Opening a new restaurant in Helsinki, Tajima faced the common challenge of hiring reliable staff. By implementing Bell Order System kiosks, customers order and pay independently—allowing the restaurant to operate smoothly with a minimal team.
The New Restaurant Staffing Dilemma
Opening a new restaurant is exciting, but it comes with significant challenges—especially staffing. When Tajima prepared to open in Helsinki, the owner faced a familiar problem: finding and retaining reliable restaurant staff in a competitive labor market. Hiring, training, and managing a full team of cashiers and order-takers would strain both budget and time. The owner needed a solution that would allow the restaurant to operate efficiently from day one without depending on a large workforce.
Bell Order System: Self-Service from the Start
Rather than hiring dedicated cashiers, Tajima implemented Bell Order System (BOS) kiosks at the entrance. The setup is simple: customers walk in, approach the Android tablet kiosk, browse the visual menu, customize their orders, and complete payment—all without staff assistance. A small sign guides first-time visitors: "Please order on the tablet here." The integrated payment terminal handles card and mobile payments, and customers receive an order number to pick up their food when ready.
Running Lean Without Sacrificing Quality
With BOS handling all ordering and payments, Tajima operates with a lean team focused entirely on food preparation and customer experience. There is no need to hire, train, or schedule cashiers. The owner reports that customers consistently praise the kiosk for being intuitive and easy to use—even first-time visitors complete orders without assistance. The result: lower labor costs, faster service during peak hours, and a restaurant that runs smoothly even with minimal staff. For new restaurant owners worried about staffing challenges, Tajima proves that self-service technology is a practical solution.