How AI Kitchen Process Optimization is Transforming the QSR Industry
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly transformed the Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) industry, prompting rapid AI-driven innovations primarily led by Intel's Internet of Things Group alongside partners like PreciTaste. These innovations have enhanced efficiencies and reduced costs in QSR operations, particularly through kitchen process optimization, digital integration, and intelligent management systems. Notable improvements include advancements in inventory assessment, social distancing monitoring, and the utilization of smart cameras to streamline operations.
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Key takeaways
AI technology rapidly advanced QSR operations during the pandemic.
Intel and PreciTaste are key players in driving AI innovations in QSRs.
Process optimization solutions include inventory management and waste reduction.
The COVID-19 pandemic forever altered the QSR landscape. Innovations once believed to take years to develop arrived out of necessity. Intel’s Internet of Things Group, joined by partners like PreciTaste, led the way with AI solutions that not only got QSRs up and running during the early stages of the pandemic but continued to innovate and create efficiencies and cost savings to better position the industry for success in the future.
To the Edge and Beyond took a closer look at the trends in QSRs and how process optimization can be used to address these, with Farhaan Mohideen, Product Strategy & IoT Spokesperson at Intel, Kristen Call, IoT Sales Specialist at Intel, and Hauke Feddersen, Director of Global Operations at PreciTaste.
Mohideen admitted the industry faces challenging times.“(QSRs) have been trying to do everything possible to stay open with mechanisms like delivery or integrating with digital companies. But, at the same time, for customers and even staff, they also had to focus a lot on safety,” Mohideen said.
With these myriad challenges, Hauke saw opportunities, as well.
“Those that have a drive-thru and have delivery, the business flourishes,” Hauke said. “That means 10-30% more kitchen tasks, and they’re all handed out through the drive-thru window. This puts a lot of strain on processes, the crew and the supply chain.”
While many QSRs have drive-thrus, very few were optimized for digital journeys, Mohideen said. Those restaurants that had were already in a better position when the pandemic arrived.
“Our partners, including PreciTaste, have been in the forefront of these innovations.
Some of the AI innovations now deployed in QSRs include the ability to assess and count inventory, monitor social distancing, smart cameras that access customer ordering demand, and the ability to learn patterns to develop refined production plans. Kitchen process optimization solutions like PreciTaste’s also help QSRs use technology to understand when their stock is running low, how to keep their food fresher for longer and reduce food waste.
Learn more about QSR solutions by connecting with Farhaan Mohideen and Kristen Call on LinkedIn or visit https://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/hospitality/overview.html
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