Fourth launches AI tool to streamline multi-location restaurant operations

GLOBAL – Restaurant tech provider Fourth has introduced its new Restaurant Operations Suite, an AI-driven platform designed to consolidate back-of-house tasks for restaurant owners, operators, and managers.

The integrated solution brings together scheduling, labor compliance, HR, payroll, earned wage access, and inventory management, offering a unified system for operational control and visibility.

The platform leverages artificial intelligence to deliver real-time insights and above-store recommendations that help managers take informed in-store actions to improve performance and profitability.

According to Fourth, clients using the suite have reported an average profit increase of 3–5%, a 5% reduction in labor costs, and a 20% drop in the cost of goods sold.

Fourth’s CEO, Clinton Anderson, explained that restaurant managers often face considerable strain from juggling manual responsibilities such as payroll, scheduling, and inventory.

He noted that the Restaurant Operations Suite was developed to relieve that pressure by enabling managers and operations teams to redirect their focus toward leading staff and enhancing customer experiences at each location.

Anderson emphasized that the solution empowers users to work more efficiently and with greater clarity.

The latest release introduces several new tools aimed at increasing productivity and reducing complexity.

These include real-time dashboards for above-store teams to monitor key performance indicators and initiate proactive in-store measures before operational issues arise.

The Digital Tip Payouts feature automates tip calculations and distributions, which Fourth claims can save up to 80% of a manager’s time while improving payout accuracy and employee satisfaction.

Additional features include Forecast Manager, which provides a single view of forecasted demand across different locations, thereby enhancing coordination and enabling more precise labor and inventory decisions.

The AI Demand Forecasting engine further improves efficiency by allowing teams to adjust staffing levels and inventory based on real-time demand patterns, with users reportedly experiencing over a 20% improvement in forecast accuracy.

Jerry Phillips, Vice President of Technology at Whataburger, indicated that Fourth’s platform had become strategically significant to their business.

He acknowledged that its deep industry expertise and ability to embed AI across operations were key advantages.

Christian Berthelsen, Chief Technology Officer at Fourth, added that the suite is designed to enable better decision-making, faster responses, and higher performance across the board.

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