Consumers across Scotland are calling on hospitality venues to utilise technology to reduce their environmental footprint, with 46% admitting they think it’s important for businesses in the sector to adopt more technology to reduce energy usage.
The nationwide study of more than 2,000 consumers, which was commissioned by Edinburgh-based tech startup, ePOS Hybrid, also revealed 25% of Scottish consumers are excited about more energy-efficient/sustainable dining environments, echoing the need for venues to be utilising technologies like IoT (Internet of Things) to reduce their carbon footprint. IoT is a network of internet-connected physical devices with the ability to collect and transfer data over a wireless network.
The survey also revealed consumers across Scotland would like to see this technology help improve safety, drive greater efficiency and advance connectivity within venues. In fact, 46% admitted they would feel safer if venues implemented more technology into security checks such as facial recognition, detecting suspicious behaviours and managing crowds effectively. Whilst 47% prefer contactless ordering and would like businesses across the industry to continue adopting this, 37% would like to see more venues leaning into technology to improve efficiency and deliver a more seamless experience.
Andrew Gibbon, head of growth at ePOS Hybrid, commented: “It’s becoming increasingly important for businesses to reduce their environmental footprint as consumers become more purpose-driven and opt to buy from operators who align with their personal values from a sustainability standpoint.
“Not only has IoT been incredibly beneficial in enabling businesses across the hospitality sector to create more sustainable dining environments by reducing their energy usage, but we’ve also seen some venues adopt this technology to create safer spaces for their patrons. The benefits of this technology really are endless, also presenting the opportunity to improve overall operations due to greater connectivity, in turn enhancing the guest experience.”
Andrew concludes: “As this technology has developed significantly in recent years, it really is paving the way for businesses across the hospitality sector to make considerable improvements while working towards the Government’s net-zero target of reducing emissions by 80% by 2050.”
For more information about ePOS Hybrid and to download the full ‘restaurants and bars of the future’ report, visit https://www.eposhybrid.com/restaurant-of-the-future.