Otter’s latest features for July. Enjoy the new, simpler Sales dashboard, downloaded promotions history, and assignable cash drawers.

Otter Product Updates - July 10, 2024

The new Sales Dashboard in Analytics replaces the Business Performance report. It provides a simplified experience that more accurately aligns with your delivery service providers’ reports.

Otter POS customers can now assign cash drawers to specific users to limit unauthorized access. Note that cash drawers are unassigned by default and can be accessed by everyone.

Need to join data together for further analysis? You can now download your promotions data based on your specific timeframe.

Streamline operations, increase profits, and delight customers with cutting-edge self-ordering kiosks. Our latest guide breaks down the top 5 systems for 2025, helping you choose the perfect solution for your restaurant.

Best self-ordering restaurant kiosk systems in 2025

Restaurant kiosks have been rising in popularity and will continue to for the foreseeable future. Why? For starters, self-service kiosks enhance the customer experience. Additionally, they assist in streamlining business operations, speeding up the payment process, and increasing your restaurant’s bottom line. Kiosks are clearly here to stay, so the question is, which is the best self ordering kiosk system for your business? We’ve done the research on the five most popular systems out there so all you’ll have to do is pick one.

We’ve narrowed the long list of self-ordering kiosk systems and ranked them according to user-friendliness interfaces, customization options, point-of-sale integration capabilities, scalability, and pricing. The systems we’ve chosen come with touchscreens, branding capabilities, and integration with apps you already use like inventory management.. Additional features like data analytics, payment options, and accessibility have also been evaluated. Moreover, we’ve considered each system’s unique features, as well as customer ratings where applicable.

Top 5 self-ordering kiosk systems for restaurants

The restaurant industry is moving into the future fast, and it’s worth keeping up with. One innovation worth investing in – a self-ordering kiosk solution that will increase basket size, decrease customer wait times, increase staff efficiency, and streamline overall restaurant operations. Staff will now have the chance to refocus their efforts on more important tasks, like customer service. Let’s break down five of the most reputable kiosk system options to identify which is most right for your restaurant business. 

The offering: The Otter kiosk system is a game-changer for dining establishments, particularly small businesses who want to make the most of their budget. As industry leaders in this space, we offer an unbeatable combination of affordability, reliability, and user-friendliness that sets us apart from the competition. What’s more, Otter’s kiosk systems come with durable spill and heat-resistant, high speed hardware that easily syncs with your POS system and works quickly, reducing wait times. 

Fast payments (credit, GooglePay, ApplePay)

Flexible “Kiosk mode” that turns your point-of-sale into a self-service ordering system

Standing hardware option is a larger investment 

Built-in WiFi router not provided (though it connects to in-store WiFi)

Pricing: Kiosk hardware bundle starts at $100, and kiosk software starts at $99 per month per device.

Unique feature: Otter's AI-driven upsell program prompts customers to increase orders with relevant add-ons or upgrades based on their selections.

Best for: Quick-service and fast-casual restaurants, multi-location establishments, and restaurants with high volumes of online orders.

The offering: Toast’s self-ordering kiosks work well for a wide range of businesses within the restaurant industry. Toast’s kiosks are designed to be durable, spill-resistant, and heat-resistant.

Free software plan available with one POS terminal

No integration with third party POS or payment processors 

Pricing: The Toast Flex terminal can be used as a self-serve kiosk and costs $1,024.20 upfront with an additional $69 per month for kiosk software. Customizable options are available as well.

Unique feature: The Toast Tap device comes included with the kiosk system, allowing for quick and easy contactless payments. 

Best for: Quick-service restaurants and multi-location restaurant chains.

The offering: Square Kiosk is an iPad-driven kiosk solution that combines hardware, software, and payment processing into one integrated package.

Integrates with existing Square POS systems 

Operates on iPad battery, ensuring functionality even during power outages

Offers built-in contactless and chip payments

No costly service visits or installation fees

Customizable interface to match brand and offering

Specific iPad models required and not included in price

Swipe payments require additional accessory 

Pricing: Square Kiosk device costs $149 with an additional $50 per month per active device for kiosk software. In-person transaction fees may apply.

