In Germany, Europe’s largest economy with a population of roughly 84 million people, the Point of Sale (POS) systems used in restaurants vary greatly depending on the size, scale, and type of establishment. These systems not only handle basic cash register functions but also integrate complex features like inventory management, employee scheduling, reporting, and even table reservation. Here are the types of POS systems commonly used in German restaurants:
1. Traditional POS Systems
Traditional POS systems in Germany are hardware-based, often consisting of a central terminal or cash register system. These systems are typically found in larger or more traditional restaurants and have been slowly phased out by newer cloud-based systems. Some key features include:
- Fixed terminals: These systems are often permanently installed at a specific location in the restaurant, usually by the cashier.
- Integrated hardware: Includes card readers, receipt printers, and cash drawers.
- On-premise storage: Data is stored locally, making it necessary to be on-site for accessing reports or making updates.
While still in use, traditional POS systems are becoming less popular in favor of more flexible, cloud-based systems.
2. Cloud-Based POS Systems
Cloud-based POS systems are the most widely adopted by modern restaurants in Germany. These systems operate through the internet, allowing for flexibility, remote access, and easier updates. Some popular cloud-based POS systems include:
- Orderbird: A popular choice in Germany, especially for small and medium-sized restaurants and cafes. Orderbird provides cloud-based POS services with real-time data and reporting, easy integration with online ordering platforms, and mobile capabilities. It is designed to be user-friendly, with options for mobile and tablet-based ordering, which helps streamline operations for smaller establishments.
- Lightspeed: Known for its robust features, Lightspeed is used by a variety of restaurants across Germany. It offers cloud-based solutions with real-time analytics, inventory management, and multi-location management. Restaurants with more than one location benefit from this system as it allows centralized control and data management.
- Slant POS: A new entrant in the restaurant POS software market in Germany, is an affordable cloud-based POS system that offers features like inventory management, menu management, Kitchen Display System (KDS), table management, QR code menu ordering, reporting, loyalty program and promotions.
- Gastrofix (now known as Lightspeed after acquisition): Originally a German company, Gastrofix has a strong presence in the German market and has been known for offering iPad-based POS solutions. It is highly customizable for the restaurant sector and integrates well with accounting systems and other third-party apps.
- Vectron: A major player in the German market, Vectron is designed to cater to both small and large restaurant operations. Its cloud-based offering supports multiple integrations and can handle advanced features like customer loyalty programs and extensive reporting.
Cloud-based POS systems are especially beneficial for restaurant owners who want to manage their business remotely or have several locations.
3. Mobile POS Systems
Mobile POS systems are designed to work on tablets, smartphones, or other handheld devices. These systems are popular in Germany due to their flexibility, especially in small restaurants, cafes, and fast-casual dining spots. They allow waitstaff to take orders and process payments directly at the table, reducing wait times and increasing operational efficiency.
- iZettle by PayPal: iZettle, acquired by PayPal, is popular among smaller restaurants, food trucks, and cafes in Germany. It is an affordable mobile POS system that runs on smartphones and tablets, offering features like card payment processing, inventory tracking, and analytics. It’s easy to set up and integrates with accounting systems.
- SumUp: Another mobile POS solution widely used in Germany, SumUp offers payment processing through mobile devices. It is known for its simplicity and cost-effectiveness, making it ideal for small-scale establishments or restaurants that operate pop-up events.
- Square: Though more common in other parts of the world, Square is gradually gaining traction in Germany for its mobile capabilities and flexibility. It offers an all-in-one mobile POS solution, allowing restaurants to process payments, manage inventory, and access analytics directly from mobile devices.
4. Tablet POS Systems
Tablet POS systems have become increasingly popular in Germany, offering restaurants a more mobile and user-friendly interface. These systems often work on iPads or Android tablets and provide the flexibility of a cloud-based system with the convenience of a mobile interface. Features include:
- TouchBistro: An iPad-based POS system known for its intuitive interface, TouchBistro is popular in the restaurant industry for small and mid-sized establishments. It offers features such as order management, tableside ordering, and reporting. Since it’s designed specifically for restaurants, it integrates well with kitchen display systems and third-party apps for reservations and inventory.
