In Tanzania, the restaurant industry has embraced various types of Point of Sale (POS) systems to streamline operations, manage inventory, and enhance customer experiences. These systems vary in complexity, pricing, and features, but many are designed to cater to the unique needs of Tanzanian restaurants, which may include small independent eateries, large chain restaurants, or fast-food outlets. Here are the main types of POS systems used in Tanzanian restaurants:
1. Cloud-Based POS Systems
Cloud-based POS systems are gaining popularity in Tanzania, especially due to their flexibility and accessibility. These systems allow restaurant owners to access data from any location with internet access. Some notable cloud-based POS systems used in Tanzanian restaurants include:
- Sapaad POS: Sapaad is a widely used cloud-based POS system that offers solutions for restaurants of all sizes. It helps with order management, kitchen display systems (KDS), and integrated online ordering. Sapaad also provides detailed reporting, making it easier for restaurant managers to track sales and performance.
- Slant POS: This is a popular and 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.
- Square POS: While Square is more widely recognized in Western markets, its cloud-based features, including payment processing, inventory management, and reporting, make it an appealing option for some Tanzanian restaurants. Square is particularly user-friendly and adaptable to small and medium-sized enterprises.
- Toast POS: Toast is another cloud-based solution known for its robust features. While it’s more common in larger cities, some high-end restaurants in Tanzania opt for Toast because of its advanced analytics, customization options, and ease of use in both front-of-house and back-of-house operations.
2. On-Premise POS Systems
On-premise POS systems are locally installed systems that store data on-site rather than in the cloud. These systems are more suitable for larger restaurants that require a high level of control over their data and operations. Some common on-premise POS systems in Tanzania include:
- Micros POS (Oracle): This system is widely used in restaurants, hotels, and other hospitality businesses. Oracle’s Micros POS offers an array of features, including table management, inventory control, and multi-language support, making it a suitable option for larger, more established restaurants in Tanzania.
- POSitouch: POSitouch is known for its flexibility and ability to cater to both small and large restaurants. This system can be customized according to the specific needs of a restaurant, whether it’s a fine-dining establishment or a quick-service restaurant.
- Aloha POS (NCR): Aloha POS is a globally recognized system that has also made its way to some restaurants in Tanzania. It is particularly popular in multi-location chains due to its centralized control features and real-time data reporting capabilities.
3. Mobile POS Systems
Mobile POS systems allow restaurants to process orders and payments using mobile devices like smartphones or tablets. These systems are ideal for smaller restaurants, cafés, and food trucks. Some of the mobile POS systems used in Tanzanian restaurants include:
- Lightspeed POS: Lightspeed is popular among small and medium-sized restaurants, cafés, and bars in Tanzania. Its mobile functionality, ease of use, and ability to integrate with other business systems make it an appealing choice for restaurant owners looking for flexibility.
- Vend POS: Vend is a mobile-friendly POS system that allows restaurant staff to take orders and process payments directly at the table. Vend’s simplicity and mobile capabilities make it suitable for small and independent restaurants in Tanzania that are looking to enhance customer experience.
4. Custom POS Solutions
Some Tanzanian restaurants, particularly those part of large chains or high-end dining establishments, opt for custom POS solutions tailored to their specific needs. These custom systems can include features like multi-language support (for Swahili and English), tax calculation based on local laws, and integration with delivery platforms or third-party services.
Local companies and tech startups sometimes develop custom POS systems tailored for the Tanzanian market, helping restaurants address specific business challenges. These systems are often integrated with mobile money services like M-Pesa, Airtel Money, and Tigo Pesa, which are widely used in Tanzania for transactions.
5. Integrated POS Systems
Many Tanzanian restaurants use POS systems that integrate seamlessly with other restaurant management tools like accounting software, payroll systems, and inventory management platforms. Integrated systems provide restaurant owners with a holistic view of their business operations, making it easier to manage day-to-day tasks. Some popular integrated POS systems include:
- Xero POS: Xero is an accounting software that can be integrated with several POS systems. In Tanzania, it’s used by restaurants that require comprehensive financial management features along with their POS system.
- QuickBooks POS: Many restaurants in Tanzania use QuickBooks for accounting, and QuickBooks POS can be a useful extension. It allows restaurant owners to streamline financial operations, manage payroll, and track expenses efficiently.
6. POS Systems with Mobile Money Integration
Given the widespread use of mobile money in Tanzania, POS systems that can process mobile money transactions are highly preferred by restaurants. Integration with services like M-Pesa, Airtel Money, and Tigo Pesa is crucial for restaurants that cater to a broad clientele. POS systems with mobile money integration include:
- Zoop POS: Zoop is a Tanzanian-made POS system that integrates mobile money payments seamlessly. This makes it easier for restaurant owners to process payments without the need for card readers or cash. Zoop also supports features like inventory management, sales tracking, and employee management.
- EzyPOS: EzyPOS is another locally developed system in Tanzania that integrates mobile money payment options. It allows restaurants to accept payments via mobile wallets and generate detailed transaction reports.
7. Free or Open-Source POS Systems
In some small or newly established restaurants in Tanzania, cost can be a major concern. As a result, some businesses turn to free or open-source POS systems, which provide basic functionalities without the hefty costs. These systems can be customized according to the needs of the restaurant. Popular options include:
- Floreant POS: This open-source POS system is used by smaller restaurants in Tanzania that are looking for a low-cost solution. It provides basic features like order management, inventory control, and customer data management.
- Odoo POS: Odoo is an open-source business management software that includes a POS module. It’s used by some small and medium-sized restaurants in Tanzania. Odoo POS can be customized and integrated with the broader Odoo ERP system, making it a flexible choice for businesses that want more control over their operations.
8. Specialized POS for Fast-Food Chains
Fast-food chains in Tanzania, such as KFC and local brands, often use specialized POS systems that cater to high-speed, high-volume transactions. These systems typically include features like quick order processing, drive-thru support, and kitchen display systems. Some of the POS systems used by fast-food restaurants in Tanzania include:
- Revel Systems POS: Revel is a cloud-based POS system used by fast-food chains in Tanzania. It offers fast order processing, real-time reporting, and the ability to handle both in-store and online orders.
- ChowNow POS: ChowNow is specifically designed for fast-food restaurants and delivery services. It’s used by some local fast-food outlets in Tanzania that prioritize efficient order management and delivery.
9. POS Systems with Delivery and Online Ordering Integration
With the growing popularity of online food delivery services in Tanzania, some restaurants are adopting POS systems that integrate directly with delivery platforms. This helps restaurants streamline online orders and deliveries. These systems include:
- GloriaFood POS: This POS system is specifically designed for restaurants that rely heavily on online orders and deliveries. GloriaFood integrates online ordering features directly into the POS system, making it easier for restaurants in Tanzania to manage both in-house and delivery orders.
- Loyverse POS: Loyverse is another system that supports delivery and online ordering. It’s popular among smaller restaurants and cafés in Tanzania due to its simplicity, affordability, and integration with delivery services.
Conclusion
In Tanzania, the types of POS systems used in restaurants range from cloud-based solutions to locally developed systems tailored to the market’s needs. Many restaurants are turning to systems that integrate with mobile money services, given the popularity of mobile payments in the country. Cloud-based systems like Sapaad and Toast, mobile POS systems like Lightspeed, and locally developed solutions like Zoop are among the preferred options. Additionally, integration with delivery platforms and mobile money services is becoming increasingly important for restaurant owners looking to stay competitive in the Tanzanian food service industry.