Modern Technologies in HoReCa: The Role of Mobile Apps in Service Automation

In 2025, the HoReCa (hotels, restaurants, cafes) industry is undergoing a digital transformation, with mobile apps playing a pivotal role in enhancing efficiency and customer service quality. From order automation to integration with IoT (Internet of Things) and artificial intelligence (AI), these technologies help restaurants streamline operations, engage customers, and increase profits. According to Statista, the restaurant mobile app market grows by 15% annually in 2025, with 70% of customers preferring app-based ordering. This article explores how mobile apps automate customer service in HoReCa, boosting customer satisfaction and business competitiveness.

Why Mobile Apps Are Essential for HoReCa?

Mobile apps have become integral to modern restaurant operations, enabling automation and personalization. They can reduce operational costs by 20–30% (Deloitte) and improve customer experience. Key benefits include:

• Fast service: App-based ordering reduces wait times.
• Process automation: Integration with POS systems (e.g., Poster, Syrve) optimizes order processing.
• Personalization: AI analyzes customer data for tailored offers.
• Analytics: Apps provide insights into customer preferences, enhancing menu optimization and marketing.

In HoReCa, mobile apps align with trends like contactless service and IoT integration, which gained traction post-pandemic.

1. Automating Orders with Mobile Apps

User-Friendly Interface

Mobile apps enable customers to place orders via an online menu with photos, descriptions, and filters (e.g., vegan or gluten-free options). Google reports that 62% of HoReCa customers prefer apps with intuitive designs. Features like one-click reordering and dish modifiers enhance convenience.

Integration with POS Systems

Order automation is achieved through integration with POS systems, such as Poster, which synchronizes orders between customers, kitchens, and couriers, reducing errors by 80%.

2. Personalization with AI and Analytics

Artificial Intelligence in mobile apps analyzes customer data to create personalized offers. For example, if a customer often orders pizza, the app can suggest a discount on that item.

Analytics Tools

• Firebase Analytics: Tracks user behavior.
• Mixpanel: Analyzes conversions and menu interactions.
• Poster POS: Provides sales and preference reports.

Benefits

Personalization boosts order frequency by 25% (McKinsey). AI also predicts demand, optimizing inventory.

3. Push Notifications and Geolocation for Engagement

Targeted Push Notifications

Push notifications enhance customer engagement by informing users about promotions or new menu items. For example, “20% off coffee until noon” drives morning sales.

Geolocation

Geolocation enables location-based offers, such as “You’re near our café! Get a free dessert with your order.”

4. IoT Integration for Smart Restaurants

IoT (Internet of Things) transforms HoReCa by automating equipment and optimizing service. Mobile apps connect with IoT devices, including:

• Smart kitchens: Refrigerators notify of low stock.
• Sensors: Monitor food storage conditions.
• Automated coffee machines: Accept orders via apps.

IoT cuts operational costs by 15% and improves kitchen efficiency (IoT Analytics).

5. Loyalty Programs for Retention

Loyalty programs in mobile apps double order frequency (LoyaltyPlant). Customers earn points for orders, redeemable for discounts or free items.

Examples

• Referral programs: Rewards for inviting friends.
• Gamification: Achievements for milestones (e.g., 10 orders).

6. Contactless Service and QR Codes

Contactless service remains a trend in HoReCa. Customers scan QR codes to access menus, place orders, or pay via apps, minimizing staff interaction.

Benefits

• 30% faster service speed.
• Reduced printing costs.

7. Testing and Optimization

Testing ensures app reliability. Stages include:

• Functional testing: Verifying orders and payments.
• Performance testing: Ensuring speed.
• Security testing: Protecting data.

Tools: TestFlight (iOS), Firebase Test Lab (Android).

HoReCa Trends in 2025

• AI and ML: Personalization and demand forecasting.
• AR menus: 3D dish previews.
• Voice ordering: 50% of customers use voice commands.
• Sustainability: Apps offer eco-friendly delivery options.

Mobile apps revolutionize HoReCa, enabling service automation, personalization, and analytics. From IoT to AI, these technologies boost efficiency and customer satisfaction. Investing in a mobile app ensures restaurants cut costs and stay competitive in 2025. Partner with a professional development team to create a mobile app that transforms your business.

Take a step closer to the future today by ordering a mobile app for HoReCa from QB Tools. It’s the perfect solution for your restaurant, casual café, sushi bar, or pizzeria to organize food delivery and implement a loyalty system for guests. Visit https://qbtools.com.ua to order your app.