Page 29 - GBC Winter 2024 English

Food Service Course
Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly redefining how foodservice operates at golf courses nationwide. It is revolutionizing how chefs, managers, and staff approach menu creation, labour forecasting, and day-to-day operations. With its ability to process millions of data points in real-time, AI offers unparalleled insights that enhance operational efficiency, optimize food and labour management, and offer a more personalized experience for guests.
profiles into AI systems that generate recommendations for new dishes. This technology accelerates the creative process while ensuring that the dishes align with the tastes and preferences of the golf course’s clientele.
In real time, AI can assist chefs in managing ingredient substitutions based on availability or customer dietary preferences. For example, if an ingredient is running low, AI can suggest suitable replacements that maintain the dish’s integrity. Furthermore, AI can propose menu items that minimize food waste by leveraging existing inventory, ensuring that ingredients are fully utilized before expiration.
AI-DRIVEN MENU AND LTO CREATION FOR MANAGERS
For golf course managers, AI is invaluable for designing and optimizing menus and LTOs. By analyzing customer data, such as previous orders, feedback, and demographic information, AI helps managers create personalized menus that cater to the preferences of the course’s members and guests. This not only increases customer satisfaction but also enhances profitability by suggesting high-margin items that are popular with the target audience.
When planning LTOs, AI can forecast which items are likely to resonate with customers, allowing managers to make informed decisions about promotions. This eliminates guesswork and ensures that promotional items align with current trends and customer interests, increasing the likelihood of a successful campaign.
AI can also analyze broader market trends and competitive data to help golf course managers stay ahead of emerging food trends. With insights into what’s trending in other foodservice environments, managers can introduce exciting new offerings that differentiate their golf course’s foodservice from others, adding value to the overall golfing experience.
FORECASTING LABOUR AND PRODUCT DEMAND
One of AI’s most powerful applications in golf course foodservice is its ability to forecast labour and product needs with precision. By analyzing millions of data points—such as historical sales data, weather patterns, upcoming events, and even local economic conditions—AI can predict busy periods and adjust staffing levels accordingly. This ensures that the golf course is neither overstaffed nor understaffed, optimizing labour costs while maintaining a high level of service.
EMPOWERING CHEFS: CREATIVITY AND EFFICIENCY For chefs at golf course establishments, AI opens new avenues for creativity and efficiency. AI-driven menu development enables chefs to experiment with menu items and Limited Time Offers (LTOs) using data-backed insights into food trends, customer preferences, and seasonal ingredients. Chefs can input variables such as ingredient availability, cost, and even flavour
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