10 Best Central Kitchen Management Software for F&B Businesses in Malaysia 2024

Do you know that restaurants in Malaysia discard up to 17,000 tonnes of food daily, with 24% of it still edible and considered avoidable waste? One reason this issue occurs is inventory mismanagement.

To avoid this problem, businesses in Malaysia could use central kitchen software. The introduction of this technology has become a game-changer, addressing critical issues like inventory discrepancies, subpar food quality, and unnecessary waste.

But, with the number of software options available, how does a business owner in Malaysia navigate the crowded marketplace to find the central kitchen software that fits their specific needs?

The decision is crucial, as the right software can prevent the aforementioned problems, ensuring optimal inventory levels, consistent food quality, and minimal waste.

This article serves as a comprehensive guide, offering insights and comparisons of the best central kitchen software in Malaysia to help you discern which will best suit your business’s requirements.

With this information, you can make an informed choice, ensuring your central kitchen operates at peak efficiency and your culinary creations meet the highest standards.

Who Uses Central Kitchen Software?

Central kitchen software is a specialized platform designed to streamline the operations of a central kitchen, which serves as the heart of food production for multiple restaurant outlets.

Central kitchen software is the backbone of many food-related businesses, streamlining operations and ensuring quality across the board. This technology is a boon for industries where consistency in food preparation and delivery is paramount.

Here are several types of food and beverage (F&B) lines of businesses in Malaysia that use this software:

• Caterers and food trucks: Mobile eateries use central kitchen software for food prep, inventory management, menu planning, and serving fresh, quality meals on the move.
• Bakers and prepared meal companies: Central kitchen software is crucial for businesses that prepare meals or baked goods in advance. It streamlines batch cooking and recipe management to guarantee consistent, high-quality products.
• Restaurant groups and hotel chains: Central kitchen software helps maintain uniform taste and quality in food prep and batch cooking, essential for these establishments’ consistent brand reputations.
• Large food service brands: The software serves as a control center for these brands, streamlining the food prep process from delivery to dispatch, focusing on efficiency and consistent quality at scale.

Central kitchen software is not just about cutting costs; it’s about elevating the entire operation to meet the high standards that customers expect. From local franchises to independent restaurants, central kitchen software provides the solutions to grow and thrive in a competitive market.

But why do they have to use central kitchen software instead of continuing to use traditional (manual) central kitchen management methods?

Why Malaysian F&B Businesses Must Use Central Kitchen Software?

The are several reasons that show the importance of central kitchen software utilization for Malaysian F&B businesses.

Central kitchen software manages everything from inventory control, procurement, and recipe standardization to production planning and distribution, ensuring that all outlets receive consistent quality and quantity of food supplies.

Due to the competitive nature of the industry, the adoption of central kitchen management software is crucial for Malaysian F&B companies. The software can predict inventory needs more accurately, reducing the risk of overstock, and it allows for better food waste management.

Moreover, this software ensures food quality by standardizing recipes and preparation processes, which is essential for maintaining brand reputation.

Without such a system, companies risk facing significant consequences. Inefficient inventory management can lead to either excess food waste or shortages, both of which are costly. Poor food quality control can result in customer dissatisfaction and loss of business.

Additionally, without efficient distribution management, outlets may face inconsistent supply levels, which can impact their ability to serve customers effectively.

Data shows that implementing a central kitchen management solution can lead to substantial reductions in food waste. Some kitchens see a 40-70 percent reduction within 6-12 months of using the system. This not only contributes to cost savings but also to environmental sustainability efforts.

One more important point is that central kitchen software helps companies standardize, record, and track orders from every branch or outlet, thus maintaining their good reputations.

Studies have indicated that utilizing inventory management software, a core component of central kitchen systems, can increase profitability by up to 50%.

In summary, central kitchen software is an indispensable tool for Malaysian F&B companies aiming to optimize their operations, reduce waste, maintain high food quality, and ensure efficient inventory and distribution.

