Virtual Order Takers are Zooming In
A chain of New York City restaurants has introduced virtual cashiers operated by workers in the Philippines via Zoom. This innovation aims to cut costs and enhance efficiency but has sparked controversy. Critics raise concerns about job displacement, exploitation of foreign workers, and technical issues like poor connections. Despite these challenges, proponents argue that virtual cashiers offer economic benefits, such as reducing operational expenses and maintaining competitive prices. Chi Zhang, the founder of Happy Cashier, defends the model as a necessary adaptation to high costs. He highlights that while wages for virtual cashiers are lower than in the U.S., they are competitive by Philippine standards, presenting a mutually beneficial arrangement. This concept isn’t entirely new, as a Canadian food chain implemented a similar system in 2022 due to staffing shortages caused by the pandemic. Zhang plans to expand his venture, positioning it as a leader in revolutionizing the restaurant industry.
this is insane
cashier is literally zooming into nyc from the philippines pic.twitter.com/opAyS8AYUs
— brett goldstein (@thatguybg) April 6, 2024
Robots Serving Up Vegan Meals
In other restaurant tech news, Steve Ells, the founder of Chipotle, has launched a new restaurant concept called Kernel, which utilizes robotics to revolutionize quick-serve dining, focusing on vegan takeout. The restaurant employs just three staff members and operates with high-tech systems for ordering and food preparation. Ingredients are prepped off-site and delivered hourly, with specific orders assembled on-site by a robotic system. Ells plans to expand Kernel’s presence in Manhattan and offer its robotic technology to other restaurant chains. The vision includes fewer workers with higher wages, emphasizing meaningful work and reduced turnover. While robotics in the restaurant industry is gaining traction for efficiency and consistency, there are still challenges to overcome. Despite this, Kernel’s innovative approach has garnered attention and positive reviews for its food and cutting-edge technology. Ells envisions further advancements in AI and robotics to streamline the food delivery and preparation process in the future.
Restaurant Technology Landscape Report 2024
The National Restaurant Association’s Restaurant Technology Landscape Report 2024 highlights the increasing use of technology in restaurants, shaping interactions between restaurants and consumers. Key findings include:
- Over 55% of operators plan investments to improve service areas, while 60% seek technology to enhance customer experience.
- 16% of operators plan to invest in Artificial Intelligence (AI) integration, including voice recognition.
- 82% of Gen Z adults are comfortable using smartphone apps to place orders at limited-service restaurants.
- 65% of all adult consumers are comfortable paying their check at full-service restaurants using computer tablets.
In the delivery segment, consumers expect seamless access, ordering, customization, and payment through computers or smartphones.
Restaurant operators are creatively expanding technology offerings while aligning with consumer preferences.
The report emphasizes the importance of understanding customer technology preferences to enhance the overall dining experience, marketing efforts, and operational efficiency.
Sources:
Axios.com
reason.com
restaurant.org
Producebluebook.com
openai.com