Yum Brands, the parent company of Taco Bell, is planning to use artificial intelligence (AI) to revolutionize the drive-thru experience at its restaurants. The company aims to implement voice AI technology in hundreds of Taco Bell locations in the U.S. by the end of this year, with plans to expand globally in the future. This move puts Yum Brands ahead of its rivals, such as Wendy’s and White Castle, in adopting this innovative technology.
While tech companies may claim that voice AI can offer various benefits, including faster service times, reduced labor costs, and increased sales through upselling, restaurant companies have been cautious in their approach. They have been testing the technology to ensure that both employees and customers have a positive experience. For example, McDonald’s recently ended its trial of Automated Order Taker, an AI technology developed in partnership with IBM.
In contrast, Yum Brands has been quick to move forward with its test of voice AI. In May, Taco Bell expanded its pilot program from five to 30 restaurants in California. Currently, over 100 Taco Bell locations in the U.S. are using voice AI. Yum Brands reported that the technology has resulted in improved order accuracy, reduced wait times, decreased employee workload, and overall profitable growth for the company and its operators.
Yum Brands Chief Innovation Officer Lawrence Kim expressed confidence in the effectiveness of the drive-thru Voice AI technology, stating, “With over two years of fine-tuning and testing, we’re confident in its effectiveness in optimizing operations and enhancing customer satisfaction.”
Yum Brands is not only implementing this technology in Taco Bell restaurants but is also testing it in five KFC locations in Australia. The company’s commitment to exploring AI technology highlights its dedication to improving operational efficiency and customer satisfaction across its brands.
As Yum Brands prepares to report its second-quarter earnings, it is evident that the company’s focus on embracing AI technology positions it well for future success. By leveraging voice AI, Yum Brands can streamline the ordering process, reduce errors, and enhance the overall drive-thru experience for its customers.
In conclusion, Yum Brands’ ambitious plans to implement voice AI in its Taco Bell drive-thru lanes demonstrate the company’s commitment to innovation. As other restaurant chains test the waters cautiously, Yum Brands is leading the way by leveraging the potential of AI technology to optimize operations and elevate customer satisfaction. With positive results from its pilot programs and a focus on continuous improvement, Yum Brands is poised to shape the future of the fast-food industry.
. By implementing voice AI technology in Taco Bell locations, Yum Brands aims to streamline operations and enhance customer satisfaction. Stay ahead of rivals like Wendy's and White Castle and learn how Yum Brands is leveraging the potential of AI to optimize the fast-food industry.){kind=link}