Running a contract catering business brings unique challenges and no two days look the same. Quick service, accurate reporting and simple payment options are only the start. Faced with tight margins and ever changing menus, choosing the right tools makes all the difference. With so many systems vying for attention, which ones truly help caterers work smarter and keep clients satisfied? The answers might surprise you.
Table of Contents
EZEEPOS
At a Glance
EZEEPOS is a leading Android-based POS built specifically for hospitality venues and contract caterers in the UK. It combines full enterprise capabilities with an intuitive interface so teams learn quickly and managers gain immediate control.
Core Features
The platform covers every service style you need for contract catering while keeping back office control centralised.
- Supports multiple service modes including countertop, table ordering, mobile POS for catering, self-service kiosks and kitchen displays.
- Cloud-based back office for menus, stock, promotions and real-time reporting across sites.
- Wide hardware range with Android terminals, kiosks, kitchen displays and printers to match venue needs.
- Integrated payments and data SIMs that work in mobile or remote settings without extra complexity.
- Full enterprise features such as inventory, analytics and employee management available in a single package.
Pros
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User-friendly touch interface: The touch-first layout suits fast service and reduces training time for temporary or seasonal staff.
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All features included: There are no tiered plans so you get enterprise-level capabilities without hidden upsells.
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Local UK support: Accredited providers offer on-site installation, training and human support for rapid problem resolution.
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Flexible hardware choices: Choose countertop, tablet, kiosk or mobile devices to match each event or venue.
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Remote control and reporting: Cloud access gives managers real-time sales, stock and staff reports across multiple sites.
Who It’s For
EZEEPOS suits contract caterers and hospitality groups that need a robust, locally supported system for multiple venues. It works well for cafés, bars, restaurants, fast-casual outlets and mobile catering such as festivals and food trucks.
Unique Value Proposition
EZEEPOS outperforms competitors by combining a complete feature set with straightforward pricing and British support. The system removes guesswork by including no tiered pricing, integrated terminals and accredited local installers so you get consistent performance and dependable service across all sites.
Sophisticated buyers choose EZEEPOS because it delivers enterprise control without complexity, offers modular hardware that adapts to events, and provides managed deployment by UK partners so rollouts and training happen fast and predictably.
Real World Use Case
A restaurant chain implemented EZEEPOS at multiple locations to consolidate ordering, inventory and rota management. Managers accessed live sales and stock on the cloud back office while kitchen displays routed orders reliably. Mobile POS and data SIMs handled catering at remote events with no loss of reporting.
Pricing
Pricing is available via bespoke quotes and is transparent once configured for your hardware needs. Typical starting points are as follows.
- Mobile Plan: around £89 upfront plus £29 per month.
- Tablet POS: around £249 upfront plus £45 per month.
- Countertop POS: around £299 upfront plus £45 per month.
- Self-Service Kiosks: around £1195 upfront plus £45 per month.
Hardware and accessories are additional which means final costs reflect the exact venue and service style you choose. Bespoke quoting ensures your configuration and support meet operational demands.
Website: https://ezeepos.co.uk
Epos Now
At a Glance
Epos Now is an all in one POS aimed at businesses that want hardware and software delivered together. It offers strong reporting, payment options and industry specific templates that get you up and running quickly.
Bottom line takeaway: test promotional pricing against your long term costs before committing.
Core Features
Epos Now bundles hardware and software with templates for retail and hospitality to cover tills, card machines and accessories. The system provides real time sales and stock reporting, integrations with Shopify and QuickBooks, and loyalty and delivery links.
Practical takeaway: map your required integrations before buying to avoid paying for add ons later.
Pros
- Versatile industry specific solutions: The platform provides tailored setups for retail and hospitality that reduce configuration time during deployment.
- Comprehensive hardware and software package: You receive terminals, card machines and accessories alongside the POS software in a single purchase option.
- Cloud based for remote access: Reporting and back office functions are available from any location so managers can check sales and stock off site.
- Strong support and training services: The vendor offers onboarding and ongoing support which helps teams adopt extensive feature sets faster.
- Ongoing promotions and discounts: Regular discounted POS packages lower initial capital outlay for smaller operators.
Cons
- Promotion based pricing can mislead: Advertised starting prices are often tied to limited offers and may not represent the regular cost of ownership.
- Extensive feature set requires training: Staff will need time and formal training to master inventory, reporting and advanced functions effectively.
