As hotels prepare their budgets for 2026, leaders are under pressure to maximise returns on every investment. Today’s operators are looking for solutions that don’t just cut costs – they drive measurable revenue, streamline operations, and elevate the guest experience.
One of the smartest investments you can make this budget season is a digital F&B ordering platform. It’s one of those rare solutions where a relatively small outlay can have a big impact, transforming operations and unlocking new revenue opportunities.
Here’s some tips on how to approach the decision strategically.
Why digital F&B ordering deserves a place in your 2026 budget
Mobile ordering isn’t just a convenience anymore, it’s an expectation. Guests are increasingly accustomed to seamless, digital services. Hotels that meet this expectation see:
- Higher guest spend: Upsell prompts and accessibility lead to more revenue per guest.
- Faster, smarter service: Orders go directly to the kitchen POS or bar, reducing customer wait times and staff workload.
- Happier teams: With fewer manual tasks, your staff can focus on hospitality instead of administration.
IRIS clients, for example, report 20–40% increases in average transaction value and delivery time savings of over 10 minutes per order. That’s a direct, measurable impact on profitability and efficiency.
Key factors to consider when choosing a platform
Not all solutions are created equal. As you evaluate vendors, prioritise platforms that deliver:
- Proven ROI: Look for case studies and data that demonstrate proven revenue uplift.
- Seamless guest experience: Intuitive, branded interfaces that make it easy for guests to browse, order, and pay.
- Operational fit: Integrations with your PMS/POS and flexibility to work across room service, poolside, M&E, and lobby outlets.
- Real-time reporting: Dashboards that help you monitor order volumes, adjust menus, and optimise pricing dynamically.
- Scalability: A platform that can grow with your portfolio and evolve as guest expectations change.
Making the business case
When presenting to ownership or senior stakeholders, emphasise the platform’s ability to:
- Increase revenue per occupied room (through upselling and expanded F&B access)
- Optimise labour usage (serving more guests without adding headcount)
- Enhance guest satisfaction (leading to stronger reviews and repeat bookings)
Frame it as a revenue-generating tool, not just a cost. The right technology often pays for itself within months.
Final thoughts
Budget season is about making smart bets that move your business forward. A digital F&B ordering platform is one of those rare solutions that improves the guest experience, drives higher spend, and streamlines operations.
If you haven’t yet explored mobile ordering, now is the time. The hotels that invest today will be the ones leading the market in 2026 and beyond.
To help with your research, IRIS, the global market leader in digital F&B ordering, guest directory and concierge solutions for hotels, has created a practical buyers guide that highlights the essential considerations when selecting a platform.
📥 Download the guide today here or click here to schedule a consultation with a member of our team.
About IRIS Software Systems
IRIS is a global market leader in digital F&B ordering, guest directory and concierge solutions for hotels, working with many of the world’s leading chains including Marriott, Ennismore, Mandarin Oriental, IHG and Four Seasons.
IRIS empowers Hotels and F&B leaders to do what they do best: increase revenue, look after their teams, and provide an outstanding customer experience.
Their flexible hospitality platform enables hotels and restaurants to provide a truly digital ordering experience to their guests, making it easier and faster for guests to browse, order and pay for items and services across multiple outlets.
Since 2010, thousands of hotels on every continent across the world have used IRIS’s mobile, tablet and web app technology to boost additional revenues by 20% on average.
More information: www.iris.net or [email protected]
Kate Fuller
Senior Marketing Manager
IRIS Software Systems
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