Papa John’s International announced an expanded partnership with Google Cloud on Thursday, aiming to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) technology into its customer ordering experience.
The chain plans to use AI to personalize customer interactions, including phone push notifications, marketing emails, and loyalty program offerings, based on past customer behavior and context. Additionally, the company will introduce a new online chatbot and allow customers to place orders through virtual assistants.
This move reflects the growing trend among fast food chains to leverage AI to boost sales, improve customer service, and streamline operations. “The advances in technology are allowing us to do things that we couldn’t do three or four years ago,” said Kevin Vasconi, Papa John’s chief digital officer.
He noted that AI would help with scalability, security, and cost management.
Papa John’s CEO Todd Penegor acknowledged that the company has fallen behind in some areas but sees a significant opportunity to regain its technological edge. “We’ve fallen behind in many respects, but there’s a big opportunity to catch up fast and reclaim some of our tech leadership,” he said.
Penegor, who was previously the CEO of Wendy’s, brought the experience of leading a similar partnership with Google Cloud at Wendy’s to Papa John’s. He also hired Vasconi, who has overseen tech transformations at both Wendy’s and Domino’s Pizza.
Looking ahead, Penegor and Vasconi revealed plans to further utilize AI for in-store operations, such as optimizing delivery routes and managing store inventories. These initiatives mark a significant step in Papa John’s ongoing efforts to modernize its operations and enhance customer engagement.
