KFC, Taco Bell, and Pizza Hut may soon debut "AI-powered" services for their operations as part of the parent company's "AI-first mentality."
In an interview with The Wall Street Journal, Joe Park, Yum Brand's chief digital and technology officer, said the company is already planning to roll out its SuperApp to more business chains to "accelerate our digital, technology and innovation capabilities."
According to Park, the all-in-one Yum Brands food chain platform will be integrated with an AI chatbot to help workers prepare meals, like answering questions about the right oven temperature or teaching employees to make new products.
Park said the app can also help automate shift scheduling and leaves.
As of writing, the so-called SuperApp is already being used by more than 8,700 Pizza Hut and KFC branches.
Yum Brands to Integrate AI, Deep Learning Machines in Customer Services
Outside of its employee-related operations, Yum Brands also intends to use the technology in servicing customers.
Park said the company is already seeking to use data collected from its customers to provide personalized product offerings and product pricing.
Yum Brands, however, has yet to disclose full plans on how it will roll out the AI for its customers.
More Food Services Jump into AI Trend
Ever since the pandemic and food delivery becoming more of a norm, more food services have transitioned to digital platforms and later AI machines for customer services.
Wendy's has already launched its AI-powered services for drive-throughs to automatically adjust prices, albeit at a less-than-stellar reception from its customers.
In addition to business giants like Amazon, other food-related franchises like Walmart and Instacart have also piloted AIs into their operations, primarily for customer services and check-outs.
Although it did not disclose the amount of investment it poured into the AI venture, Yum Brands' ramp-up on the technology hints at a substantial investment.
More food franchises are expected to join the AI hype train soon as development on the technology ramps up even if the cost of the technology remains highly expensive.
