Robots Flip the Script
Your Weekly Brew of Restaurant News & Tools
Tuesday, May 6, 2025
🍔 Big News: Robots Flip the Script in California
A new burger joint in Los Gatos, aptly named Burgerbots, is making waves by integrating robotics into its kitchen. Utilizing ABB Robotics' Flexpicker and YuMi, the restaurant assembles burgers in just 27 seconds. While some fear automation may replace human jobs, Burgerbots emphasizes that robots aim to enhance efficiency, not eliminate staff. This move comes shortly after California's $20 minimum wage law took effect, prompting discussions on automation's role in the industry. New York Post
📈 Operational Efficiency: Tools & Tactics
1. ToastIQ: Smarter Restaurant Management
Toast has unveiled ToastIQ, an intelligence engine that provides real-time prompts to optimize operations. From suggesting menu adjustments based on sales trends to alerting staff about low inventory, ToastIQ aims to streamline decision-making for restaurateurs. Yahoo Finance
2. 7shifts' 2025 Labor Report Highlights
According to 7shifts' latest report, labor costs now consume up to 30% of restaurant revenue. The report recommends strategies like cross-training staff and leveraging scheduling software to mitigate rising expenses without compromising service quality. Modern Restaurant Management
🗞️ Industry Bites
- El Pollo Loco's Milestone: The beloved chicken chain is set to open its 500th location, with plans for ten more outlets. The expansion includes a new "Iconic" restaurant prototype aimed at reducing construction costs and accelerating deployment. The US Sun
- D.C.'s Wage Debate: Mayor Muriel Bowser proposes repealing Initiative 82, which mandates incremental increases to the tipped minimum wage. The move has sparked debate between business owners concerned about rising costs and labor unions advocating for fair wages. Axios
- Toastique's Laredo Launch: Health-focused eatery Toastique is opening its first Laredo location on May 10, offering artisanal toasts and cold-pressed juices. The grand opening includes a promotion where the first 100 customers spending $10 receive $50 in reward dollars. Laredo Morning Times
🛠️ Quick Tips
- Embrace AI: Integrate AI tools like ToastIQ to make data-driven decisions swiftly.Toast Investors+3Yahoo Finance+3PYMNTS.com+3
- Optimize Labor: Use scheduling software to manage labor costs effectively, as highlighted by 7shifts.Axios+4Modern Restaurant Management+4LinkedIn+4
- Stay Informed: Keep abreast of legislative changes, such as wage laws, that can impact your operations.
Stay tuned for next week's insights to keep your restaurant thriving!
