Change is the law of nature. Everything evolves over time, may it be people or the industries that they set up. The restaurant business is no different and is constantly transforming over time. However, according to Delhi-based restaurateur and Khan Chacha owner Navneet Kalra, the post-pandemic world is propelling the hospitality industry towards an era of innovation.
Pointing out the latest innovations that restaurants across the globe are incorporating in their day-to-day operations, Navneet Kalra said that while there are multiple ways in which restaurants can become future-ready, businesses around the world have taken a particular interest in technologies such as AI, robotics and 3D printing.
“Technology has been a great enabler, especially when it comes to efficient restaurant operations. There are so many new concepts emerging and taking the world by storm, and I’m sure many of these will be seen in India soon. Nevertheless, the restaurant industry is evolving at a steady pace,” the Khan Chacha owner said.
So, what are some of the most future-forward tech trends in the restaurant business around the world? Here are Navneet Kalra’s picks:
AI-enabled Food Intelligence
At a time when eating healthy is the priority of many, restaurants are incorporating AI to gather intelligence regarding consumer behaviour and to curate menus that offer healthier options pertaining to popular consumer preferences. It also helps in reducing food and inventory wastage. “Innovations like this are now enabling restaurant owners to formulate better marketing and customer retention strategies using AI,” points out Navneet Kalra.
Automated inventory systems
Another one of Khan Chacha’s favourite innovations in the global restaurant business is the automation of inventory systems. “These systems work beyond just tracking and automatically generating orders. They also help businesses forecast purchases by sifting through past data, weather reports and holiday calendars – something that is tedious if done manually,” says Navneet Kalra.
Robotics for foodservice
Lately, some restaurant businesses have taken automation up by a notch by involving robotics in every aspect of restaurant operation – right from selecting menus and cooking food to greeting guests and serving dishes. According to the Khan Chacha owner, robotics holds a promising future in the restaurant industry owing to the enhanced speed and precision in food quality control.
3D Printing for food personalization
Everyone loves to be spoilt for choice, especially when it comes to food. There is no ‘one flavour fits all’ with meals, but when you are serving a large number of guests it becomes almost impossible to personalize the dishes according to the taste of each particular person. That’s where 3D Food Printing steps in. “While the researchers are still exploring the implementations of this technology, it holds great merit in reducing the complexity and costs of personalized food production,” says Navneet Kalra.
