Latest news with #Bojangles
Business Insider
7 days ago
- Business
- Business Insider
Bojangles Rolls Out Spanish AI Ordering Across All Platforms with Hi Auto
Bojangles, the beloved Southern food chain known for its flavorful menu and signature hospitality, has expanded its partnership with voice AI leader Hi Auto to introduce Spanish-language AI ordering across drive-thrus, kiosks, and its mobile app. This marks one of the first major bilingual AI rollouts by a U.S. quick-service restaurant, setting a new precedent for inclusive automation at scale. The move builds on the successful launch of Bo-Linda, Bojangles' AI-powered drive-thru assistant introduced in June 2023. Bo-Linda was created to streamline the ordering process and enhance service speed. Now, the latest upgrade brings accessibility to the forefront, offering a more personalized and intuitive experience for the rapidly growing Spanish-speaking population. Expanding Leadership in Multilingual Voice Automation With this milestone, Bojangles joins Checkers & Rally's in embracing Hi Auto's leadership in scalable, multilingual voice automation. However, Bojangles takes it a step further, rolling out Spanish-language ordering across drive-thrus, kiosks, and the mobile app in a single coordinated launch. This strategic expansion underscores a focus on reducing friction in the user experience by supporting multiple languages across key interaction points, aiming to improve accessibility and communication in users' native languages. A Win for Teams and Guests Alike According to Bojangles' Chief Information Officer Richard Del Valle, the impact of the technology has gone far beyond convenience. 'To me, the biggest thing, or the biggest surprise, has been the improvement of the employee experience,' Del Valle said. 'If we can find ways to make their lives easier, which will then translate to a superior guest experience, that's a home run for us.' By offloading complex, multilingual interactions to AI, team members are able to stay focused on their core responsibilities, such as ensuring food quality, maintaining service speed, and delivering the warmth and hospitality that defines the Bojangles brand. An Answer to Growing Economic Power According to the 2025 Latino Donor Collaborative, Latino purchasing power in the U.S. has reached a staggering $4.1 trillion. This surge places Hispanic consumers at the center of the nation's economic growth and highlights the urgency for QSR brands to offer culturally attuned and linguistically inclusive experiences. By enabling a fully bilingual ordering experience, Bojangles is taking direct action to serve this growing demographic with respect and relevance. Technology That Adapts to the Customer Hi Auto's system allows customers to switch between English and Spanish fluidly (even mid-sentence), ensuring that the ordering process remains natural and seamless. The AI boasts 96% order accuracy and nearly instant response times, creating a frictionless experience that adapts in real-time to each guest. Just as importantly, the rollout required no new hardware and minimal operational disruption. Thanks to Hi Auto's hybrid architecture and customer understanding engine, Bojangles was able to implement the new functionality efficiently and without downtime. 'To best serve our communities, restaurants need solutions that speak to all customers, and the United States is the world's second-largest Spanish-speaking country,' said Roy Baharav, CEO of Hi Auto. He adds that 'partnerships like this represent a huge breakthrough for the country's Spanish-speaking and bilingual communities.' Charting the Future of Hospitality Hi Auto currently powers nearly 1,000 drive-thru locations across the U.S., continuing to lead the charge in real-world AI deployment in the quick-service sector. Bojangles' latest rollout demonstrates that advanced technology and human-centric service don't have to be at odds. In fact, they can elevate one another. By investing in AI that empowers rather than replaces, Bojangles is showing how automation can enhance hospitality, not strip it away. It's a bold step toward a future where every guest feels heard, and every order, no matter the language, is served with ease. About Hi Auto Hi Auto is an advanced AI-powered order-taking solution designed specifically for high-volume drive-thru restaurants. Built to streamline operations, it delivers quick, accurate service with over 93% order completion and 96% accuracy consistently and at scale. Hi Auto offers centralized script management and adaptable configurations for franchise operators, helping QSR brands save between 3 to 8 labor hours per location each day. Since its founding in 2019, Hi Auto has earned the trust of top quick-service chains and is now live in nearly 1,000 drive-thru sites across the United States.
