Today in Food Commerce: Jack in the Box Goes Robotic; Chipotle Turns Focus to Drive-Thru

Today in food commerce, Jack in the Box tests out robotic fry cooks and drink dispensers, while Chipotle looks to grow its digital drive-thru footprint. Plus, PYMNTS data reveal that the online grocery space is growing quickly by the month.

Restaurants Leverage Automated Solutions to Mitigate Labor Needs

Major quick-service restaurant (QSR) Jack in the Box is joining the list of restaurants leveraging automation to reduce labor needs. The company has announced that it is partnering with foodservice industry Robots-as-a-Service company Miso Robotics to pilot test the robotics company’s Flippy 2 frier and its Sippy automatic beverage dispenser.

Chipotle Leans on Drive-Thru to Boost Efficiency in Difficult Labor Market

Chipotle Mexican Grill is going all-in on the digital ordering drive-thru lane. The Newport Beach, California-based fast-casual chain, which has 3,000 locations across five countries, shared on a call with analysts discussing the company’s first-quarter 2022 earnings results that the Chipotlane concept, a drive-thru store format featuring a lane dedicated specifically to digital orders, will play a central role as the brand opens new stores.

Online Grocery Adoption Rises 5% in March, PYMNTS Data Reveal

Online grocery adoption is on the rise, according to data from PYMNTS’ April study, “ConnectedEconomy Monthly Report: 3 Ways Consumers Are Dealing With Inflation.” The report, which drew from a March survey of more than 2,800 U.S. adults, found that 31.6% of consumers reported ordering groceries online that month, up 4.9% from February.