Hospitality EPOS Explained: Everything You Need to Know Before Investing

August 28, 2025

The hospitality industry thrives on fast service, smooth customer experiences, and accurate operations. Whether you run a restaurant, a busy café, or a high-demand takeaway, every second counts. That’s where an EPOS system makes the difference.

An EPOS system is not just about processing payments. It’s a smart, connected solution that helps you manage sales, orders, staff, and even customer loyalty. For coffee shops, pubs, and takeaways, EPOS is becoming a must-have to keep up with modern customer expectations.

In this guide, we’ll explain what an EPOS system does, why hospitality businesses are making the switch, and how to choose the right solution for your setup.

What is an EPOS System for Hospitality?

The digital backbone of modern food and drink service

An EPOS system combines hardware (like tills, dual screens, and payment terminals) with software designed for hospitality. Features typically include:

  • Quick ordering – From counter service to table-side ordering in a café.
  • Integrated payments – Accept cards, contactless, and mobile wallets with a card machine for restaurant use.
  • Menu and stock management – Automatically adjust stock as items sell.
  • Reporting tools – Real-time insights into sales, busiest hours, and customer favourites.
  • Loyalty system – Reward loyal customers with a free item or voucher.

For takeaways, pairing an EPOS system with digital menu boards and an online ordering system creates a complete service flow from order to delivery.

Why Hospitality Businesses are Switching to EPOS

Speed, accuracy, and happy customers

Old tills can’t keep up with today’s demands. Modern EPOS systems help businesses:

  • Serve faster – Reduce waiting times at the bar or counter.
  • Cut mistakes – Orders go straight to the kitchen, error-free.
  • Boost sales – Upsell extras like sides or desserts through smart prompts.
  • Delight customers – From quick payments to loyalty rewards.

Whether you’re looking at a coffee shop or a full restaurant EPOS system, Kleo got one for you.

Key Features to Look For

The tools that matter for restaurants, cafés, and takeaways

When investing in EPOS, make sure your system includes:

  • Table & tab management – Essential for restaurants and pubs.
  • Kitchen display integration – Send orders instantly without paper tickets.
  • Mobile ordering – Take orders tableside, or allow customers to order via QR code.
  • Multi-location support – Ideal for restaurant groups or café chains.
  • Online ordering integration – A must for modern takeaways.
  • Loyalty rewards system – Encourage repeat visits and regular customers.

The good news? Kleo check all the boxes and is ready to give you the best service that you deserve.

The Business Impact of EPOS

Smarter systems, stronger results

A hospitality EPOS delivers value beyond payments:

  • Higher revenue – Faster table turnover and built-in upselling.
  • Less waste – Real-time stock tracking helps control ingredients.
  • Better decisions – Use sales data to optimise menus and staffing.
  • Stronger customer base – Loyalty programs turn one-time guests into regulars.

Restaurants using a reliable EPOS system often see faster service times and fewer order mistakes, while cafés gain insights into peak hours and customer trends.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Plan ahead for smoother setup

  • Staff training – Ensure your provider supports onboarding.
  • Costs – Look for subscription options that spread out investment.
  • Integration – Make sure your EPOS works with existing systems like delivery apps.

At Kleo, we provide staff training so you don't need to worry about it. Our software is also user-friendly so it is very easy to learn and understand that even your new staff can understand it within minutes. We have a whole ecosystem designed for hospitality businesses for easy and accessible management. The best thing? You can get all Kleo products without breaking the bank.

Choosing the Right EPOS for Your Business

Ask these before you buy

  1. Can it grow with your business?
  2. Does it fit your model — fine dining, café, pub, or takeaway?
  3. Does it integrate with online ordering systems, digital menu boards, payment terminals, and the like?
  4. Are payment options up to date?
  5. Will your team get proper support and training?

With Kleo, you get "Yes" as an answer for everything.

Should You Invest in a New EPOS System?

Future-proofing hospitality with EPOS

Investing in the right EPOS isn’t just about upgrading a till — it’s about upgrading your whole business. From pubs and restaurants to takeaways and coffee shops, EPOS helps you serve faster, reduce errors, and keep customers happy. So it’s now clear: EPOS is no longer optional, it’s essential.

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