Unique feature: Customers can enroll in the Square Loyalty program and accrue points.

Best for: Businesses with limited counter space or snug front-of-house areas.

The offering: GRUBBRR is a self-ordering kiosk system that helps streamline  operations and enhance the customer experience.

Automated upselling system designed to increase revenue

Offers customizable and branded kiosk options

Integrates with existing POS systems and kitchen display systems

Provides real-time analytics and menu reporting

Supports multiple languages and offline mode

May require staff training for implementation and management

Pricing: GRUBBRR kiosks range from $2,500 to $3,500, with an undisclosed monthly kiosk software payment.

Unique feature: Incorporates AI-driven upselling capabilities, including facial recognition for loyalty customers.

Best for: Quick-service restaurants, stadium stalls and food courts, and cafes and bakeries.

Offering: Clover’s comprehensive self-ordering system features a 24" enterprise-grade display, versatile payment terminal, and built-in printer.

Integrates seamlessly with existing Clover POS systems

Offers intuitive interface for faster and more accurate ordering

Provides real-time menu updates and syncing

Supports multiple payment methods, including contactless and chip

Choose from three styles, including wall mounting, countertop, and standing kiosks.

May require a separate merchant services account

Pricing: A Clover self order kiosk costs $3,499 and $34.95/mo per device for the kiosk software. 

Unique feature: Includes dual touch screens to order and pay.

Best for: Quick-service and fast food restaurants, multi-location establishments, restaurants with high volumes of orders.

Self-ordering kiosks are revolutionizing the dining experience, offering your customers faster service while freeing up your staff to focus on what matters most. With the right kiosk system, like Otter’s, you can streamline operations, increase order accuracy, and boost average ticket size effortlessly. 

Why Otter is the ideal self-serving kiosk for businesses

If you’re a restaurant owner looking for a comprehensive solution for your business needs, look no further than Otter’s self-serve kiosk system! We’ve found a way to integrate all the essential features you’re looking for – from durable design to round-the-clock support – into one cohesive combo package.

What are you guaranteed with Otter’s self-order kiosk?

Real-time updates on orders and inventory. Out of fried chicken? The moment you enter an 86’d item into your KDS, it will reflect on the kiosk. Client wants extra lettuce? The kitchen will know as soon as the order is confirmed.

Professional, sleek, and designed to complement any restaurant environment. Our kiosks are flexible for your space. Choose from 27” standing devices or 15” countertop options.

Transforms from a POS terminal to a kiosk in a flash. When you unexpectedly find yourself short on staff, don’t waste time begging employees to come in on their day off! Quickly flip your existing Otter POS terminals into  kiosks to keep customer wait time at a minimum.

AI integration that increases your sales up to 30%. Our kiosks encourage larger basket sizes via AI generated smart upsells and provide, a seamless ordering experience.

Effortless integration with your POS – whether you have the Otter POS system or a preexisting one! Don’t have Otter POS but want to try our Otter kiosk? No worries! Our kiosks are programmed to integrate with popular POS systems like Clover, Square, and Toast. 

Durable, restaurant-grade hardware. . Built with hardware to withstand spills and heat, Otter kiosks can endure it all.

Provides customer reports and data. Build a repeat loyal customer base with data analysis and automatic retargets containing discounts and offers.

Help is always available regardless of the time or day. Our system is backed by round-the-clock support. 

Transparent in its pricing structure. Costs are clearly outlined, from one-time hardware costs to monthly software fees where applicable, making it easier to budget and plan your technology investments.

Self-ordering kiosks have become an essential tool for modern restaurants. By adopting the latest solution in the food services industry, your restaurant will not only meet customer expectations but also drive higher revenue and repeat business. Ready to revolutionize the dining experience and increase your bottom line? Book a demo with Otter today!

Can self-ordering kiosks integrate with my current POS system?

