Papa John's International announced its collaboration with Google Cloud to incorporate artificial intelligence technology into its pizza ordering process. The company plans to enhance customer experience by utilizing AI to personalize phone push notifications, marketing emails, and loyalty program offers. Additionally, they will introduce a new online chatbot and the option to order through virtual assistants.

This move reflects a trend among fast-food companies to leverage AI for increased sales, improved customer service, and operational efficiency. Papa John's Chief Digital Officer, Kevin Vasconi, highlighted the technological advancements that enable capabilities that were not feasible a few years ago, including scalability, security, and cost-effectiveness.

The initiative unveiled by Papa John's aligns with strategies employed by other restaurant chains to analyze sales data effectively. CEO Todd Penegor, who previously led Wendy's, emphasized the opportunity for Papa John's to catch up and regain its position as a technology innovator in the industry. Penegor recruited Kevin Vasconi, the former tech leader at Domino's Pizza, to drive the tech transformation at Papa John's.

Looking ahead, Penegor and Vasconi aim to introduce more AI solutions to optimize in-store operations, such as route planning for deliveries and inventory management.