According to a recent survey, nearly one-third of hospitality workers will not return to work during the labor shortage, leaving many restaurants understaffed. But, what if there was a way to ensure your employees stay long-term? It’s possible with restaurant ordering technology and Sprockets’ AI-powered platform. Continue reading to discover how these new technologies can solve industry challenges, revolutionize the restaurant industry, and continue to evolve.
Restaurant Ordering Technology
Restaurant ordering technology can significantly improve the ordering experience for you, your customers, and your employees. There are many ways to integrate automated ordering technology into your business, including:
1. Self-Service Ordering Systems
Top brands like Panera Bread regularly utilize self-service ordering systems in their restaurant to increase order count, traffic, and revenue. Although fast-casual and independent restaurants were slower to catch on, the COVID-19 pandemic may have changed their outlook. Implementing this food ordering technology could be the difference between a conversion and a foot out the door. Research by Tillster found that if lines for self-service and traditional ordering were equal length, 30% of customers would prefer to order via the self-service kiosk. The self-service ordering system market is estimated to reach $30.8 billion by 2024.
2. Integrated Online Ordering Solutions
Online ordering is crucial to restaurant success, especially throughout the pandemic. In fact, many restaurants were able to stay open thanks to integrated online ordering solutions like Toast: All-in-1-Point-of-Sale (POS) Software. This technology allows customers to order in a completely contactless way so restaurants can continue to maximize revenue.
3. Automated Voice Ordering Solutions
McD Tech Labs are partnering with International Business Machines Corporation (IBM) to expand automated voice ordering technology. The goal is to take pressure off employees, especially due to recent events like the pandemic and labor crisis. During the testing stage, ten McDonald’s franchise locations reported 85% accuracy, with employees only needing to step in 20% of the time. McDonald’s CFO explained they realized they had developed the technology as far as possible, which is why they wanted an expert to step in. IBM has significant experience with artificial intelligence and natural language processing. However, customers won’t be seeing this new technology in action nationwide any time soon. According to McDonald’s CFO, “The process will require a few more years.”
4. “Industry-Defying” Drive-Thru Ordering
A Taco Bell franchise is currently working alongside Taco Bell corporate to launch the first “Defy” drive-thru restaurant. The two-story location will consist of four drive-thru lanes, including a standard lane and three additional ones for mobile orders and delivery pickups. Customers can receive their order by scanning a QR code at the digital check-in screens. A “bell-evator” lift system will deliver their order from the second story. Taco Bell customers can also interact with crew members working on the second story via two-way audio and video technology. This tech-savvy restaurant was created with the “digital consumer in mind” and is estimated to open in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, in 2022.
Technology Will Not Replace Human Labor
Restaurant ordering technology is here to stay, but that doesn’t mean the need for employees is going anywhere. These technologies are meant to help restaurant employees – not take away their job – execute daily tasks. With a balanced combination of technology and the right employees, your restaurant will succeed, even during a labor crisis.
The Best of Both Worlds
Combining restaurant ordering and hiring technology can significantly improve your restaurant’s success. Sprockets’ Applicant Matching System uses a combination of artificial intelligence, natural language processing, and over 50 years of psychological research to enhance the traditional hiring process. Our solution empowers you to predict applicant success even before the interview, ultimately building strong teams that will stay long-term. It’s trusted by top brands like Chick-fil-A, Buffalo Wild Wings, and Taco Bell to stabilize staffing levels, even during the labor crisis. Schedule a free, 15-minute demo to start hiring more people like your top-performing employees.