This chapter delves into the challenges of high turnover rates and the need for reinventing work in the restaurant industry to make it more rewarding. It compares the practices of for-profit and non-profit companies in providing pay, benefits, and a fulfilling workplace environment. The discussion includes the debate around setting a minimum wage for hourly workers, the unique economic model of Kernel, and the rise of a fast-food union in California, emphasizing the importance of better pay and benefits for employees.
Thirty-one years after founding Chipotle, Steve Ells is back with what he hopes will be another fast-casual dining revolution: the highly-automated, plant-based food chain, Kernel. Ells says that streamlining and automation will allow him to pay workers well above minimum wage and give them more benefits – all while reducing labor costs. But don’t call it a robot restaurant! Kara and Ells discuss the mechanics and philosophy underpinning Kernel’s concept and the downstream effects of integrating tech into our food.
Questions? Comments? Email us at on@voxmedia.com or find Kara on Threads/Instagram @karaswisher
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