McDonald’s is embarking on a major technological upgrade of its facilities, introducing artificial intelligence to improve order accuracy and control of kitchen equipment. About this informs The Wall Street Journal.
McDonald’s is upgrading more than 43,000 restaurants around the world by introducing innovative technologies, including connecting kitchen equipment to the Internet, using peripheral computing and artificial intelligence to optimize management.
As noted by the company’s chief information officer, Brian Rice, such changes will help reduce the burden on staff who work at a high rate of customer service, couriers and delivery orders.
The upgrade comes amid a slowdown in McDonald’s sales in the US, part of a general trend in the fast-food industry. To attract more repeat visitors, the company aims to increase their number from 175 million to 250 million by 2027, focusing on improving the customer experience.
McDonald’s also tests computer vision to check the accuracy of orders before they are placed. New technologies will contribute to the smooth functioning of restaurants: sensors on the equipment will be able to detect potential breakdowns, for example, in fryers or McFlurry machines, and warn in advance of the need for repairs.
Another innovation will be a “virtual manager” based on artificial intelligence, which will automate administrative tasks, in particular, planning changes. Similar technological solutions are already being tested by other fast food chains, such as Pizza Hut and Taco Bell.
