Insight
February 5, 2025
National insurance hikes propel hospitality towards digital automation
by
Cloudline
As the hospitality industry grapples with the rising tide of national insurance hikes, businesses are re-evaluating their operational models. Faced with increasing costs, many operators have made the difficult decision to reduce headcounts to protect their bottom line. But necessity has sparked innovation, and the sector is turning towards digital automation to maintain service levels without increasing expenses.
A shift in strategy
The financial strain has forced businesses to rethink how they can achieve the same output with fewer team members. Automation, once viewed as a luxury or supplementary tool, has now become a necessity. By automating previously manual touchpoints, hospitality businesses are discovering ways to do more with less.
Front-of-house operations, food and beverage (F&B) ordering, and payment processes (traditionally reliant on human interaction) are being reimagined through the lens of technology. Solutions such as mobile order-and-pay platforms, automated booking systems, and real-time updates on availability have become the new standard for efficiency and customer satisfaction.
Why automation works
At Cloudline, we’ve seen first-hand how automation transforms businesses. For instance, our Order & Pay platform streamlines the entire customer journey, enabling guests to order from anywhere at their convenience. With tools that boost revenue by up to 21.6%, our technology is helping businesses thrive despite economic pressures.
Here’s how digital automation is making a difference:
- Maximising efficiency: Automation reduces wait times and eases backlogs during peak hours. Tools like our Kitchen Display System (KDS) optimises task prioritisation and ensures smooth workflows.
- Improving customer experience: Guests enjoy stress-free dining with real-time updates on wait times, menu availability, and dietary options. These small changes dramatically enhance satisfaction and loyalty.
- Data-driven growth: Automation captures invaluable insights, allowing businesses to make informed decisions about staffing, menu changes, and marketing strategies.
Cost control without compromise
Automating touchpoints reduces reliance on large staff teams whilst maintaining, or even enhancing, the quality of service. This is particularly evident in F&B settings where digital upselling, contactless payments, and mobile menu browsing increase the average spend per customer. Additionally, eco-friendly, paperless systems eliminate waste, further reducing operational costs and aligning with sustainable practices - a win-win for the environment and your budget.
Embracing the future
As automation fills the gaps left by reduced headcount, it’s clear that technology is more than just a temporary fix; it’s the future of hospitality. It provides the agility needed to adapt to economic challenges while delivering memorable experiences for customers. At Cloudline, we empower businesses to embrace this future with easy-to-integrate solutions that go live in as little as one day. Whether it’s automating F&B operations or creating bespoke visitor journeys, our platform is designed to help you work smarter, not harder. The hospitality industry is resilient, and its shift toward automation demonstrates an unwavering commitment to innovation. While national insurance hikes may have presented a challenge, they’ve also created an opportunity to rethink, reshape, and redefine how we deliver excellence in every guest interaction.
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