Anton, the little ice cream expert
👁️🗨️ Contribution from the ORF Lower Austria Regional Studio
👁️🗨️ Article from the Kronen Zeitung Lower Austria
Background
A constantly growing variety of ice cream flavors, coupled with the specific needs of ice cream lovers, requires extensive product knowledge from our employees, which cannot be expected of part-time staff, temporary workers, or young interns.
Similarly, the increasing variety of products also demands that companies offer their customers corresponding innovations related to their core product.
Objectives
The new virtual employee "Anton" is programmed with facts to answer all currently known questions and provides requested information on ingredients or allergens in a professional and consistent manner.
At the same time, he acts as an entertainer, dancing, telling jokes, and engaging in cute dialogues, thus serving as a digital attraction and underscoring the innovative approach of Harrer Ice Cream Parlors.
The use of "Anton" will also attract guests from more distant regions to Sollenau, where they will not only enjoy high-quality ice cream products but also have a special, entertaining experience.
Milestones
We first met at Frankfurt Airport. It was love at first sight! After some research, we came across the company WebOffice and, following constructive initial discussions, immediately started the project.
The possibility of funding from the digi4kmu program significantly boosted our decision to undertake the project. The exciting aspect was, and still is, the broad range of applications for a humanoid robot; at the same time, these opportunities also present the greatest challenge. In detailed discussions with the programmers, we explored a multitude of possibilities and linked them to our requirements and needs.
On February 26, 2021, "Anton" saw the light of day at our ice cream parlor in Sollenau. It was an uplifting moment for all of us.
Results
Due to the current restaurant lockdown, we are offering a limited takeout service. Despite the reduced customer traffic, our new employee "Anton" has already charmed many guests, both young and old. The enthusiasm and joy were impressive.
"Anton" is already quite capable, but we've also recognized that continuous development and adaptation to our specific circumstances will be necessary. We learn from our guests every day and refine the "Anton" attraction with additional entertaining features.