Yes, self-ordering kiosks can integrate with various POS systems. Otter's kiosk solution, for example, integrates seamlessly with popular POS systems like Clover, Square, and Toast. 

How do kiosks help with upselling and increasing sales?

By removing the natural discomfort that often coincides with in-person upselling, self-ordering kiosks boost sales through automated suggestions. Increase sales through a kiosk’s ability to showcase high-quality food photography and personalized recommendations as customers build their orders.

Are these kiosks easy to set up and maintain?

Otter's kiosk system is designed to be user-friendly and easy to implement, with a quick setup process that you can even do on your own. Regular software updates are typically performed during off-hours to prevent disruptions. 

How do self-ordering kiosks improve customer satisfaction?

Self-ordering kiosks enhance customer satisfaction in several ways:

They reduce wait times and improve order accuracy.

They give diners the ability to customize their orders without feeling judged.

Kiosks offer a consistent and personalized experience, as kiosks analyze data to suggest customized options and increase customer loyalty.

They provide clear allergen and nutritional information, catering to customers with specific dietary needs.

How secure is the payment processing system?

Like other reputable kiosk solutions, Otter's kiosk system prioritizes payment security through encryption, PCI DSS compliance, and by offering multiple secure payment options, including contactless payments.

What kind of reporting and analytics features does Otter’s kiosk system offer?

Otter's kiosk system provides comprehensive analytics tools, including:

Consolidated reports that combine data from different delivery partners, locations, and POS systems

Simplified data charts for easy understanding of restaurant performance

Trends and actionable insight suggestions to improve sales and operations

Option to generate custom reports that are automatically sent to your inbox

Can Otter’s kiosk system adapt to changing menu items and pricing?

Yes, since Otter’s kiosk system is directly linked to the KDS, it can adapt to both short and long-term menu changes.

Want to learn how kiosks can work for your business? Book a call with Otter.

Self-service kiosks are transforming the dining experience—faster service, higher accuracy, and happier customers. From intuitive touchscreens to upselling capabilities, these tools streamline operations and boost revenue. Ready to elevate your restaurant’s efficiency? Discover how Otter’s kiosk solutions can revolutionize your business today!

How to use a restaurant kiosk machine: A complete guide

What was once a prop in a sci-fi movie is now a staple in the restaurant industry. From fast food chains to full-service dining establishments, the self-service kiosk is catapulting in popularity. Why? Well, for starters, it’s extremely easy to use. With just a few taps and a swipe of the credit card, a customer can choose, customize, and place an order. Within nanoseconds, the kitchen can receive the order and start preparing the meal. 

That kind of efficiency is hard to beat. Kiosk technology’s undeniable ability to streamline restaurant operations has turned it into a downright necessity for dining establishments of all kinds. The question is — could your restaurant benefit from self-ordering kiosks? Read on to find out.

The self-serve kiosk found today in many restaurants is an interactive, automated device that allows customers to place orders and make payments through a touchscreen. Using an intuitive interface, diners can browse the restaurant's menu, customize their selections, and even pay without relying on restaurant staff. This means staff can now focus on improving other aspects of customer service – and save on staffing costs too. 

The benefits of self-service kiosks are numerous, and include:

Improved order accuracy and reduced long lines

Increased revenue through more upselling opportunities

Data collection, insights, and checkout optimization

Increased accessibility for all customer types

In short, adding self-service kiosk capabilities to your food establishment will make life easier for your customers, your staff, and yourself.

What is a self-service kiosk in a restaurant?

From tap to table: How to use a self-service kiosk

First time using a kiosk? If you’re intimidated – don’t be! It’s incredibly easy to navigate. In fact, improving restaurant technology topped the list of restaurant trends in 2024 and 2025, meaning kiosks are here to stay. Get comfortable with this step-by-step guide on how to use it effectively.

The first thing you have to do is find the kiosk. Most fast casual restaurants position a group of them directly at the entrance or on the countertops. It will be hard to miss! If you don’t see it immediately look for signage that says "Order Here" or something similar. As you approach, you might hear an electronic voice welcoming you to the kiosk.