- Some integrations or hardware are add ons: Key connectors and specialist peripherals may carry extra charges beyond the basic package.
Actionable takeaway: budget for training and potential extra modules when you compare quotes.
Who It’s For
Epos Now suits operators in retail and hospitality that want a single supplier for terminals, card machines and software. It works well for independent cafés, small restaurant groups and pop up caterers who value packaged setups over piecing systems together.
Practical takeaway: choose Epos Now if you prefer a single point of purchase and local support over assembling multiple vendors.
Unique Value Proposition
Epos Now presents itself as a one stop solution that reduces vendor friction by combining sales hardware with cloud software and payment handling. The appeal lies in packaged simplicity paired with a library of industry specific configurations.
Quick takeaway: this is about convenience more than lowest long term cost.
Real World Use Case
A café can use Epos Now to sync its menu, sales and stock levels while accepting online orders and contactless payments. Daily takings feed into cloud reports and staff rotas and inventory figures update after each sale.
Operational takeaway: this setup cuts reconciliation time and keeps stock visibility high during busy service.
Pricing
Starting from $349 for the complete POS system under a discounted offer, though standard pricing may vary after promotions end. Ask for a full quote that separates hardware, software licences and integration fees.
Website: https://eposnow.com
TouchBistro
At a Glance
TouchBistro is an all in one POS and restaurant management system built to handle front of house, back of house, and guest engagement from a single platform. Its cloud based access and rich feature set make it a strong choice for busy restaurants seeking consolidated control.
Core Features
TouchBistro brings together menu management, floor plan and table management, tableside ordering, and kitchen display system functionality in one package. The platform also includes reporting and analytics, payment processing, inventory control, labour management, loyalty and online ordering tools.
- Point of Sale system for restaurant operations
- Reporting and analytics for real time insights
- Payments and guest engagement including loyalty and gift cards
- Inventory control, labour scheduling and profit management
Pros
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Comprehensive platform: TouchBistro combines front of house and back of house tools so you avoid juggling multiple systems.
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Remote reporting: The cloud based access lets managers view sales and reports off site which helps with multi venue oversight.
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Operational breadth: The feature set covers inventory, labour, payments and guest engagement which supports both service and cost control.
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Clear pricing entry point: The vendor lists starting prices which helps with initial budgeting for software and bundles.
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Proven reliability: Many restaurants use TouchBistro which indicates dependable day to day performance.
Cons
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Variable pricing: Pricing details vary and some setups require bespoke quotes which adds complexity to budgeting.
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Training time: Implementation and team training can take time before you reach full adoption which affects early operations.
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Internet dependency: Cloud based features depend on internet connectivity which can interrupt remote access and online ordering during outages.
Who It’s For
TouchBistro suits restaurants that want a single system to run sales, tables, kitchen communication and guest programmes. It fits mid sized venues and multi venue operators who value integrated reporting and a single point of administration.
Unique Value Proposition
TouchBistro offers a single platform that ties POS, kitchen workflow and guest engagement together. That integrated approach reduces manual handovers between systems and centralises reporting so you can act on sales and cost data faster.
Real World Use Case
A mid sized restaurant uses TouchBistro to process daily sales, manage table turns with its floor plan view, push online orders to the kitchen display system, and run loyalty campaigns. The result is tighter operations and clearer business insight.
Pricing
Software starts at $69 per month for the POS with bundled solutions and hardware options available. Bundles begin at $119 per month and final costs depend on the chosen hardware and any custom requirements.
Website: https://touchbistro.com
Square
At a Glance
Square is an all-in-one payments and business management suite that combines a polished point of sale with hardware, online storefronts and invoicing. Its breadth makes it a practical choice for contract caterers who need a single system across pop ups, venues and permanent sites.
Square scales from small operations to busier sites with higher transaction volumes while keeping setup simple and hardware portable. That balance of simplicity and scope is the product’s main appeal and its principal trade off.
Core Features
Square bundles payment processing, POS software, hardware and online tools into one platform so you avoid stitching multiple services together. The list below reflects the capabilities provided in the product data.
- Accept payments in person and online using card readers and terminals.
- Build an online store or booking site to capture orders and reservations.
- Manage inventory and sales with basic stock tracking and reporting.
- Send estimates, invoices and contracts from the same account.
- Schedule appointments and use staff management tools to assign shifts.
