The Evolution of Fast-Food Productivity

White Castle, a pioneer in the fast-food industry, created many of the industry's hallmarks, including standardizing practices and bringing an assembly-line mindset to food production. While fast-food restaurants initially focused on productivity, a new study shows a surge in productivity during the COVID-19 pandemic, attributed to innovative ways of serving customers faster, particularly through takeout and delivery services.

Impact of Minimum Wage Increase on Fast-Food Industry and Automation

Fast-food workers in California received a raise to $20 per hour, prompting discussions about automation in the industry. The opening of a "fully autonomous restaurant" in Pasadena sheds light on the complexities of AI and automation in the service sector, highlighting the need for worker input and industry-wide standards.