Drive-thrus have long been a staple of quick service restaurants (QSRs), offering convenience and an expedited dining experience. However, with each passing generation the experience and expectation continue to shift to a more tech savvy, automated approach. Enter artificial intelligence. While already to market in some capacity, AI is looking to revolutionize the drive-thru for both the customers and operators who are looking to shed employee costs while streamlining their output. AI communication with personalized messages will continue to become smarter, faster and more prevalent.
The Present Goal – Quicker, Smarter
Currently, the most common and noticeably implementation of AI is through the communication system. Systems like the HME Nexeo Pro can use voice recognition (powered by AI) to decipher one’s order with a relatively high success rate. It can maneuver around deep vs. soft voices, accents, dialect, background noises, etc. to execute order taking with accuracy. The ripple effect also lessens employee costs.
From the headset system to the digital menu board, companies are beginning to use AI to manage their menu boards based on mitigating factors such as inventory, time of day, the weather etc. For example, a digital menu board might use suggestive sales like hot chocolate on a cold winter’s day.
The Not-So-Distant Goal: Personalized Approach
With how much of our personal information is being mined from a variety of apps and sites, a more personalized drive-thru experience is right around the corner. Using license plate readers, you’ll be linked to your account bringing up previous favorites with suggestions for items you may want to try based on other preferences, dietary restrictions and again, time of day. It won’t suggest an egg sandwich at 3pm… unless you’ve ordered it at that time of day before!
Geofencing will work hand in hand with AI to time your food for completion as you near the restaurant, which will reduce wait times, enhance customer experience, lessen operator costs and increase the potential of repeat business.
“Down the Road” Goal: Autonomy
Never have we been closer to what you’ve seen on TV shows and movies in years past, full automation. With robotic kitchens, apps, kiosks, a cashier-less POS, AI order takers and more, the human interaction element will fall by the wayside. What’s that? You ordered for delivery? Well, a self-driving car will pick up and deliver your food for you as well.
Whether you’re on-board for these changes or not, there is no stopping it. As long as there are operators from any industry seeking greater profits through efficiency, ROI, dependability and automation, AI will play a major role. Imagine running a restaurant where you never got a call from an employee who turned up sick or flat out no showed? That reality is coming; it is only a matter of time. As technology continues to enhance the line between the human element and futuristic order-taking will further blur.
Do you need help making these determinations for your business? Give us a call today at 888-235-2579, email us at info@origindisplays.com or contact us here to speak with a solutions specialist.