10 Recommended Central Kitchen Software in Malaysia

Now that you have learned about the importance of using central kitchen software for your business, you might be interested in finding the perfect solution for your needs.

In this section, we provide a curated list of the best central kitchen software providers in Malaysia for your reference.

1. HashMicro central kitchen software

HashMicro is a robust and comprehensive solution trusted by over 1,750 world-class enterprises such as McDonald’s and Banban. It offers various modules and software solutions that cater to different business needs.

One of HashMicro’s business solutions is Central Kitchen Software. It is designed to be user-friendly, ensuring that even those with minimal technical expertise can navigate and utilize the system effectively. This is particularly beneficial for Malaysia’s diverse workforce.

The ability to customize features and integrate with existing systems makes it a versatile choice for Malaysian businesses looking to enhance their central kitchen operations.

HashMicro also provides a free demo offer so you, the prospecting client, can explore more about features and modules available firsthand without having to commit first.

Here’s how HashMicro’s Central Kitchen Software can benefit companies in Malaysia through its key features:

• Ordering portal: This portal streamlines customer ordering, ensuring effortless transactions and improved satisfaction for Malaysian businesses, along with efficient order processing.
• Suppliers management: The software tracks supplier contracts and inventory costs, aiding businesses in selecting optimal deals, vital for cost control in Malaysia’s competitive market.
• Kitchen screen: Kitchen screens provide real-time updates for chefs, ensuring efficient food prep management, which is essential for prompt service in Malaysia’s bustling central kitchens.
• Delivery management: Efficient ingredient shipment tracking ensures quick delivery management, which is crucial for business success in Malaysia’s expansive market.
• Inventory management: The system auto-tracks stock, quality, and expiry, alerting on low inventory to help Malaysian firms avoid shortages, minimize waste, and optimize costs.
• Central kitchen reports: The system’s reporting on kitchen operations, sales, and logistics, complete with analytics, empowers Malaysian businesses to make informed decisions, crucial for staying competitive in the food service sector.

2. Melba kitchen management

Melba is a management tool designed to optimize the operations of central kitchens, which are the hubs of food production for various dining establishments. Melba streamlines processes such as ingredient and recipe management, production scheduling, and order organization.

This central kitchen software allows for centralized control over food production, helping to save time, reduce waste, and boost profit margins.

Here are the main features of Melba:

• Ingredient and recipe management: Create and manage ingredient and recipe databases to ensure uniform quality and standards across all outlets.
• Dynamic recipe data: Work with dynamic data that can be synchronized with multiple sales points.
• Production for multiple sales sites: Organize production by merging identical needs and dispatching finished products to various points of sale.
• Operational management: Optimize operations for supply to various sales sites.
• Inventory optimization: Manage stocks of ingredients, recipes, and drinks efficiently, and conduct inventory with precision.
• Supplier order placement: Place orders with suppliers directly through the software.

Strengths:

• Streamlined operations: Melba consolidates order management, inventory, and production scheduling, boosting operational efficiency.
• Centralized recipe data: It streamlines recipe sharing and standardization across sales sites, key for consistent food quality.
• Optimized efficiency: The software enhances kitchen efficiency, cuts waste, and boosts quality control for notable cost savings.
• Scalability: The software aids in managing several central kitchens across various locations, ideal for expanding F&B enterprises.

Weaknesses:

• Customization limitations: Melba may lack the extensive customization options of other software.
• Integration challenges: Melba’s integration with other business systems potentially incurs extra costs or workflow changes.
• Learning curve: The learning curve could be quite steep with its interface potentially being less intuitive for some staff.
• Feature set: Some businesses may require more specialized functions that are available from other competitors.

3. Restroworks central kitchen software

Restroworks is designed to optimize the operations of a central kitchen, the core facility that prepares and supplies food to various dining locations. This software ensures efficient goods transfer, cost control, and optimized inventory for a restaurant’s central kitchen and outlets.