- Revel Systems: Another iPad-based POS, Revel Systems is suitable for high-volume restaurants that need advanced functionality. It provides real-time reporting, integration with kitchen management systems, and employee management tools. It is also scalable, making it an option for both small eateries and larger restaurant chains in Germany.
Tablet-based systems are versatile and can easily be configured to the needs of different types of restaurants, from fine dining to quick service.
5. Self-Ordering Kiosk Systems
Self-ordering kiosks are becoming more common in fast-food chains, casual dining restaurants, and establishments focused on minimizing labor costs. These systems allow customers to order directly from a touchscreen kiosk, reducing the need for waitstaff and improving the efficiency of the ordering process.
- K3S Kiosk System: Used in many quick-service restaurants, especially in busy urban centers, this self-ordering system allows customers to place orders and pay directly via the kiosk. The integration with kitchen display systems ensures that orders are sent directly to the kitchen, streamlining the order process.
- FastPay: Some fast-casual dining establishments in Germany use the FastPay kiosk system for customers to place orders and make payments independently. This POS system helps reduce wait times and increases customer engagement through upselling prompts and personalized recommendations on the kiosk.
Self-ordering kiosks are particularly beneficial for restaurants that want to reduce labor costs and speed up service, especially during peak hours.
6. Hybrid POS Systems
Hybrid POS systems combine the benefits of traditional on-premise systems with cloud-based flexibility. These systems store data locally but can also sync to the cloud, providing a reliable option in case of internet outages.
- EposNow: A hybrid POS system popular in Germany, EposNow provides both cloud-based functionality and local data storage. It is suitable for medium-sized and large restaurants that require advanced features such as loyalty programs, inventory management, and multi-location support. The hybrid model ensures that the system remains functional even during internet outages.
- Laurel POS: A well-known German POS system that offers both local and cloud-based storage options. Laurel POS is used in a variety of restaurants, from fine dining to fast-casual, offering multi-language support, advanced reporting features, and integration with German tax law regulations.
Hybrid systems are favored by restaurants in Germany that want the security of local storage but also desire the flexibility of cloud-based functionality.
7. POS Systems for Compliance with German Fiscal Regulations
Since Germany introduced new fiscalization regulations (Kassensicherungsverordnung) in 2020, all POS systems must be equipped with a technical security system (TSE) to comply with tax laws. The TSE ensures that all transactions are securely recorded and cannot be altered. As a result, many POS providers in Germany have adjusted their systems to include this requirement.
- Lexware POS: A German-based POS system that complies with all fiscal regulations and provides features like inventory management, customer loyalty programs, and TSE integration. Lexware is particularly popular in smaller and medium-sized restaurants.
- Metapack: Another solution adapted to German fiscal requirements, Metapack offers a compliant POS system with integrated TSE support. This system is favored by medium and larger restaurant groups that need a scalable solution.
Restaurants operating in Germany must ensure their POS systems comply with these regulations, or they could face penalties from tax authorities.
8. POS Systems with Multi-Language Support
Given the diverse cultural landscape in Germany, especially in urban centers like Berlin, Hamburg, and Munich, many restaurants cater to international guests and staff. As a result, POS systems with multi-language support are widely used.
- Zettle Pro: Offers multi-language support, which is particularly beneficial in tourist-heavy areas where restaurants serve international clientele. It also supports multi-currency transactions, making it ideal for restaurants near airports or other hubs of international activity.
- Elo POS Systems: Known for their sturdy hardware, Elo POS systems are often used in larger restaurants with multi-language support. They also offer easy integration with digital signage and self-service kiosks, making them popular in quick-service restaurants.
Conclusion
The German restaurant industry utilizes a wide range of POS systems depending on the type, size, and scale of the establishment. Cloud-based POS systems like Orderbird, Lightspeed, and Vectron dominate the market due to their flexibility and integration with modern business operations, including accounting and inventory management. Additionally, mobile and tablet-based systems like SumUp and TouchBistro are favored by smaller and more agile establishments. Compliance with Germany’s fiscal regulations, particularly the Kassensicherungsverordnung, is crucial, and many POS providers offer systems that integrate with the necessary TSE features to ensure legal compliance.
