This ice breaking machine aims to help reduce the initial awkwardness in bar conversations.
Designed by Irish whiskey brand 'Tullamore Dew', The Icebreaker Machine works by obtaining a QR code that the machine scans and creates a custom drink with. The machine uses information from the user's Facebook 'likes' to determine which of 5,000 drinks it should give them, and bases that choice in music taste, TV shows and movies. Once the drink is received, it works as a conversation starter for the socially anxious who do not fare well in bar situations.
This ice breaking machine is a creative and potentially scene-changing idea for bars. While the machines are currently only in Swedish bars, the idea to design playful ways with which bar-goers can reduce awkward encounters will likely be a popular one.
Ice-Breaking Interactive Bars
The Icebreaker Machine Customizes Drinks to Start Conversations
Trend Themes
1. Interactive Drinks - The integration of technology with social settings has brought about the demand for interactive drink design and creation.
2. Social Media Personalization - Using social media data to personalize drinks for customers is a growing trend in the food and beverage industry.
3. Experience-driven Leisure - The focus of bars is shifting towards enhancing customer experiences, making it an opportune time to introduce experiential technology like The Icebreaker Machine.
Industry Implications
1. Food and Beverage - Restaurants and bars need to keep up with advancements in tech and customer demand for personalized experiences to stay competitive.
2. Marketing and Advertising - The trend towards personalization in the food and beverage industry presents a valuable opportunity for marketing and advertising companies to leverage customer data.
3. Hospitality - The integration of interactive technology into bars and restaurants is a disruptive innovation in the hospitality industry that can increase customer satisfaction and loyalty.