Business Wire
28-07-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
Bojangles Expands Spanish-Language Ordering Across All Platforms
CHARLOTTE, N.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Bojangles is deepening its commitment to better serve Spanish-speaking guests by expanding its Spanish-language ordering capabilities across digital and in-store platforms. The QSR brand known for its delicious breakfast and Southern-style chicken, biscuits and tea is rolling out Spanish-language support for online ordering, the mobile app, in-store kiosks and drive-thru AI assistant, affectionately known as Bo-Linda, to better serve Spanish-speaking guests across its footprint. Spanish-speaking customers will now be able to place their orders in Spanish through the Bojangles website and mobile app systemwide. At the drive-thru, Bo-Linda (Bojangles' proprietary AI order taker) offers a fully Spanish-spoken experience at more than 400 locations, making Bojangles one of the first major QSR brands to deliver bilingual functionality at this scale. Additionally, about 35 locations will feature kiosks with Spanish-language ordering options. These enhancements are designed to make ordering easier, more welcoming and more comfortable for Spanish-speaking guests – at no added cost to the customer. 'This is about more than just technology – it's about making every guest feel welcomed and understood,' said Jose Armario, CEO of Bojangles, who tested the technology himself in this video. 'As a Hispanic leader, I take pride in ensuring our brand reflects the communities we serve. Language should never be a barrier to hospitality.' Bo-Linda has already begun supporting Spanish-speaking customers in select markets. The tool was named by Bojangles employees, reflecting the company's culture of innovation and team involvement. The early data is promising, with roughly 200 Spanish-language drive-thru orders placed each week using Bo-Linda – a number that is expected to grow as awareness and access expand. 'This initiative shows what's possible when you blend innovation with Southern hospitality to find new ways to make more guests feel welcome,' said Richard Del Valle, Chief Information Officer at Bojangles. 'We're not just translating menus – we're redesigning the guest experience.' With Armario at the helm, his leadership continues to shape a bold, inclusive vision for the future – where language accessibility and community engagement go hand in hand. About Bojangles, Inc. Bojangles is a Carolina-born restaurant chain specializing in craveable Southern food made by hand from real recipes. Founded in 1977 as a single location in Charlotte, N.C., the beloved brand continues to grow – currently at around 830 company owned and franchised restaurants in 21 states – bringing its focus on food and people along with it. For more information about Bojangles' handcrafted approach to food and community impact, visit To join in on the fan fun, follow Bojangles on Instagram, TikTok and Twitter.
Miami Herald
16-07-2025
- Business
- Miami Herald
Fast-food chain puts EV charging on the menu
Summer is finally here, which means many people are trying to make healthier choices to get last-minute beach-ready bodies. But let's be honest, no one can resist a bucket of fried chicken. One bite of that golden, extra-crisp skin paired with a warm biscuit tastes so good that it will make you forget about your gym membership. Don't miss the move: Subscribe to TheStreet's free daily newsletter Founded in 1977 in Charlotte, North Carolina, Bojangles is a fast-food chicken chain famous for its Cajun-spiced fried chicken, buttermilk biscuits, iced tea, and "It's Bo Time!" tagline. Related: Popular fast-food chicken chain looks to make major move Its homemade Southern comfort food has won the hearts of many fans and helped it grow to around 800 restaurants across 17 states. Image Source: Shutterstock Bojangles has become the successful brand it is today by staying true to its traditional Southern roots and hospitality. However, it has evolved strategically to stay relevant in a changing consumer market and remain a force to be reckoned with among growing competition. Amid a booming chicken craze, with major players like Chick-fil-A, Raising Cane's, McDonald's (MCD) , and Popeyes launching new chicken-based products to dominate the market and boost sales, Bojangles has prioritized its fried chicken by keeping it the primary focus of its business for over 48 years. More Food News: Chick-fil-A offers free food to game-playing fansStarbucks' huge new rival opens first US storesForget burgers, Walmart's hot dog chain partner plans huge expansion The chicken chain has also leaned into the breakfast trend by expanding its offerings and making them available all day to provide customers with more options. Now, Bojangles is ready to take another step to promote innovation within its business, and it has nothing to do with food. Bojangles has partnered with the electric vehicle (EV) charging network Alyath and Smart Big Box to bring EV charging stations to multiple restaurants, making it the first in the quick-service industry to roll out this initiative. There will be a minimum of four chargers per restaurant and two charging speed options, including level two for medium speed and level three for high speed. This latest innovation aims to improve accessibility and convenience, as the number of EV drivers has increased over the last few years. Related: Popular chicken chain brings back beloved menu item after 7 years It will also allow customers to save time by charging their vehicles while they order, wait for their food, and eat, making it a one-stop shop. "Bojangles' focus is on offering a fast, friendly and convenient experience for our guests, and working with Alyath and Smart Big Box allows us to introduce a new convenience that aligns with evolving customer needs," said Bojangles Chief Information Officer Richard Del Valle in a press release. The implementation of EV charging stations at Bojangles will begin in the fourth quarter of 2025 and be available at all the select locations by 2026. Related: Veteran fund manager unveils eye-popping S&P 500 forecast The Arena Media Brands, LLC THESTREET is a registered trademark of TheStreet, Inc.