Here are the key features of Retroworks:

• Inventory management: Streamline inventory to reduce waste and boost profitability.
• Recipe management: Accurate tracking of kitchen ingredients for waste reduction.
• Supply chain management: Manage logistics for stress-free restaurant supply operations.
• Base kitchen: Centralize kitchen software to optimize operations.
• Kitchen display system: Organize kitchen chaos with a display system.
• Kitchen production system: A future-ready system to enhance kitchen productivity.
• Forecasting: Accurately forecast demand to optimize inventory.

Strengths:

• Comprehensive management: It offers comprehensive kitchen management tools, ensuring efficient goods transfer and inventory optimization.
• Efficiency and productivity: The platform cuts costs and refining logistics for improved time management and food production.
• Real-time insights: Restroworks enables businesses to leverage real-time data for growth, decision-making, and operational optimization.
• Scalability: The software caters to diverse restaurant types, from fine dining to QSRs, offering versatility for various F&B services.
• Integration capabilities: Restroworks focuses on efficient system integrations, key for businesses aiming for a unified technology ecosystem.

Weaknesses:

• Customization and flexibility: Restroworks might have limited customization, potentially restricting system tailoring to specific business requirements.
• Integration with existing systems: Integrating Restroworks possibly incurs extra costs or workflow modifications.
• User experience: Restroworks’ interface may be less intuitive, potentially slowing adoption and increasing training needs.
• Feature set: Restroworks may offer fewer specialized features than competitors, a potential downside for niche business needs.

4. Apicbase kitchen management system

Apicbase is a comprehensive F&B management platform designed to drive operational excellence across multi-site restaurant operations. It centralizes crucial F&B data and provides insights into processes that impact profitability.

The platform aims to reduce staff and management workloads through automation, helping businesses increase profitability, elevate customer experience, grow sustainably, and ensure regulatory compliance.

Here are the core features:

• Menu engineering: A central hub for managing recipes, menus, and data group-wide.
• Production planning: Tools for planning production, generating Bills of Materials (BOMs), and monitoring execution.
• Inventory management: Capabilities to prevent waste and shortages and monitor stock levels at every location.
• Sales analytics: Analytics to identify top-performing and underperforming products, helping to develop profitable and popular items.
• Procurement: Streamlined ordering processes to ensure you order what you need when you need it, and nothing more.

Strengths:

• Comprehensive F&B management: A full suite of F&B management tools, centralizing menu, inventory, procurement, and data analytics.
• Operational excellence: Apicbase boosts operational efficiency through task automation and insights into profitability-related processes.
• Scalability: Apicbase is designed to grow with your business, making it suitable for both small and large multi-site operations.
• Real-time analytics: The platform offers real-time insights for data-driven operational optimization and profit increase.
• User-friendly interface: Apicbase is user-friendly, reducing the learning curve and enhancing staff productivity.
• Integration capabilities: It ensures efficient integrations, which is vital for a cohesive tech ecosystem in restaurant operations.

Weaknesses:

• Customization: Apicbase’s customization may be limited, potentially not meeting the needs of businesses seeking tailored solutions.
• Integration: Apicbase integration may face challenges, potentially increasing costs or operational complexity.
• User experience: The platform’s UI may be less intuitive, possibly necessitating additional staff training.
• Specialized features: Apicbase may lack some specialized features found in competing products, which is important for certain F&B operations.

5. Gofrugal central kitchen software

Gofrugal is a management system designed to enhance the efficiency and profitability of central kitchen operations. It manages production planning, stock transfers, franchise management, waste reduction, and vendor collaboration.

