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Restaurant Tech Today: Driving Efficiency and Profitability
Feb 17, 2025
How Digital Innovation is Reshaping Front and Back-of-House Operations
Technology is transforming the restaurant industry, helping operators tackle rising labor costs and ongoing workforce shortages. These insights were presented in the State of the Restaurant Industry 2025 webinar by Hudson Riehle, SVP of Research and Knowledge, and Chad Moutray, VP of Research and Knowledge at the National Restaurant Association. With the industry requiring an average of 11 employees to generate $1 million in sales, efficiency has never been more critical. Digital advancements—from self-service kiosks to AI-driven kitchen automation—are enabling restaurants to streamline operations while enhancing customer experiences.
Front-of-House Innovations: Digital Ordering and Kiosks Reduce Labor Costs
Restaurants are increasingly adopting technology to improve efficiency and reduce labor needs. Digital ordering systems, mobile apps, and self-service kiosks are becoming industry standards, particularly in quick-service and fast-casual segments. In full-service dining, table-side tablets and contactless payment options improve order accuracy, speed up transactions, and enhance the overall guest experience.
Loyalty programs and AI-driven promotions are also revolutionizing customer engagement. More than 90% of Millennials take advantage of restaurant promotions when available, and real-time digital deals are proving to be a powerful tool for boosting repeat visits and maintaining profitability.
Back-of-House Automation: AI and Robotics Enhance Productivity
Technology is also reshaping kitchen operations. AI-driven scheduling tools help optimize staffing levels, ensuring efficient labor allocation based on demand fluctuations. Meanwhile, robotic kitchen assistants are reducing manual food prep tasks, leading to greater consistency and cost savings. Automated inventory management systems are another game-changer, helping restaurants reduce waste and streamline supply chain logistics to improve bottom-line performance.
The Growing Role of Cybersecurity in Restaurant Tech
With the increasing reliance on digital transactions, cybersecurity is becoming a major concern for restaurant operators. Safeguarding customer data and securing payment processing systems are essential for maintaining trust and compliance. Restaurants investing in strong digital infrastructure are better positioned to thrive in an increasingly tech-driven industry.
Technology is no longer optional—it’s a necessity. As restaurants continue to innovate, integrating digital tools across front- and back-of-house operations will be key to enhancing efficiency, improving customer satisfaction, and driving long-term growth.
For a deeper dive into these trends and more, download your copy of the 2025 State of the Restaurant Industry report. This essential resource from the National Restaurant Association provides expert insights into workforce trends, industry sales projections, and the technological advancements shaping the future of foodservice.
The 2025 State of the Restaurant Industry report is free to restaurant members and $349 for non members. Click here.
Surprising Takeaway:
Despite rising labor costs, AI-driven scheduling and robotic kitchen assistants are already reducing manual labor and optimizing staffing levels—helping restaurants cut costs while maintaining service quality. As automation expands, technology may play a bigger role in offsetting workforce shortages than previously expected.