Picnic Works has launched a new automation partner program for the food service industry, intended to bring major players together to share and accelerate industry innovations and technological developments.

The Picnic Partner Program includes food service and technology companies such as Rich Products, Ovention, Kwali, Bear Robotics and Mukunda Foods. It is actively recruiting others who work in six categories: kitchen design, ingredient supply, point of sale, food service equipment, data and analytics, and service and logistics.

The food industry has struggled to get back on its feet since the pandemic, with increased demand for contactless delivery in addition to staff shortages and high labor costs causing businesses to struggle. Innovations in automation technologies and robotics have helped ease some of the pressures by improving efficiency and taking on the more repetitive or labor-intensive tasks.

The partnership hopes to build on this trend, developing kitchen automation tools to increase profits, reduce food waste and cut operating costs.

“Picnic works with customers to understand how automation can help improve efficiency and profitability,” said Scott Erickson, Picnic CMO. “Our new partner program creates a network of resources to assist customers with their move to automation. From technology, equipment, and ingredient testing to co-marketing and referrals, the Picnic Partner Program is a hub for like-minded companies to connect, share, and help customers.”

Through the program, Picnic will also connect customers and services to businesses, establishing a referral system to foster collaboration and maintain a steady stream of revenue for participating companies.