Pesapal, a payment solutions provider for businesses and personal products, has presented technology-based solutions for the bar and entertainment industry.
The innovative digital solutions outlined are aimed at helping restaurant owners and managers to run their businesses more efficiently and sustainably whilst safeguarding against instances of theft.
Like other sectors of the economy, technology continues to transform traditional aspects of the full-service dining room to cater to new diner expectations, emerging trends and consumer experience for convenient, contactless experiences.
“Our innovative technology solutions have helped restaurants and bars transform how they operate not just to survive, but thrive, in this new connected and contactless era,” Pesapal Kenya Head of Sales – Hospitality sector, Mercy Kanini said.
“In the last two years, the growth in the bar and entertainment industry has entirely been driven by off-premise consumption. As customers resume physical dining experience, using technology is not just about improving operations and service delivery, but also reimagining restaurants.”
The new technologies will cater for aspects of online ordering, self-checkouts, and touchless payments to delivery and pick-up.
Speaking at the event, Pubs, Entertainment & Restaurants Association of Kenya (PERAK) Chairperson Michael Kiragu said tech innovations have helped solve some of the bar industry’s challenges, including monetary and inventory-related theft, high staff turnover, pilferage and wastage. These have been some of the long-running challenges in the bar industry, with adverse effects on the profitability of businesses as they result in huge costs.
“Most of our operators have identified the need for technology adoption to help achieve efficiencies and save time and money. Over the past few years, we have seen our members increase their investments in back-of-the-house technology such as point-of-sale systems to help seal leakages and improve operations,” Michael Kiragu said.
According to Pesapal, technology’s role in the bar and entertainment industry goes beyond table reservations and online payments. Businesses are adopting solutions that help with distributions as well.
“We have strengthened our online distribution to serve more customers. We started by launching Party Central, then partnered with e-commerce platforms. Through these platforms, we have enabled customers to order their drinks from the comfort of their homes and enjoy delivery right to their doorstep,” said Ms Anne Joy Michira, Acting Marketing & Innovations Director, Kenya Breweries Limited.
Internal theft and pilferages are common challenges in the bar and restaurant industry. The challenge causes considerable harm to the overall profitability of the business. Despite tight checks and measures, there is always a likelihood of theft occurring in these outlets.
Pesapal has a variety of solutions for the bar and entertainment industry including the Pesapal Sabi POS terminal, Reserveport, Invoicing, Payment Links, and Ticketsasa.
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