#digital ordering

I think I am 1 of only 7 people in the world who actually likes the Filet-O-Fish sandwich from McDonald’s. That said, I rarely go, maybe only after a fancy small plate dinner. You know, the kind where you leave starving and you’re desperately searching for a burger on the way home just so you can go to sleep full.

I have, however, been noticing the introduction of their digital ordering kiosks, which are part of the McDonald’s Experience of the Future strategy. The plan is to replace human cashiers in at least 2,500 U.S. locations by the end of this year and in another 3,000 locations by the end of 2018. By 2020, the majority of U.S. locations should have “EOTF” in place.

Because of this, analysts are raising their price targets for McDonald’s. They are also attributing its surging stock price to these new operational efficiencies. MCD is up about 26% YTD. And you can bet the ROI math on these kiosks only looks better if/when minimum wages increase.

This isn’t necessarily groundbreaking news, but if you’d like to dig into some of the math behind why customer-facing fast food workers are clearly going to become a thing of the past, you can do that here.

I did want to single out one stat that I came across when researching how I will be experiencing Filet-O-Fish sandwiches in the future. 

More than 70% of all McDonald’s sales in the U.S. happens via drive-thru. This stood out to me as being an extraordinary number, not because I don’t believe it, but because it very clearly speaks to urban-suburban form. It is saying that more than 70% of sales are happening in geographies where it’s actually feasible to have a drive-thru window.

Food Truck Market is rapidly evolving as technology adoption and digital ordering platforms reshape the mobile food service landscape in the United States. U.S. Food Truck Market in terms of services recorded a revenue of USD 1,683 million in 2024 and is estimated to reach a value of USD 4,670 million by 2033 with a CAGR of 11.2% during the forecast period. Food trucks are no longer just street-side vendors; they are becoming tech-enabled food service businesses that leverage digital tools for customer engagement, order management, and business expansion. The integration of mobile apps, online ordering systems, and social media marketing is significantly enhancing operational efficiency and customer reach.

Technology adoption is one of the most important drivers of the Food Truck industry. Operators are increasingly using mobile ordering apps, QR-based menus, and digital payment systems to streamline transactions and reduce waiting time for customers. GPS tracking and location-based marketing allow food trucks to inform customers about real-time locations and operating hours. This level of digital integration has improved customer convenience and allowed food truck businesses to build stronger brand recognition in competitive urban markets. Social media platforms such as Instagram and TikTok also play a key role in driving customer engagement and promoting daily specials.

The growing demand for contactless dining and digital payments has further accelerated technology adoption in the sector. Consumers increasingly prefer cashless transactions, and food truck operators are responding by integrating advanced POS systems and mobile wallets. This shift has improved transaction speed, reduced operational inefficiencies, and enhanced overall customer satisfaction. Additionally, data analytics tools are being used to analyze customer preferences, optimize menus, and improve route planning for maximum profitability.

U.S. Food Truck Market is benefiting from rising investments in digital food service technologies, mobile ordering systems, and cloud-based restaurant management platforms across the country. Increasing demand for fast, convenient, and personalized dining experiences is encouraging food truck operators to adopt innovative digital solutions. The expansion of food delivery platforms and third-party aggregators is also creating new revenue streams for mobile food vendors. Integration with online delivery services is enabling food trucks to reach a wider customer base beyond physical locations.

Despite technological advancements, challenges remain including high implementation costs for small operators, cybersecurity risks, and dependency on internet connectivity. Smaller food truck businesses may struggle to adopt advanced digital systems due to budget constraints. Additionally, maintaining consistent service quality while managing digital and physical operations can be complex. However, continuous innovation in affordable POS systems, cloud-based tools, and mobile apps is helping bridge this gap and improve accessibility for small operators.

The Fast Food Market is being shaped by several key trends that are redefining the industry. With a projected CAGR of 4.0%, the market is expected to grow steadily through 2033.

According to the U.S. fast food market, the market is driven by evolving consumer preferences and technological advancements.

One major trend is the increasing demand for healthier fast food options. Consumers are looking for nutritious meals that fit into their busy lifestyles.

Another trend is the rise of plant-based and vegan menu items. Fast food chains are introducing innovative products to cater to this growing segment.

The Fast Food Market trends also highlight the importance of digital transformation. Online ordering, mobile apps, and contactless payments are becoming standard features.

Additionally, sustainability is gaining importance, with companies focusing on eco-friendly packaging and responsible sourcing.

Chipotle’s 4,000th restaurant, located in Manhattan, Kansas, features the brand’s signature Chipotlane and new High-Efficiency Equipment Package. Chipotle Mexican Grill just hit a major growth marker: the company has opened its 4,000th restaurant, and the milestone location is in Manhattan, Kansas—known locally as the “Little Apple.” The Dec. 12, 2025 announcement isn’t just a victory lap. It’s…

In the fast-paced world of food and beverage service, efficiency and customer satisfaction are paramount. Singapore's quick-service restaurants (QSRs) are increasingly turning to digital solutions to streamline operations and enhance the dining experience. One such solution is the QR Code Ordering System, a tool that allows customers to place orders directly from their smartphones by scanning a QR code at their table.

Understanding QR Code Ordering Systems

A QR Code Ordering System enables diners to access a digital menu by scanning a QR code displayed on their table or at the counter. This system facilitates contactless ordering and payment, reducing wait times and minimizing physical contact—a crucial factor in today's health-conscious environment.

These systems often integrate with existing Point of Sale (POS) systems, allowing for seamless order processing and inventory management. Features may include real-time menu updates, customizable options, and the ability to track order status, all accessible through the customer's smartphone browser no app download required.

Benefits for Restaurants

Implementing a QR Code Ordering System offers several advantages:

Enhanced Efficiency: Automates the ordering process, reducing the need for waitstaff to take orders manually.

Improved Accuracy: Direct input from customers minimizes errors in order taking.

Increased Revenue: Features like upselling prompts and personalized recommendations can boost average order value.

Cost Savings: Reduces the need for printed menus and lowers labor costs.

Customer Satisfaction: Offers a modern, convenient, and hygienic dining experience, appealing to tech-savvy patrons.

Government Support for SMEs

Recognizing the benefits of digital transformation, the Singapore government offers the Productivity Solutions Grant (PSG) to support Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in adopting IT solutions like QR Code Ordering Systems. Through the PSG, eligible businesses can receive up to 50% funding support for the implementation of pre-approved digital solutions.

Warely Digital Ordering is one such IMDA pre-approved solution, enabling Singapore SMEs to tap into this grant support. By adopting Warely's QR Ordering System, restaurants can modernize their operations while benefiting from government subsidies, making the transition to digital ordering more affordable and accessible.

Conclusion