Here are the main features:

• Streamlined production planning: Allocate resources and implement plans for consistent quality in all outlets.
• Automate stock replenishment: Utilize auto-indent to reorder low-stock items from the central kitchen and manage them via the server.
• Franchise management: Ensure brand taste consistency across franchises with unified recipes.
• Menu engineering: Examine sales and trends to refine menus and identify savings.
• Vendor management: Centralize vendor data, streamline procurement, and monitor performance for supplier management.
• Wastage management: Minimize waste and maximize profits by tracking recipe ingredient utilization and shelf life.
• Integrated accounts module: Simplify audits with an accounts module that ensures price consistency across restaurants.
• Recipe and kit manager: Ensure taste consistency across outlets with centralized recipe management.
• Centralized purchase control: Manage purchases from the head office to outlets, ensuring centralized inventory management.

Strengths:

• Comprehensive solution: Gofrugal provides a comprehensive solution for production, inventory, and franchise management.
• Automation: The software’s auto-indent and integrated accounting streamline operations and enhance automation.

Weaknesses:

• Customization and flexibility: Limited customization poses challenges for businesses seeking tailored solutions.
• Integration with existing systems: Integrating Gofrugal with other systems or apps may incur extra costs and complexity.
• User experience: The platform’s UI/UX could be less intuitive, possibly needing extra staff training.
• Specialized features: Gofrugal may miss some specialized features found in competitors, essential for certain F&B needs.

6. LS Retail’s central kitchen software

The LS central kitchen software is a comprehensive solution designed to optimize the operations of a central kitchen, which is the hub of food preparation and distribution for restaurants, cafes, and other food service establishments.

It’s part of the LS Retail suite of products and is specifically tailored to improve efficiency and communication between the front house (where customers are served) and the back house (where food is prepared).

Here are some key features of the LS Retail’s central kitchen software:

• Kitchen Display System (KDS): Streamlines order organization and recipe management and ensures correct display sequencing at kitchen stations.
• Efficient workflow: Enhances workflow, links house areas, and aids in consistent dish preparation per guest specs.
• Order management: A KDS allows kitchen staff to prioritize food prep over ticket management, enhancing customer service with faster, precise order processing.
• Digital order viewing screens: They eliminate printers and paper, directing POS orders straight to the proper prep stations.
• Customization: The KDS customizes workflows, displays special requests, and labels orders for services like takeaway or delivery.

Strengths:

• Integrated solution: Integrate with LS Retail’s modules for a cohesive retail and food service management platform.
• User-friendly interface: The software is designed with a focus on usability, making it accessible for users of all skill levels.
• Real-time data: LS Retail provides real-time data across the system, which aids in making informed decisions quickly.
• Customization: It allows for extensive customization to meet the specific needs of different food service operations.
• Quality Control: The system includes robust quality control features to maintain high standards across all locations.
• Scalability: LS Retail’s software can scale with the business, making it suitable for operations of varying sizes.

Weaknesses:

• Customization complexity: Setting up these extensive custom features might require more time and technical expertise.
• Initial setup and learning curve: The initial setup process can be complex, and staff not familiar with such integrated systems may face a steep learning curve.
• Cost: The comprehensive nature of LS Retail’s solutions might come at a higher cost.
  Integration with external systems: There may be challenges in integrating with external systems or third-party applications.

7. Supy central kitchen software

Supy is designed to streamline operations for food and beverage businesses by enabling internal ordering and transfers between branches and the central kitchen.

This kitchen order management system focuses on improving the internal supply chain operation, making it easier for businesses to manage their central kitchen’s production and distribution processes effectively.

The key features of Supy’s central kitchen software are:

• Internal ordering: Enables branches to place orders with the central kitchen.
• Batch productions and transfers: Allows for mass production and bulk shipping.
• Dedicated central kitchen module: Offers a specialized module for central kitchen operations.
• Clear order statuses: Provides real-time updates on order statuses.
• Streamlined operations: Boost efficiency with tools for streamlined ordering, monitoring, and inventory management.

Strengths:

• Flexibility: Supy allows any branch to be configured as a central kitchen.
• Streamlined internal ordering: The software enables efficient internal ordering across branches.
• Advanced order processing: Branches have advanced options for processing high volumes of regular orders.
• Real-time order status: Supy provides real-time updates on order statuses.
• Operational efficiency: Boost operational efficiency, particularly when demand increases, and multiple branches require the same items.

