Introduction
Fast casual restaurants run on speed. Guests want quality food, served quickly, without the wait times of traditional dining. But long lines, slow checkouts, and bottlenecks at the counter can frustrate guests and cost sales.
That’s why handheld POS systems are becoming a go-to solution for fast casual operators. These portable devices help staff take orders anywhere—at the line, at the table, or even curbside—and process payments instantly.
Let’s explore why fast casual brands are making the switch, what features matter most, and how Applova handheld POS can give your team an edge.
What Fast Casual Operators Need in a POS
Unlike full-service restaurants, fast casuals deal with:
- High transaction volume in short windows (think lunch rush).
- Limited staffing—many run lean to protect margins.
- Guests who expect fast ordering and quick exits.
That means your POS must:
- Bust lines before they reach the counter.
- Handle mobile orders and in-store orders seamlessly.
Be easy for new staff to learn quickly.
The Challenge: High Volume, Limited Staff
Here’s a scenario every fast casual operator knows:
- It’s noon. The line is out the door.
- Guests hesitate because the wait looks long.
- Staff behind the counter scramble while front-of-house struggles to keep up.
Every guest who walks away equals lost revenue. Handheld POS helps keep the line moving—and the revenue flowing.
How Handheld POS Solves the Bottleneck
Line Busting
Staff armed with handhelds can take orders from guests waiting in line. By the time the guest reaches the counter, their order is already in the system—ready to pick up.
Faster Payments
Guests can tap, swipe, or use mobile wallets without waiting for the main POS station. That keeps traffic moving during peak times.
Flexibility Beyond the Counter
Patio seating? Pop-up events? Curbside pickup? A handheld POS goes wherever service happens.
Features Fast Casual Operators Care About Most
- Speed: Instant order-to-kitchen transmission for faster prep.
- KDS Sync: Orders route straight to kitchen/bar screens.
- Durability: Drop-resistant and spill-proof for busy environments.
- Connectivity: Works offline when Wi-Fi drops.
Case Examples
- Pizzeria: Servers take handhelds down the line to capture topping choices before guests hit the register. Cuts wait time by 30%.
- Poke Shop: Staff float with handhelds to take orders from guests still deciding at the menu board—reducing lost walkaways.
- Café: During morning rush, baristas use handhelds to grab coffee orders while guests wait, keeping the line flowing.
Applova Handheld POS for Fast Casual Chains
Applova’s solution is built for operators who juggle volume, staff limits, and guest expectations:
- Connects seamlessly to Applova kiosks, KDS, and mobile apps for an omnichannel approach.
- Supports multi-location reporting, so operators can manage performance across stores.
- Backed by one-call-away support—so you’re never stuck during peak hours.
FAQ
Is handheld POS only for large fast casual chains?
No—independent fast casual spots benefit just as much. It scales from one device to many.
Can handhelds work with self-serve kiosks?
Yes—Applova handheld POS integrates with Applova’s kiosks and Applova’s mobile ordering for a complete setup.
How fast can my team learn?
Most staff are up and running in a single shift. If you can use a smartphone, you can use a handheld POS.
The Fast Casual Advantage
Fast casual restaurants succeed or fail on speed and guest experience. A handheld POS system helps bust lines, boost throughput, and keep staff focused on guests instead of terminals.
👉 Want to see how Applova handheld POS powers fast casual success?
Book a demo today and keep your lines moving and your sales climbing.