1 sept. 2025
Automates orders, information and payments at the point of sale
Reduces staff workload and improves the customer experience
Ideal for catering, retail and services
Successful thanks to good software, clear functions and a fixed location
Easy and secure integration with Mollie as your payment partner
A kiosk system is a digital self-service solution that allows customers to place orders or retrieve information independently. Whether in retail or catering, modern kiosk terminals with permanently installed touchscreen kiosks ensure smooth processes, reduce waiting times and increase satisfaction at the point of sale. Kiosk systems have long been more than just an add-on: they are becoming a central component of modern sales concepts.
A kiosk system brings efficiency to processes where speed, clarity and clear procedures are important. In restaurants, kiosk systems take orders or handle payments, while in retail they provide product information or support services such as click & collect. Touchscreen kiosks are particularly helpful, guiding customers through simple menus without the need for staff – intuitive, reliable and available around the clock.
The most common areas of application include self-service in catering, branch pick-up in retail, digital customer information on site, voucher sales and queue management. The application always depends on the business model – and on the goal of automating certain processes.
In a busy fast food restaurant, kiosk systems take over the entire ordering process. Guests select their menu at the touch screen kiosk, pay directly at the device and receive an order number on the display or receipt. This eliminates long queues at the checkout – and staff can concentrate more on preparation.
In a fashion store, a kiosk system helps customers find items that are not available on the sales floor. Customers can use a touchscreen to search for sizes, colours or availability in other stores – and, if they wish, order directly for collection or delivery. This reduces consulting costs and increases customer satisfaction.
Even though the hardware is similar – for example, a digital signage touchscreen – the purpose and application are very different. If you're wondering what digital signage is, you should know that it's about displaying information or advertising, not interaction. For a real user experience, the kiosk system remains the better choice.
A kiosk system can simplify many things, from the ordering process to payment. Those who serve many customers every day benefit from clear processes, fewer queries and smooth service. During peak times, well-placed kiosk terminals help to maintain an overview and avoid bottlenecks.
At the same time, however, its introduction also raises questions: Does the system fit in with existing processes? Is the technology reliable enough – and what about data protection and maintenance? As with any investment, it is worth taking a close look at the requirements on site.
The following table shows the most important advantages and disadvantages at a glance:
Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
Relief of personnel resources | Acquisition costs |
Faster processes and shorter waiting times | Need for technical maintenance |
High user-friendliness | Space requirements at the location |
Increased sales through targeted placement | Training effort for complex functions |
Continuous availability (24/7) | Depending on the target group, there may be barriers to acceptance |
Kiosk systems are particularly effective when they are precisely tailored to the usage scenario. A touchscreen kiosk with clearly structured user guidance can also convince less tech-savvy target groups – provided the application is intuitive and self-explanatory.
New possibilities also arise in conjunction with kiosk digital signage: content can be dynamically adapted, offers can be targeted and the customer experience can be actively influenced. Anyone who looks into the advantages of digital signage will quickly recognise the potential when interactive and visual solutions are combined in a meaningful way.
A kiosk system alone is not a solution – it depends on how well it fits in with everyday processes and needs. To ensure that the system not only looks modern but also has the desired effect, retailers should pay attention to a few key success factors. This will turn a simple kiosk terminal into a reliable part of your business success.
1. The right location makes all the difference
A clearly visible, freely accessible location is important – ideally barrier-free. The kiosk system should be located in the natural flow of customers, not in the way, and still be easy to reach.
2. Clearly defined functions – less is more
Not every kiosk system has to be able to do everything. Ask yourself: What do your customers really need? Ordering? Payment? Information? Configuring your kiosk system software to be lean and targeted ensures fast, trouble-free processes.
3. Smooth integration into existing systems
A kiosk terminal only reaches its full potential when it communicates seamlessly with merchandise management, POS systems or CRM. Automated payment flows – for example with Mollie – also save effort and reduce sources of error.
