pat781•6d ago

Unpopular opinion: my barista job is actually safer with AI ordering kiosks

I work at a coffee shop in Denver, and last week a customer told me the new AI ordering kiosk saved his order from getting messed up twice. He said he always gets his drink wrong through me because I mishear accents. That stung a little, but then I looked at our sales numbers. We had 40% fewer order mistakes on kiosk days, and my tips actually went up $50 that week. I guess the AI frees me up to focus on making the drinks right instead of typing. Has anyone else seen tips improve when AI handles the simple stuff?

3 comments

3 Comments

rileygarcia6d ago

Honestly yeah, less small talk is a plus. Saves everyone time.

the_olivia6d ago

Honestly the real win might be less awkward small talk with customers who don't want it.

valc916d ago

But doesn't some of that small talk actually help people feel more comfortable? I've found a quick chat about the weather or their weekend can put folks at ease before they ask for what they really need.