Key Takeaways
- Fast order entry with categories and modifiers
- Kitchen display or order printing
- Order queue management
- Delivery vs collection tracking
Quick Answer
Takeaway EPOS needs fast order entry, kitchen display or printing, and ideally online ordering integration. Look for systems designed for hospitality with customisation options and busy-period reliability.
UK takeaways need EPOS that handles peak-time pressure, manages kitchen workflow, and integrates with delivery platforms. The right system speeds up service and reduces order errors.
Essential Takeaway EPOS Features
- ✓ Fast order entry with categories and modifiers
- ✓ Kitchen display or order printing
- ✓ Order queue management
- ✓ Delivery vs collection tracking
- ✓ Customer phone number lookup
- ✓ Payment integration for quick checkout
Advanced Features to Consider
- Just Eat, Uber Eats, Deliveroo integration
- Online ordering with your own website
- SMS customer notifications
- Driver management and dispatch
- Ingredient-level stock tracking
- Peak time and slow time analytics
Choose How You Buy Your EPOS System
UK businesses choose EPOS in different ways depending on budget and growth plans:
Need help choosing the right EPOS system?
Takeaway vs Retail EPOS Differences
| Feature | Retail EPOS | Takeaway EPOS |
|---|---|---|
| Product Modifiers | Limited | Essential (toppings, sides) |
| Kitchen Display | Not needed | Very useful |
| Customer Database | Nice to have | Essential for repeat orders |
| Order Timing | Not relevant | Critical for service |
| Barcode Scanning | Essential | Rarely needed |
Takeaway EPOS Mistakes
- ✗ Using retail EPOS without proper modifier support
- ✗ Not integrating with delivery platforms you use
- ✗ Ignoring kitchen communication workflow
Frequently Asked Questions
Can EPOS integrate with Just Eat and Deliveroo?
Many hospitality EPOS systems offer integrations. Check specifically as not all do, and some charge extra for this feature.
Do I need separate tills for takeaway and delivery?
Not usually. Good systems let you mark orders as collection or delivery from the same interface.
How important is a kitchen display system?
Very useful for busy takeaways. Reduces paper, avoids lost tickets, and helps kitchen staff manage order flow.
Can EPOS help with driver management?
Some systems include dispatch features. Others integrate with specialist delivery management software.
What's the best EPOS for a new takeaway?
Start with a system that handles orders well and can add integrations as you grow. Avoid overcomplicating initially.
Already have software? Buy EPOS hardware only
Buy EPOS Hardware – Best UK Prices →Touch terminals • Printers • Scanners • Cash drawers • Scales
Ready to Choose Your EPOS System?
Related Guides
EPOS for Restaurants with Table Service UK
Restaurant EPOS needs table management, course pacing for kitchen, split bill handling, and often handheld devices for t...
Improve Queue Speed with EPOS
EPOS speeds up queues through fast barcode scanning, integrated card payments, quick keys for common items, and intuitiv...
Reduce Staff Errors with EPOS
EPOS reduces errors through barcode scanning, automatic pricing, required fields, and validation. Common mistakes like w...