HoReCa on the Rise
The HoReCa industry (Hotels, Restaurants, and Catering) is evolving at a remarkable pace.
According to Research and Markets, the HoReCa market is forecasted to grow by USD 319.9 billion during 2024-2029, accelerating at a CAGR of 3% during the forecast period. Key drivers include the growing demand for processed foods, the rise in food delivery services, and an expanding tourism industry.
Today, providing food and accommodation is no longer enough. Customers seek memorable experiences, convenience, and seamless service. At the same time, rising operational costs, especially in logistics and labor, pose significant challenges for industry players.
Labor costs are one of the biggest pain points, with staff turnover, the need for skilled workers, and fluctuating demand driving up expenses. In such an environment, technology and automation have become essential, allowing businesses to stay competitive while managing expenses effectively.
Where Do Businesses Lose Money?
Providing top-quality service is essential in the HoReCa industry, but managing costs effectively is just as crucial for long-term success. Several key areas consume the most resources, leading to financial strain for businesses. These include:
- Labor Costs: High salaries and staff shortages make hiring expensive, especially in countries like Switzerland, where wages are among the highest in the world.
- Inefficient Ordering Systems: Human errors, limited working hours, and slow processing increase costs and cause delays.
- Supply Chain & Logistics: Managing inventory, placing orders, and coordinating deliveries is often time-consuming and prone to errors.
So, how can technology help? Let’s look at a real-world example.
Reducing Labor Costs in Ice Supply Business
One of our recent clients, specializing in ice delivery for restaurants and hotels in Switzerland, faced a major challenge: high labor costs for order management.
Service Bottlenecks:
- Operator high salary
- Manual order-taking process
- Limited-service hours (only during working hours)
- Risk of human error in orders
Our Solution: Smart QR Code Ordering System
To tackle these challenges and focus on reducing labor costs, we implemented a QR code-based ordering system, significantly improving logistics and supply chain management in the HoReCa sector. Here’s how it works:
QR-Based Product Flyers:
Each client receives a personalized flyer containing:
- List of available products (e.g., ice, food, coffee).
- Unique QR codes linked to specific products and clients.
- Additional marketing information.
- Flyer is always accessible in storage areas (e.g., freezers), making it easy for staff to place orders anytime.
Instant Ordering, 24/7 :
- The client scans the QR code using his smartphone.
- A web order page opens, where they enter the required quantity.
- The client can scan the following QR code to add another product – no extra steps are needed.
- The client clicks “Submit Order”.
Direct Integration with TMS:
Orders go straight to 8Move TMS for fulfillment, reducing errors and manual processing.
- All orders are verified, reducing errors.
- Clients receive real-time confirmation, eliminating unnecessary follow-ups.
- Bex integration streamlines invoicing and accounting.
Scalability:
The same system can be applied to:
- coffee
- premium meats
- seafood
- other HoReCa essentials
The Results: Cost Savings & Efficiency
No manual errors, Reduced administrative workload
Total annual operator salary
Increased sales & Customer convenience
The QR-based ordering solution is just one example of how automation and smart logistics can innovate the HoReCa industry. The results speak for themselves – cost savings, increased sales, and better efficiency.
Other emerging technologies and HoReCa solutions, such as AI-driven menu personalization, smart kitchen automation, and AI-enabled inventory management, are further transforming the sector.
At our core, we believe in personal attention to every client and helping businesses grow. Our team is committed to understanding your unique challenges and providing solutions that drive real, tangible results.
Ready to take your business to the next level?
Contact us today for a free consultation to explore how we can work together to build smarter operations, lower costs, and increase your profits.
