Boparan Restaurant Group introduces service robots to UK restaurant

Boparan Restaurant Group has announced the implementation of two service robots trialled at its latest restaurant, with plans to expand the use of AI technology across more than 100 restaurants if the trial proves successful.

One of the UK’s largest hospitality groups, Boparan Restaurant Group (BRG), has announced the implementation of two service robots.

The robots are being trialled at BRG’s latest restaurant – Slim Chickens in Guildford, which opened last week.

Nick Smith, commercial director of BRG, said: “We are committed to evolving the guest experience whilst supporting our teams in delivering the quality food and hospitality that Slim Chickens and BRG are famous for.”

With the use of artificial intelligence, the robots deliver food to customers at 4mph using laser guided technology.

The robots will be rolled out across BRG’s estate of over 100 restaurants nationwide if the trial proves successful.

The trial will put no jobs at risk, however, with the robots implemented to give “the restaurant team with more time to focus on engaging with and serving customers”, according to a company press release.

Smith added: “The robots, along with our kiosks, app and table ordering, are the next stage in our digital journey. We don’t plan to replace our team with robots, they are here to support them and make their jobs easier.”

The artificial intelligence robots have been designed to engage with guests through spoken conversation, take orders and deliver dishes, both to tables and for collection. They also purr when touched by customers. Infrared cameras, laser radars and sensors to ensure smooth transitions, navigation and obstacle avoidance.

Shenzhen-based technology company Pudu is responsible for designing the robots, named KettyBots.

Elsewhere in the world, a fleet of 2,000 robot cats were deployed to stand in for human waiters at a Japanese restaurant chain to plug the human resources gap. Read more on that here.