Bold Republic Brewing Tackles More Taproom Guests & Inspires Higher Tabs with QR Code Ordering 

QR codes are the ultimate do I, don’t I? for taprooms. In an industry that’s constantly seeking enhancements to the guest experience, craft beer spots wonder if QR codes take away from the intimate environment their taprooms aim to create.  

Need some inspo to take the plunge yourself? Adriane Hodges, owner of Bold Republic Brewing in Temple, TX, puts it simply: “It’s a revenue driver. You’re going to make more money if you use QR codes. And I have never seen it not work that way.” 

Before we dive into the numbers, let’s dispel that pesky narrative that QR codes take away from great taproom service.  

QR Codes Add Even More Value to Exceptional Guest Experiences 

The problem was clear for Bold Republic: The space has an expansive layout, including a taproom, patio, and beer garden. Adriane names bar lines as the primary pain point before QR codes. She was seeking ways for guests to spend more time enjoying themselves and less time walking to the bar to wait in line.  

With QR codes, Bold Republic was able to implement a flexible service model. This satisfies all parties: 

• A stationary POS is at the bar to offer traditional counter service.  

• Paper menus and QR codes are available throughout the taproom, allowing guests to order directly from their phones. 

• Dynamic tabs allow the bartender, a roaming server, or a guest to add items to the same tab.  

This choose-your-own adventure service model ensures that Bold Republic guests get the best of all worlds. With staff members running beers and food, the taproom balances fast service with a genuine human touch.  

“People love human interaction. And you can you can give that to them, no matter how they’re ordering,” Adriane insists. She says about QR codes: “It’s a skip-the-line code.” 

QR Codes Increase Revenue No Matter Your Taproom Size 

Clearly, Bold Republic has seen QR codes boost efficiency in its large space. And that efficiency has boosted revenue for the bustling taproom, too.  

Adriane estimates a “30% increase in check size.” As far as guest behavior, the brewery’s “QR code ordering is well over 50%.” 

In addition to those cold, hard stats, QR codes’ preauthorization of cards prevents walked-out-on tabs. Because guests enter their own credit card information when they start tabs on QR codes, taprooms secure more sales. 

Adriane shares: “I hadn’t predicted how much revenue I’d lose in accidental tabs, or expired CC information… [QR codes are] more secure for the customer, and reduces loss for the brewpub. I have found that to be a significant increase in revenue.” 

Not only that, but training guests to use QR codes in the taproom led to more mug club conversions for Bold Republic. Adriane was able to prompt more downloads by putting a mug club app QR code next to the QR code menus.  

“I was particularly nervous to move my mug club to an app last year, but it was QR codes that got me there… Because people were so used to using them in the taproom, my fear was unfounded. The app did very well. My mug club sold out just like it always does, very quickly. And I had a new tool at my disposal. Beyond even service at your taproom, linking QR codes to do other things is super super useful,” Adiane explains.  

Staff Love QR Codes Too: They’re Proven to Increase Tips 

How have QR codes impacted the hardworking team at Bold Republic? The taproom reports higher staff camaraderie and more tips. “If there’s more revenue, there’s more tips,” Adriane says.  

Flexible service models inherently foster teamwork among staff: Team members are encouraged to jump into any role that demands their help.  

Adriane notes, “Our core value is teamwork: Everybody is valuable to us and we all have to contribute equally.” 

And she has a hot take on whether robots will take over our taprooms: “No one’s replaced by the QR code. If anything, it creates more opportunity for employment, which has been the case with us. We’ve steadily grown.” 

As the brewing industry likes to say: Rising tides raise all boats. 

Advice for Breweries New to QR Code Ordering 

Arryved data supports Adriane’s real-life findings: Arryved taprooms see tab sizes are up to 27% higher, and tip amounts are about 35% higher. 

Adriane is passionate about every brewery trying out QR codes. So if a successful owner and those stats have convinced you to test the modern ordering technology yourself, here’s where to start. 

Bold Republic Brewing Company’s advice to breweries new to QR codes: 

• Start small with QR codes: See how guests adapt, collect feedback, and pinpoint any obstacles early. There’s no need to dive 100% into QR code ordering from the very start! 

• Tap into your network: Chat with other owners in your area. This gives you an idea of local guest behavior, and you may pick up some other helpful advice. 

• Be your own guest: Test the QR code ordering experience yourself! See if anything is clunky, and identify where your staff may need additional training.  

At the end of the day, you know your staff and guests best, so lean into your own expertise. 

Try the Most-Trusted QR Code Ordering System in Beer 

Now you’ve got the recipe for success: QR codes are proven to increase efficiency, improve staff camaraderie, and boost revenue and tips.  

Try the system that has Bold Republic Brewing Company shouting their praise from the rooftops. Arryved POS is tested in real taprooms to drive real improvements. Get a custom demo today! 

*Featured image courtesy of Bold Republic Brewing.