4. Plan for maintenance, updates and support
A touchscreen kiosk that suddenly stops responding quickly causes frustration. Thinking about remote maintenance, software updates and reliable technical support at an early stage avoids downtime and ensures the necessary continuity.
5. Keep user guidance as simple as possible
Fewer clicks, larger buttons, clear language: a good kiosk system always thinks from the user's perspective. The user interface (UI) should be designed to be accessible, for example with high-contrast design, intuitive navigation and optional help functions. This makes the system accessible to as many people as possible.
For a kiosk system to be fully effective, it needs more than just good user guidance – payment processing must also function smoothly. The integration of a secure, stationary payment terminal is essential, especially if customers are to pay independently and without staff assistance.
Mollie's stationary POS terminal is ideal for this: permanently installed, reliable and equipped for all common payment methods – from standard cards to mobile payment. In combination with a kiosk system, this creates a continuous, automated process: selection, payment, confirmation – all without waiting times and with maximum convenience.
Returns or rebookings can also be handled directly via the kiosk system with the right solution. This keeps the shopping experience consistent – and reduces the workload at the checkout.
Another plus point: the connection to Mollie can be designed flexibly and integrated into existing processes – without technical hurdles or long implementation times. Combining your kiosk system with a reliable payment partner creates trust – among customers and in day-to-day business.
A kiosk system sounds high-tech, but it doesn't have to be expensive. The actual costs depend on many factors: hardware, software, scope of functions – and how well it suits the business. If you start small, you can achieve a lot with a basic setup including a touchscreen, housing and stationary terminal.
Cost | Price range |
|---|---|
Touch monitor kiosk & housing | approx. £1,500 one-off |
Stationary payment terminal | approx. £800 to £1,000 one-off |
Receipt printer & accessories | Approx. £170 one-off |
Software licence & support | Approx. £45 to £85 per month |
Potential savings:
With around 15 orders per hour, the system saves about an hour of staff time per day – this not only reduces the workload on the team, but also lowers running costs.
In addition to the initial purchase, retailers should also factor in ongoing fees for updates, maintenance and support. However, a robust kiosk system can be scaled to suit any business model – whether retail, catering or services.
A kiosk system brings many advantages, but also obligations. This is because clear legal requirements apply wherever customer data is processed, payments are accepted and technical interfaces are used. Retailers should keep these points in mind to be on the safe side legally.
1. Data protection (GDPR)
A kiosk system often processes personal data – for example, when taking orders, processing payments or responding to customer enquiries. The rules of the General Data Protection Regulation apply here: transparent information, data minimisation and secure storage are mandatory.
2. IT security
A secure kiosk system must be protected against manipulation, data misuse and system failures. On the technical side, this includes encrypted connections, regular software updates and firewalls – especially if payment functions are integrated.
3. Manage access rights
Only authorised persons should have access to settings, data and evaluations. Role-based user accounts and password-protected areas help to maintain control.
4. Accessibility according to BITV
Publicly accessible kiosk systems should be as accessible as possible – not only out of a sense of responsibility, but also from a legal perspective. The Barrier-Free Information Technology Ordinance (BITV) provides clear recommendations in this regard.
5. Trade and advertising law
Anyone who displays advertising or content via a kiosk system must comply with applicable regulations, for example regarding price information, product labelling or presentation in accordance with youth protection laws.
Note: This overview does not replace legal advice. If you are unsure, consult a specialist solicitor or tax advisor before putting a kiosk system into operation.
A kiosk system is worthwhile for businesses where speed, clarity and self-service are important, such as fast food restaurants, chain stores or service areas with a high volume of walk-in customers. Those who want to streamline processes and actively engage customers will benefit in particular.
Kiosk systems take on tasks that would otherwise be time-consuming: entering orders, displaying information, processing payments – without the need for additional staff. This frees up time in everyday operations and ensures smoother processes at the point of sale.
Yes – with the right solution, payment is possible directly at the kiosk system. This usually involves integrating a stationary payment terminal that customers can use to pay securely and quickly, either contactlessly, by card or by smartphone.
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