Top 5 Restaurant Business News Stories of the Week

1. McDonald’s Acquires AI Company

McDonald’s announced this week that it has acquired AI company Apprente to improve the accuracy of its drive-thru ordering. The company plans to integrate the AI technology into its digital drive-thru menu boards, enhancing customer experiences by speeding up orders and reducing errors. McDonald’s CEO, Steve Easterbrook, believes this innovation is the key to the company’s future success.

2. Starbucks Launches Mobile Pickup Program

Starbucks has introduced a new mobile pickup program that allows customers to order ahead and pick up their drinks without waiting in line. The program is currently available in 300 stores in the U.S, with plans to expand to more locations. The launch of this program comes as Starbucks focuses on digital innovation to improve the customer experience and drive revenue growth.

3. Olive Garden Offers Lifetime Pasta Pass

Olive Garden’s annual promotion, the Pasta Pass, sold out in one second this year. The company also introduced a new Lifetime Pasta Pass, which gives customers unlimited pasta, soup, salad, and breadsticks for life. The promotion has generated significant buzz, with customers eagerly waiting for the opportunity to purchase their pass.

4. Domino’s Launches Autonomous Pizza Delivery

Domino’s has partnered with tech company Nuro to launch autonomous pizza delivery in Houston, Texas. Customers can use the Domino’s app to place their order, and Nuro’s self-driving car will deliver it to their doorstep. This pilot program is part of Domino’s ongoing efforts to improve delivery times and reduce costs.

5. Yelp Launches Verified License Program

Yelp has launched a verified license program to help customers identify businesses that are licensed and insured. The program is currently available for home and local services in the U.S, with plans to expand to other industries. The program aims to give customers peace of mind when choosing a business and help licensed businesses stand out from their competitors.

Conclusion

The above stories demonstrate the ongoing innovation and growth in the restaurant industry. From AI technology to autonomous delivery and verified licenses, businesses are consistently finding ways to enhance customer experiences. These developments promise to shape the future of the industry and provide customers with even greater convenience and satisfaction.