Combine future trends and food and your author is likely to be happy. Beyond his day job, he has been writing a restaurant Blog for the last decade. These dual interests of technology and taste are increasingly overlapping in the real world. If restaurants used to be about food and ambience, now they are also about IT and logistics. Further, everyone continues to look for the next new thing in food.

The recent conclusion of the National Restaurant Show in Chicago (which your author, sadly, did not visit) provided a wonderful taster of what might next be hot in the culinary world. Begin with technology. Innovations such as Alpha Grill, PizzaBot and I-Robo2 show how venues can save money and potentially increase returns. The former apparently makes 200 burger patties every hour, and then cleans itself after too. The next does similar with pizza and is able to dispense a mind-boggling variety of toppings, while the last of this trio can self-stir-fry complex concoctions.

Beyond robots in the kitchen, diners can expect to see more of them on the restaurant floor. If not taking orders – that can already be done via mobile QR code-enabled apps – then robots that bring food and clear tables will become increasingly commonplace. Press a button and they may even dispense your receipt too. Sure, some guests may miss the human touch, but at least they may appreciate more consistent service levels. Business owners may be smiling too, if it means a lower wage bill and guaranteed staff that won’t suddenly decide to call in sick.

What if you don’t fancy going out? Imagine a scenario where robots could deliver your meals direct from the restaurant. So far, so basic, and we trialled a (food delivery) version of this two years ago. However, what makes Pipedream, a US start-up, different is that it is seeking to develop dedicated delivery underground tunnels, speeding delivery times and also allowing users to skip inconveniences such as the drive thru. Austin, Texas is first up for a trial.

Project ahead and expect technology and food innovation only to overlap further. Imagine how AI could help drive more tailored culinary experiences, where retailers can learn from consumers’ past preferences. Similarly, diverse dietary requirements could be better catered for. More lab-grown food (beyond salmon) may become available. Build it, the hope is, and then the consumers will come. Your author is certainly curious.

20 June 2024

The above does not constitute investment advice and is the sole opinion of the author at the time of publication. Past performance is no guide to future performance and the value of investments and income from them can fall as well as rise.

Click to here view all Blog posts.

Alex Gunz, Fund Manager

Disclaimers

The document is provided for information purposes only and does not constitute investment advice or any recommendation to buy, or sell or otherwise transact in any investments. The document is not intended to be construed as investment research. The contents of this document are based upon sources of information which Heptagon Capital LLP believes to be reliable. However, except to the extent required by applicable law or regulations, no guarantee, warranty or representation (express or implied) is given as to the accuracy or completeness of this document or its contents and, Heptagon Capital LLP, its affiliate companies and its members, officers, employees, agents and advisors do not accept any liability or responsibility in respect of the information or any views expressed herein. Opinions expressed whether in general or in both on the performance of individual investments and in a wider economic context represent the views of the contributor at the time of preparation. Where this document provides forward-looking statements which are based on relevant reports, current opinions, expectations and projections, actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. All opinions and estimates included in the document are subject to change without notice and Heptagon Capital LLP is under no obligation to update or revise information contained in the document. Furthermore, Heptagon Capital LLP disclaims any liability for any loss, damage, costs or expenses (including direct, indirect, special and consequential) howsoever arising which any person may suffer or incur as a result of viewing or utilising any information included in this document. 

The document is protected by copyright. The use of any trademarks and logos displayed in the document without Heptagon Capital LLP’s prior written consent is strictly prohibited. Information in the document must not be published or redistributed without Heptagon Capital LLP’s prior written consent. 

Heptagon Capital LLP, 63 Brook Street, Mayfair, London W1K 4HS
tel +44 20 7070 1800
email [email protected] 

Partnership No: OC307355 Registered in England and Wales Authorised & Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority 

Heptagon Capital Limited is licenced to conduct investment services by the Malta Financial Services Authority.

Related Insights

Season 6, Post 40: “Embrace change”
  • Featured Insights

Season 6, Post 40: “Embrace change”

Season 6, Post 39: Hanging out with the cyber experts
  • Featured Insights

Season 6, Post 39: Hanging out with the cyber experts

Alex Gunz Discusses Cybersecurity on the IBKR Podcast
  • Featured Insights

Alex Gunz Discusses Cybersecurity on the IBKR Podcast

GET THE UPDATES

Sign up to our monthly email newsletter for the latest fund updates, webcasts and insights.