What is the Anchoring Effect?

The Anchoring Effect is a cognitive bias where people rely too heavily on the first piece of information they see (the “anchor") when making decisions. In the context of self-order kiosks, this means that the first few menu items a customer sees will influence their perception of value and price for everything else that follows.

Applying the Anchoring Effect to Self-Order Kiosks

Smart businesses are using this principle to their advantage. By placing premium or high-margin items at the top of the kiosk menu, they’re setting a mental “anchor” that makes everything below seem more affordable or reasonable by comparison.

Example:
If a $15 gourmet burger is the first thing a customer sees, the $10 classic burger suddenly feels like a great deal—even though the customer may not have originally planned to spend more than $8.

This subtle strategy encourages customers to trade up and increases the average order value without pushy upselling.

It’s All About Perception

When users interact with kiosks, they often make quick decisions. Presenting them with high-value items first frames their expectations and speeds up the decision-making process in your favor.

• Customers feel in control (because they’re choosing)

• Businesses gain a predictable way to guide buying behavior

• Everyone wins

Real Business Impact

Brands using self-order kiosks with anchoring-based menu designs have reported noticeable improvements in:

• Average ticket size

• Premium item sales

• Customer satisfaction (from a more streamlined decision process)

Want to See Anchoring in Action?
Eflyn’s self-order kiosks are designed with behavioral psychology in mind—so you can optimize menu flow and maximize sales.

Book a demo now