QwikEat
July 12, 2026
The restaurant industry in Europe is undergoing a significant transformation driven by technological advancements and changing consumer preferences. Understanding the current trends is crucial for restaurant owners aiming to maintain competitiveness and profitability. By staying updated, operators can optimize operations, enhance customer satisfaction, and ultimately boost their bottom line.
With average profit margins ranging from 3% to 9%, according to the National Restaurant Association, it's clear that even small efficiencies can have a substantial impact on financial outcomes. Trends such as digital ordering, sustainability, and loyalty programs are reshaping how restaurants operate, offering opportunities to improve efficiency and service offerings.
Embracing these trends is not just about keeping up; it's about leveraging them to drive growth and profitability. From enhancing the dining experience with technology to adopting sustainable practices, the restaurant landscape is rich with potential for those willing to evolve.
The shift towards online ordering systems has been one of the most significant trends in recent years. Restaurants utilizing these platforms often see a 20-30% increase in order values compared to traditional phone orders. This is largely due to upsell prompts and the visual appeal of digital menus, as reported by Toast.
Online ordering systems are not just a convenience for customers; they are a strategic tool for increasing sales. The ability to showcase menu items with enticing visuals and suggest complementary products leads to higher average order values.
Traditional ordering methods, such as phone calls, often lack the upselling opportunities that digital platforms provide. Online systems streamline the ordering process, reduce errors, and enhance customer satisfaction by offering a seamless experience.
Integrating an online ordering platform like QwikEat offers numerous benefits, including reduced reliance on third-party delivery services, which typically charge 15-30% commissions per order. By adopting a direct system, restaurants can maintain control over their brand and customer data while enhancing profit margins.
QR code menus have surged in popularity, especially since 2020. As of 2023, over 50% of sit-down restaurants have adopted them, a significant increase from under 5% pre-pandemic, according to Nation's Restaurant News.
The rapid adoption of QR code menus reflects a broader shift towards digital solutions in the restaurant industry. These menus offer a contactless, efficient way to view and order food, aligning with post-pandemic consumer preferences.
Customers increasingly prefer digital menus for their convenience and the ability to update them in real-time. This flexibility allows restaurants to quickly adapt to supply changes or introduce new items without the cost of reprinting physical menus.
By eliminating the need for physical menus, restaurants can significantly reduce printing costs. Additionally, the ability to update prices and offerings digitally ensures that restaurants can respond swiftly to market changes, further enhancing profitability.
Loyalty programs are a powerful tool for fostering customer retention and increasing spending. According to Paytronix, restaurants with loyalty programs see repeat customers visit 35% more often and spend 15-25% more per visit.
Customer retention is crucial for any restaurant's long-term success. Loyalty programs incentivize repeat visits by offering rewards, discounts, and exclusive offers, directly impacting a restaurant's revenue stream.
By encouraging repeat visits, loyalty programs also increase the average spending per customer. This is achieved through targeted promotions and personalized marketing, which cater to the specific preferences and habits of loyal patrons.
Many successful loyalty programs tailor their rewards to the preferences of their customer base. For instance, offering a free meal after a certain number of visits or discounts on favorite items can significantly enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Providing multiple ordering channels is no longer optional for modern restaurants. According to McKinsey & Company, restaurants that offer multiple channels see 25-40% higher total revenue.
Multi-channel ordering increases accessibility and convenience for customers, driving higher revenue. Whether it's dine-in, takeaway, delivery, or click & collect, offering diverse options can capture a wider audience and accommodate varying customer preferences.
Today's consumers value flexibility and convenience. Providing multiple ordering options meets these expectations and can differentiate a restaurant from its competitors, enhancing customer loyalty and satisfaction.
Implementing a multi-channel ordering system does come with challenges, such as managing inventory and ensuring consistent quality across channels. Platforms like QwikEat offer integrated solutions that streamline operations and support efficient channel management.
While third-party delivery services offer convenience, they also pose challenges, particularly in terms of cost. Delivery platforms charge 15-30% commission per order, impacting profit margins, as noted by Statista.
Third-party platforms can be expensive, with fees cutting into already slim margins. Understanding these costs is essential for restaurant owners looking to maintain profitability.
The high commissions charged by delivery services can significantly reduce profits. For restaurants operating on tight margins, these fees can be particularly burdensome.
To mitigate the impact of third-party fees, restaurants can develop their own direct delivery systems. Using platforms like QwikEat helps maintain control over the delivery process and customer experience, reducing dependency on third-party services.
As consumer awareness of environmental issues grows, so does the demand for sustainable practices in restaurants. Health-conscious dining is also on the rise, influencing menu offerings and restaurant operations.
Today's consumers are increasingly eco-conscious, driving the need for sustainable practices in food sourcing, waste management, and energy use. Restaurants that adopt sustainable practices can attract a loyal customer base and differentiate themselves in the market.
Offering health-conscious menu options is becoming essential as more diners seek healthy and nutritious meals. This trend can lead to increased customer satisfaction and broaden the restaurant's appeal.
Restaurants can adapt to these trends by sourcing locally, reducing waste, and offering plant-based menu items. These changes not only meet consumer demands but can also reduce costs and improve operational efficiency.
Staying ahead of the curve in the restaurant industry requires embracing both current and emerging trends. From digital solutions like online ordering systems and QR code menus to loyalty programs and sustainability, the opportunities for growth and profitability are vast.
Restaurant owners are encouraged to adopt these strategies to enhance customer satisfaction and operational efficiency. Platforms like QwikEat offer versatile solutions to help restaurants navigate these changes effectively.
As the industry continues to evolve, those who are proactive in adapting to these trends will not only survive but thrive in the competitive landscape.
QwikEat gives you your own branded ordering system — web, click & collect, delivery, QR dine-in — with zero monthly fees. Set up in under 10 minutes.
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