3 Ways Tech and Coffee Go Hand in Hand in Today's Quick Service Industry

We live in a world where technology is being developed faster than ever. For business owners, this means adapting your model regularly to keep up with these advances.

At PJ's Coffee, we've experienced several changes in the past few years, and it is only the beginning.

Convenience

Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, customers became more and more focused on convenience. If anything, the pandemic only fueled the mentality that was already growing. This mindset was settled around consumers getting their favorite products quickly without sacrificing quality.

From mobile ordering to curbside pickup and delivery, QSRs everywhere have expanded their service offerings to keep up with competitors.

At PJ's Coffee, we even rolled out a new model in which there is no dining room at all, but only a drive-thru. So far, this drive-thru-only concept has seen much success. Many of these models are in convenient locations where people are always on-the-go, such as right off the freeway.

We're also expanding our dual-drive-thru model, which will allow us to serve more customers in a short time to keep customers moving and prevent long lines and overflow.

Contactless Communication

In addition to a streamlined experience while at the restaurant, QSRs must consider how many different ways to reach consumers who are not physically at the location. Today, businesses can connect to consumers from mobile apps to SMS (texting) like never before.

Going mobile is necessary for any business these days, as consumers rely on their smartphones as their primary method of communication. Texting, emails and social media are leading the way for brands nationwide.

Businesses that aren't on social media or taking advantage of these direct communication platforms will ultimately fall behind. One study, in particular, revealed that three-quarters of consumers would prefer that promotions and updates be sent to them via text message.

For instance, think about how convenient it is to place a mobile order and get notified as your food or drink is being prepared and when it's ready. It sure beats waiting around and not knowing what your order's status is.

Here at PJ's Coffee, we're sure to stay ahead of the game when serving our guests. Our mobile app allows guests to order and pay, customize their favorite products, earn rewards, locate their nearest PJ's Coffee Shop and more!

A Fully-Integrated System

Of course, with all these convenient offerings and mobile options comes the back-end process that makes it all possible. It's so important to ensure that your system is completely integrated. Your back-of-house technology should communicate seamlessly with your front-of-house systems, mobile app and other communication channels.

At PJ's Coffee, we've taken the time to connect our app with our franchise's database. This means that no matter where our guests are, they can locate their nearest location via their mobile app, place an order and pick it up all within a matter of minutes. It also allows our locations to run smoothly and our employees to fulfill orders accurately and efficiently.

Finally, perhaps the most impressive perk of investing in technology is the ability to personalize your platform for each customer. Mobile apps and synchronized systems allow guests to save their favorite orders. They can even help you collect general customer data to improve your business model, menu offerings, and more with their permission.

Getting Started With A Tech-Savvy Coffee Franchise

As technological innovation continues, it's crucial to make sure that you choose a franchise with a forward-thinking team that's willing to welcome change and challenge the status quo.

Our quick adaptation tactics have allowed us to remain one of the most rapidly-growing franchises in the QSR sector, and our ongoing training and support for franchisees set them up for success, no matter what changes may arise.

Are you looking to join a tech-savvy franchise with a proven track record? Contact us today to learn more about PJ's Coffee franchise opportunities!