How AI can help restaurants provide better hospitality
Briefly

The integration of artificial intelligence in restaurants can enhance the dining experience by addressing staffing challenges. Current data indicates dining is up 7%; however, many restaurants face hardships, with reported unprofitability and significant labor cost concerns. AI applications, such as automated phone answering systems, enable restaurants to manage reservations and customer inquiries efficiently. This technology allows restaurants to maintain their brand voice and hospitality. The implementation of AI is a crucial step for restaurateurs to adapt to rising operational demands while striving to improve margins and service delivery.
Integrating AI into restaurants doesn't detract from the human experience of dining; it enables more of it, serving as an operational game-changer for challenges like staffing shortages.
Despite rising costs, dining is up 7% year over year, yet restaurants face significant challenges with staffing shortages and profitability, with 39% reported unprofitability in 2024.
AI phone agents can address customer inquiries 24/7, allowing restaurants to take reservations without staffing constraints, enhancing revenue by increasing bookings.
With a razor-thin margin of ~3-4%, automating phone calls can help restaurants improve operational efficiency through the use of AI under a test-and-learn approach.
Read at Fast Company
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