Big Table Group to trail robotic waiter technology

Big Table Group, the operator of Las Iguanas, Bella Italia and Café Rouge, has announced it is piloting a partnership with Pudu Robotics to introduce robot technology into its establishments.

The retrieving robots, named ‘BellaBot’ are currently being trialled at the Bella Italia in Centre Parcs Whinfell Forest.

Designed to support its team members with everyday tasks, the BellaBot features four shelves in the centre of its ‘body’ structure to carry plates. Once loaded by its human colleagues, the robotic waiter interacts with guests when delivering food to diners to encourage customers to take their ordered dishes from the BellaBot.

Lisa Gibbons, chief operating officer, Bella Italia, said: “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.”

Peter Shaw, sales development manager for the Pudu Robotics, added: “Big Table Group are interested in their teams giving guests a great time, not in how many plates they can carry.

“We’re grateful for the opportunity to work with Bella Italia, and we’re looking forward to seeing BellaBot make teams’ lives easier, and improve the experience of their customers.”