Covid-19 has proved to be probably the most monumental challenge ever faced by the UK hospitality industry. The sector faces continued upheaval. Yet, hospitality EPoS and payments technology specialist, It’s Lolly, has turned what could have been a disaster into an opportunity for development. Rather than slowdown research and innovation, throughout lockdown  the Lolly development team continued to work and to focus on customer projects and progression. 

This development has proved a catalyst for rapid business acceleration, which has seen Lolly supporting many hospitality providers navigate their way through the pandemic. 

The company has always been focused on innovation and creating a seamless digital journey for the consumer. Over the last couple of years Lolly has launched the following exciting technology propositions to improve customer experience and support the growth and future development of hospitality businesses:

- LollyServe - the first-to-market, entry-level PoS self-serve platform

- LollyLoyalty - a fully integrated, brandable loyalty app

- Advanced, integrated digital Kitchen Management System 

This dedication to creating accessible, intuitive software has brought Lolly to a position as one of the leaders in end-to-end POS and payment solutions. Hospitality businesses can build a unique package of products tailored to their service and environment, with each element of the fully integrated system enhancing the hospitality experience and creating a completely seamless digital journey for the customer.

Peter Moore, CEO of Lolly, comments: “I believe the recipe for success is simplicity. This is especially important in the hospitality sector, which has had to completely alter and adapt during 2020. Our software is designed to be flexible and to generate results. We are always trying to help our clients stay one step ahead, and future-proof their businesses.” 

An overview of selected Lolly 2020 milestones

• New office

To support the business growth, the company moved to new, larger offices in Braintree in Essex.  Peter Moore said: “Our new office means team members can come and go as they need to – provided the work is being done, then that is all that actually matters at the end of the day. These are changing, yet exciting times ahead and we look forward to employing in the local area to support our growth.”

• Lolly – making its stadia play

The company appointed stadia sector specialist, Stephen Palmer. 

Lolly also won the contract to manage end-to-end PoS and payments for Southampton FC. Peter Moore: “Southampton FC is an exciting project… as we make our move into the world of stadia.”

• New software launches 

Digital Signage – in September, the company launched its Digital Signage offering – helping hospitality providers to create striking and engaging menu displays.

Uber Eats integration – in July, Lolly announced its integration with the online food ordering company Uber Eats. This has helped to support hospitality providers in swiftly switching to offering delivery services, in line with new demand in the wake of the pandemic. 

• Expanding the apprenticeship programme

At the beginning of the year, the company announced an extended apprenticeship programme. Lolly recognises the benefits commercially, as well as to the individuals on the scheme and the community around them.

The future

Peter Moore concluded: “In the wake of Covid-19 our industry continues to struggle and we all remain uncertain about what lies ahead. 

“Together we must embrace technology in an efficient way and evolve to create a positive, sustainable, safe and exciting hospitality future. Times have changed, but we must adapt in order to thrive.”