Drive-thru technology is rapidly expanding in the restaurant industry, and Texas QSRs are no exception. These technologies transform how customers interact with the restaurant staff, ultimately enhancing their overall experience. Getting the food to a customer’s liking is just the starting point of the process – there is a whole gamut of things new technologies enable restaurant operators to achieve.
The restaurant technology industry was over $220 billion in 2019 and is projected to surpass 342 billion by 2027. (Cansler, Fast Casual) In 2023 and beyond, drive-thru technology will continue to evolve and become increasingly convenient for customers. From digital menu boards to contactless payment systems, here’s what you need to know about the evolving drive-thru technologies.
- Headsets and Communication Equipment
Communication is the key to effective customer interaction at drive-thrus. In 2022, it was reported that 42% of all restaurant visits were made through drive-thrus. (Mottl , QSR Web)
Earlier, drive-thrus relied on a speaker and microphone system to communicate with customers. Digital headsets replaced the traditional way to provide more accessible and seamless customer experiences. The digital headsets also allow staff to use hands-free technology to quickly input orders into the system.
At high-traffic locations, staff can communicate directly with customers through digital headsets that use noise cancellation technology to reduce background noise and increase sound quality for both sides. And with advances such as voice recognition, customers can request menu items or order details quickly and easily. It helps reduce wait times and improve customer service at the same time.
Texas is at the forefront of drive-thru technology, with many local businesses investing in digital headsets. It improves communication between staff and customers, resulting in faster service and enhanced customer satisfaction.
- Digital menu boards
Digital menu boards are revolutionizing the drive-thru experience, allowing customers to view updated menus and specials quickly and easily. The latest trends in drive-thru technology are all about customization and convenience, allowing operators to tailor the look and feel of their menu boards to meet their needs.
With digital menu boards, operators can adjust prices or specials on the fly in minutes – no need to invest in costly new signage.
Another significant benefit is that menus can be easily adapted to show different items at different times of the day – perfect for breakfast, lunch, and dinner specials. The interactive nature of digital menu boards also makes it easier for customers to make their selections, as they can view all the options in one place. With digital menu boards, drive-thrus have never been more efficient or user-friendly.
- Contactless payments
Contact payments are one of the many ways drive-thru technology is evolving to meet modern customer expectations and preferences. The payment method utilizes radio frequency identification (RFID) technology to accept payments for orders quickly and securely without customers having to wait in line or hand over a card. It eliminates long wait times and helps restaurants process more orders with fewer errors.
Many drive-thrus like Chick-fil-A, McDonald’s, Sonic, and others also offer mobile ordering capabilities, allowing customers to place their order via a smartphone app or website and then pick up the prepared food without getting out of their vehicle.
This system has made the drive-thru experience faster and more efficient, allowing customers to enjoy their meals without hassle. Additionally, many contactless payment systems offer loyalty rewards programs that reward customers for repeat visits.
- Al-Enabled tools
AI-driven technologies like facial recognition are becoming increasingly popular in drive-thrus worldwide. Facial recognition software is now being implemented at many fast-food locations across Texas. This tech helps streamline the payment process by recognizing loyal customers when they enter a drive-thru lane, allowing them to pay faster.
Customers can also use their phones and mobile apps to order ahead, bypass the line, and have their food ready when they arrive at the restaurant. For example, Wendy’s is partnering with Google to create an AI chatbot to take orders at its drive-thrus. (Roth, The Verge)
Restaurant operators also explore voice activation tools to provide a more personalized customer experience. These systems allow customers to place orders quickly and easily using natural language processing (NLP). Restaurant operators can use this new tool to answer questions, suggest menu items, or even provide real-time updates on wait times during peak hours.
Technology is Jet-Setting Into the Restaurant Industry
The use of drive-thru technology is only expected to grow in the coming years, and businesses looking to stay ahead of the curve should consider incorporating these modern features into their restaurants.
The key for QSRs is implementing the right technologies to keep up with customer demands and ensure they deliver an optimized experience. With the right strategies, restaurant operators can position their businesses to remain competitive and profitable.
Business Sound & Communications can assist restaurant operators in elevating their customer experience. We can be your technology resource, from guiding you on suitable technology to installing and programming it. For more info, visit our website or contact us at (281) 590-3400.
Works Cited
Cansler, Cherryh. “3 Restaurant Tech Trends with Staying Power in 2023.” Www.Fastcasual.Com, 2 Feb. 2023, www.fastcasual.com/blogs/3-restaurant-tech-trends-with-staying-power-in-2023/.
Roth, Emma. “Wendy’s Tests an AI Chatbot That Takes Your Drive-Thru Order.” The Verge, 9 May 2023, www.theverge.com/2023/5/9/23716825/wendys-ai-drive-thru-google-llm.
Mottl, Judy. “Chipotle, Fazoli’s, Smokey Bones Share Drive-Thru, Ai Insight.” Www.Qsrweb.Com, 14 Dec. 2022, www.qsrweb.com/articles/chipotle-fazolis-smokey-bones-share-drive-thru-ai-insight/.