- Access cash flow features including instant funds and loan options.
- Run customer programmes such as loyalty, gift cards and CRM.
- Choose from hardware like contactless readers, terminals, stands and kiosks.
Pros
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Comprehensive platform: Square combines payment processing, hardware and online store tools so you manage sales and administration from one dashboard.
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Multi-industry support: The system suits retail, food and beverage, beauty and services which helps contract caterers serving varied event types.
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Transparent pricing options: The presence of a Free plan and tiered paid plans gives visible entry points without hidden charges.
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Extensive integrations: Square supports third party apps and APIs which lets you connect bookkeeping or specialised scheduling tools.
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Attractive hardware: The card readers and terminals are portable and straightforward to set up, useful for on-site catering and temporary events.
Cons
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Processing fees add up for many small transactions which can erode margins on low value sales.
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Some features require extra hardware which increases upfront costs for multi-venue operations.
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Limited customisation options exist for parts of the online store and payment experience, which may frustrate teams needing bespoke workflows.
Who It’s For
Square fits small to medium sized businesses across retail, foodservice and events that want a single vendor for payments, POS and online ordering. It particularly suits contract caterers that run mixed site work and need portable hardware and a unified back office.
Unique Value Proposition
Square’s strength is the combination of integrated hardware and software with straightforward entry plans. That mix gives contract caterers the tools to accept payments, manage orders and run loyalty without multiple systems.
Real World Use Case
A local cafe example shows Square handling card payments at the counter, POS order management, digital receipts and basic inventory tracking while using a contactless reader and stand for quicker customer flow.
Pricing
Pricing varies by plan. A Free plan provides basic features while Plus, Premium and custom plans add capabilities and reduced fees for higher volume processing.
Website: https://squareup.com
SumUp
At a Glance
SumUp delivers accessible payment and POS tools aimed at small and medium sized businesses that need simple, predictable pricing and easy daily operations. Its strength lies in affordable hardware options and clear support for in person, online and invoicing transactions.
Core Features
SumUp bundles POS tools, card readers, and self service kiosks with customer engagement features such as loyalty programmes and gift cards. It also provides financial management tools including business accounts and investment options, plus multi channel transaction support.
Pros
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Affordable pricing model: The published fee structure is straightforward and avoids hidden monthly minimums, which helps predictable budgeting for event based catering.
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Range of solutions: SumUp covers counter service, mobile payments and kiosks, so you can pick hardware to match different venue setups and service styles.
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Global reach with local language support: Multi language capability and international availability suit contract caterers working across regions and with varied client bases.
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Easy device integration: Card readers pair with mobile devices and online platforms, letting teams take payments on site without lengthy setup or training.
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Strong customer support: SumUp offers support resources and guidance that help small teams get running quickly and resolve issues without long waits.
Cons
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Variable fees by transaction type: Different rates for in person, online and invoiced transactions increase complexity when you handle mixed sales channels.
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Advanced features add cost: Some higher level functions appear behind paid plans or incur extra charges, which raises the total cost for feature rich setups.
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Limited hardware variety: There are fewer specialised hardware options compared with some vendors, which may restrict bespoke installation at large or permanent event sites.
Who It’s For
SumUp suits small to medium sized caterers and operators who value clear pricing, simple hardware and fast deployment. It works particularly well for teams that run pop up events, small venues or mobile catering where mobility and ease of use matter most.
Unique Value Proposition
SumUp combines straightforward transaction tools with customer engagement features and a business account, all under transparent pricing. That mix appeals to operators who want payment processing, basic back office finance and loyalty in a single supplier.
Real World Use Case
A coffee concession at a conference uses SumUp devices to take card payments at multiple counters, issues gift cards to repeat customers, processes online preorders and reconciles daily takings through the business account for simple cash flow tracking.
Pricing
In person transactions: 2.6% + 10¢. Online and manual entry: 3.5% + 15¢. Invoicing: 2.9% + 15¢. Plans range from $99 per month to $289 per month for different POS feature sets.
Website: https://sumup.com
Lightspeed
At a Glance
Lightspeed is a broad Point of Sale and payments platform built to handle multiple venue types from retail to hospitality. It offers deep configurability and a full set of business tools, but complexity and cost can be a barrier for smaller operators.
