The hospitality industry is rapidly evolving, and technology plays an increasingly vital role in shaping guest experiences. One innovation that has gained significant traction is the use of QR codes.
This post will explore how QR codes can enhance your resort's guest experience while simplifying your F&B (food and beverage) service..
What are QR codes, and how do they work?
A QR (Quick Response) code is a type of barcode that a smartphone camera can scan. When scanned, the code directs the user to a specific webpage or application.
In a resort and linked to F&B, QR codes can be placed on tables, by the pool, in guest rooms, or anywhere guests want to order food or drinks.
By simply scanning the QR code with their smartphone, guests are taken directly to a mobile ordering platform, where they can browse menus, place orders, and even pay without staff assistance.
Why QR codes are the perfect fit for resorts
1. Contactless and convenient service
In a world where contactless service is becoming the norm, QR codes allow guests a completely contactless experience. Guests can browse the menu, order, and make payments from their devices.
This speeds up and simplifies the ordering process and gives guests greater control over their experience. No more waiting for a server to take their order or bring them the check—they can do it all on their terms whenever they're ready.
2. Reducing wait times and improving guest satisfaction
One of the biggest challenges for resorts, especially during busy seasons, is keeping up with guest demand in F&B outlets like poolside lounges, bars, and restaurants. Guests expect fast, efficient service, and long wait times can quickly lead to dissatisfaction.
With QR codes, guests can order food and drinks instantly without waiting for a server.
QR codes can be a lifesaver for resorts dealing with staff shortages or during peak service times. Instead of taking orders and payments manually, they can maximize efficiency by concentrating on the tasks that require their attention.
This is especially useful in high-traffic areas like poolside service, where guests are often spread out and need help managing.
3. Easily customizable menus
QR codes allow you to offer guests up-to-date and dynamic menus. With just a few clicks in your guest app/Guest Experience OS, you can update prices, highlight daily specials, or promote new items. There’s no need to reprint menus or have staff communicate changes to each guest.
For instance, if you’re running a happy hour special, you can update the guest app menu through the platform tied to your QR codes, ensuring guests can see the special offers in real time. This flexibility makes responding to guest preferences easier and drives additional sales.
4. Seamless payment integration
Handling payments can often be one of the most time-consuming aspects of food and beverage service. QR codes simplify the payment process by integrating directly with mobile payment options. Once guests have placed their order, they can pay directly through their phone, using credit cards, mobile wallets, or even charging the bill to their room.
This seamless payment process means faster table turnover, improved guest satisfaction, and fewer errors in manual payment processing.
Case study: QR codes cut wait times in half at Barceló Hotels
Barceló Hotel Group, in partnership with STAY since 2016, has implemented a series of technological innovations aimed at streamlining guest experiences across 102 hotels.
One critical improvement involves mobile ordering through QR codes, which significantly enhances the efficiency of F&B services. Guests can quickly scan and order drinks or food directly from their smartphones by placing QR codes on poolside hammocks and other areas.
This system eliminates the need for guests to wait for servers, improving service speed and convenience.
The process is almost cut in half.
Additionally, implementing mobile ordering has allowed Barceló to provide real-time updates and tailored offers through STAY's platform.
For instance, staff can instantly update menus without printing, and push notifications can be sent to guests when certain restaurants are less crowded or food items are nearing expiration.
This system improves the guest experience, increases operational efficiency, reduces plastic waste, and enhances sustainability efforts. The result is a smoother, faster, and more eco-friendly service that benefits guests and staff.
“Just imagine the time we save—previously, a waiter had to walk to every hammock, return to the kitchen to place the order, then return to deliver it. Now, everything is faster and more efficient. It’s more comfortable for our guests and staff”, says Álvaro Montalvo, Ancillaries & Innovation Project Manager.
Getting started with QR codes at your resort
Implementing QR codes at your resort is easier than you think. Here’s how to get started:
- Choose the right guest app / guest experience OS: Look for a platform that integrates with your existing systems, offers seamless payment processing, and allows for customizable menus.
- Create and place QR codes strategically: Place QR codes in high-traffic areas like poolside lounges, bars, and guest rooms. Make sure they’re easy to spot and accessible to guests.
- Choose the right mobile ordering platform: Look for a solution that integrates seamlessly with your POS system and offers easy-to-use features like mobile ordering, payment processing, and kitchen integration.
- Train your staff: Ensure that your staff is familiar with the new system and understands how to manage orders and payments efficiently. Training will help them feel confident using the system and provide a better guest experience. A platform with video tutorials and certifications is highly recommended.
- Promote to guests: Let your guests know about the new, convenient ordering option. You can do this by adding signage around the resort or having your staff inform guests about the QR codes.
Conclusion: QR codes as a game-changer for resort operations
As resort managers look for ways to enhance guest experiences and streamline operations, QR codes offer an effective, low-cost solution. They improve efficiency, reduce wait times, and empower guests to order on their terms.
Implementing a QR code-based ordering system can ensure that your resort provides faster service, happier guests, and increased revenue.
Are you ready to streamline your resort's F&B service with QR codes?
