Yum China Pilots AI Assistant Q-Smart to Boost KFC Restaurant Efficiency

Yum China Introduces AI Assistant to Support KFC Restaurant Managers

Yum China has launched a pilot program featuring an AI assistant called Q-Smart to help KFC restaurant managers handle daily operations more efficiently. This tool focuses on simplifying key management tasks such as labor scheduling, inventory control, and food quality and safety inspections.

Q-Smart enables hands-free interaction through wearable devices like wireless earphones and smartwatches. Managers can use natural language voice commands to communicate with the system, which responds with real-time suggestions and solutions drawn from Yum China’s extensive operational knowledge base.

Practical Benefits for Restaurant Management

• Labor Scheduling: Optimizes workforce allocation based on real-time needs.
• Inventory Management: Streamlines stock tracking to reduce waste and shortages.
• Food Quality & Safety: Assists in maintaining consistent standards through timely inspections and alerts.

By offering immediate support and actionable insights, Q-Smart helps managers address urgent operational challenges quickly and with greater confidence.

Looking Ahead

The AI assistant is currently being tested in select KFC outlets as Yum China prepares for a broader rollout. With over 16,000 restaurants across more than 2,300 cities, Yum China’s focus on improving operational efficiency through technology reflects a shift toward smarter, data-driven management practices.

Leila Zhang, Chief Technology Officer at Yum China, highlighted that Q-Smart represents a new approach to restaurant management that could influence the wider catering industry.

Managers interested in exploring AI tools for operational efficiency may find valuable resources and training at Complete AI Training.