Core Features
Lightspeed provides Point of Sale systems for retail and restaurant, Payments processing, Inventory management, and eCommerce solutions within one configurable platform. It also offers a wholesale platform called NuORDER, analytics and loyalty programmes, hardware options, APIs for customisation, and mobile cloud based access.
Pros
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Supports multiple business types: Lightspeed works for retail, restaurants, golf and wholesale so you can run different venue models on the same system.
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Highly configurable and scalable: The platform adapts from a single site to multi location chains without swapping core systems.
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Strong integrations and API access: You can connect third party tools and build custom workflows using the available APIs.
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Comprehensive business management tools: Inventory, reporting, loyalty and eCommerce are bundled so teams manage sales and customers from one place.
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Global presence with localised options: Local payment processing and regional support make it viable for operations with cross border needs.
Cons
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Pricing can be expensive for small businesses: The entry plans and add on fees make total cost of ownership noticeably higher than some simpler POS options.
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Complexity may overwhelm new users: The breadth of features creates a learning curve that requires time and training before teams are fluent.
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Support and onboarding vary by region: Experiences with setup and ongoing help depend on local partners and can be inconsistent.
Who It’s For
Lightspeed suits small to large retail and hospitality businesses that need a single platform for sales, stock and customer management across multiple sites. Contract caterers operating varied event spaces will benefit when they require omnichannel reporting and centralised inventory control.
Unique Value Proposition
Lightspeed combines rich retail and hospitality features in one configurable platform so operators do not need separate systems for tills, online stores and wholesale. That unified approach reduces duplication of data and gives central teams clearer oversight.
Real World Use Case
A retail chain uses Lightspeed to manage inventory and sales across several shops while integrating the online store for omnichannel fulfilment. Contract caterers can replicate this by centralising ingredient stock, event sales and customer accounts across venues.
Pricing
Plans start at $89 per month for Basic, $149 per month for Core, and $289 per month for Plus, with additional features and services included at higher tiers. Expect extra costs for advanced modules, payment processing and hardware.
Website: https://lightspeedhq.com
Tevalis
At a Glance
Tevalis delivers an integrated point of sale and management platform aimed at hospitality operators who need both on-site hardware and enterprise management tools. The system pairs On-Premise POS systems with cloud management and strong support to serve multi-site venues.
Core Features
Tevalis combines On-Premise POS systems, self-service kiosks, kitchen screens and handheld devices with an Enterprise Suite of cloud management applications. The offering includes system integrations with other enterprise tools and a support network that provides 24/7 help and on-site consultation.
Pros
- Proven Industry Experience: Tevalis has transformed over 8000 systems which shows deep sector knowledge and practical deployment expertise.
- Sector Breadth: The platform supports restaurants, pubs, hotels, casinos, stadia and attractions so you can use one supplier across diverse venues.
- Comprehensive Hardware Options: The mix of tills, kiosks, kitchen screens and handheld devices gives you flexible service modes for table and counter operations.
- Enterprise Connectivity: Built in integrations allow the POS to link with wider management tools which improves operational connectivity across sites.
- Strong Support Network: Tevalis offers 24/7 support and on-site consultation which reduces downtime and speeds problem resolution for busy venues.
- Global Footprint: More than 2000 sites worldwide use Tevalis which indicates trust from international operators.
Cons
- Specific cons are not detailed in the available content so potential drawbacks are inferred rather than confirmed.
- On-site setup needs could increase implementation time and require coordination with local teams and contractors.
- Integration complexity may arise when connecting bespoke enterprise systems which can demand specialist technical resources.
- Pricing information is not specified which makes budgeting and vendor comparison difficult without direct contact.
Who It’s For
Tevalis suits hospitality business owners and operators who run multiple venues or complex sites and who want a single supplier for both hardware and enterprise management. It is particularly appropriate for hotel groups, casino operators and stadia with high transaction volumes.
Unique Value Proposition
Tevalis combines full on-premise hardware with a cloud based Enterprise Suite and a global support network. That combination offers a single point of accountability for POS hardware, site level operations and centralised management for multi-site organisations.
Real World Use Case
A hotel chain adopts Tevalis to deploy tills and handheld devices on site while managing menus, stock and reporting centrally via the Enterprise Suite. The setup provides unified sales data across locations and reduces reconciliation time during monthly reporting cycles.
Pricing
Pricing is not specified on the website so you must contact Tevalis for tailored quotes, implementation costs and details on ongoing support charges.
