HOW MUCH DOES A DRIVE THRU COST?
Let’s make sense of the world of drive thru investments so you can plan your budget wisely. We will be going through all the different aspects of a drive thru. So, how much does a drive thru cost? See below.
Understanding Drive Thru Menu Board Costs
Drive thru menu boards come in three main types: static, digital, and hybrid. Let’s explore each to shed light on their costs and considerations.
1. Static Drive Thru Menu Boards
- Cost Range: $3,000 – $8,000
- Factors Influencing Cost:
- Number of doors (typically 1-5)
- Door size and dividers
- Construction materials (Galvanized Steel or Aluminum)
- Illumination type (backlit or external lighting)
- Additional Questions to Ask:
- Can the board be painted in my brand colors?
- Is it wet painted or powder coated to prevent rust?
- Are printed graphics included in the frame price?
- What is the estimated life expectancy of the enclosure?
- Is the board wind load rated?
2. Digital Drive Thru Menu Boards
- Cost Range: $6,000 – $25,000
- Factors Influencing Cost:
- Number and size of screens
- Screen specifications and outdoor rating
- HDMI cables, screen warranty, media player
- Content management software and hosting
- Monitoring software and technical support
- Order Confirmation Software, A.I. Software and more.
- Additional Questions to Ask:
- Can the frame be painted in my brand colors?
- Do you need graphic design services?
- Does the board require an internet connection?
- What is the life expectancy of the screens?
3. Hybrid Drive Thru Menu Boards
- Cost Range: $3,000 – $25,000
- Considerations: Combination of static and digital in the same enclosure.
- Additional Questions to Ask:
- What combinations of static and digital are available?
- Can static be upgraded to digital in the field?
Understanding Drive Thru Cost: Add-Ons for Drive Thru Enhancements
When setting up a drive thru, it’s not just about the menu board. Various add-ons can enhance functionality and customer experience. See more Drive Thru Costs.
1. Directional Signs
- Cost Rage: $500-$1800
- Considerations: Illuminated signs may require additional electrical work.
2. Clearance Bars
- Cost Range: $1,000 – $4,000
- Considerations: Protects buildings from vehicle damage. Can be customized with brand colors.
3. Presell Boards
- Cost Range: Similar to menu boards (refer to above costs on static or digital
- Considerations: Provides a sneak peek at the menu, promoting high-margin items.
4. Canopies
- Cost Range: $3,500 – $15,000
- Considerations: Shields guests from weather, potential clearance bar, and can house speaker and microphone.
5. Communication Systems
- Cost Range: $2,000 to $15,000 Price varies based on number of lanes and components (speaker/mic post, headset package, timing loop).
- Considerations: Price varies based on number of lanes and components (speaker/mic post, headset package, timing loop).
6. Additional Branding Signage
- Cost Range: Varies based on type (posters, window clings, graphic wings).
- Considerations: Promotes brand visibility along the customer’s path.
7. Order Confirmation Systems
- Cost Range: $100 to $2,000+ (full integration with POS).
- Considerations: Enhances guest experience by confirming orders visually.
- Monthly Service may be required for software
8. Menu Design and Videos
- Cost Range: $500 to $5000
- Considerations: Engaging menu designs and videos can enhance customer experience. Costs may vary based on graphic elements, video production, and integration into the digital menu board.
American Burgers
American Burgers uses digital menu boards and digital drive-thrus to increase sales in their restaurants.
Great Harvest
With their many locations, Great Harvest wanted digital menus to save money and time changing their menus.
Coburg Pizza
Coburg Pizza wanted to update the look of their restaurant using digital menus to visualize their amazing pizzas.
American Burgers
American Burgers uses digital menu boards and digital drive-thrus to increase sales in their restaurants.
Great Harvest
With their many locations, Great Harvest wanted digital menus to save money and time changing their menus.
Coburg Pizza
Coburg Pizza wanted to update the look of their restaurant using digital menus to visualize their amazing pizzas.
So, How Much Does a Drive Thru Cost?
While the drive thru investment may seem complex, understanding these components will empower you to make informed decisions. Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all drive thru; customization is key to finding the setup that works for your unique needs and goals. Happy driving (and dining)!
