The pandemic has undoubtedly reshaped the restaurant industry. Since the pandemic hit small businesses, including restaurants and bars, the hardest, it is now more important than ever to keep up with industry trends.
Such a world-changing event has forced restaurateurs to re-evaluate how they run their restaurants and adapt to rapidly changing environments.
We will all see changes as we move into 2022 and the pandemic moves further behind us. As a result, many businesses are developing strategies for the future and meeting the growing demands for restaurant services. This will include changes to internal systems, marketing strategies and standard business practices.
While in 2021, we are still amid the pandemic, it is difficult to predict precisely what effect this will have; however, some trends are now becoming apparent in the future. Below are some of the most crucial restaurant trends to watch out for in the next few years:
Delivery Options
Over the last year, restaurants’ number of delivery services has steadily increased. You can now easily enjoy fine dining options while watching your favourite shows from the comfort of your living room. Luckily for hospitality establishments, adding a delivery service to your restaurant has never been easier, thanks to popular apps. It is entirely possible to start delivering within days, either with or without a third-party service. Often third-party apps will connect with the POS systems so that there isn’t any extra paperwork for you to do. Whether independently or through a third party, you can easily integrate delivery services.
Technology and Online Approach
More consumers than ever are not browsing online for their next meal, so differentiating your restaurant online is becoming more critical. This means you will need to become more tech-savvy as a business. Many eateries now have websites that can showcase their business to online searchers. This will also help when offering online ordering, delivery and table booking.
However, more technology is being used not just online but in-store, including QR codes and apps for ordering from your in-store tables, online menus, and more. These enhancements will help you reach more customers, convert them, and keep them as repeat customers in the future.
Ghost Kitchens
Another trend that we are currently seeing that is expected to continue into 2022 is ghost kitchens. Ghost kitchens are restaurants that only operate from a kitchen and don’t have any dining areas. This structure entails much lower overhead costs for the restaurant owners because there is no service staff. The food is only available by delivery; by using food delivery apps, restaurateurs can expand their reach with ghost kitchens. Since they’re not focused on high foot traffic, the real estate is also less expensive. It’s a win-win situation when government regulations are still touch and go during uncertain times.
While ghost kitchens aren’t as common, most restaurants across Australia have begun adapting to the other two trends. Restaurants like Milky Lane have already incorporated delivery options and a range of new technologies to keep up with the trends and stay on top in a competitive environment.
If you are looking for the best burgers around, then head to Milky Lane. Apart from their burgers, they also offer a great range of cocktails, sides and desserts. Check them out today, online or in-store.