OPTIMIZING KITCHEN OPERATIONS THROUGH PROCESS INNOVATION AND SMART TECHNOLOGIES IN THE HOSPITALITY SECTOR

Povzetek

This study investigates how process innovation and smart technologies collectively optimize kitchen operations in the hospitality sector. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research examines twenty hospitality establishments employing workflow restructuring, lean practices, IoT monitoring systems, and automation tools. Quantitative data on processing time, throughput rate, energy use, inventory accuracy, and quality consistency were analyzed alongside qualitative insights from semi-structured staff and managerial interviews. The results reveal substantial improvements in operational efficiency, with significant reductions in order processing and cooking times and increased throughput following the integration of innovative processes. Smart technologies enhanced predictive demand accuracy, real-time temperature compliance, and equipment reliability, contributing to improved consistency and reduced errors. Principal Component Analysis identified two core dimensions; operational efficiency and technological enhancement jointly explaining 72.6% of total variance. Qualitative themes supported these statistical outcomes by highlighting reduced workload stress, improved coordination, and greater adaptability during peak demand. The study concludes that combining process innovation with technologically advanced systems produces synergistic benefits, strengthening efficiency, accuracy, and sustainability in modern kitchen operations. These findings offer actionable insights for hospitality managers seeking to implement integrated, technology-enabled strategies for operational optimization.