The Future of Automation in the Fast Food Industry: Past, Present, and Future Prospects
The fast food industry is on the cusp of a significant transformation, driven by the integration of automation and technology.
Current Adopting Trends
The concept of automation in the fast food industry is not a new phenomenon. As early as a few years ago, chains have already started phasing out traditional waitstaff in favor of kiosks. Walk into any Applebees, and you will see the shift towards more customer-driven ordering systems. The concierge will seat you, a kiosk will take your order, and another kiosk will handle your drinks and refills. This process spans from ordering, taking refills, adding sides, ordering desserts, to even handling the bill at the end of the meal.
Efficiency and Cost Reduction
The move towards kiosks and other automation technologies has proven to be highly effective in reducing the number of human employees. According to our observations at Applebees, the chain has cut its workforce by almost a third compared to other similar restaurants, but the remaining employees have reported a significant increase in productivity. These fewer employees are busier, turning a theoretical loss of jobs into an increased earning potential for the remaining staff.
While some argue that the introduction of AI or Artificial Intelligence could further reduce the need for human workers, it is unclear whether this is a more efficient and cost-effective solution. Simple machinery can efficiently interpret various inputs and assemble orders quickly with minimal assistance from human workers. The verbal order-taking process, while crucial, has already been streamlined through smartphone ordering methods. With the option to pick up orders by scanning a QR code on McDonald's app, the drive-thru experience is being redefined as an online order pickup service.
Benefits of Automation
The benefits of automation in the fast food industry include:
Cost reduction: Replacing human workers with automation technology can significantly reduce labor costs. This is particularly useful in the fast food industry, where labor costs are a substantial operational expense. Increased efficiency: Automated systems can operate 24/7 without breaks, leading to faster service times and reduced wait times for customers. This improves customer satisfaction and can lead to higher revenues. Consistency: Automation ensures that each customer receives the same standardized product, leading to a more consistent dining experience. This is especially important in a fast-paced environment where product quality and consistency can vary depending on the availability and mood of human workers.Current Challenges and Future Possibilities
Despite the numerous benefits, the implementation of automation still faces several challenges. For instance, the swift integration of modern technology into the fast food industry requires significant investment in both infrastructure and training. Additionally, the high initial costs of implementing automation systems can be a barrier for small and medium-sized restaurants. Furthermore, there is a need to ensure that the technology is capable of handling complex and dynamic customer demands.
Conclusion
The fast food industry is witnessing a paradigm shift with the increasing adoption of automation technologies. Current trends show that kiosks and other customer-driven solutions are the immediate future. While the integration of AI may seem promising, it remains to be seen whether it is a more effective solution. For now, the clear trend is towards efficiency, cost reduction, and consistent service, all of which are driving the advancements in the industry.