Managing supplier relationships is crucial for growing restaurants, pubs, and boutique hotels in the UK. Fluctuating ingredient prices, manual invoice handling, and delayed financial data can hurt your profits and slow down decisions. Supply chain costs have risen by up to 30% due to economic shifts, and kitchens without automated systems often lose significant margins to unchecked supplier expenses and wasted time on admin tasks.
This guide highlights top supplier relationship management (SRM) tools tailored for professional kitchens looking to grow. You’ll see how these tools automate tasks like invoice processing and price tracking, helping safeguard your margins. By the end, you’ll have the information needed to pick a tool that boosts supplier negotiations, improves menu profitability, and offers real-time financial control for expanding multi-site operations.
Take Murat Kilic from Amber restaurant, who saved £3,000 to £4,000 monthly by automating operations with Jelly. Want similar savings? Book a chat with Jelly to see how it works.
What Does Supplier Relationship Management Mean for Professional Kitchens?
Supplier Relationship Management, or SRM, in restaurants, pubs, and boutique hotels involves handling dealings with vendors who provide ingredients, equipment, and services. It’s more than just buying; it’s about building partnerships to get the most value from these connections. Older methods, like tracking with spreadsheets or managing paper invoices, often led to mistakes and delays.
With ingredient prices changing daily, outdated manual processes keep kitchens playing catch-up. Chefs spend hours each week on data entry from invoices, trying to keep up with multiple suppliers. Even having one supplier can be hard to judge. Now imagine multiple suppliers, each supplying their own set of rates per ingredient. It’s a recipe for margin disaster.
Modern SRM tools help kitchens monitor price shifts instantly, spot savings, and keep profits steady without constant manual effort. They offer the control and efficiency needed to grow operations and maintain financial health, especially for multi-site kitchens facing today’s economic challenges.
Ready to automate your kitchen operations? Book a chat with Jelly now.
Top 7 SRM Tools for Growing Professional Kitchens in 2025
1. Jelly: Simplify Financial Control for UK Kitchens
Jelly offers an easy way for growing UK restaurants, pubs, and boutique hotels to manage food and beverage operations by automating invoices, inventory, and menu profitability tracking. Built for kitchens earning £500k+ yearly and expanding to multiple locations, Jelly turns complex financial tasks into straightforward, automated processes. Its user-friendly design ensures even less tech-savvy chefs can use detailed data to improve performance and protect profits.
Key Features
- Automated Invoice Scanning: Captures every detail (quantity, SKU, price, tax) from emailed or photographed invoices.
- Price Alerts: Notifies you instantly about ingredient cost changes for better supplier discussions.
- Live Dish Costing: Updates gross profit margins as costs vary.
- Insights Dashboard & Flash Report: Shows daily, weekly, or monthly spending, margins, and sales data.
- Accounting Integration: Syncs with Xero in one click, cutting bookkeeping time by 90%.
- Digital Cookbook: Manages recipes centrally with automatic cost updates.
- Delivery Menu Creation: Accounts for delivery fees to ensure off-site menu profitability.
Advantages
- Built for growing multi-site UK kitchens.
- Quick setup with benefits visible in the first week.
- Real-time data for faster decisions.
- Easy-to-use interface for all staff.
- Clear pricing at £129/month per location.
- Saves 10-20 admin hours monthly.
- Boosts margins by 2 percentage points in 3 months.
Limitations
- Currently focuses on Xero for accounting integration, with more options coming.
- Targets food and beverage operations, not other sectors.
Integrations
- Xero (Accounting)
- Square (POS)
- ePOSnow (POS)
Best For
- UK kitchens with £500k+ yearly revenue.
- Owners, operations directors, and chefs needing real-time financial oversight.
- Businesses wanting to automate back-of-house tasks.
- Multi-site restaurants, pubs, hotels, and caterers.
Discover how Jelly can streamline your operations. Book a chat today.
2. MarketMan: Broad Management for Larger Operations
MarketMan provides a wide-ranging restaurant management system with tools for inventory, purchasing, and recipe costing. It supports supplier management by tracking purchases and order history, aiming to cover multiple aspects of kitchen operations.
Key Features
- Inventory Management & Recipe Costing
- Online Ordering with Suppliers
- Waste Tracking
- Sales & Theoretical Cost Reporting
- POS System Integration
Advantages
- Covers various operational needs with a wide feature set.
- Works well for larger setups with dedicated staff.
- Proven reliability as an established system.
Limitations
- Might be too complex for smaller, growing kitchens.
- Setup can take time to input all data.
- Pricing details may not be clear upfront, often requiring a custom quote.
- Could overwhelm smaller teams without tech support.
Integrations
- Multiple POS systems
- QuickBooks, Xero (Accounting)
- Various supplier ordering platforms
Best For
- Established restaurants and hospitality groups needing comprehensive tools.
- Operations with staff for system setup and management.
- Larger chains looking for extensive features.
3. Nory: AI-Powered Insights for Hospitality
Nory uses AI to connect data points for forecasting, menu planning, and supplier ordering in hospitality businesses. Its focus is on cutting food costs and improving back-of-house efficiency through predictive analytics.
