A TikTok video posted by foodiemunster shows a branch of McDonald’s in Texas, US, experimenting with robots to serve food. As per the 29-second video clip, the food is being served via a conveyer belt from an empty restaurant with no visible human presence.
The video demonstrates how clients can place an order using computerized screens and pick it up via a machine. The restaurant has an “order ahead lane” and is located outside Fort Worth, Texas. The meals are delivered to consumers via a conveyor belt, kiosks for placing takeout orders, and meal pick-up shelves.
Keith Vanecek, the franchisee operator of the Texas branch, said, “the technology in this restaurant not only allows us to serve our customers in new, innovative ways, it gives our restaurant team the ability to concentrate more on order speed and accuracy.”
As per McDonald’s, customers notice a significant difference when they enter the restaurant. Firstly, the restaurant is considerably smaller than the traditional restaurants. This is because the features used inside and outside are aimed at customers planning to dine at home or on the go. McDonald’s also wrote that there are dedicated parking, curbside order pick-up spaces, and parking for delivery drivers outside the branch.
While the advancement is exciting, many fear its consequences on the job market, as the fully-automated restaurant is a response to the struggle for a higher minimum wage in Texas.