Website: https://tevalis.com
Comparison of Leading Point of Sale Systems for Hospitality and Retail
This comprehensive table provides a comparative overview of the features, benefits, costs, and usability of top-rated POS systems tailored for hospitality and retail environments.
| System | Core Features | Pros | Cons | Pricing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EZEEPOS | Intuitive Android POS; Cloud-based back office; Multiple service modes; Integrated payments | User-friendly interface; Inclusive enterprise features; Local UK support; Modular hardware | Limited pricing transparency; Additional hardware costs | Starting at £89 upfront, £29/month |
| Epos Now | Integrated hardware/software; Templates for retail and hospitality; Real-time reporting | Comprehensive package; Industry-specific setups; Cloud access; Strong support | Promotion-dependent pricing; Advanced features need staff training | Starting at $349 under promotion, standard pricing varies |
| TouchBistro | Restaurant POS with front/back office integration; Tableside ordering; Analytics | Feature breadth; Proven reliability; Transparent entry pricing | Variable pricing based on custom setups; Dependent on stable internet | Software from $69/month; Bundles from $119/month |
| Square | Payment processing; Online storefront; Full-suite POS features | Transparent pricing; Free plan available; Portable hardware | Adding specialized hardware increases cost; Transaction fees affect low-value sales | Free plan; Plus, Premium plans available with reduced processing fees |
| SumUp | Mobile card readers; POS support; Integration with other platforms | Predictable pricing; Easy-to-use hardware; Global support | Transaction fees vary by type; Limited hardware versatility | In-person transactions: 2.6%+10¢; Online: 3.5%+15¢ |
| Lightspeed | Retail and hospitality POS; Payments and eCommerce features | Scalable configurations; API integrations; Comprehensive toolset | Higher initial costs; Complexity in operation requires learning curve | From $89/month for Basic plan; Add-ons available |
| Tevalis | On-premise hardware; Cloud enterprise suite; Kitchen screens | Proven reliability across multiple industries; Wide hardware variety; Strong enterprise capability | Price customization adds setup complexity; Requires on-site installation | Customized pricing available upon request |
Discover a POS System Built for Contract Caterers’ Unique Needs
Contract caterers face the challenge of managing fast-paced, multi-venue operations with diverse service styles such as table ordering, mobile catering, and self-service kiosks. Efficiently handling orders, stock, staff, and payments across sites can quickly become overwhelming without a fully integrated system. If scalability, reliable UK support, and no hidden fees matter to you, EZEEPOS offers an Android-based solution tailored specifically to the hospitality industry’s demands.
Explore the Point Of Sale – EZEEPos Solution to see how streamlined ordering, cloud-based reporting, and flexible hardware options help reduce training time and improve control. Visit https://ezeepos.co.uk now to empower your catering business with enterprise-grade functionality delivered simply and locally. Take the next step towards reliable, scalable POS management suited for contract catering today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key features to look for in a POS system for contract catering?
A good POS system for contract catering should support multiple service modes, have a cloud-based back office for real-time reporting, and offer integrated payment processing. Evaluate systems to ensure they have comprehensive inventory management and employee scheduling functionalities to streamline your operations.
How can a POS system improve efficiency in contract catering?
Implementing a POS system can enhance efficiency by automating order processing and providing instant access to sales data. Aim to reduce training time for staff by using a user-friendly interface, leading to quicker service and improved customer satisfaction.
What is the typical cost range for POS systems suitable for contract caterers?
The cost of POS systems for contract caterers varies greatly but typically starts at around £89 for mobile systems and can go up to £1,195 for self-service kiosks. Request bespoke quotes to factor in your specific hardware and service needs for accurate budgeting.
How quickly can a POS system be deployed in a catering business?
Deployment of a POS system can vary, ranging from a few days to several weeks, depending on the complexity of the setup and staff training required. To expedite the process, prepare your operational requirements in advance and engage with experienced installation teams.
What support options are available for POS systems in contract catering?
Most POS vendors offer training and ongoing support, including on-site assistance, to help ease the transition and resolve any issues. Seek providers that offer 24/7 support and check if they have a dedicated training program to ensure your team is proficient in using the system.
How can I measure the success of a new POS system in my catering operation?
You can measure the success of a new POS system by tracking key metrics such as sales growth, order processing time, and employee productivity before and after implementation. Establish clear benchmarks and aim for improvements of around 20% in operational efficiency within the first few months.
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