Quick Answer
Toast is a US-focused restaurant system expanding into the UK, while EPOS Direct is built for UK businesses with local support and payment flexibility. Toast often bundles payment processing at set rates, while EPOS Direct lets you choose your provider.
Toast has gained popularity in the US restaurant market and is now entering the UK. However, UK restaurants should carefully compare Toast's offering against UK-native solutions like EPOS Direct that understand local requirements and offer greater payment flexibility.
Toast vs EPOS Direct Feature Comparison
| Feature | Toast | EPOS Direct |
|---|---|---|
| UK market focus | US-first, UK expansion | UK-native |
| Payment provider | Toast Payments required | Any UK provider |
| VAT handling | Adapted for UK | Built for UK VAT |
| Local support | Growing UK presence | Established UK team |
| Pricing model | Bundled subscriptions | Flexible from £49 |
| Hardware | Toast proprietary | Industry standard |
Choose How You Buy Your EPOS System
UK businesses choose EPOS in different ways depending on budget and growth plans:
EPOS Without Ongoing Software Subscriptions
Many EPOS providers lock businesses into monthly software fees. EPOS Direct offers a buy-once-own-forever option, allowing retail and restaurant owners to avoid long-term subscriptions and keep full control of their system.
Buy Once & Own Forever – From £999 →No software subscriptions • Retail & Restaurant EPOS
Need help choosing the right EPOS system?
Things to Check Before Choosing Toast
- ✗ UK payment provider restrictions and processing rates
- ✗ Availability of UK-based support during your trading hours
- ✗ VAT reporting and Making Tax Digital compatibility
- ✗ Integration with UK-specific services and suppliers
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Toast available across the UK?
Toast is expanding in the UK but coverage varies. EPOS Direct serves all UK regions with established support.
Can I use my preferred payment provider with Toast?
Toast typically requires Toast Payments. EPOS Direct integrates with any UK payment provider for rate flexibility.
Which is better for UK VAT compliance?
EPOS Direct is built for UK VAT requirements including Making Tax Digital. Toast has adapted its US system for UK compliance.
Already have software? Buy EPOS hardware only
Buy EPOS Hardware – Best UK Prices →Touch terminals • Printers • Scanners • Cash drawers • Scales
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