Key Features
- AI-Driven Sales Forecasting
- Smart Ordering Suggestions
- Recipe and Menu Management
- Inventory Tracking
- Predictive Cost Analysis
Advantages
- Uses AI to predict trends and improve efficiency.
- Aims to reduce costs through data-driven decisions.
- Brings a modern approach to hospitality tech.
Limitations
- As a newer tool, AI insights may vary in accuracy.
- Setup complexity could challenge less tech-savvy teams.
- Needs substantial data input to refine AI predictions.
- May take longer to show results compared to direct data tools.
Integrations
- Various POS systems
- Accounting software (details vary)
- Supply chain management tools
Best For
- Businesses ready to use advanced AI solutions.
- Operators focusing on predictive data for planning.
- Tech-savvy establishments with resources for AI setup.
4. Kitchen Cut: Detailed Control for Complex Needs
Kitchen Cut delivers cloud-based software for hospitality, focusing on menu costing, allergen tracking, and inventory. It helps chefs and managers control expenses and meet compliance needs, acting as a thorough hub for kitchen management.
Key Features
- Recipe Costing & Menu Planning
- Inventory Control
- Allergen & Nutritional Data
- Reporting & Analysis
- Supplier Management (Order Tracking)
Advantages
- Strong on compliance and detailed recipe handling.
- Good fit for larger, multi-site chains with staff support.
- Offers a wide range of tools for complex setups.
Limitations
- Seen as an older system without real-time updates.
- Interface may not feel as user-friendly as newer options.
- Often costly, aimed at businesses with office teams.
- Slower to set up and less flexible than modern tools.
Integrations
- Various POS systems
- Multiple accounting platforms
- Supply chain management tools
Best For
- Large restaurant groups needing deep operational control.
- Businesses with complex costing and compliance demands.
- Operations with IT support and larger budgets.
5. Plate IQ: Streamline Invoice Processing
Plate IQ focuses on automating accounts payable for restaurants, turning invoices into useful data while simplifying payments and offering spending insights. While not a full SRM tool, its invoice handling supports effective supplier tracking.
Key Features
- AI-Powered Invoice Digitisation
- Automated Bill Payments
- Expense Management
- Vendor Management & Payment Tracking
- Spending Analytics
Advantages
- Great for automating invoice and payment tasks.
- Cuts down on manual data entry errors.
- Offers clear views of supplier spending trends.
- Simplifies payment workflows.
Limitations
- Mainly handles accounts payable, less focus on kitchen operations.
- Needs other tools for full operational coverage.
- Lacks features for recipe costing or menu profits.
Integrations
- Many accounting tools (QuickBooks, Xero, Sage)
- POS systems (for financial data)
- Banking and payment systems
Best For
- Businesses focused on efficient invoice and payment handling.
- Operations needing detailed supplier spending data.
- Companies aiming to automate financial back-office tasks.
6. QuickBooks (with Add-Ons): Solid Accounting Base
QuickBooks is a popular accounting tool for small to medium businesses. While not designed for SRM, it handles supplier payments, expense tracking, and vendor records. Add-on integrations can extend its use for restaurant-specific needs.
Key Features
- Invoice and Bill Management
- Expense Tracking
- Vendor Management
- Financial Reporting
- Basic Inventory Tracking
Advantages
- Well-known and widely trusted by businesses.
- Strong core accounting functions.
- Offers a large app marketplace for extra features.
- Affordable for basic financial tasks.
Limitations
- Needs extra tools for specific SRM functions.
- Lacks kitchen-specific features like recipe management.
- Manual data entry can still be time-consuming.
- Limited real-time insights without add-ons.
Integrations
- Huge range of third-party apps
- POS system connections available
- Restaurant and inventory add-ons
Best For
- Kitchens prioritising general accounting needs.
- Businesses okay with combining tools for specific tasks.
- Operations with existing accounting setups.
7. Sage Accounting (with Add-Ons): Reliable Financial Foundation
Sage Accounting offers cloud-based tools for invoicing, expense tracking, and financial reports. Like QuickBooks, it provides a strong base for financial management in kitchens and can be enhanced with add-ons for SRM needs.
Key Features
- Invoicing and Bill Payments
- Expense Management
- Cash Flow Tracking
- Reporting & Tax Tools
- Basic Vendor Tracking
Advantages
- Easy-to-use interface for accounting tasks.
- Good for financial oversight and compliance.
- Trusted name in accounting software.
- Decent range of integration options.
Limitations
- Missing kitchen-specific operational tools by default.
- Needs add-ons for detailed SRM features.
- Manual processes likely for supplier management.
- Few real-time insights without extra systems.
Integrations
- Various business apps
- Food & beverage-specific tools
- POS and inventory systems
Best For
- Kitchens focused on strong general accounting.
- Businesses able to add tools for operational gaps.
- Operations already using Sage systems.
