How automated equipment supports employees and ensures consistency amid the labor shortage.

Mike DeLainI have always marveled at the seamless precision with which quick-service restaurants cater to customer cravings. Behind the hustle and bustle of these establishments lies an army of dedicated workers who ensure delicious meals are served quickly and efficiently.

However, in the face of an ongoing labor shortage, it is evident that we need to revolutionize how we support and empower our invaluable workforce. In this fast-paced world, attracting and retaining talented employees is essential for providing exceptional customer experiences.

As restaurants seek ways to alleviate the burden of manual labor on staff, investing in modern foodservice equipment can be a game changer. In fact, the right equipment can streamline operations, improve employee retention and ensure consistent product output.

Rather than resorting to complex and impersonal robotic systems, we should focus on finding tools that alleviate the burden of manual labor while enhancing overall efficiency and product consistency.

By automating some food prep processes, restaurants can free up personnel to concentrate on other essential tasks, leading to a reduction in labor hours required to produce meals.

Consider, for instance, the traditionally labor-intensive process of fresh breading. As automatic sifters and breaders swiftly handle the once laborious process of fresh breading, hard-working staff can concentrate on other vital aspects of the restaurant’s operations.

Automatic sifters can reduce hand-sifting time by 80% in some applications while also extending the life of breading mixtures, minimizing waste and cutting costs. Similar to sifters, automated breaders can enhance product consistency by more than 30% in some applications compared to traditional hand-breading methods. With uniform coating achieved through automation, restaurants can ensure customers enjoy a consistent dining experience every time.

Ensuring consistent product output becomes synonymous with upholding the utmost hygiene and quality protocols. Automating certain processes diminishes the likelihood of human error, leading to more reliable food preparation and a safer dining experience.

We shouldn’t overlook the impact automation can have on our workforce’s well-being. In an industry known for its demanding pace, it’s crucial to consider the physical and mental health of restaurant team members. Staff members who no longer face the exhaustion of repetitive manual tasks can work with greater focus and enthusiasm, positively impacting productivity and reducing the risk of employee burnout.

For QSRs, the integration of automated food prep equipment is not an option but a necessity to remain competitive. By proactively investing in these tools, the industry can take strides toward overcoming the labor shortage and forging a path to enduring success. Embracing automation is not a compromise; it’s a demonstration of adaptability and resilience in an ever-evolving industry.

As we move forward, a thoughtful integration of automated equipment into the foodservice process will undoubtedly pave the way for a more sustainable and prosperous future for the industry.

Written by Mike DeLain

Vice President of Business Development

AyrKing

Louisville, Ky.

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.