WHITE CASTLE SERVES UP AN ORDER OF AI
We’ve seen several QSR chains testing AI in their drive-through lanes, and now White Castle is testing its own AI technology. With customer opt-in, the AI will recognize vehicle license plate numbers and adjust the digital menu accordingly for item recommendations and upsell opportunities based on past purchase behavior. Customers will interact with an AI bot to complete their order and can also pay via a contactless transaction. Those who opt in for the experience will be classified as “known” customers while those not opting in will be “unknown” but will still receive suggestions from the bot based on their current order.
Full article from Nation’s Restaurant News
MALLS INNOVATE WITH FULL ONLINE INVENTORY
Mall operator Centennial has launched Shop Now!, a new cross-portfolio, omnichannel program that allows people to shop its seven mall properties the same way they shop Amazon. In partnership with Adeptmind, an AI and e-commerce company, Centennial was able to capture the complete inventory of each store in the mall and place everything on the mall’s website. Shoppers can now enter a term such as “red shoes” and see all available options across every mall tenant. Purchases can be delivered to home, picked up curbside or retrieved inside the mall.
Full article from Retail CIO Outlook
AMAZON IS COMING TO A NEIGHBORHOOD NEAR YOU
While Walmart, Target and other retailers continue to use their stores as miniature hubs for fulfilling digital orders, Amazon is shaking things up with plans to add 1,000 delivery centers in US suburbs. These strategically placed hubs will get goods closer to those who order them, allowing same-day delivery on many commonly ordered products. It’s a smart move that should help Amazon stay competitive as the battle for fast digital-order delivery heats up.
