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Pre-Orders: Setup and Maximising Orders

Pre-orders allow customers to order food and drink in advance of a show, reducing queue times and increasing F&B revenue. If you're not already using this feature, it may be worth exploring for your venue.

 

Supported POS Integrations

crowdEngage integrates directly with the following Point of Sale systems to push orders to your till point:

  • Pointone
  • Kurve
  • Tevalis
  • ICR Touch
  • Square
  • Eposnow
  • Clover
  • Noq
  • Freshkds
  • Toast & Lolly (coming soon)

If your system isn't listed, a manual setup option is available. Contact support@encorepro.com for details.

Maximising Pre-Order Usage

Having the feature available is only part of it — customers need to know it exists and find it easy to use.

Make sure customers know about it

  • Send an email explaining what pre-orders are and how to place one
  • Put up signage in venue — something as simple as "Queues too long? Order in advance next time" works
  • Add a section to your website FAQs
  • Brief your staff to mention it at relevant touchpoints

Make the experience smooth from the start
If a customer can place an order and collect it quickly at a designated pick-up point, they're far more likely to use it again and recommend it to others. A friction-free first experience is the best marketing you have for the feature.

Address the cost question upfront
Customers need to know pre-ordering isn't more expensive than ordering at the bar. You can also offer a discount on pre-order menus as an incentive, or create a members-only menu discount to add extra value for that segment.

Use your campaign tools
Include the pre-order link in a pre-show email sent well in advance — giving customers the opportunity to order, for example, a week before the show. An SMS reminder on the day or day before reinforces the option at the right moment.

Consider at-seat delivery
crowdEngage can provide the customer name and seat location to support at-seat delivery. Some venues use this specifically for customers with accessibility needs, so they don't have to queue — a straightforward way to improve customer service. It can also be extended to members or VIP ticket holders if full-house delivery isn't viable.