The restaurant industry is currently undergoing a technological revolution that is reshaping the way businesses operate and the experiences they provide to customers. AI-powered voice assistants are enabling hands-free ordering, reservations, and inquiries, while cloud kitchens are offering a flexible and cost-effective model for food businesses. Additionally, robotics are being integrated into kitchens to automate tasks like food preparation and delivery, enhancing efficiency and potentially reducing labor costs. Contactless payments and mobile ordering are becoming the norm, providing convenience and safety for both customers and staff.
As we look ahead to 2025, industry professionals are making predictions about the future of technology in the restaurant sector. Ming-Tai Huh, head of food and beverage at Square, anticipates that automation tools will continue to be adopted across front- and back-of-house operations to address high labor costs. Self-service kiosks, automated SMS marketing, catering tools, delivery management, QR code, and mobile ordering are among the technologies that will help restaurants streamline operations, improve efficiency, and grow profitability.
Austin Titus, president of Cannoli Kitchen Pizza, predicts that pizzerias will leverage AI more in areas such as phone ordering and online ordering. As off-premises dining becomes more popular, restaurants are focusing on packaging to-go food in a way that maintains quality. Food costs will continue to be a challenge, but there is optimism about the economy and discretionary spending.
In the fast-food and quick-service restaurant (QSR) sector, the focus is on creating immersive and interactive dining experiences. Brands are utilizing technology to improve customer experiences, boost order accuracy, and reduce wait times. Misty Chalk, vice president of sales, Americas, at BrightSign, envisions self-serve kiosks and smartphone order and payment options that personalize experiences based on user data. Interactive menu boards and data analytics will further enhance customer engagement.
James “Jay” Burdette, senior director of the Enterprise Process Innovation Center at Panasonic Connect North America, emphasizes that technology investments in QSRs will center on customer experience and choice to improve satisfaction. Self-service kiosks, IoT-enabled POS systems, and technology deployment in the drive-thru are all aimed at providing a consistent and engaging experience for customers. By meeting consumer expectations at every touchpoint, technology can have a significant impact on the dining experience.
John Maieli, channel sales manager for Star Micronics, predicts that cloud-based POS systems will become the new standard in the restaurant industry by 2025. These systems offer flexibility, real-time updates, and scalability, empowering businesses to manage operations and access data from anywhere. Robotics adoption in QSRs will continue to grow, but the human touch will remain central to food preparation in most U.S. restaurants, blending technology with tradition.
In conclusion, the restaurant industry is poised for significant technological advancements in the coming years. Automation, AI, and immersive dining experiences will continue to reshape the way businesses operate and interact with customers. By embracing these technologies, restaurants can streamline operations, improve efficiency, and enhance the overall dining experience for customers.