Weaknesses:

• Focus on internal operations: It may not emphasize as much on customer-facing features or integrations with customer relationship management (CRM) systems.
• Specialized use case: Highly specialized for internal supply chain operations, which might limit its appeal to businesses looking for a broader range of functionalities.

8. Inresto kitchen management system

Inresto is a specialized solution designed to manage and streamline operations in a central kitchen, which is the core facility for preparing and distributing food across various outlets of a restaurant chain or food service business.

The key features of Inresto include:

• Vendor management: Digitizes records and schedules vendors via texts.
• Inventory tracking: Offers real-time tracking based on recipes and sub-recipes.
• Stock management: Automatically updates inventory status based on orders and sends notifications to manage stock levels effectively.
• Purchase order management: Generates and sends purchase orders to relevant vendors from the central kitchen.

Strengths:

• Focus on efficiency: Inresto is designed to optimize kitchen operations which can lead to increased productivity.
• Quality control: Help in maintaining consistent quality across all outlets.
• Comprehensive data management: It offers robust data management capabilities for raw materials, production, and supply chains, providing a clear overview of operations.

Weaknesses:

• Transportation logistics: Inresto may struggle with logistics optimization against more advanced rivals.
• Geographical reach: Inresto’s software may face limitations in area service due to transport limits.
• Initial investment: Starting a central kitchen with Inresto may need a large initial investment.
• Dependency on delivery platforms: Inresto’s reliance on third-party delivery could risk operations.

9. Sharva POS

Sharva POS is a solution designed to help food service businesses manage and streamline their central kitchen operations. It integrates central kitchen and warehouse management to cut costs and improve food production efficiency.

Here are the key features of Sharva POS:

• Inventory management: Automatically tracks low stock and generates POs for out-of-stock items.
• Vendor management: Manages vendor relationships and schedules deliveries.
• Real estate optimization: Reduce the real estate footprint by centralizing food storage and production.
• Quality and safety control: Maintains higher control over food quality and kitchen hygiene.
• Consistency in food production: Ensures a consistent taste for customers’ favorite food items across different locations.
• Operational cost reduction: Helps in lowering food costs by taking advantage of bulk discounts and reducing labor costs.

Strengths:

• Cost efficiency: It focuses on reducing food and labor costs by centralizing food storage and production.
• Simplified management: It allows retail unit managers to focus on service and customer satisfaction rather than worrying about food production.

Weaknesses:

• Integration with other systems: Sharva POS may face challenges in integrating with other systems or third-party applications.
• User experience: The user interface and experience may not be as refined or intuitive as those offered by competitors.
• Customization and flexibility: The software’s ability to be customized to fit specific business needs may be limited.

10. LINGA ROS

LINGA ROS, which stands for Restaurant Operating System, is a comprehensive point-of-sale (POS) system designed for the restaurant and retail industry.

It’s a cloud-based platform that offers a suite of applications to manage various business aspects, including central kitchen operations.

Here are the key features of LINGA ROS:

• Cloud-based system: Ensure that updates and upgrades are automatic and that the system can adapt to the business’s changing needs.
• Inventory management: It offers real-time tracking of inventory levels, sets reorder points, and receives live inventory shipment updates.
• Quality control: The software maintains high standards of food quality and safety.
• Order management: Streamlines the process of managing orders from different outlets,.

Strengths:

• Customization and flexibility: Offers a high degree of customization and flexibility.
• User-friendly interface: The system is known for its user-friendly interface.
• Comprehensive reporting: The software provides comprehensive reporting and analytics.
• Integration capabilities: LINGA rOS boasts strong integration capabilities.

Weaknesses:

• Customer support: There are mentions of customer support not always meeting user expectations.
• Functionality: Some users may find that it lacks specific functionalities offered by competitors.
• Value for money: The cost of its features and benefits may not always be favorable compared to other options.

