Can digital transformation or metamorphosis alleviate staff shortages?

Abstract

Purpose

This study investigates the roles of technological development, artificial intelligence (AI), and robots in the catering business and their effects on the labor force and staff shortages.

Design/methodology/approach

The impact of AI, robots, and technological advancements on the labor force is outlined. Secondary sources and the results of interviews with two highly experienced experts were used to identify the transformation or metamorphosis that affects the staff situation during catering operations. This is an opinion paper that explains why it contains many of the authors’ observations and experiences.

Findings

Technological equipment and AI have been used frequently in catering operations, and robots are not grooved. In the near future, these tools could be part of a solution for the staff shortage because, with their help, less-skilled workers could be doing some of the job in the catering business.

Research limitations/implications

The study is written from a limited perspective because of its qualitative nature and the fact that it is shaped by expert opinions and the author's views. It is expected that conducting the same study with a larger number of experts operating in various fields on similar topics in the future will lead to more effective results.

Practical implications

This research character is an opinion paper and qualitative. This research aims to explain the use of artificial intelligence, technological advancements, and robots and to explore their impacts on the labor force based on the opinions of experts and the author. The data obtained are expected to be useful for future labor force planning in catering businesses.

Social implications

This study provides an exploratory framework regarding staff shortages in catering businesses and the integration of technology, AI and robots.

Originality/value

Based on a literature review, only a limited number of studies have been conducted on the use of technology, artificial intelligence, and robots in kitchens. None of these studies investigated their impact on the labor force. Therefore, this study is both original and valuable.

Citation

Enes, K. (2024), "Can digital transformation or metamorphosis alleviate staff shortages?", Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes, Vol. ahead-of-print No. ahead-of-print. https://doi.org/10.1108/WHATT-06-2024-0117