The global food service market reached a significant value of US$ 2.721,5 billion in 2022, with optimistic projections for the coming years. According to the research "Food Service Market Trends" by Market Research Future, it is expected that this segment will reach the mark of US$ 7.249,067 billion by 2032 (that is, value close to R$ 35 billion, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11,50%
Among the main drivers, the changes in food tastes and preferences stand out, with a growing demand for ready-to-eat foods. Furthermore, the search for more innovative and personalized meal alternatives has driven the sector. In light of this scenario, investment in technology is essential to keep up with changes in consumer behavior, especially in the current context, where delivery and apps have played a significant role
However, according to Carlos Drechmer, CEO of ACOM Systems, technology company for management in food service businesses, many establishments still face challenges in transitioning to the digital environment, resulting in financial losses and operational inefficiency
"The transition to a paperless environment", the paperless, it is an essential step for the modernization of the sector. Although many resist change, the adoption of digital technologies can bring significant benefits, as greater operational efficiency and a better customer experience
One example is the use of technology in fulfilling tax and business commitments, in which many documents have delivery deadlines and require storage. Or still, the use of omnichannel platforms, that integrate different communication and sales channels. This approach not only improves the customer experience, but also optimizes internal processes. "Serving the customer in a more personalized way and integrating different means of contact helps in the operation and leads to loyalty", explain Francisco Gioielli, CEO of Atena.eat, company specialized in automation
Regarding the stocks, paperless is essential both to avoid waste and to ensure conscious consumption. After all, keeping stocks organized and updated is synonymous with saving time and money. "With the inventory digitized and with real-time information", it is possible to avoid unnecessary purchases, eliminate the depreciation of unused inputs and increase, even, market competitiveness, "since it is possible to negotiate prices with suppliers as one knows the actual demand of their establishment", Drechmer score
Food Service Paperless: how to take the first step
First of all, it is necessary for food service establishment owners to keep in mind that "one cannot take a step larger than one's leg", as the saying goes. "In other words", it is a gradual process, and will require investments in good technologies. Moreover, a frank communication with the different generations of professionals will also be necessary, once that, the younger, greater inclination towards the technological world, comment Gioelli
In the beginning, online forms will help replace printed ones and will provide an alternative for data entry. These must also be kept up to date, and still comply with the General Data Protection Law (LGPD). For this to happen and for the next step, what is the analysis of this data, a management system is necessary
Drechmer states that one of the main challenges in the sector today is, yet, the resistance to digital. For him, it is essential to embrace a new cultural change. This includes involving employees in all phases of the digital transformation process, providing effective training and ongoing support. Furthermore, it is essential to highlight the benefits of the paperless system, as the largest cost reduction, reduction of rework, environmental sustainability and optimize the operation
A new feature that will be launched soon by ACOM reinforces the company's commitment to increasingly expand the digital medium. The new solution focuses on, support in controlling business movements, take care of the sales process and also, monitor operational expenses. In the end, this reflects in a faster and more strategic analysis of the business, through tools like the DRE – Statement of Income for the Year. The solution in question is already in the testing phase with some clients
"Our goal is to facilitate the analysis of a company's strengths and weaknesses", that can benefit the restaurant both in management and in results. We want the customer to win, be it in agility, whether increasing the number of clients or optimizing the workforce, that is already scarce. The purpose is for him to become more competitive and always ensure more satisfactory results in the end, highlights the CEO of ACOM
