Altering the Destiny of Retail: AI & Automation Inclusion in Grocery Stores & Fast-food Chains

Artificial intelligence (AI) is not just a buzzword in tech, it is certainly transforming the food industry as well. Shoppers in grocery stores and patrons at fast-food restaurants in the US are seeing a ripple in technological advancements, from self-checkout kiosks to AI-powered ordering systems in drive-thru lanes.

With food inflation propelling consumers to chase for deals and alter their spending habits, the food industry is leveraging AI to stay competitive. This technology would aid in curbing high labor costs and lower prices on selected items. Major fast-food chains like 麦当劳 , Taco Bell , and Wendy’s have reintroduced value menus, while big-box retailers Walmart and Target have lowered prices on various grocery items.

“It’s challenging to achieve high profits, strong sales, and customer satisfaction in the current economic climate,” said Neil Saunders, managing director and retail analyst at GlobalData. “Balancing these factors is tough, and until the economy stabilizes, it will remain a significant challenge,” he further stated.

Moreover, in response to these economic pressures, McDonald’s disclosed plans to invest USD 2 billion in AI and robotics for its restaurants and drive-thrus this year. In 2022, grocery stores financed USD 13 billion in tech automation, and the Food Industry Association (FMI) foresees a 400% upsurge in spending on innovations such as smart carts and improved self-checkout systems by 2025.

“We see significant potential in the coming years for AI and technology to improve customer experiences and simplify the work of team members,” said Joe Park, chief digital and technology officer at Yum Brands.

Consequently, the integration of AI in several sectors, including grocery stores & fast-food chains would aid in creating more profitable grounds in the future across the global scale.