Technology in the Foodservice Industry
The foodservice industry is being influenced by rapid advancements in technology. From how we order and pay, to how food is prepared and delivered, innovation is reshaping the dining experience. It’s no longer just about serving delicious food; it’s about creating a satisfying customer journey and an efficient kitchen with the aid of technology.
Staying ahead of the curve and embracing these technological advancements is important to the success of a foodservice business. Let’s dive into some of the latest advancements in foodservice technology and explore how it’s shaping the industry’s future.
Automation and Robotics
Robots are revolutionizing the foodservice industry by becoming everyday helpers in kitchens and restaurants. From flipping burgers to delivering food, automation is changing the game. With California’s passing of law AB 1228, effective April 1, 2024, the minimum wage for fast-food workers in CA is now $20/hr. This has caused, in turn, restaurant owners to look for ways to reduce costs in other sections of their operation. When I visited the National Restaurant Show in Chicago this year (read more in our previous blog), many booths featured robots designed to increase efficiency. Imagine having robot chefs preparing your meals with precision and speed. Not only can automation create efficiency, but some robots can help maintain consistent food quality that’s hard to match. Additionally, they work tirelessly without breaks, helping to reduce labor costs and increase productivity. It’s a win-win for both restaurant owners and customers.
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
AI-powered analytics can provide valuable insights into customer preferences, helping restaurants optimize menus and create personalized dining experiences. Additionally, AI can be used for predictive maintenance, helping restaurants anticipate equipment failures and schedule repairs proactively. This prevents costly downtime and ensures a smooth operation. According to Precedence Research, the Food & Beverages AI market demand surged to $8 billion in 2023 and is forecasted to soar to approximately $214.62 billion by 2033. By analyzing vast amounts of data, businesses can identify trends, predict demand, and make data-driven decisions to improve profitability.
Smart Kitchen Equipment
Get ready for refrigerators that know when you’re running low on milk and ovens that can perfectly cook a steak consistently. Smart kitchen appliances offer increased convenience, efficiency, and precision, elevating the overall food prep experience.
As technology continues to advance, we can expect more sophisticated and connected kitchen devices to emerge, making kitchens more efficient, able to handle higher volumes, and meals more consistent. Last year, the global market for smart kitchen appliances reached a value of $15.68 billion. Analysts predict strong growth ahead, with an expected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 18.3% from 2023 to 2030.
Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Technologies
One of the biggest challenges in the foodservice industry is food waste. Smart waste management systems can help restaurants track food waste, identify patterns, and implement strategies to minimize waste, which not only reduces costs, but also benefits the environment.
Energy efficiency is another key aspect of sustainability. From energy-efficient kitchen equipment to smart building management systems, restaurants are exploring various ways to reduce their carbon footprint.
A tenet of the Hoshizaki corporation is to develop original, energy-efficient products preferred by our customers while complying with laws and operating our facilities in an environmentally responsible manner as exemplified by our ISO 14001 certification, and our multiple ENERGY STAR® Awards. Hoshizaki offers over 140 ENERGY STAR® certified products, reflecting our commitment to both environmental responsibility and operational efficiency. So, not only do we make products that can contribute to a business’s LEED certification, but we also manufacture them in a way that is energy-efficient and conservation based. As consumer awareness and regulatory laws about sustainability grow, restaurants that prioritize eco-friendly practices are gaining a competitive edge.
Enhanced Customer Experience through Technology
Digital menus, self-service kiosks, and contactless payment options are becoming the norm, offering greater convenience and personalization.
Digital menus provide restaurants with the flexibility to update menus in real-time, highlight featured items, and even showcase nutritional information. Customers benefit from interactive menus that allow them to explore options at their own pace. Shinya Ramen in Chicago has seen a nearly 20% increase in their average tip percentage after implementing digital menus, as staff are now able to dedicate more time to engaging with customers.
Self-service kiosks streamline the ordering process, reducing wait times and empowering customers to customize their meals. Contactless payment options enhance convenience and safety, especially in a post-pandemic world.
Leveraging data and AI, restaurants can gather valuable insights into customer preferences and behavior. This information can be used to create personalized dining experiences, such as tailored recommendations and customized offers. By understanding their customers better, restaurants can build stronger relationships and drive loyalty.
Ultimately, the integration of technology into the dining experience aims to create a seamless and enjoyable journey for customers while optimizing operations for restaurant owners.
Trends in Food Delivery and Online Ordering
The food delivery landscape has undergone a dramatic transformation in recent years. Advancements in technology have revolutionized how food is ordered, prepared, and delivered. From the moment a customer places an order to the time it arrives at their doorstep, technology is streamlining the entire process. According to a study conducted by the National Restaurant Association, two-thirds of adults reported they are more inclined to order takeout from restaurants now than they were before the pandemic.
AI and automation are playing a crucial role in optimizing food delivery operations. Intelligent routing algorithms help delivery drivers navigate efficiently, reducing delivery times and minimizing fuel consumption. Automated kitchens are emerging, capable of preparing meals with speed and precision, further enhancing the efficiency of the delivery process. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect even more innovative solutions to emerge in the food delivery industry. From drone delivery to hyper-local delivery services, the future of food delivery holds immense potential to reshape the way we consume our meals.
Closing Thoughts
The foodservice industry is undergoing a transformative shift, driven by rapid advancements in technology. Within the kitchen, robotics, smart kitchen equipment, and AI monitoring systems are changing the way kitchens operate. Front of house, digital menus, personalized ordering, and innovative delivery methods are changing the way diners experience their meal. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more groundbreaking solutions emerging in the foodservice industry. At Hoshizaki, we are committed to being a part of this journey, developing innovative products that lead the way and meet the needs of tomorrow’s foodservice landscape.
August 30, 2024
By Maitri Gandhi – Product Marketing Specialist, Hoshizaki America
