2 Fast Food Chains to Launch AI Drive-Thru Tech

Carl’s Jr. and Hardee’s to Use AI in Drive-Thru Systems

Fast food chains Carl’s Jr. and Hardee’s, owned by CKE Restaurants, are set to incorporate artificial intelligence (AI) into their drive-thru systems at select locations across the US. The AI voice ordering platform, Tori, created by OpenCity, will be used to increase order accuracy and create a significant impact on labour efficiencies. The move comes as other fast food chains, including McDonald’s and Chipotle, have also turned to automation to increase efficiency and reduce operational expenses.

Enhancing the Drive-Thru Experience

Customers will be able to place their orders through a digital interaction with Tori before paying an employee for their meal. This will allow associates to focus more on providing better customer service and preparing timely and freshly made orders. The AI technology has already transformed the drive-thru experience, providing a competitive edge in the market and helping to better serve guests.

Increased Efficiency and Personalised Recommendations

Tori integrates with existing point-of-sale and headset technology at restaurants to take orders with zero wait time. The AI platform can also offer personalised recommendations to increase the average revenue per order. High Noon Restaurant Group, a franchisee for Popeyes based in Louisiana, deployed the system last year, resulting in a 20% faster speed of service and a 20% increase in satisfaction.

Concerns Over Technological Employment

While AI applications create productivity increases for workers and businesses, some analysts have raised concerns about possible widespread technological employment. One recent forecast from Goldman Sachs predicted that AI could eliminate 7% of positions in the United States, largely in sectors that rely upon office work such as administrative support and legal, while positions in sectors such as building and grounds maintenance, construction, logistics, and healthcare support are predicted to remain broadly intact.

As leading corporations and investors continue to pour considerable funds into developing AI tools for consumer products and business solutions, it remains to be seen how the technology will impact the workforce in the long term.