To start, all you have to do is touch the screen. Once on, there should be a "Start Order" button. Tap it.

The best part besides actually receiving your order is choosing it! Scroll through the digital menu using your finger. You'll likely see categories like "Appetizers," "Main Courses," and "Desserts”. Tap on one to see what's available.

Found something that looks appetizing? Tap on the item to select it. A picture, description, and price should pop up to help you better decide.

The next step is customizing your meal exactly how you want it. In the mood for extra cheese? No olives? A side of fries? The kiosk will populate some suggestions to enhance your selection. Tap on the choices you want to add or remove ingredients you don’t particularly like.

Now the kiosk will show you a summary of your order. Check to make sure everything is correct. If you forgot to order your favorite sauce, don’t worry. The kiosk will still allow you to add, remove, or modify items at this stage.

Look for a "Checkout" or "Pay Now" button and give it a tap. The kiosk will show you the total amount due.

Most kiosks accept credit cards and debit cards. Many accept mobile payment options like Apple Pay or Google Pay as well. Select your preferred method and follow the on-screen instructions.

If you're using a card, you'll usually need to insert, swipe, or tap it. For mobile payments, hold your device near the payment area, which will be clearly labeled. Wait for the confirmation that your payment was successful.

Sort of like how the airport self-check-in kiosks print out your boarding pass or baggage tag, some restaurant kiosks print receipts. If it does, take it with you. The receipt usually has your order number, which is sometimes necessary to pick up your food. Not all restaurants require a paper receipt, so if you don’t get one, it may be on your phone or they’ll call your order out by name.

Et voilà! You've just successfully used a restaurant kiosk for the first time. While contemplating your new skill, your food is being prepped and made. Sit back and relax until your name or order number is called.

Must-have features of self-ordering kiosks

The following key features of a self-ordering kiosk enhance the dining experience for customers and streamline operations for staff.

Key feature #1: Intuitive touchscreen interfaces

User-friendly touchscreens make kiosks approachable for customers of all ages and tech-savviness. With an intuitive ordering system, patrons feel confident while navigating the menu and making their selections. 

Why is this a critical feature in a self-serve kiosk? An intuitive interface ensures a smooth ordering process, reduces wait times, and improves customer satisfaction. It minimizes the need for staff assistance so employees can turn attention to food preparation and customer service.

Restaurant owners know better than most how important it is for customers to have the option to personalize their order. A well-designed kiosk should give diners the opportunity to add or subtract ingredients that align with their preferences or dietary restrictions.

Why is this a critical feature in a self-serve kiosk? Customers feel more comfortable when they have options to tailor their order, leading to increased sales and repeat business.

With fraud being top of mind for many credit card users, customers need to feel safe when making a payment. All self-ordering kiosks, like Otter’s standing and countertop kiosks, should offer multiple secure payment options. That includes credit cards, debit cards, and mobile alternatives such as Apple Pay..

Why is this a critical feature in a self-serve kiosk? Secure payment options protect both the customer and the restaurant. They also speed up the payment process, resulting in shorter wait times and increased output.

Just like a restaurant’s star waitress, self-service kiosks are designed to suggest additional items or premium alternatives in order to increase check sizes. Customers will naturally browse suggested items and be enticed to add one or two more sides, drinks, etc.

Why is this a critical feature in a self-serve kiosk? While humans might find it uncomfortable to upsell, a machine does not. Perhaps that’s why customers spend up to 20 – 30% more when they order from kiosks, according to studies by Samsung.

Key feature #5: Integration with POS systems

The best kiosk for your business is going to integrate with your existing POS system. For instance, if you’re not yet set up with Otter’s all-in-one POS, we can still blend our self-serve kiosks with your current one. This ensures that each order is immediately reflected in your POS.

