(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — Robots are starting to join the workforce at some major national quick service restaurant chains.
RJ Hottovy, head of analytical research at foot traffic analysis firm Placer AI in Chicago, told the WBBM Noon Business Hour that the robots that are starting to work behind the counter at chains like Chipotle and White Castle aren't designed to replace existing workers. Rather, they will help the chains by filling the gaps left by the so called Great Resignation.
"Now, all of a sudden, we're in a situation where there's less labor to begin with," Hottovy said.
Chipotle, for example, is introducing a robot that can make tortilla chips.
"The technology is called Chippy. It's a robotics platform that will make the chips. They're trying to emulate, as much as they can, the human process behind that," Hottovy said.
The job market is hot, and the restaurant industry is struggling to attract and retain workers. Hottovy says the robots will make human jobs more attractive by taking over menial tasks.