Best Restaurant Inventory Management Software 2023

Restaurant inventory management systems have several moving parts and, on the surface, offer almost identical features. It’s helpful to explore a few of the reasons you’re considering a switch before diving headlong into your search. This can help you narrow the list to the features that matter the most and spot the contenders that best fit your needs.

The first is your business’s inventory management needs and budget. Advanced inventory systems offer plenty of value to larger operations with the cash flow to cover the cost, but can be overkill for small and startup operators. Starting with a free or low-cost restaurant POS system with basic inventory features may be the best value since you can add advanced inventory upgrades or integrations as growth demands.

The second consideration when upgrading your restaurant inventory management software is the system you currently use. If you use a restaurant POS system, upgrading to a higher-tier plan with advanced inventory is generally the least disruptive way to add these features. Adding a stand-alone inventory software via built-in integrations is a close second. Likewise, if you don’t have a POS system, moving your operation onto a POS-driven inventory system can dramatically increase efficiency.

Features such as ingredient-level inventory data, food and labor costs, and automated purchasing and forecasting are the third consideration. Examine the efficiency tools the top contenders offer to see which aligns best with your operating needs. For example, if you spend hours each week updating vendor pricing, checking stock and reviewing sales to create manual purchase orders, an automated inventory solution is a life changer. If you manage a large workforce, integrated payroll with labor cost tracking is essential for a profitable operation.

Finally, look at system ease of use, customer service, free training and user reviews when making your final pick. Some restaurant inventory management systems offer 24/7 phone support, while others are only available on business days. Free and unlimited training is another important factor. Providers that offer training take this time-consuming task off your plate.