Chipotle Mexican Grill has been developing robotic technology to automate its kitchen operations, and now it is finally testing the machines in stores for the first time.
Autocado—a machine that can cut, core, and peel avocados in just 26 seconds—will operate in a Chipotle restaurant in Huntington Beach, Calif. The fleshed-out avocado will then be hand mashed to create Chipotle’s signature guacamole.
The Augmented Makeline, which can build bowls and salads for digital orders, will be tested at another location in Corona del Mar, Calif. Nearly two-thirds of all Chipotle digital orders are bowls or salads, according to the firm.
The collaborative robots, or “cobots,” will allow Chipotle’s crew members to focus more on assisting with other food prep, such as making burritos, tacos, and quesadillas, and taking care of guests, the company said.
“These cobotic devices could help us build a stronger operational engine that delivers a great experience for our team members and our guests while maintaining Chipotle’s high culinary standards,” said Curt Garner, Chipotle’s chief customer and technology officer.
As labor costs continue to increase in the U.S., restaurants are increasingly using robotic technologies to automate their work, which not only improves employee efficiency but also provides a better experience for customers.