Self-Order Kiosk

Self-order kiosks: what the data shows

Self-order kiosks (think McDonald's touch screens) are no longer the preserve of big chains. In fast-casual and takeaway formats, they free staff for hospitality and kill queues during peak service.

Real statistics

• McDonald's reported a ~30% rise in average ticket after introducing kiosks (Kiosk Industry Association, 2024).
• Shake Shack's CFO stated on an earnings call that kiosk checks run higher than other in-store channels by "a high teens percentage", and by 2024 kiosks became the chain's largest and most profitable ordering channel (QSR Magazine).
• Chains like Taco Bell, McDonald's and Chili's routinely report kiosk orders about 20% larger than counter orders.

When it makes sense

Kiosks tend to pay back in formats with high-volume repeat orders (burger joints, pizza, bowls, heavy takeaway) and regular peak queues. Traditional full-service and fine dining rarely see a benefit.

Recommended hardware

• 15 to 22-inch tablet on a floor stand (gooseneck or pedestal).
• Thermal receipt printer integrated (optional).
• Contactless card + Apple Pay reader: SumUp Solo or Stripe Reader.
• Reliable Wi-Fi: Chef7 Kiosk runs entirely in a browser — no app install required.

Illustrative example: a busy fast-casual burger concept

Imagine a 38-seat burger joint with lunchtime queues stretching to 15 minutes. Deploying 2 kiosks typically produces a higher average ticket (guests add cheese, bacon, larger sides), shorter peak queues, and floor staff freed up for greeting and quality control.

Chef7 integration

Orders from the kiosk flow directly into the Kitchen Display. Stock deducts automatically. Kiosk, floor and delivery orders share the same queue — one unified system.

Sources: Kiosk Industry Association (2024) · QSR Magazine (2024).