Manchester has gained a reputation for its dynamic and diverse food culture. The city boasts a wide range of restaurants offering everything from traditional British fare to international cuisines, with its vibrant scenes and its reputation as a city that embraces creativity playing a role in shaping its culinary landscape. While cities like London are often considered major global culinary capitals, Manchester competes strongly within the UK and has gained recognition for its unique offerings.
This could be down to its focus on culinary trends, and also to its innovative use of technology. Technology is rapidly reshaping the way restaurants operate and how diners experience their meals, and is playing a part in the future of restaurant success – it could be said that those that lag behind face a very bleak future.
From digital menus to advanced reservation systems, the city's eateries are embracing innovative solutions to enhance customer satisfaction and streamline operations. But what are the latest technology trends that are transforming the restaurant scene in Manchester?
One of the most notable tech changes in recent years has been the widespread adoption of contactless ordering and payment systems. Although available before the pandemic, COVID-19 absolutely accelerated the trend for digital ordering from the table. According to a survey conducted by the Manchester Restaurant Association in 2023, 75% of restaurants in the city now offer digital menus accessible through QR codes. This not only reduces physical contact but also provides diners with a seamless and efficient way to browse the menu and place orders from their smartphones – ideal for a new generation of restaurant guest.
And we have to consider the new generation in terms of personality too. Gone are the days of waiting in long queues for a table. Restaurant reservation apps have become increasingly popular in Manchester, with data indicating a 40% increase in reservations made through these platforms in the past year. And why wouldn’t they? We are in a world where we like to now get things immediately. Services like OpenTable and Resy have made it convenient for patrons to secure their preferred dining times, enhancing the overall dining experience. And the demand for food delivery and takeout has surged, prompting restaurants to invest in technology that caters to this trend. In Manchester, the use of delivery apps like Deliveroo and Uber Eats has seen a 25% increase in the past year. Furthermore, some restaurants have embraced drone and autonomous vehicle deliveries to offer faster and more efficient service.
Behind the scenes, kitchens are evolving with the integration of automation and artificial intelligence (AI). According to a report from the Manchester Hospitality Technology Association, 60% of upscale restaurants in the city have implemented AI-powered inventory management systems to optimize stock levels and reduce waste. Additionally, automated cooking processes and robotic kitchen assistants are becoming more prevalent, improving efficiency and maintaining consistency in food preparation.
As technology continues to evolve, Manchester's restaurants are at the forefront of innovation, employing digital solutions to create a more seamless and enjoyable dining experience. From contactless ordering to AI-powered kitchens, these trends are shaping the future of the city's culinary landscape, ensuring that residents and visitors alike can savour the rich flavours of Manchester with the added convenience of cutting-edge technology.
Not even 5 years ago we would have shirked at the idea of all of these concepts. But they have paved the way for a new, and successful, way of working in hospitality and restaurant environments. So, what is next? Robotic waiters?
You may think you’re not there yet, but we beg to differ. Until you see our robots in action – both front and back of house – you won’t believe it. But they work. Our robotic solutions for restaurant service can really help overcome challenges. Coming to a restaurant near you soon?
For more information on our robotic restaurant solutions contact us today.