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Fast, Accurate, and Always On: How Zebra Devices Are Powering the Future of QSR

Speed is the name of the game in the Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) world. But behind every lightning-fast order and frictionless curbside pickup is a team powered by the right technology. For QSR brands looking to scale operations, improve accuracy, and deliver seamless experiences, Zebra Technologies and Strategic Systems provide the edge they need.

QSR Industry Pain Points: A Recipe for Disruption

QSRs today are navigating:

  • Staff shortages and high turnover
  • Long wait times, especially during peak hours
  • Order accuracy issues
  • Inventory waste and spoilage
  • Omnichannel challenges (dine-in, pickup, delivery, app ordering)

To stay competitive, operators must streamline workflows—from the front counter to the kitchen and back office. That’s where Zebra’s purpose-built mobile computers, scanners, printers, and software solutions come in.

Boost Order Speed with Zebra Kiosks
Zebra’s kiosks aren’t just for retail—they’re ideal for Quick Service Restaurants looking to streamline ordering during peak hours. Whether it’s self-service ordering in-store or digital menu browsing in the drive-thru, Zebra kiosks help reduce wait times, improve order accuracy, and free up staff to focus on food prep and fulfillment.

Essential Zebra Devices for QSR Success

  1. TC22/TC27 Mobile Computers
    These sleek, durable Android™ devices pack powerful scanning, communication, and ordering capabilities into a smartphone-style form factor. Perfect for line busting, curbside delivery, and order taking on the go.
  2. ZD621 Desktop Printers
    Used for labeling orders, receipts, or inventory, the ZD621 delivers fast, reliable printing. It supports mobile POS integrations and is easy to operate—even for new staff.
  3. DS2200 Series Scanners
    Fast, intuitive scanning for barcodes on packaging, loyalty apps, and payment QR codes. It’s ideal for fast-paced checkout environments and drive-thru windows.
  4. ET4x Tablets
    These rugged yet sleek Android tablets offer the flexibility of a consumer device, with the durability QSRs need. Great for kitchen displays, digital ordering stations, or real-time reporting in the back office.

Real-World Use Cases

Drive-Thru Optimization
With Zebra mobile computers, employees can move the order-taking process outside—speeding up lines and reducing bottlenecks. Real-time connectivity ensures orders are sent directly to the kitchen, cutting down miscommunication.

Curbside Pickup Made Easy
Scan order tickets, update order status, and confirm pickups with a quick tap using Zebra handhelds. With SST’s implementation support, QSR brands can roll out curbside solutions that are fast and foolproof.

Inventory & Food Safety
Use Zebra RFID or barcode scanning to track expiration dates, automate inventory counts, and monitor food safety compliance. SST can help customize the tech stack for each location’s unique needs.

Back Office Efficiency
Digitize operations and reduce paperwork. Zebra tablets and scanners can be used to manage schedules, delivery check-ins, or team communication—all from one connected platform.

Why Work with Strategic Systems?

Strategic Systems has a deep understanding of the QSR industry’s operational demands. Whether you’re a single-location brand or a multi-site franchise, SST provides:

  • Hardware procurement and staging
  • Kitting and deployment services
  • Zebra-certified implementation and training
  • Ongoing tech support and software integration

With a complete lineup of Zebra solutions and end-to-end services from SST, QSRs can modernize without missing a beat.

Scale Your Service, Not Your Headaches

The QSR brands that will thrive in today’s competitive market are the ones that invest in smarter tools, not just more staff. Zebra and Strategic Systems make that shift simple—with durable, intuitive, and cost-effective solutions built for speed and accuracy.

Contact Strategic Systems to schedule a free QSR technology consultation.