Technology in Restaurant Franchises: How Tech is Changing the Dining Landscape

The restaurant industry has seen significant changes over the past few years. Among those, the integration of new technology has arguably been one of the most prominent and transformative trends. Restaurant franchises, in particular, have embraced various new technological advancements. For example, artificial intelligence (AI) and new methods of energy reduction adapt to changing consumer behaviors and create a next-generation dining experience.

Let’s take a look at some examples of the latest technologies to impact the restaurant industry.

Artificial Intelligence

AI has already had a profound impact on the way some restaurants are operating. While AI can enhance efficiency and customer service, its influence extends far beyond the surface level.

Amanda Brown is the controller of Wenspok Companies, which is a collection of Wendy’s franchisees that operate 67 locations across 10 states. Brown and her team have recently started utilizing a new AI-focused strategy to improve the efficiency of their financial processes and have already seen significant results.

“Through implementation of AI with Stampli’s AP Automation system, we have decreased our invoice processing time by 75%,” said Brown. “I believe AI is necessary for advancement in all industries, with the restaurant industry being one sector that could greatly benefit from AI technology.”

Brown envisions AI will play a pivotal role in shaping the future landscape of the restaurant industry and will be able to streamline administrative tasks, enhance operational efficiency and revolutionize customer interactions.

That sentiment is shared by Fahad Javaid, the general manager of operations at Zanduco, an online dealer of restaurant equipment and supplies. According to Javaid, there’s limitless potential in the integration of AI and machine learning within the restaurant industry, but human expertise will always be needed.

“AI has tremendous potential to continue to impact the restaurant industry,” said Javaid. “Many are suspicious that it is one industry where certain restaurants will be able to cut staff almost completely and run based on ordering systems and other machines for dropping food. Of course, with any food-based industry, human oversight is needed.”

Changing the Guest Experience

The wave of technological innovation has not only transformed back-end operations but has also redefined the way guests experience dining. On the customer-facing side, restaurants are updating their websites to integrate ordering systems and are partnering with services like Uber Eats and DoorDash for seamless and convenient delivery solutions. Although the concept of mobile food ordering isn’t new, the tech behind it continues to evolve, which ensures that diners enjoy a consistently enhanced experience.

“These services are being enhanced through the use of customer data to remember frequently ordered items and times when they order to send push notifications to customers and streamline the ordering process on the website or app,” said Javaid. “Restaurants can even implement deals and coupons at peak times to enhance customer engagement and satisfaction.”

Additionally, as technologies such as QR codes, tablet-based ordering systems and digital payment methods continue to improve, this will also increase efficiency and streamline the entire dining process.

“Not only do guests get their food and drinks faster or at their leisure, enhancing their experience, but it also frees up time for wait staff, decreasing labor costs and increasing table flip times, increasing restaurant revenue,” said Javaid.

Energy Efficiency

Although they may often get overlooked, technological advancements in energy efficiency have also played a significant part in the restaurant industry by minimizing environmental impact and enhancing operational sustainability.

Al Subbloie is the CEO and founder of the energy efficiency company Budderfly, which is a perfect example of a business that is utilizing the latest tech in the energy space. Budderfly partners with businesses to provide them with the newest, premium, high-efficiency HVAC systems, refrigeration, LED lights, control systems, data analytics and everything related to energy management.

Subbloie, who also owns two Subway franchises, emphasizes the importance of investing in new energy-saving technology, particularly in HVAC and refrigeration. He believes that by adopting cutting-edge energy-efficient solutions, businesses can ensure precise temperature control, prevent spoilage and maintain the freshness of perishable items, which will have a direct impact on the bottom line of any business.

Looking to the future of new energy-focused technology, Subbloie is especially excited about solar solutions and their potential to revolutionize the restaurant industry.

“Solar is going gangbusters and needs to go further in this market,” said Subbloie.

With solar energy, businesses could reduce their reliance on traditional energy sources and ultimately lower their carbon footprint. This would then allow restaurants to not only contribute to a more sustainable future but also benefit from substantial long-term cost savings, making it a win-win solution for both the environment and businesses.

Prepared for the Future

Whether it’s machine learning or advancements in energy-saving solutions, the emergence of new technologies can greatly enhance just about any restaurant’s efficiency, profitability and sustainability. Businesses that utilize new technologies are poised to stay ahead in the competitive culinary world.