A popular Hurstville cafe has become one of the first small businesses in the St George region to implement an AI-powered ordering system, dramatically reducing customer wait times and freeing up staff to focus on food preparation and customer service.

Bean & Brew, located on Forest Road, installed the new system last month after owner Maria Chen noticed increasingly long queues during the morning rush. The AI system allows customers to place orders via a tablet kiosk or their smartphones, with the technology learning customer preferences over time.

“We were losing customers because people didn’t have time to wait,” Chen explained. “Now our regulars can order their usual before they even walk in the door. The AI remembers what they like.”

Results After One Month

Since implementing the system, Bean & Brew has seen:

• 40% reduction in average wait times
• 25% increase in morning rush orders
• Significant decrease in order errors
• Higher customer satisfaction scores

The implementation wasn’t without challenges. Chen worked with Team400’s AI consultants in Sydney to customise the system for her specific needs. “We needed something that understood Australian coffee culture,” she said. “Not every AI system knows what a flat white is.”

Local Business Digital Transformation

Chen’s experience reflects a broader trend in the St George and Sutherland Shire regions, where small businesses are increasingly turning to technology to remain competitive. The Hurstville Chamber of Commerce reports that enquiries about digital transformation have doubled in the past year.

“What we’re seeing is a real shift in mindset,” said chamber president David Wong. “Local businesses are realising that technology isn’t just for big corporations. Even a family-run cafe can benefit from AI.”

The AI ordering system cost approximately $5,000 to implement, including hardware and setup. Chen expects to recoup the investment within six months through increased efficiency and sales.

Advice for Other Local Businesses

For other St George business owners considering similar technology, Chen offers some practical advice:

1. Start with a clear problem you want to solve
2. Research systems that suit your industry
3. Train staff thoroughly before launch
4. Be patient with the learning curve

“Don’t try to change everything at once,” she advises. “Pick one thing that’s causing you headaches and fix that first.”

Bean & Brew is now planning to expand its AI capabilities to include inventory management and predictive ordering for supplies.