Dual operation complexity often challenges brewpub owners. Managing both brewing production and full restaurant service under one roof demands specialized tools. Most generic POS systems fall short.
Clover provides straightforward payment processing. It suits basic counter service models. Lavu offers a system for diverse restaurant needs, including complex inventory and order management.
This comparison examines which POS system better supports a brewpub’s unique demands. We look at brew-specific inventory, taproom operations, and overall business intelligence.
Quick Verdict: Lavu
Lavu provides the specialized tools brewpubs need for complex inventory, multi-faceted operations, and detailed financial analysis. Clover handles simpler payment processing and basic sales.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Lavu | Clover | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brewery Inventory & Recipe Costing | Lavu offers multi-level inventory. It tracks raw ingredients to finished kegs. It calculates per-pint costing. | Clover provides basic retail inventory. It lacks advanced recipe costing. Ingredient tracking is not a core function. | Lavu |
| Taproom & Table Service Management | Lavu provides full table management. It handles bar tabs, custom layouts, and integrated kitchen display systems. It supports varied service styles. | Clover focuses on counter service. Its table management is limited. It relies on third-party apps for advanced functions. | Lavu |
| Keg & Tap List Management | Lavu integrates keg tracking. It allows real-time tap list updates. It prevents overselling popular beers. | Clover lacks native keg tracking. Tap list updates require manual input. It does not integrate with inventory for specific kegs. | Lavu |
| Brewpub Specific Reporting & Analytics | Lavu, powered by Marty, offers deep insights. It analyzes sales by brew, ingredient usage, and labor costs. Marty helps optimize menus and operations. | Clover delivers basic sales reports. Customization is limited. It does not offer brew-specific profitability analysis. | Lavu |
| Online Ordering & Loyalty Programs | Lavu features native online ordering. It offers customizable loyalty programs. These build customer retention and pre-orders. | Clover relies on its app marketplace for online ordering. Loyalty programs are often basic or third-party solutions. | Lavu |
| Staff Management & Payroll | Lavu offers advanced labor scheduling. It includes time clock functionality and role-based permissions. It simplifies tip pooling and payroll export. | Clover provides basic time tracking. Staff permissions are simpler. Payroll requires manual exports or third-party integrations. | Lavu |
| Hardware Flexibility | Lavu runs on iPads and offers diverse hardware options. This allows brewpubs to choose equipment that fits their needs and budget. | Clover often requires proprietary hardware bundles. These systems can be costly. They offer less flexibility. | Lavu |
| Payment Processing Options | Lavu offers flexible payment processing. Brewpubs can choose their own processor. This often leads to lower transaction fees. | Clover’s system is tightly integrated with its own payment processing. This can limit choices. Rates may not be negotiable. | Lavu |
Pricing Comparison
Lavu
Lavu uses a subscription model. Pricing depends on features and terminals needed. Custom quotes ensure a tailored fit. Lavu’s transparent payment processing allows operator choice, often reducing transaction costs. Hardware is often separate or leased, with iPad compatibility offering flexibility.
Clover
Clover’s pricing typically involves upfront hardware costs, often in bundles. Monthly software fees vary by plan. Payment processing is typically locked in with Clover. This can limit cost savings. Additional apps often carry extra monthly charges.
A brewpub’s Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) with Lavu is often lower. Lavu’s specialized features reduce the need for multiple disparate systems. Its payment processor flexibility offers savings. Clover’s bundled hardware and fixed processing can increase long-term expenses, especially for complex operations needing many add-ons.
Use Case Analysis
A brewpub needs to track the exact cost of a new seasonal IPA, from malt to glass. They must understand per-pint profitability.
Recommendation: Lavu
Lavu’s advanced inventory and recipe costing feature tracks every ingredient. It links directly to finished product. Marty then analyzes this data for precise profitability metrics.
A brewpub experiences unpredictable demand for new beer releases. They need to manage pre-orders, taproom sales, and distribution effectively.
Recommendation: Lavu
Lavu offers integrated online ordering for pre-sales. Its real-time taproom management handles walk-in demand. Marty provides intelligence on sales patterns for better forecasting.
A small brewpub focuses solely on counter-service beer sales and packaged goods. Their main need is quick transactions and basic inventory tracking.
Recommendation: Clover
Clover’s simpler setup and focus on payment processing suits basic retail. It provides straightforward transaction handling for low-complexity operations.
A brewpub operates a full-service kitchen, a busy bar, and an outdoor patio. They need to manage diverse order types and multiple service areas seamlessly.
Recommendation: Lavu
Lavu provides full table service management, bar tabs, and a customizable KDS. It routes orders to the correct prep stations. This ensures efficient service across all areas.
Overall Winner: Lavu
Lavu stands out as the operator ally for brewpubs. Its specialized features directly address the complexities of combining brewing and hospitality. Clover serves simpler, payment-focused retail models.
- Lavu provides advanced brewery inventory and precise recipe costing, essential for profit tracking.
- Lavu integrates taproom, table service, and online ordering, handling diverse operational needs.
- Marty AI analytics offers deep intelligence on sales, costs, and demand, unique to Lavu.
- Lavu offers hardware flexibility and choice in payment processors, reducing TCO.
- Lavu’s staff management tools support complex teams across brewing and front-of-house roles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Lavu track my raw brewing ingredients and finished beer inventory?
Yes. Lavu’s multi-level inventory tracks raw materials, work-in-progress, and finished products like kegs and bottles. This helps you understand true brew costs.
Does Clover support split checks for large groups in the taproom?
Yes. Clover does offer basic split check functions. Lavu provides more advanced table management and order splitting for busy service environments.
Can I manage my tap list in real time with Lavu?
Yes. Lavu allows real-time tap list updates and integrates with third-party tools for accurate keg tracking. This prevents overselling popular beers and ensures accuracy.
Is it easy to update my menu for new beer releases and seasonal items?
Yes. Lavu provides intuitive menu management features. You can quickly add new seasonal beers, update descriptions, and modify pricing with ease.
How does Lavu help with predicting demand for new brews?
Yes. Lavu’s Marty AI analyzes historical sales and seasonal trends. This intelligence helps forecast demand for future releases.
Does Clover offer employee scheduling for brewpubs with different roles?
Yes. Clover offers basic employee management features. Lavu provides more advanced scheduling, time clock, and role-based permissions, suitable for complex brewpub teams.
Ready to see Lavu in action?
Book a free demo and see how Lavu helps operators like you.