How to Choose the Right Central Kitchen Software for Your Businesses

Choosing the right central kitchen software for Malaysian F&B companies involves careful consideration of several factors to ensure the software meets the specific needs of the business. Here are some key points to consider:

• Identify core features: Central kitchen software must have key features like inventory management, recipe standardization, production planning, procurement, and real-time analytics, plus a kitchen display system for order organization and efficient prep time management.
• Software’s credibility: Verify software credibility through customer feedback, case studies, and industry certifications. Ensure it provides strong customer support and frequent updates.
• Scalability and integration: Choose software that can scale with your business and integrates well with systems like POS, CRM, and supply chain tools for effective communication and centralized data.
• User-friendly interface: Opt for software with an intuitive, user-friendly interface that minimizes training time and boosts staff productivity.
• Customization and flexibility: Ensure the software can be customized to fit unique business needs and offers flexible features and payment options for cost management.
• Data security and compliance: Prioritize software with strong data security that adheres to data protection laws and employs encryption to protect sensitive information.

Taking these factors into account, Malaysian F&B companies can choose central kitchen software that streamlines their operations, supports their growth, and adapts to their evolving needs.

Remember, the right software can make a significant difference in operational efficiency and overall business success.

Conclusion

Selecting the best central kitchen software is about finding a solution that meets today’s needs and adapts to tomorrow’s challenges. With the right software, businesses can ensure food quality, manage inventory effectively, and ultimately enhance profitability.

Considering the criteria discussed, HashMicro’s Central Kitchen Software stands out as a top contender. It’s user-friendly, scalable, and customizable to cater to your business’s unique demands. Plus, with robust security measures, your business data is in safe hands.

Don’t just take our word for it; experience the difference firsthand. We invite you to try a free demo today at no cost. See for yourself how it can transform your operations and help you stay ahead in the competitive F&B landscape.

FAQ about Central Kitchen Software

• How does central kitchen software help in managing multiple outlets?

  Central kitchen software is designed to streamline operations across various outlets by centralizing key processes. It integrates order management, inventory control, and production scheduling, ensuring consistency in food quality and efficient resource allocation. This software helps maintain standardized recipes, monitor stock levels, and track ingredient usage, reducing waste and improving overall operational efficiency. By centralizing these functions, businesses can better manage their supply chains and maintain uniform standards across all locations.

• Can central kitchen software handle real-time inventory management?

  Yes, central kitchen software provides real-time inventory management features. These tools allow businesses to track stock levels continuously, ensuring that ingredients are always available when needed. The software updates inventory records automatically as items are used or received, preventing stockouts and overstock situations. This real-time visibility helps in making informed purchasing decisions, optimizing stock levels, and reducing wastage.

• How does central kitchen software improve compliance and food safety?

  Central kitchen software helps businesses comply with food safety regulations by standardizing processes and maintaining accurate records. The software ensures that all recipes and procedures are followed correctly, reducing the risk of contamination and ensuring consistent quality. Additionally, it can monitor and document critical control points, making it easier to adhere to food safety standards and conduct audits. This level of control and documentation is essential for maintaining high standards of hygiene and safety in food production​

• Is it possible to integrate central kitchen software with other business systems?

  Yes, central kitchen software can be integrated with various other business systems, such as POS systems, accounting software, and supply chain management tools. This integration allows for seamless data flow between different parts of the business, improving overall efficiency and reducing the need for manual data entry. For example, sales data from POS systems can automatically update inventory levels in the central kitchen software, ensuring accurate stock tracking and better resource planning.

• What role does a Kitchen Display System (KDS) play in central kitchen management?

  A Kitchen Display System (KDS) is crucial for improving kitchen workflow and order accuracy. It replaces traditional paper tickets with digital screens that display orders in real-time. This system organizes orders by preparation station, ensuring that dishes are cooked and served in the correct sequence. It also allows kitchen staff to see special requests, allergies, and other important details, reducing errors and enhancing communication between the front and back of house.