Teesside International Airport has launched a digital service for ordering food and drink amid a rise in contactless experiences during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Developed by VenueNext Europe, the OrderNext platform is currently available at the airport’s departure lounge café and bar and allows passengers to place orders without leaving their tables.
Customers are asked to scan the QR codes installed throughout the terminal (and at their tables) to bring up an online menu of all the food and drink available at the airport, and subsequently place an order and pay online. The order will then be delivered to them.
Ben Houchen, Tees Valley Mayor, said:
“The new system means people won’t have to worry about social distancing as there will be no need to queue at the bar or crowd around tills to pay for your order.
“It also means that people can place an order after they’ve checked in, which will be waiting for them when they’ve passed through security, with the minimum of fuss – and we’ll be rolling out more ways to access the service in the coming weeks.”
Sam Jackman, chief development officer at VenueNext Europe, added:
“We’re excited to be implementing OrderNext technology at Teesside International Airport – prioritising customer safety and ensuring that travellers are able to enjoy their experience at the airport in an efficient way. We’ve all had to adapt our regular model of operations in light of the pandemic, but OrderNext technology is truly how we envision all businesses to operate in the future. Just like Teesside, we prioritise customer satisfaction, which is why this partnership is truly promising for us.”
Amsterdam Schiphol airport has also launched a similar contactless ordering service, while Collinson – owner of airport lounge provider Priority Pass – began piloting a new service allowing lounge guests to order complimentary food and drink from their mobile earlier this month.
The launch of the platform comes after news of major renovations at Teesside International, including a £1 million redevelopment of the security area (set to finish in April 2021), and refurbishments in the arrivals hall.
