Bill Hanifin
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OpenTable is testing a new mobile payment feature in conjunction with Aloha POS. The trials were kicked off in San Francisco’s SoMa’s district during April, and widespread integration is rumoured to be available to more consumers in the second half of 2015.
OpenTable is a digital network connecting people to restaurants all over the globe. OpenTable already had a mobile payment system in place which required users to add payment information to its app prior to use. Aloha POS boasts the highest market share among POS providers in the US, and the partnership should open new doors for the restaurant booking service, while creating opportunities for growth for both companies.
The OpenTable mobile app (and website) enables diners to reserve a table at participating restaurants, accommodating the fluid lifestyle of digital consumers and ensuring no one goes to bed hungry! Using the app, consumers can view their check-in real time and now – through the integration with Aloha POS – pay when they’re ready to go without taking their wallet out of their purse or pocket. Aloha and OpenTable suggest that the partnership will streamline basic processes in store and reduce employee workload.
OpenTable already operates Dining Rewards, a rewards program enabling users to earn and accumulate points for later redemption for various gift cards or a “Dining Cheque” at gifts.opentable.com.
The buzz at the recently concluded National Restaurant Association show was that OpenTable was channelling the Uber approach taxi service, by not only facilitating reservation, but also introducing an easy way to pay. The prospects for this new service are to increase adoption of OpenTable by diners as well as increase the already strong market share of Aloha POS by merchants and fine dining establishments.
Bon appetit!
