EFR basically is a paperless way to buy, sell and order goods. A key element is a computerized inventory system that links buyers to food distributors for purchasing, billing and inventory. It requires a PC, laser scanner and inventory control software. Foodstuffs and supplies, including produce and liquor, are ordered on-line and paid for by electronic transfer. The goods have been tagged by participating vendors with bar codes that are read electronically by scanner.
Information immediately goes into the computer, updating the data base for inventory control.
For operators, the computerized system means speedier ordering and inventory management, freeing more time to serve customers. What makes Woods an enthusiast is the bottom line. For most operators the software pays for itself in less than a year. But up until three years ago, the software wasn't available for the restaurant industry. The mainframes were out of the budget.