The restaurant industry has undergone significant changes in recent years, and a big part of that is due to ever-evolving technology which continues to play a huge role in shaping its future. When applied right, technology can be a huge benefit to restaurant franchisees, and their staff, allowing them to function better, react quicker, and put more smiles on the faces of their patrons.
In 2024, restaurant franchise chains are picking up steam when it comes to tech integration, and that’s starting to have some truly revolutionary effects on the way they operate and deliver food and service to their patrons. So, what exactly is driving this technological bump within the industry, and what does the future hold? Let’s investigate.
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
One of the most significant tech integrations in restaurant franchise chains in 2024 is the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning. Yes, it’s being used for far more than just fabricated art! Rather, AI tech is being used for such things as analyzing customer data, predicting order patterns, and personalization of the overall customer experience.
To take just one early, yet significant example, AI-powered chatbots are now being used to handle customer inquiries and reservations, providing a seamless and efficient experience for customers, while freeing up staff to work more efficiently. Expect AI to continue as an accompanying tool within the workplace, which should serve to provide a much more seamless and enjoyable experience for diners.
KITCHEN DISPLAY SYSTEMS
Another area where tech integration is making a huge impact in restaurant franchising is in the kitchen itself. While not new, the continuing adoption of advanced kitchen display systems (KDS) are being used to streamline the entirety of the kitchen workflow, resulting in reduced wait times, while improving order accuracy.
These fantastic systems utilize real-time data to track orders, prioritize tasks, and optimize kitchen operations, allowing staff to communicate and coordinate on a level never before seen. Everyone benefits from this technology, including the customers!
IOT INTEGRATION
One lesser-seen, but no less relevant technological innovation making inroads within the restaurant franchise industry in 2024 Internet of Things (IoT) devices that improve operational efficiency, while cutting down on costs. These include smart appliances such as ovens, fryers, and refrigerators, which are wired into the digital space to allow for real-time monitoring, and remote control.
This enables restaurant chains to optimize energy usage, reduce maintenance costs, and ensure food safety and quality. To a restaurant franchisee, this technology is invaluable, especially when they’re first starting out. Moving forward, it means more money in their pockets to expand operations, re-invest, or grow their nest egg. That’s a huge benefit, particularly during rocky economic periods where every dollar counts.
CONTACTLESS ORDERING
The explosive growth of contactless ordering and payment systems began in earnest during the pandemic, but they are also becoming increasingly popular in restaurant franchise chains, right now. The massive rise of mobile ordering and delivery apps means today’s patrons expect a seamless and convenient ordering experience, every single time.
Contactless payment systems such as Apple Pay and Google Wallet are now being fully integrated into restaurant POS systems, allowing customers to pay for their orders quickly, and securely. It’s a one-two punch experience that may require some getting used to on behalf of restaurant franchisees, but the results are unmistakable.
THE FUTURE
Restaurant franchises may adapt new technologies in the near future, some of which are already here. These include virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR) technologies that create immersive dining experiences, such as virtual food tastings, and tours of restaurant locations.
These technologies are also being used to provide customers with interactive menus, allowing them to view nutritional information, allergens, and ingredient sourcing. Expect this kind of thing to ramp up well beyond 2024 as we make a shift into new technological arenas that will have a direct impact on businesses the world over.
CONCLUSION
Technology is transforming the restaurant franchise industry in 2024, and it cannot be stopped. From AI and machine learning, to IoT and VR/AR technologies, the franchises of today are leveraging the power of technology to improve operational efficiency, personalize the customer experience, and, most of all, stay competitive!
Are you excited at the prospects of technologically-driven restaurant franchise ownership? If so, you’re an entrepreneur with a forward-thinking mindset, and we want to hear from you! St. Louis Bar & Grill is busy adapting new technologies into our franchising model so that our franchisees can succeed quicker, and expand their portfolios. Contact us today, so we can talk about your franchising goals.