Why is this a critical feature in a self-serve kiosk? Aside from streamlining customer orders, this integration with your POS allows for real-time order management and provides valuable insights into purchase patterns and inventory needs. 

Setting up a self-service kiosk in your restaurant

Setting up a self-service kiosk in your restaurant is a significant step toward improved efficiency and increased customer satisfaction. Here's a comprehensive guide to help restaurant owners navigate the installation process.

This is the start of a new and potentially long-term professional relationship, so you’ll want to find a reputable kiosk vendor with experience in the food services industry. Confirm that a contract with your chosen agency includes installation assistance and ongoing technical support. 

Kiosk software should be user-friendly and intuitive for everyone from your customers to your cooks, and include the following features: 

Staff are sure to appreciate a quick-to-learn software program, just as customers will prefer an intuitive self ordering kiosk system. 

Step 3: Placement and hardware installation

A kiosk should be strategically placed in order to maximize your restaurant’s flow. The kiosk can be installed at the entrance, on the service countertop, or even on the tables. A good kiosk vendor will evaluate the layout of your establishment and suggest the best locations for installation. Next, the devices will be mounted and powered up for immediate use.

The final step of setting up a self service kiosk in your restaurant is a thorough staff training. All employees should participate in a hands-on tutorial with individual user manuals and troubleshooting guides. They should finish the training confident to assist customers and resolve common issues associated with kiosk usage.

Ready to revolutionize your restaurant's efficiency with a cutting-edge kiosk solution? Book time with Otter's sales team to chat about our  innovative kiosk system and take your customer experience to the next level.

What is the cost of installing self-service kiosks in a restaurant?

Installing a self-service kiosk can range from $1,200 for a basic, single-unit setup to $20,000 or more for advanced, multi-unit systems. While the initial investment may seem substantial, with increased efficiency, higher customer spending, and reduced labor costs, many restaurants find that the devices quickly pay for themselves.

Yes! During busy times, you have the option to turn your Otter POS terminal into a self-service kiosk. This could be ideal if you’re short on staff and want to cut down customer wait time.

Can a restaurant kiosk integrate with my existing POS system?

Most restaurant kiosks have the capability of integrating with your existing POS system, like Otter’s cutting-edge kiosk solution.

What maintenance and support do self-service kiosks require?

Self-service kiosks run quite smoothly with just a bit of upkeep, such as: 

Regular cleaning of the exterior with a microfiber cloth, including touchscreens 

Hardware checks in case components need to be replaced or connections tightened

Run software updates and security patches when prompted

Periodic security checks and password resets

What are the benefits of having a self-service kiosk?

There are many benefits of having a self-serve kiosk system, all of which combine to bolster the overall restaurant experience for both customers and staff. By installing kiosks, you can expect:

Enhanced customer control and satisfaction

Ready to streamline your fast casual or quick service restaurant with a self-service kiosk? Contact Otter today to schedule your free demo. 

What do restaurants think of the Otter Kiosk system?

Restaurants of all sizes are switching to Otter Kiosk for its reliability, modern design, and intuitive interface that customers love. Reda Iabbakh, owner of IDK Philly, says “Otter allows us to manage everything from one system—we can do menu and pricing updates, online ordering management, in-store order entry through the POS, Kiosk ordering. All from Otter.” One of his favorite features is Otter’s streamlined menu editing, which lets him make updates across all channels in seconds. 

Flavor District’s David Foye loves how “Otter Kiosks cut down the confusion from the beginning to the end with the customers. Before we were using QR codes and asking them to use their phones. Now they see the big vibrant beautiful photos, it helps with upselling. It cuts down on ordering time.”

Otter's cutting-edge self-ordering kiosks are designed to transform your restaurant into a streamlined, customer-centric operation. By integrating intuitive technology with powerful functionality, we help restaurant owners deliver faster service, reduce costs, and enhance the dining experience.

Ready to elevate your restaurant's operations? Schedule a demo with our sales team.

