Where are the Cashiers at McDonalds?
When visiting the McDonalds on North HWY 41 and Mt Pleasant Rd, in Evansville, you will quickly notice that some things have changed. The counter looks different because the cashiers appear to be gone.
I'm wasn't sure if this was a test market situation or not for the new ordering machines (Not their official name LOL) but its just kinda weird.
At first I wasn't really paying attention to anything but the overhead menus to figure out what I was going to order. I'm not sure why, I always get the same thing - Filet o Fish, small fries and water. Boring, I know.
Anyway, someone tapped me on the shoulder and told me that I would have to order over there. THERE being a machine, much like an ATM, stating behind me. I threw looked around and noticed that the counter was totally different. It was more like a baggage check area at the airport.
I walked over to the touch screen and started my order. It was actually painless until it came to pay and the card reader was jacked up. I had to do something like insert the card, click my heels three times, spin around and say, 'There is no place like McDonald's!' ;-) There was a restaurant attendant to help you with any questions or problems though.
After talking to the attendant, I was informed that all 14,000 McDonald's, nationwide, are offering this new service. She also said that you don't have to order at the kiosk, you can still order at the counter if you wish.
So, I guess this is the future of fast food restaurants. CNBC is reporting that Starbucks will start using robot baristas in some their stores.
Have you ever experienced this at a fast food restaurant? What are your thoughts?