Enterprise restaurants can be lucrative but complex business models. The restaurant industry is full of various types of structures. However, operating a franchise or chain restaurant will likely come with much more restaurant success than an independent eatery. 

Once we discuss the enterprise definition in the restaurant space, we’ll discuss several ways that you can innovate one. Now, let’s begin!

Enterprise Restaurants: Definition

Enterprise restaurants are food services businesses that operate on a larger scale. In many cases, they comprise chains and franchises. This is because enterprises are more likely to have a multi-unit structure. It's also likely for these eateries to have numerous product offerings, like catering, private dining rooms, and more. 

7 Ways to Innovate Enterprise Restaurants

Innovating enterprise restaurants can look different from one to the next. It all depends on your interests, needs, and budget. But regardless of which options you choose to invest in, we think that innovative restaurant technology is a solid route to go. 

Want to discover how seven different technologies can innovate your restaurant enterprise? You’re in the right place! Read on:

1. Use Cloud Technology

Enterprises in the food and beverage industry consist of multiple locations. Using restaurant tech that syncs across more than one location is vital for this kind of business model. Some might even argue that it's necessary to survive in today's market. 

It might not be necessary for waiters, hosts, or even the restaurant manager. However, the restaurant data analytics that cloud tech can offer upper-level executives is a game changer. In fact, this insight can help guide strategic efforts. 

Such insights will allow leaders to compare and contrast different units. It will also allow them to monitor results when conducting A/B testing. 

Or, perhaps they decide to conduct marketing plans depending on the unit’s geographic location. Management will be able to compare and contrast its results. Regardless, having a bird’s eye view of the big picture is vital from a leadership perspective.

2. Onboard an Integrated POS System

Restaurant POS systems can innovate the business more than you might think. It’s common nowadays for a POS system to be far more than just traditional POS hardware. Instead, they consist of app integrations and POS system features that streamline many processes.

For example, mobile POS features make the checkout process much simpler. There are also touchscreen devices that allow customers to leave a tip when paying the bill.

For the staff, POS software can drastically reduce work overload. For instance, restaurant reservations can sync with the system. This way, the host can seat everyone accordingly. Or, it can showcase the best-selling dishes, giving the sous chef an idea of what to prioritize. 

3. Launch a Restaurant Loyalty Program

Some of the best customer retention strategies revolve around brand loyalty. Choose a customer rewards program strategy right for your business, and watch sales begin to soar. 

When enterprise restaurants offer loyalty programs, customer data syncs across the structure. So if someone earns points at one location, they can redeem them for rewards at another. This is great for longevity, as it makes the rules super simple for customers. Plus, it allows the brand to grow as a whole, even across numerous locations.

4. Partner With Delivery Service Providers

Allowing your customer base to place orders via online ordering apps will allow profits to skyrocket. After all, who doesn’t love the ability to order meals in the comfort of their own home?

Apps like Grubhub, Uber Eats, and DoorDash are just a few of the most popular options. Not only will apps help boost sales, but they will innovate the entire business model.

When restaurants offer food via delivery, they’re able to reach a wider audience. The restaurant seating capacity can only be so big and some people choose not to go out. As the customer profile grows, the business will have access to more consumer data to leverage.

5. Efficiently Take Inventory

Standardized menu types are a major component of enterprise restaurants. If a wide selection of eateries are going to operate the same across the board, they must offer the same products. This is where a restaurant inventory app becomes useful.

With the right restaurant inventory management system, enterprises can order exactly what they need. This software completely takes the guesswork out of placing orders and demand planning. Plus, all related processes can take place within one account. 

Want to begin improving your inventory management techniques within your enterprise? Book a demo with BlueCart today!

6. Install Tableside Devices

Restaurant expenses can be high when operating at such a large scale. Due to the number of working parts that are necessary in running an enterprise, it’s advantageous to cut the labor cost as much as possible. Plus, doing so will help to sustain profits. 

When you make this decision, consider onboarding tableside devices. They work by allowing customers to view the menus, place orders, and pay the bill. Did we mention that all of this can take place without someone from the wait staff present?

Such devices are a tool that can give customers more control and simplify tasks for the staff. In turn, the same procedures can take place, despite employing a smaller team.

7. Abide By the Franchise Manual

After learning about all the working parts of enterprise restaurants, it can seem a bit daunting to operate one. However, when it comes to chains and franchises, they can be quite simple. 

You see, franchisors have “manuals,” that instruct the franchisee exactly how to run the business. From restaurant marketing tactics to standardized menus, it serves as a rule book. Luckily, this also helps keep the brand profitable. 

When food service brands are identical from one location to another, it provides customers with a sense of comfort. They know exactly what they’ll get, making it a trustworthy, go-to option. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Enterprise Restaurants

Enterprise restaurants are some of the most innovative food service businesses in the industry. Without them, we probably wouldn't have as many of our favorite restaurants as we do today. So, if you're an entrepreneur or restaurant connoisseur, it's important that you learn everything there is to know about this business model. So, without further ado, read on!

What Are the Benefits of Owning Enterprise Restaurants?

Several of the best benefits of operating enterprise restaurants include:

• Access to a wide range of customers
• Standard protocols across locations
• Stands out within a large market 
• The ability to work as a franchise 
• Provides customers with convenience

How Do Enterprise Restaurants Differ From Regular Restaurants?

Enterprise restaurants usually operate on a much larger scale, sometimes as franchises. Within an enterprise, there are many locations and working parts. Due to these factors, it's also common for each unit to abide by a manual.

Can Enterprise Restaurants Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?

Yes, enterprise restaurants are able to accommodate dietary restrictions. Since they dominate the restaurant space, it's common for them to offer things like gluten-free and allergy-friendly menus. In fact this is why it's so important for enterprises to have strict guidelines. Then, each location will be able to follow the same protocols and offer the same things.

Are Enterprise Restaurants Open to the Public?

Yes, enterprise restaurants are open to the public and the doors are usually open during standard operating hours. Always check with your restaurant of choice if you have any questions or concerns. This is especially important during holidays when hours might differ.

Do Enterprise Restaurants Offer Catering Services?

Yes, most restaurants in general offer catering services. Each establishment should have a catering menu where people can customize their event. It’s also ideal to offer other catering services like linens, decor, and custom payment plans. This will ensure that you provide the best experience possible for each guest.

Key Takeaways

Ever since the digital transformation across the restaurant space, many innovative solutions have been brought to market. When you combine the right blend of tools, you can completely overhaul the experience for everyone. While some devices might simplify tasks for the staff, others will improve the guest experience. Want to learn more about innovating enterprise restaurants? Book a demo with a member of our team to learn more!