Fast food is all about speed, efficiency, and convenience—and self-ordering kiosks are redefining what that means. From shorter wait times and personalized orders to streamlined operations for restaurant staff, kiosks are proving to be a game-changer for both customers and businesses alike. In this latest article, dive into the future of kiosks in fast food and explore why they’ve become a must-have for modern QSRs!

Why kiosks in fast food restaurants are here to stay

If you’ve stepped into McDonald’s or Burger King in the last year, you’ve likely bumped into an oversized smartphone-looking object, complete with a digital menu, a credit card reader, and high-quality images of mouthwatering bites. This modern piece of technology is known by many names, but most commonly called a self-service digital ordering kiosk – and it’s transforming the fast food restaurant industry at lightning speed.

In this post, we’re going to sink our teeth into kiosk technology, providing valuable insights into the benefits, challenges, and predicted innovations, empowering you, as a restaurateur, to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving industry.

Kiosks in fast food restaurants: From small businesses to franchisees

In 2017, McDonald’s introduced a new, futuristic initiative to the world. Their ‘Experience the Future’ campaign successfully utilized technology to enhance the customer service experience. Within two years, over 3,000 McDonald's locations were equipped with digital ordering kiosks that allowed hungry customers to order and pay digitally whether they chose to order inside or from their cars. Other fast food chains quickly followed suit according to Datos Insights, and by 2023, 43% of establishments worldwide had installed around 350,000 kiosks, resulting in reduced wait times, increased efficiency, and happy eaters.

That number is expected to double by 2028. Why? Well, regardless of whether you’re running a franchise like Subway or a small, independent quick order diner, restaurant kiosks have shown an unstoppable ability to streamline operations, reduce labor costs, and increase sales through upselling. Their widespread adoption across all restaurant types reflects a significant shift in the QSR industry from humanized interactions to digital ordering systems.

Benefits of kiosks for both businesses and customers

The benefits of introducing digital ordering kiosks to your business are abundant. Here are just a handful of perks you can expect by incorporating the platform into your own establishment.

Increased order accuracy and reduced errors

You know how sometimes when you go to Starbucks or a coffee chain, an unrecognizable name is written on your to-go coffee? You’re left wondering how the barista got the name “Jeffrey” out of “John”. Self-service kiosks enable customers to input information themselves, reducing the likelihood of miscommunication or data entry mistakes that can occur with human interaction. This leads to higher accuracy in orders, which is crucial for maintaining customer satisfaction and eliminating confusion and order errors.

Kiosks streamline the order management, allowing multiple people to place orders simultaneously without waiting in line for a cashier. Service is therefore accelerated, wait times reduced, and businesses can serve more hungry customers during peak hours.

By automating routine tasks such as order-taking and payments, kiosks free up staff to focus on more complex or customer-centric activities. This can lead to significant savings in labor costs, as businesses can instead allocate workers more efficiently and make the most of their resources and staff time.

Data collection for better insights and customer loyalty

This is your chance to use tech to learn more about the things your customers like and don’t like. With a kiosk, you can collect valuable data on their behavior and preferences to use for analytics, marketing strategies, and improving the overall customer experience. This data - such as their frequently ordered items and preferences - will not only help you make informed decisions about products and services, it will also enhance customer loyalty and give you tips on how to personalize their visits.

Upselling and cross-selling opportunities

Is there a side soup that goes well with that chicken sandwich? What about a new dessert you’d love your customers to try? Instead of relying on staff who might get too distracted or impatient to upsell, add a prompt to your restaurant’s kiosk system. By adding additional product recommendations or visually appealing promotions, you’ll increase your opportunities for upselling and cross-selling, leading to higher sales and revenue.

Otter Kiosk customer and fast food restaurant, IDK Philly, has experienced higher sales per customer since using these self-serve kiosks. Owner Reda states “When our customers use the kiosk, they keep adding, adding, and adding, to their orders. In my mind, I feel like they don't have anybody judging them on what they're getting so they just add more on their own and it bumps the sales up. We’ve seen a lot of upselling with the Otter kiosks for sure.”, more here.

