Restaurants adopt AI tools to cut waste and reduce costs
Updated
Updated · Financial Times · May 4
Restaurants adopt AI tools to cut waste and reduce costs
10 articles · Updated · Financial Times · May 4
In the UK, London groups Fallow and Evolv are trialling systems for stock checks, ordering, allergen queries and reservations as April rises in energy, wages and business rates squeeze margins.
OpenTable says its AI concierge now sits across more than 65,000 restaurant profiles globally, while operators use automation to save staff time and improve forecasting, purchasing and review responses.
Adoption remains uneven: OpenAI found nearly one in three UK hospitality businesses were not using AI in March, and executives say the technology must support, not replace, human service.
As restaurants automate, could a 'human-only' service become the new definition of luxury dining?
Your AI-powered reservation is convenient, but how is this hidden tech reshaping your dining choices?
With AI handling recipes and inventory, are we deskilling an entire generation of creative chefs?
How AI is Slashing Food Waste by 50% and Saving $100M Annually in Hospitality
Overview
Between 2025 and 2026, strong regulations like the EU's 2030 food waste target and Spain's 2026 enforcement deadline have driven rapid growth in AI adoption for food waste reduction in hospitality. AI systems using cameras and scales provide real-time waste data, enabling kitchens to identify waste patterns and optimize operations. This technology has led to significant results, such as Hilton's Green Ramadan initiative reducing waste by over 26%, and Winnow-powered kitchens saving $100 million annually. Despite high upfront costs and staff resistance, training and cultural shifts help achieve quick ROI through waste and labor savings. Looking ahead, AI will further enhance demand forecasting, compliance, and sustainable supply chains, amplifying environmental and financial benefits globally.