards for reducing costs and preventing wastage.
Inventory Management and Waste Reduction
Effective inventory management powered by real-time data significantly reduces food waste in large-scale food chains. In the UK alone, the food service industry wastes 920,000 tonnes of food annually, according to WRAP (Waste and Resources Action Programme). By implementing smart inventory systems, food chains can track stock levels, predict demand accurately, and ensure that they only order what they need—leading to environmental and financial benefits.
Predictive analytics takes this further by analysing historical data and consumer trends. This approach allows restaurants to forecast peak times, optimise staff scheduling, and adjust supply chains accordingly—maximising efficiency during busy and off-peak hours.
Integrated POS for Seamless Operations
Point of Sale (POS) systems are no longer just cash registers. Modern, integrated POS systems can process orders, track sales, and connect with other software solutions, such as kitchen display systems and third-party delivery apps. UK food chains using these systems have reported a 20% reduction in order errors, which leads to a more consistent customer experience and lower operational costs.
Expanding Delivery and Off-Premises Capabilities
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the shift towards delivery, and technology continues to expand opportunities for off-premises consumption. Embracing technology solutions that streamline the delivery process has allowed operators to maintain their customer base and even expand to new markets.
Third-Party Integrations
Managing orders from multiple platforms has traditionally been a logistical challenge for food chains. However, integration solutions—like Deliverect—that connect delivery platforms directly with a restaurant's POS system have streamlined order management. These tools can centralise orders from different providers, allowing restaurants to focus on what they do best—preparing quality food.
With more UK customers opting for delivery services, having a robust tech-driven delivery operation is critical for growth. The online food delivery market in the UK is projected to reach £8.9 billion by 2025, and restaurants are adapting to meet this demand through technology.
Future-Proofing the Foodservice Business
As technology evolves, food chains must look to future-proof their businesses by embracing tech as a core strategy. The competition will increasingly hinge on how well operators can leverage technology to expand, streamline, and enhance the customer journey.
Key Strategies for Future-Proofing
To remain competitive, restaurant leaders should focus on:
- Embracing Data-Driven Decision Making: Implement AI-driven analytics to gain insights into customer preferences, optimise pricing strategies, and forecast inventory needs.
- Enhancing the Omnichannel Experience: Invest in tech solutions that provide seamless integration across all customer touchpoints—online, in-app, and in-person—to maximise convenience.
- Partnering with Tech-Forward Solutions: Collaborate with technology providers specialising in the food service sector to ensure access to the latest POS, inventory management, and AI-driven personalisation innovations.
Conclusion
The food service industry in the UK and globally is at the forefront of a technological revolution. From AI and predictive analytics to self-service kiosks and integrated POS systems, technology is transforming how food chains operate, compete, and grow. The leaders who embrace these technological changes will be well-positioned to deliver exceptional customer experiences, expand their market reach, and ensure operational efficiency.
By integrating the right technology solutions, food chains and large-scale restaurants can thrive in this dynamic environment—fueling growth and setting new standards in customer service excellence.
To gain more insights into these industry trends, be sure to check out Deliverect's '2025 and Beyond' report, which is filled with thought leadership and the latest data to help guide your business decisions.
