AI isn’t coming to foodservice it’s already here. From predicting demand to managing waste, artificial intelligence is transforming how businesses make decisions, serve customers, and run operations. 

The Convenience Foodservice Vision Group (CFVG) invited Upshop to join industry leaders in a discussion on what AI means for retailers today and how to prepare for what’s next. The conversation, led by Mike Weber, CGO of Upshop, and Steve Brask, Director of Business Intelligence at Upshop, offered a simple truth: 

“AI is rewriting the rules of pretty much everything.” — Mike Weber, Upshop 

But it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here’s how businesses are already putting AI to work and what leaders can do to turn possibility into practice.

1. Start with Data You Already Have

You don’t need to be a tech giant or a large convenience chain to use AI. That was one of the biggest myths the group worked to debunk. 

AI thrives on data, but not necessarily perfect data. Even if your store’s systems are inconsistent or limited, machine learning models can find patterns and fill in the gaps. 

Steve Brask explained how Upshop’s “global training” approach allows AI to generate accurate forecasts from incomplete or scattered sales records across multiple locations. 

“As long as you have a reasonable amount of historical data, even if that data is incomplete, AI can close a lot of the gaps.” — Steve Brask, Upshop 

Key takeaway: Start with what you have two years of sales data is enough to begin forecasting demand, reducing waste, and spotting trends you might otherwise miss. 

2. Think Beyond Automation — Aim for Intelligence

AI isn’t just about automating routine tasks; it’s about making smarter decisions faster. 

Upshop introduced a practical four-step framework to bring AI into everyday business operations: 

  1. Introduce –Connect your AI tools to existing data sources. 
  2. Train – Measure what matters (like sales accuracy, forecast compliance, or menu performance). 
  3. Partner – Let AI assist your teams — using natural language queries to turn data into insight. 
  4. Autopilot – Allow AI to simulate outcomes and recommend next steps based on patterns and behavior. 

Imagine forecasting demand for a new product, adjusting staffing schedules, or optimizing markdowns all in real time. That’s the level of intelligence AI brings when integrated thoughtfully into workflows. 

“At some point, AI will start drawing conclusions and offering recommendations based on what’s happening in your business.” — Mike Weber, Upshop 

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3. Use AI to Cut Waste and Boost Profitability

Waste is one of foodservice’s biggest profit drains and one of AI’s biggest opportunities. 

Retailers like RaceTrac are already exploring how AI can analyze both sales and waste data to determine what’s actually selling versus what’s ending up in the trash. When similar products share a single barcode (like doughnuts or roller grill items), AI can “back into” the specific varieties that drive waste or profit. 

The result? Smarter ordering, leaner production, and lower shrink. 

At Boston University, AI cameras track pre- and post-consumer waste, helping dining teams adjust production based on what students actually eat reducing costs and supporting sustainability goals. 

4. Empower People, Don’t Replace Them

AI is often seen as a job threat, but CFVG members agreed it’s more about empowerment than replacement. 

When employees can use AI tools to simplify decision-making, stress goes down and engagement goes up. Upshop’s data shows that guided AI workflows reduce “task overload,” freeing employees to focus on quality and customer interaction. 

Still, change takes time. Stephanie Galentine, COO of Lassus Bros. Oil, noted how hard it can be to shift long-standing habits: 

“Some of my people have been doing it for 15 years the same way. For me to say, ‘That doesn’t work,’ it’s offensive.” 

The group emphasized training teams not just to use AI but to communicate with it. Skills like AI prompting asking the right questions are becoming essential for managers and frontline employees alike. 

5. Plan for the Future: One Data Language

The long-term vision for AI in retail and foodservice isn’t about having more apps or systems it’s about connecting them all. 

Weber described this as achieving “one data language” a unified digital ecosystem where all workflows communicate through a single AI-powered platform. 

This integration allows every decision from purchasing and prep to pricing and promotions to be data-informed and interconnected. 

“The differentiator will come when you have a single data lake, and then you have AI connected across all the actual workflows.” — Mike Weber, Upshop 

In other words: Businesses that unify their data will gain a competitive edge that’s impossible to replicate manually. 

6. The Human Edge in a Digital World

Despite all the technology, one thing remains clear AI works best when paired with human experience. 

Retailers who embrace AI aren’t just cutting costs; they’re improving service, enhancing consistency, and empowering their people. The report concludes that AI is not about replacing human judgment, but amplifying it. 

“It’s going to change this industry more than anything ever has.” — Brandon Frampton, Loop & Poppy 

In Summary

  • AI isn’t a futuristic dream it’s a strategic advantage available right now.
  • Start small, connect your systems, train your teams, and let AI do the heavy lifting in decision-making. 
  • The businesses that begin integrating AI today won’t just adapt to the future they’ll define it. 
  • View the full report here.