The foodservice industry is in a state of flux, driven by changes in consumer preferences, technological advances and the unprecedented challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Decision-makers in foodservice companies, including CIOs, COOs, IT managers and IT project leaders, face the complex task of navigating this rapidly changing landscape and finding ways to optimize operations, reduce costs and improve the customer experience.

This white paper aims to provide a comprehensive guide for decision-makers in the foodservice industry, exploring the different ways in which IT can be used to improve foodservice operations and providing practical advice on implementing these solutions. We back up our arguments with figures and percentages drawn from recent research and reliable sources according to COVID.

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the foodservice industry

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating impact on the restaurant industry, with restaurant closures, mass layoffs and lost revenue. According to a study by the National Restaurant Association, U.S. restaurant industry sales dropped by $240 billion in 2020, and more than 110,000 restaurants closed their doors, either temporarily or permanently.

However, the pandemic also served as a catalyst for technology adoption in the restaurant industry, as restaurants turned to digital solutions to continue serving their customers and keep their businesses afloat. According to a McKinsey study, the pandemic accelerated technology adoption in the restaurant industry by two to three years, and this trend is expected to continue in the future.

The different ways IT can improve foodservice operations

There are a number of ways in which information technology can be used to improve foodservice operations:

1. Process automation:
   Automating processes such as order taking, food preparation and inventory management can help reduce errors, improve efficiency and cut costs. According to a study by Arizona State University, automating restaurant processes can reduce labor costs by 30-50%.
2. Data analysis:
   Analyzing data on sales, customer habits and market trends can help restaurants make informed decisions on menus, pricing and marketing strategies. According to a Deloitte study, restaurants that use data analysis to make business decisions have a 10% higher sales growth rate than their competitors.
3. Digital solutions for customers:
   Digital solutions such as online ordering, contactless payments and self-service ordering kiosks can improve the customer experience and reduce waiting times. According to a study by the National Restaurant Association, 60% of consumers say they are more likely to choose a restaurant that offers online ordering options.

Practical tips for implementing technology solutions in foodservice operations

Implementing technology solutions in foodservice operations can be a complex challenge, but here are some practical tips for decision-makers:

1. Assess needs and objectives:
   Before implementing a technology solution, it’s important to assess the company’s needs and objectives, and determine how technology can help achieve them.
2. Choosing the right technology solution:
   There are many technology solutions available on the market, and it’s important to choose the one that best suits the company’s needs and objectives.
3. Train and support staff:
   Staff training and support are essential to ensure that the technology solution is used effectively, and to minimize disruption to operations.
4. Measure and evaluate results:
   It is important to measure and evaluate the results of the technology solution to determine whether it has achieved its objectives, and to make improvements where necessary.

Conclusion

The foodservice industry is in a state of flux, and decision-makers in foodservice businesses are faced with the complex task of optimizing operations, reducing costs and improving the customer experience. Information technology can play an important role in achieving these goals, by automating processes, providing actionable information and enhancing the customer experience. By following the practical advice presented in this white paper, decision-makers can implement effective technology solutions in their foodservice operations and improve their competitiveness in the ever-changing marketplace.

Source: National Restaurant Association:

1. National Restaurant Association. (2021).
   State of the Restaurant Industry.
   
2. McKinsey & Company (2020).
   How COVID-19 has pushed companies over the technology tipping point-and transformed business forever.
3. Arizona State University. (2018).
   The impact of automation on the restaurant industry.
4. Deloitte (2019).
   The digital restaurant: Five trends to embrace now.
5. National Restaurant Association. (2021).
   Technology in the restaurant industry.