It’s become clear that many customers prefer kiosks to humans as they’re faster and more convenient, matching the pace of our society in many places today. It’s easy to order, wait times are reduced, and people have more control over what, and how, they buy.

With so many customers coming in and out each day, it can be challenging for staff to remember each and every name. With an automated kiosk system, names and customer preferences are saved, making the experience more personalized. Customers will see targeted recommendations and tailored content, therefore enhancing engagement and heightening satisfaction.

Kiosks give customers the option to review an order before submission, ensuring that all information is correct and everything they want is listed. This makes the tickets sent straight to the kitchen accurate and avoids order errors.

In a world that’s increasingly more virtual, customers appreciate the ability to interact and engage with multimedia content that includes high-quality visuals, interactive maps, product catalogs, and promotions. Not only will these experiences enhance satisfaction, they’ll encourage customers to return again and again.

Flavor District, a virtual food hall in North Carolina, is a prime example of how businesses can thrive by adopting self-service kiosks to improve the user experience. Instead of a traditional sit-down concept, owner David Foye and General Manager Travis Elias opted for a take-out only model for their 11 food vendors, leveraging Otter Kiosks to enhance their customer and vendor experience. 

The benefits were quickly obvious, including:

Visual appeal for higher sales: Foye noticed that "vendors that don't have photos don't have as many sales." By including high-quality food photography, they can guarantee a more profitable experience for their vendors.

Ease for everyone: The intuitive interface of Otter Kiosks has improved both customer and staff experiences. By streamlining operations, the self-ordering kiosks cut down on confusion and sped up the ordering process. Elias and Foye have found this to be particularly valuable for older customers who may struggle with QR codes and mobile ordering.

Community impact: By providing a platform for local, independent food vendors to thrive in the digital age, Flavor District has both adapted to changes in the quick service restaurant industry and contributed to community growth and entrepreneurism.

When the experts at Otter first began designing our intuitive, affordable, and easy-to-use kiosk system, it was critical to recognize challenges and find a way to overcome them. We studied the setbacks many customers experienced when fast food ordering kiosks were first introduced to the masses, including:

Technical issues: Retailers had trouble implementing the new software across their store networks. 

Cost of installation: The cost of purchasing and installing a QSR kiosk can range from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on the complexity and features of the kiosk. This is nothing in comparison to the ROI, which Otter has brought tangible value to restaurants:

+ 60% kiosk order value vs. to counter service

+ 39% average kiosk order value 5 months post-deployment

Training staff on new technology: Employees need to be trained on how to use, maintain, and troubleshoot kiosks, an act that once felt time-consuming. Otter designed its system to be incredibly easy-to-use and, as a result, is well-loved by staff. Marlon Medina, owner of Jose Chiquito, points out, "Otter gives me the capacity to focus on myself and on solutions. It’s easy, it’s affordable, it’s convenient.”

Customer adaptation and resistance: Some customers, especially less tech-savvy individuals, felt a resistance to using kiosks initially. Otter wanted to be sure kiosks were accessible for all by including features like larger font options, user-friendly interface, higher contrast for visibility, and more.

Through improved design, user-friendly interfaces, and enhanced accessibility features, Otter has addressed these complications. We’ve specifically created our kiosks to be user-friendly for both customers and staff. As your business grows, so do we, and our systems are developed to adapt with your expansion. 

Innovations driving the future of fast food kiosks

The latest innovations in fast food ordering kiosk technology are quickly transforming the way customers interact when they dine. The future of kiosks is guaranteed to improve both the customer experience and operational efficiency. Here are some of the most exciting developments:

Kiosks are beginning to integrate AI algorithms that analyze customer preferences, past orders, and dietary restrictions to provide customized recommendations. For instance, if a customer frequently orders vegetarian items, the kiosk can prioritize these options or suggest appropriate add-ons. 

Contactless payment technologies make transactions faster and more convenient. Kiosks are being designed to accept credit/debit cards, smartphones, smartwatches, and digital wallets. 

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