DETROIT -- The International Franchise Association (IFA) has recognized Little Caesars for developing equipment that gives customers the option of a completely frictionless experience. The organization honored Little Caesars with the Marketing and Technology Innovation Award for its Pizza Portal pickup technology.
First tested in units in Tucson, Ariz., in 2017, the Detroit-based chain rolled out the Pizza Portal to all U.S. locations in September. The company says the device is the first heated, self-service mobile order pickup station in the restaurant industry.
The Pizza Portal is used in conjunction with the Little Caesars app. Users place their order and pay via the app. After receiving a notification that their pizza is ready, customers can make a beeline to the Pizza Portal. After entering a three-digit pin or scanning a QR code, the door to their pizza compartment opens, ensuring they have the correct order without once interfacing with a Little Caesars employee.
"We're very pleased by the incredible feedback we've received from customers about the Pizza Portal pickup after our recent national rollout,” said David Scrivano, president and CEO of the restaurant brand.
Little Caesars teamed up with Apex Supply Chain Technologies, Mason, Ohio, to craft the Pizza Portal.
The IFA selected Little Caesars from hundreds of applications. "It's exciting to see franchise businesses adopt new ideas and technology to better serve their customers," said Robert Cresanti, IFA president and CEO. "I commend Little Caesars for their innovative and high-tech approach."
In addition to the Pizza Portal, the brand has been adding other features to its mobile experience. For instance, customers can schedule an order via the apps up to six days in advance and use touch ID and fingerprint and face ID to log in.
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