Greene King trials AI and new tech under ‘innovation pub’ programme

Greene King is testing new products and digital technology in two of its managed pubs as part of a scheme designed to assess their impact on customers, staff and operational efficiency.

The pub group is trialling a range of equipment and artificial intelligence tools at the Charnwood Arms and the Two Steeples in Leicestershire under its “innovation pub” programme. 

The initiative is intended to evaluate potential cost savings and productivity gains before any wider rollout.

The trials include new kitchen equipment such as fryers, grills and extraction systems, as well as intelligent dispense technology in beer cellars, staff communication headsets and cordless backpack vacuum cleaners. 

Greene King is also testing digital systems to reduce paperwork, alongside AI-based tools aimed at monitoring food waste and improving stock and vending management.

The company said real-time communication headsets had improved coordination between front and back of house, while “press for attention” buttons at reception had reduced customer waiting times. 

Additionally, intelligent dispense systems were reported to have improved beer yield and quality, and new energy-efficient grills and fryers were being assessed for performance during peak trading periods.

Further trials are under way using AI-enhanced camera technology to support remote monitoring of CCTV footage. Greene King said additional technology would be tested in pubs during 2026.

The trials form part of Greene King’s wider multi-million-pound investment in innovation and efficiency, which has included digital initiatives such as its customer loyalty app and the use of connected devices. Any broader rollout of the technology will depend on the results from the two pilot pubs.

Clair Preston-Beer, chief operating officer at Greene King, said: “We are putting this equipment through its paces in busy, live pub environments to really measure the positive impact and scalable potential in the wider business.

“Unlocking the potential of AI and innovation will enhance service levels, customer and team member satisfaction. We are seeing cost savings through, for example, reduced energy usage, less travel costs with more AI and digital information management, and we can use our cooking oil for longer – all this without affecting quality or service.”