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Robotic Fast Food Servers

Carl's Jr. is Testing Out Employee-Free Locations That Utilize Robots

— March 18, 2016 — Lifestyle
Burger chain Carl's Jr. is conceptually testing out swapping out fast food servers for robotic counterparts in order to create employee-free eateries. The restaurants would offer service conducted entirely through technology without the need for any human interaction.

Establishments that opt for robotic servers and kiosks eliminate having to continuously pay for employees while allowing consumers to order directly from automated cubbies and tablets and have a controlled dining experience. The lack of servers boosts the consumer's focus on other areas of the dining experience including food quality, and presentation.

Andy Puzder, the CEO of Carl's Jr., argues to Business Insider that the benefits of employee-free eating establishments include that the robots are "... always polite, they always upsell, they never take a vacation, they never show up late, there's never a slip-and-fall, or an age, sex, or race discrimination case."
Trend Themes
1. Robotic Fast Food Servers - Opportunity for restaurants to implement robotic servers and kiosks for employee-free eateries, enhancing efficiency and reducing labor costs.
2. Automated Ordering Systems - Advancement in technology allows consumers to order directly from automated cubbies and tablets, improving customer experience and streamlining the ordering process.
3. Focus on Dining Experience - Elimination of servers shifts consumer focus towards food quality and presentation, presenting opportunities for restaurants to enhance overall dining experience.
Industry Implications
1. Fast Food - Fast food chains can explore the integration of robotic servers and kiosks to optimize operations and reduce labor costs.
2. Restaurant Technology - Companies specializing in automated ordering systems can provide innovative solutions for restaurants looking to enhance their customer experience through technology.
3. Hospitality - Hotels and resorts can adopt robotic servers and kiosks to offer guests a unique and efficient dining experience, boosting customer satisfaction.
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