According to an October 2019 study by the National Restaurant Association, 92% of American consumers visit a drive-thru restaurant at least once a month. Convenience and speed of service are quintessential reasons why so many Americans choose to order food via a drive-thru.
Drive-Thru Communication Systems Promote Speed and Accuracy
Since their debut in the early 1980s, drive-thru communication systems have become a key element in QSR operation. The earliest drive-thrus did not change the basic face-to-face interaction between the customer and order-taker, but simply allowed customers to remain in their cars while ordering. The introduction of drive-thru communication systems, however, did change the character of order giving and receiving. These systems allow employees to serve customers more efficiently at every stage of the drive-thru service — from taking the order, to preparing the order and finally delivering the order — in a swift, systematic fashion.
Adopting New Technology in a Recovering Economy
It is only natural for restaurant operators to invest in the purchase and maintenance of high-quality modern headsets and audio equipment to optimize customer service, efficiency and increased profits. While the smart choice, it is also the best choice. Yes, it is true that the ongoing pandemic has pushed franchise owners to revisit their budgets and slash costs on new purchases, clear communication and dependability are vital to continued operations.
Today, buying refurbished drive-thru communications equipment may seem like a feasible option for some. It can help save a few dollars, but to what extent? We should first understand what the term ‘refurbished’ means. You may be surprised to know what it really means if it’s only worth going for a short-term gain.
A refurbished product is one that, for any number of reasons, no longer qualifies as new. In most cases, it is something that was bought and then returned to the store or manufacturer perhaps because of a defect, though more likely because it didn’t meet expectations. Remember, refurbished can be ‘like’ new, but it is not new.
Drive-thru Equipment Service
The bigger question is, would you trust your restaurant operations to an unlicensed or unproperly trained contractor in an unmarked van? More than likely, that is who will service your aftermarket or refurbished drive-thru communications equipment. Companies that sell refurbished equipment do not have local onsite repair personnel. You unplug the defective equipment, box it up, ship it to a repair facility states away and hope it comes back in working order within a reasonable period of time.
It’s not easy to be assured of the quality of repaired or refurbished drive-thru equipment because different companies imply different things when they repair your equipment.
Drive-thru Equipment Takes a Beating
Headsets, belt-pacs, and other audio equipment can take a real beating in the dynamic environment of a drive-thru kitchen. Make sure you choose equipment that has undergone extensive wear and tear testing.
It is essential also to remember even the most durable drive thru-headsets can break. Engage with authorized dealers who provide your drive-thru headsets with a comprehensive warranty for repair or replacement.
Is Your Drive-Thru Equipment Protected?
A good return policy and manufacturer’s warranty are essential if your drive-thru equipment turns out to be defective or not performing well. You want to be able to return or replace it with the convenience factor of access to a factory-trained local service technician.
But even with a good return policy and warranty, a prudent practice is to inspect your item as quickly as possible upon receipt. If you notice any damage, operational defects or missing pieces, you’ll want to address this before the warranty period lapses.
Also, be aware that you won’t have as wide a selection of repair and replacement parts as you would if you bought new. Refurbished models are usually a bit older, and several year-old legacy systems often make finding parts a bit of a scavenger hunt.
Business Sound and Communications sells new and repairs in-service drive-thru communications equipment. Like the restaurants we serve, we are in business for the long-term. We’re invested in the success of our clients’ businesses.
BSC Exhibits at Texas Restaurant Association (TRA) Marketplace 2020
For over 20 years, we have exhibited at TRA Marketplace and will be at the 2020 show scheduled for August 16-17 in Dallas. This year, we will be at Booth #1115 of the central aisle of the convention center.
When it comes to the dynamic Texas restaurant industry, we think there is no better platform than the TRA Marketplace to showcase our product line-up and network with industry influencers. We look forward to meeting new restaurant clients, visiting with manufacturers and staying on the pulse of what makes the Texas restaurant industry the best in the country.
About BSC
Business Sound and Communications corporate headquarters is in Spring, Texas. We sell and services HME, PAR, Panasonic, Mood:Media, ICRealtime drive-thru communications, POS, surveillance and scent marketing equipment. We’re all about an over-the-top customer experience. For more information, visit bsctx.com or contact us at (281) 590-3400.
