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Self-checkout for meals: Practical solutions for commercial catering

22.09.2025

During peak times, long queues at the cash registers are a typical challenge in commercial catering. In 2025, more and more businesses will be relying on self-checkout systems with artificial intelligence: cameras will recognize food and drinks directly on the tray and automatically transmit the data to the cash register system. This saves time for guests and service staff and ensures smooth operations.

AI-supported image recognition is changing service in the restaurant industry

A person uses a self-service checkout with AI-supported image recognition in a cafeteria; Copyright: visioncheckout

© visioncheckout

AI-supported image recognition is based on neural networks that analyze colors, shapes, and textures to reliably identify different dishes, special offers, and snacks. Companies such as auvisus, with its “visioncheckout” product, are among the pioneers in this field. They have developed an AI solution that automatically enters meals into the checkout system and continuously improves through continuous learning. The system combines pre-trained image data with current images and pixel-precise segmentation of items to accurately capture even changing menus. In practical use, a checkout process takes less than six seconds.

Advantages of AI-based cash registers for restaurateurs and guests

AI-based cash registers offer significant advantages. For restaurants, this means:

Relief for staff: Cashiers are relieved of time-consuming routine tasks and can therefore concentrate more on service, food preparation, and guest requests. This improves service quality and increases satisfaction for everyone involved.

A smiling waitress in a restaurant hands a guest a plate of salad; Copyright: Adobe Express

© Adobe Express

More flexible menus: VisionCheckout adapts flexibly to changing menus and special promotions. New dishes can be quickly programmed and recognized immediately. This is particularly important in company restaurants or cafeterias with changing menus.

Reducing food waste: Photos are taken during each checkout process, which can then be used to predict consumption. This allows for more efficient meal planning and targeted reduction of food waste.

Reliable recognition and security: With recognition accuracy of over 99% from day one, the risk of errors or fraud is reduced. Different audio signals and visual displays clearly inform staff and guests that the payment process has been successful. This creates trust and reduces queries.

This could be the future of paying for food—fast, smart, and contactless

AI-based food and product recognition for self-checkout systems is a milestone in the digital transformation of the restaurant and retail industries. It increases efficiency and improves customer service. It benefits customers, restaurateurs, and retailers alike. The trend toward smarter, automated self-service will continue to grow in 2025 and noticeably change everyday life.

Food service in retail is a megatrend with huge business potential, whether it's in-store cooking or baking as an event, drinks for a cozy atmosphere, or convenience offerings to go. Have we whetted your appetite? You'll find solutions for your needs at EuroShop in the  Food Service Equipment dimension from 18–22 February, 2029.

Sources: visioncheckout/press-kit, wirtschaft-digital-bw, fim-online, stores+shops

Author: Sandra Katzenberger | EuroShop.mag

As part of the EuroShop editorial team, Sandra Katzenberger contributes her many years of experience in the retail sector and looks at current developments and future trends in the retail world with a trained eye. Whether it's smart technologies, sustainable store concepts or innovative shopping experiences – her goal: to provide up-to-date, relevant and inspiring content for the global retail community.

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