Cateys 2012: Best Use of Technology – PizzaExpress
Sponsored by Fourth Hospitality
PizzaExpress is a restaurant considered at the cutting edge of restaurant technology, but it has really led the industry with the launch of its innovative in-restaurant mobile payment system.
The app allows those looking to pay to do it instantly using PayPal. It links with the till system in real time, enabling customers to pay securely and leave when they want to. And the waiting staff don't miss out, either, as a tip option is included.
But not only does the app speed up payment, it also allows customers to find and book a restaurant table, view menus and special offer codes and receipts, all using their iPhone.
The return already bears out the firm's investment. In its first week the app reached 100,000 downloads, against a target of 200,000 in the first four months. Furthermore, some £10,000 in payments were made in the first week, which grew to £100,000 in the first month.
The judges were particularly impressed in the whole solution offered by PizzaExpress. It launched the app and co-ordinated the introduction of a customer Wi-Fi solution via The Cloud to accompany it, ensuring guests were able to use it in 400 of its sites. PizzaExpress also installed new electric point of sale technology, enabling a seamless transaction to the new payment system.
Without spending any money on development or marketing, PizzaExpress created an app that adds value to the customer experience. It currently takes over 5,000 bookings a week through the app which, with a average party of four, accounts for 20,000 customers.
WHAT THE JUDGES SAID
"The PizzaExpress app was exactly the kind of technology application we were looking for. It was a ground-breaker, worked seamlessly, exceeded the expectations of the winner and made sound financial sense."
Clive Holland, Sugarvine
"The innovative way PizzaExpress captured the value of QR codes, making payment for their customers a more slick and satisfying dining experience, demonstrates exactly the intent of the Catey for Best Use of Technology. Well presented and well deserved."
Diana Spellman, Partners In Purchasing
Shortlisted
â-The Brookwood Partnershipâ-PizzaExpressâ-Talkington Bates
The Judges
Duncan Cressall, regional director, UPP Residential Services
Clive Holland, managing director, Sugarvine
Stephen Minall, director, Moving Food
Diana Spellman, managing director, Partners in Purchasing
