Danny Meyer Talked About AI Potential in the Restaurant Industry
At NYC TechWeek, Danny Meyer, the founder of Union Square Hospitality Group, and Rob Thomas, IBM's Senior Vice President of Software, explored the potential of AI in the restaurant industry. The conversation exuded optimism, in contrast to the typical skepticism surrounding AI discussions. Thomas shared insights from testing Automated Order Taking technology in McDonald's drive-thrus worldwide, emphasizing its potential impact on labor, efficiency, and customization.
Combining AI and Human Hospitality
Meyer highlighted three areas where AI can benefit food service businesses. He said it could help the hiring processes, enhance efficiency through data-driven inventory management, and improve customer interactions. He pointed out that AI can streamline hiring by helping restaurants identify qualified candidates. This would also allow potential employees to understand what the hiring company seeks. According to him, in the back office, AI can use diners' ordering data to optimize inventory and simplify the operational processes.
Meyers pointed out that front-of-house interactions that are traditionally challenging can also be improved by AI. He noted that AI can help employees manage tasks like taking orders through headsets, enabling them to focus on the human aspects of hospitality. He debunked the notion that AI is impersonal, asserting that great technology should enhance, not replace, human touch.