Panera Bread announced a new partnership with the artificial intelligence company 'OpenCity' whereby the restaurant will utilize the 'Tori AI.' The Tori AI is OpenCity's proprietary ordering technology system that allows customers to place verbal orders, as they would with a human, but with improved efficiency and reduced errors. The Tori AI automatically listens to orders and enters the orders into the system simultaneously, resulting in a near-instant ordering process.
Panera Bread stated that Tori has been deployed to two locations thus far, with the AI handling one drive-thru lane, while human workers remain on the other lanes. Additionally, there are on-site staff ready to assist customers with potential difficulties or glitches surrounding the Tori AI.
The VP of digital technology and innovation at Panera Bread, Raj Anbalagan, stated: "Tori streamlines the workday for our associates so they can focus on other tasks to elevate the guest experience and make their bakery-cafe run smoothly," continuing on to state that the AI should dramatically improve the efficiency of the restaurant.
AI-Powered Drive-Throughs
Panera Bread Announced a Partnership with 'OpenCity' for AI Upgrades
Trend Themes
1. AI-powered Drive-throughs - Automating drive-thru service using AI can increase efficiency and accuracy, and ultimately improve guest experience.
2. Verbal Ordering Technology - Using verbal ordering technology can make the ordering process faster and more convenient for customers.
3. Hybrid AI-human Approach - Implementing a hybrid AI-human approach can complement each other's strengths and improve overall service quality.
Industry Implications
1. Fast Food Industry - Fast food restaurants can benefit from AI-powered drive-thru technology to improve their service and keep up with competition.
2. Restaurant Industry - Restaurants of all types can explore AI-powered ordering technology to streamline their operations and improve customer satisfaction.
3. AI Technology Industry - The development and deployment of AI-powered technology like Tori AI in the restaurant industry can open up new opportunities for AI companies to expand their reach and innovations.