Big Table Group announces robot pilot

Big Table Group, operator of Las Iguanas, Bella Italia and Café Rouge, is piloting a partnership with Pudu Robotics in an effort to elevate the dining experience, becoming the largest restaurant group in the UK to introduce robot technology. 

The retrieving robots, named 'BellaBot', are currently being trialled at the Bella Italia in Center Parcs, Whinfell Forest, specifically chosen for its large footprint, with longer distances between kitchen and tables. 

Designed to support employees with everyday tasks, the BellaBot features four shelves in the centre of its 'body' structure to carry plates. Once loaded, the robot waiter delivers food and interacts with guests. 

In Bella Italia, the BellaBot has been designed to rotate to the side of the table, allowing staff to hand over the customers' plates, automating many supply-side processes. For special occasions and festivities, the robot can be set up to perform and entertain while carrying out its tasks. 

On the new initiative, Lisa Gibbons, cheif operating officer at Bella Italia, says: "We're always open to innovative solutions which benefit our teams, improve service and improve our guests' experience, so we're delighted to pilot the BellaBot. By having intelligent robots conduct simple tasks, such as retrieving dirty dishes, our teams are able to focus on doing what they love and delivering an amazing experience. It's still early days in the trial, but we're looking forward to seeing the impact that having an extra pair of 'paws' has on dining satisfaction."

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