Navigating Robotics: How S.P.A.R.C. Technologies is Transforming the Foodservice Industry

Foodbuy spoke with Shane Connolly, CEO of S.P.A.R.C. Technologies, to better understand how the evolving landscape of technology has impacted the foodservice sector. Focusing on hospitality, S.P.A.R.C. is a key player in the robotics division within the industry. Their products are specifically designed for front-of-house operations, including in-house food service and cleaning. S.P.A.R.C. ensures they remain relevant to the needs of operators by establishing strong partnerships with leading commercial robotic manufacturers, collaborating with experts in the field, and most importantly listening to their customers. Connolly attributes much of the success of staying ahead to their qualified technicians,

Our highly qualified IT professionals, with backgrounds in computer science and robotics, possess the expertise needed to quickly adapt to product software upgrades. Their insights have been invaluable in helping us balance the capabilities of our robots with a specific need of our customers.

Connolly highlights that one of the biggest challenges is embracing change. Two key obstacles that continue to hinder business are the misconception that robotics are taking jobs, and the learning curve associated with using them. He explains, “Just like any other technology, robots are a tool and are designed to enhance productivity.” Staffing challenges have been an ongoing issue in the foodservice industry. Robots have filled the void in this gap to some extent resulting in cost savings. Think of the labour costs associated with solely on keeping floors clean. Robots can sterilize the floors twice a day, eliminating the need for operators to hire janitorial services, while allowing servers to focus on more personal interactions and customer service.

Like with learning anything new, it just takes time. S.P.A.R.C. offers customers a free trial period with support, allowing them to experience the product first-hand and become accustomed to how the robot operates and performs its duties. The foodservice business continues to evolve with innovations such as online ordering, reservations software, and contactless payments. Robots are another instrument to improve operations during an era where there is little room for error, everything is instant, and there is no time to waste.

These machines are instrumental among several channels including hospitality, hotels, healthcare, senior living, as well as casinos. They assist with tasks such as cleaning and delivering food, creating a safer work environment and eliminating mundane responsibilities. Connolly says most of their clients found ways to integrate them without replacing staff but rather shifting their efforts in a constructive direction. “They’re designed to handle basic tasks and streamline operations – not replace people.” They played a crucial role during COVID as several industries relied on these robots to deliver food in a contactless manner. Their ability to keep spaces clean and sanitized led to their increased acceptance.

These robots are virtually maintenance-free. The only upkeep is plugging them in to charge which is just like charging your phone using a basic 120-volt cable. Any other requirements can be done with a software update.

Needing minimal supervision and capable of working around the clock, they can significantly free up resources for your business. Connolly states, “For me, the robots are tools much like computers and cars. Ultimately, our goal is to use robots to enhance guest experience, providing consistency, while freeing up staff to engage more.”

Connolly envisions the next stages of robotics to be advancements in AI and automation. He warns we must “use them to our benefit without hurting or interrupting the natural guest experiences and human interaction.” The technology is becoming more advance and cost effective which will help continue to grow its presence in the market. They are being designed to handle a wider range of tasks, and the way we interact with them will become more intuitive.