Foodservice

Aramark to offer contactless ordering, safe practices for 2021 baseball season

Image courtesy of Aramark Corp.

March 24, 2021

Aramark's sports and entertainment division has introduced several concepts for stadiums as the 2021 Major League Baseball season unfolds, according to a press release. The company will offer the following concepts:

• Self-ordering kiosks: Using touch screen technology, fans can customize and pay for their order at kiosks.
• Self-checkout scanners: Artificial intelligence enabled scanners allow fans to expeditiously complete their transactions. Fans simply place the items they wish to purchase on the checkout unit where they are scanned for quick payment.
• Checkout-free shopping: Fans will download an app that will enable a completely self-guided, checkout-free grab-and-go experience. Fans will use the QR code in the app as their "key" to enter the market, grab the items they want, then leave. The receipt will appear in the app. For those without the app, credit card entry is also available.
• Virtual food hall: The virtual food hall will provice a way for fans to try the most popular menu items throughout the building in one convenient location. Fans scan the "connected concepts" menu, then have the option to skip the line by ordering and paying on their smartphone and picking up their order at the pickup window.
• Mobile ordering: Fans can place an order via an app on their smartphone for delivery to their seats or pick up at a designated concession stand.
• Cashless transactions: Cashless transactions – credit cards and smartphone wallet – reduce touch points and increase speed of service. For fans who do not carry credit cards or use mobile payment, reverse ATMs (or cash-to-card kiosks) that dispense prepaid debit cards may be available throughout the ballpark.
• Grab-and-go markets: Express beverage markets and concessions stations will allow fans to quickly grab and pay for their beverage of choice, packaged snacks and pre-wrapped menu items.
• Streamlined menus: Simplifying and streamlining menus will expedite ordering and increase speed of service, while decreasing queues.

Aramark's practices, procedures and protocols have been developed in accordance with recommendations established by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the World Health Organization, the National Restaurant Association and other public health organizations. Examples of safety and service enhancements include:

• Providing and requiring appropriate personal protective equipment for employees.
• Implementing employee health screening and temperature checks.
• Following CDC hand-washing guidance and food code.
• Frequently disinfecting high-touch areas and implementing enhanced cleaning and sanitation.
• Monitoring marked lanes for ordering and picking up food.
• Posting appropriate signage and floor decals to encourage social distancing.
• Installing plexiglass barriers and reducing capacity in restaurants and clubs seating.

For an update on how the coronavirus pandemic is affecting convenience services, click here.