understanding operator needs

AI ADOPTION IN FOODSERVICE

AI use is emerging in commercial operations but remains limited overall, with adoption varying by operation size. Some industry insiders note a potential silver lining to this new technology.

“We’ll see more advanced tech tools to streamline operations, improve guest experiences and drive efficiency,”

said a public relations representative of a midscale restaurant.

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KEY INSIGHTS

Current adoption:

Commercial

By restaurant size:

  • 10 or more locations: Higher adoption; only 13% have no interest in AI
  • 1-9 locations: Lower adoption; 35% have no interest in AI

Current adoption:

Noncommercial

Manufacturers can tap into operators’ focus on efficiency by offering products that streamline operations, boost consistency, and fit seamlessly with AI-driven systems like smart ordering or inventory management.

Noncommercial:

show no interest in AI

TOP AI INTEGRATION

In restaurants with 10 or more locations, 28% have integrated

self-service ordering kiosks with AI recommendations,

with an additional 25% interested in it to enhance their business.

MOST-DESIRED AI INTEGRATIONS

Only 1 in 10 restaurants with 10+ locations currently use AI for inventory, staffing or digital menu boards, but another 4 in 10 are interested in adopting them to improve operations.

“I expect to see AI come in and take over a lot of the back-end tasks that managers have to do.

— company officer, quickservice restaurant

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While AI is just starting to take hold in foodservice, operators expect it to grow in the next few years. With interest highest among restaurants that have 10 or more locations, AI is growing as an important tool for optimizing operations and scaling business.

AI may offer support in managing labor shortages, an ongoing issue in the foodservice industry.