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This is how the first gastro robot proves itself

A Sebotics employee scans the room of a restaurant with Bellabot

This is how the first gastronomy robot proves itself in Swiss gastronomy

The Brasserie in the Swiss Museum of Transport of Switzerland, which through the Cooperative ZFV companies is operated, a gastronomy robot has been supporting the staff since the beginning of October. We asked whether the new employee could prove himself and how external guests and organizers reacted to him.

Installation of the gastronomy robot BellaBots in the brasserie in the Swiss Museum of Transport
Insight into the installation of the BellaBot in the brasserie of the Swiss Museum of Transport.

A white and black, pillar-like gastronomy robot moves through the brasserie im on quiet wheels Transport Museum. With his animated face and cat ears, he seems very friendly and attracts curious children's eyes shortly after the museum opens. You stand beaming in front of the entrance to the brasserie and watch the somewhat different employee of the company.

The restaurant robot, affectionately called "Werni" by the staff, comes from the Lucerne-based company Sebotics, a subsidiary of Precom Group AG. The company is primarily committed to digitalization in various industries. The managing director and owner Thomas Holstein knows the prejudices against his latest product only too well. "It is a misconception that advancing digitalization will inevitably lead to job losses. Thanks to the BellaBot only monotonous work can be made easier. And to give the employees in the gastronomy a helping hand,” explains Holenstein.

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What is a service robot?

A service robot is an automated system specifically developed for use in the hospitality industry. These robots are designed to relieve staff and improve guest service. Service robots like the BellaBot can perform a variety of tasks, including taking orders, delivering food and drinks to the table, clearing dishes, and providing menu information. Their ability to perform monotonous and physically demanding tasks allows human employees to focus on the more important aspects of guest service.

Support from service robots that you have to get used to

As with any new employee, supervisors and colleagues should be prepared for an induction phase of several weeks with a catering robot. «If you don't take the time to understand the robot and aren't open to such a novelty, you will BellaBot no help at all," reports the Sebotics manager.

At the Brasserie im Verkehrshaus, the employees were enthusiastic from the start. They immediately embraced the new challenge. However, many businesses face challenges when introducing new technologies, particularly in terms of labor shortages and the need to increase efficiency and enhance the guest experience.

Hans Bühlmann, head of gastronomy in the Swiss Museum of Transport with Thomas Holenstein, Managing Director of Sebotics
Hans Bühlmann, head of gastronomy in the Swiss Museum of Transport with Thomas Holenstein, Managing Director of Sebotics

Hans Bühlmann, segment manager for public catering at the ZFV-Unternehmungen cooperative: “The BellaBotsupports our employees in their daily work. For example when serving or clearing away food and drinks.

With its innovative technology, the robot, as a playful connection to the museum experience, fits perfectly with the gastronomy in the Swiss Museum of Transport. However, this does not replace either specialists or assistants. Not even the important human contact with our guests.” BellaBot I am very well received by the gastronomy team and guests. The robot is a great support in hectic times.

Advantages of service robots

Service robots offer numerous benefits for the restaurant industry. One of the biggest is reducing the workload for employees. By taking care of repetitive tasks like serving and clearing, employees can focus their energy on serving guests and improving service.

This leads to greater efficiency and increased customer satisfaction. Furthermore, service robots can also reduce staffing and training costs, as they don't require breaks and can work around the clock without getting tired or making mistakes. This makes them a valuable addition to any hospitality team.

Gastro-waiter robot: A crowd puller not only for children

With his friendly nature, "Werni" not only aroused the interest of children, but also of adults and large companies. As a result, the popular gastronomy robot was invited to various events in the Swiss Museum of Transport:

The enthusiasm on the part of the event visitors was great and the goodies on the shelves of the robot were quickly gone.

Gastro robot BellaBot on Digital Day
BellaBot on Digital Day
Gastro robot BellaBot at the event "Night in the Museum"
BellaBot on "Night at the Museum"
Gastro robot BellaBot at the RedBull Event
BellaBot at the RedBull Event

Of course, "Werni" was allowed to attend other events such as "Night at the Museum" or the "Swiss City Marathon» not missing. Here, too, he relieved the staff during the strenuous hours.

It's a little quieter in the brasserie today. Nevertheless, "Werni" skillfully moves between the tables with a few cups of coffee. You can tell that this new employee has been well received and, at least by his team, that the brasserie in the Swiss Museum of Transport would be inconceivable without him.

Interaction between customers and service robots

The interaction between customers and service robots plays a crucial role in modern hospitality. Service robots are capable of communicating with guests by answering questions, taking orders, and providing menu information. Some robots are even equipped with a digital menu that is displayed to guests on a screen.

This allows guests to make their selections in peace and learn about the food and beverage options. In addition, service robots can also make recommendations and assist guests in preparing their orders, contributing to a personalized and pleasant service experience.

Future of service robots in the hospitality industry

The future of service robots in the hospitality industry looks extremely promising. With the increasing automation and digitalization in the industry, demand for service robots is expected to continue to grow in the coming years.

These robots are becoming increasingly intelligent and capable of interacting with guests in a more personal way. Experts predict that service robots will become an integral part of the restaurant industry in the future, revolutionizing the way we order and consume food and drinks. They could not only improve efficiency and service but also create new, innovative experiences for guests.

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