Comparing Features: Find Your Best SRM Tool for 2025
| Feature/Tool | Jelly 🇬🇧 | MarketMan | Nory | Kitchen Cut | Plate IQ | QuickBooks | Sage Accounting |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Automated Invoice Line-Item Scanning | ✅ | 🟡 (Requires setup) | 🟡 (Varies) | 🟡 (Limited) | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Real-time Price Alerts | ✅ | 🟡 (Based on POs) | 🟡 (AI analysis) | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Live Dish Costing & GP Tracking | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Quick Onboarding (under 1 week) | ✅ | 🟡 | 🟡 | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Designed for UK Growing Professional Kitchens | ✅ | 🟡 (Global) | 🟡 (Global) | 🟡 (Global) | 🟡 (US focus) | ✅ | ✅ |
| Simple, Flat-rate Pricing | ✅ | 🟡 | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | 🟡 (Tiered) | 🟡 (Tiered) |
| Reduces Manual Admin by 10-20 hrs/month | ✅ | 🟡 | 🟡 | 🟡 | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Direct Accounting Integration (Xero) | ✅ | ✅ | 🟡 | 🟡 | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Dedicated UK Support | ✅ | 🟡 | 🟡 | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
Why Jelly Stands Out for UK Professional Kitchens
Jelly excels as an SRM tool for growing UK kitchens by focusing on automation, quick results, and real-time data. Unlike generic accounting software or overly broad systems, Jelly targets the specific profit challenges faced by multi-site kitchens. It automates invoice data capture, removing hours of manual work and giving instant clarity on ingredient cost changes.
Compared to MarketMan, Jelly prioritises simplicity and fast value for smaller UK kitchens. MarketMan covers more areas but can feel excessive for teams not needing a full suite. Jelly’s price alerts and financial insights deliver quick, practical benefits.
Against Nory, Jelly offers immediate results with automated invoice scanning and alerts, while Nory’s AI needs time and data to refine its predictions. Jelly gives usable insights from day one, based on real invoice data.
Versus Kitchen Cut, Jelly provides a modern, affordable, and dynamic option. Kitchen Cut suits large chains with dedicated teams but lacks real-time updates. Jelly’s cloud-based system fits the fast-paced needs of growing kitchens, offering live profit and cost data without high costs or complex IT needs.
This instant access to data matters when suppliers hike prices. Jelly’s alerts let chefs and owners negotiate or adjust menus before profits drop, providing clear evidence for decisions instead of guesswork.
Take Control of Your Kitchen Finances for Growth
Growing restaurants, pubs, and boutique hotels face clear hurdles: unpredictable supplier costs, time-consuming manual tasks, and the constant fight to keep profits healthy. With many operators planning tech investments in 2025, automated systems are becoming essential for survival. The key insight is that success comes from using smart SRM tools for immediate, actionable data rather than delayed guesses.
A good SRM tool turns supplier dealings into strategic partnerships, supporting data-driven negotiations and confident choices. It frees up staff, from chefs to finance teams, from repetitive admin work, letting them focus on growth and quality. With real-time data, you can handle market shifts, ensure every dish is profitable, and build a strong financial base for 2025 and beyond.
Don’t let manual processes eat into your profits. Jelly offers a straightforward way for growing kitchens to manage supplier relationships, automate key tasks, and uncover hidden savings. Book a chat with Jelly today to start building a more efficient, profitable future.
Common Questions About SRM Tools
How Do Automated SRM Tools Cut Costs?
Automated SRM tools help save money by alerting you to supplier price increases in real time, so you can negotiate better rates and avoid margin loss. They also streamline tasks like invoice handling and dish costing, freeing up staff time for more valuable work. Detailed spending data helps spot savings and improve purchasing choices. Many kitchens see quick reductions in costs through smarter supplier talks and accurate inventory control.
Are SRM Tools Only for Big Restaurant Chains?
While some SRM tools target large chains, options like Jelly are made for growing UK kitchens earning £500k+ yearly and expanding to 2-5 sites. These businesses have outgrown small-scale setups and need effective, user-friendly tools to handle growing complexity and multiple suppliers. The trick is choosing a tool that fits your size and growth plans, avoiding overly complex systems meant for bigger operations.
How Fast Can I See Benefits from an SRM Tool?
The speed of results depends on the tool. With Jelly, you can notice value within a week after scanning or emailing invoices. Price alerts kick in right away, and gross profit margins for dishes update instantly. This quick impact differs from more intricate systems that take longer to configure. Pick a tool built for fast setup to get benefits sooner.
Do SRM Tools Help with Inventory Too?
Yes, many SRM tools link supplier invoice data to inventory and dish costing systems. This connection provides accurate, real-time stock values and updates dish profitability as costs change. It means you don’t need separate systems, keeping inventory, costs, and menu pricing aligned across all sites.
What Should I Prioritise When Choosing an SRM Tool?
Look for tools with automated invoice processing, real-time price alerts, and integration with your POS and accounting systems. Check for clear pricing and ensure the tool matches your business size and growth stage. Quick setup, reliable support, and proven results from similar kitchens are also important. Above all, choose a system that offers instant, useful data without long setup delays.