Yahoo
14-07-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Bojangles Partners With Alyath to Bring Electric Vehicle Charging Stations to Most Locations
Popular QSR chain charges ahead with industry-first initiative CHARLOTTE, N.C., July 14, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Bojangles, the beloved Southern restaurant chain known for its famous breakfast and chicken, biscuits and tea, is taking a bold step toward sustainability and customer convenience. In a new partnership with Smart Big Box, Alyath EV and Energy and Environmental Design Services, Bojangles is set to install turnkey electric vehicle (EV) charging stations at a wide range of locations, making it a first-of-its-kind initiative in the QSR industry. The charging stations will vary between level two (medium) and level three (high) speed charging efficiency with over 97% uptime, making them ready for drivers when they need it most. There will be a minimum of four charging spots per restaurant. "Bojangles' focus is on offering a fast, friendly and convenient experience for our guests, and working with Alyath and Smart Big Box allows us to introduce a new convenience that aligns with evolving customer needs," said Richard Del Valle, Chief Information Officer at Bojangles. "These top-of-the-line EV chargers will not only improve accessibility for our guests but also help drive an eco-friendlier future." Through this initiative, Bojangles aims to cater to the growing number of EV drivers seeking reliable charging options while on the go. The new charging stations will allow customers to power up their vehicles and enjoy Bojangles' signature menu offerings and hospitality while they wait. "We're thrilled to partner with Bojangles to bring fast, reliable and convenient EV charging to their locations nationwide," said Cristiane Rosul, CEO of Alyath. "This initiative not only benefits EV drivers but also positions Bojangles as a leader in the future of quick-service dining. By integrating high-speed charging with great food, we're creating a seamless experience that keeps customers moving. Smart Big Box has contracted with Energy and Environmental Design Services as the exclusive installer and maintenance partner for all EV chargers, ensuring optimal performance and industry-leading uptime. The rollout of EV charging stations at Bojangles will begin in Q4 of 2025, and fans can expect to take advantage of the EV charging stations to be largely accessible in 2026. About Bojangles, Inc. Bojangles is a Carolina-born restaurant chain specializing in craveable Southern food made by hand from real recipes. Founded in 1977 as a single location in Charlotte, N.C., the beloved brand continues to grow – currently at around 800 company owned and franchised restaurants – bringing its focus on food and folks along with it. For more information about Bojangles' handcrafted approach to food and community impact, visit To join in on the fan fun, follow Bojangles on Instagram, TikTok and Twitter. About Alyath Alyath is powering the future of mobility with one of the fastest-growing electric vehicle (EV) charging networks in the U.S. Focused on high-demand locations—from city centers and highways to retail hubs and commercial properties—Alyath is making EV charging faster, smarter, and easier than ever. With deployments underway at over 5,500 private sites, Alyath is on track to build America's largest and most reliable EV charging network. Rooted in sustainability and driven by ESG principles, Alyath is cutting carbon, curbing fossil fuel use, and helping property owners unlock long-term value—all while keeping EV drivers moving. About Smart Big Box Smart Big Box delivers outcome-driven solutions that enhance efficiency and reduce energy consumption through a holistic, integrated approach. By connecting strategic partners and leveraging cutting-edge technologies, Smart Big Box empowers organizations to optimize performance and sustainability across every key operational driver. View source version on Contacts Media Contacts: Katie Combs, Luquire (kcombs@ 704-807-2280)Stacey McCray, Bojangles (smccray@ 704-940-8736) Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Business Wire
14-07-2025
- Automotive
- Business Wire
Bojangles Partners With Alyath to Bring Electric Vehicle Charging Stations to Most Locations
CHARLOTTE, N.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Bojangles, the beloved Southern restaurant chain known for its famous breakfast and chicken, biscuits and tea, is taking a bold step toward sustainability and customer convenience. In a new partnership with Smart Big Box, Alyath EV and Energy and Environmental Design Services, Bojangles is set to install turnkey electric vehicle (EV) charging stations at a wide range of locations, making it a first-of-its-kind initiative in the QSR industry. Through this initiative, Bojangles aims to cater to the growing number of EV drivers seeking reliable charging options while on the go. The new charging stations will allow customers to power up their vehicles and enjoy Bojangles while they wait. Share The charging stations will vary between level two (medium) and level three (high) speed charging efficiency with over 97% uptime, making them ready for drivers when they need it most. There will be a minimum of four charging spots per restaurant. 'Bojangles' focus is on offering a fast, friendly and convenient experience for our guests, and working with Alyath and Smart Big Box allows us to introduce a new convenience that aligns with evolving customer needs,' said Richard Del Valle, Chief Information Officer at Bojangles. "These top-of-the-line EV chargers will not only improve accessibility for our guests but also help drive an eco-friendlier future.' Through this initiative, Bojangles aims to cater to the growing number of EV drivers seeking reliable charging options while on the go. The new charging stations will allow customers to power up their vehicles and enjoy Bojangles' signature menu offerings and hospitality while they wait. 'We're thrilled to partner with Bojangles to bring fast, reliable and convenient EV charging to their locations nationwide,' said Cristiane Rosul, CEO of Alyath. 'This initiative not only benefits EV drivers but also positions Bojangles as a leader in the future of quick-service dining. By integrating high-speed charging with great food, we're creating a seamless experience that keeps customers moving. Smart Big Box has contracted with Energy and Environmental Design Services as the exclusive installer and maintenance partner for all EV chargers, ensuring optimal performance and industry-leading uptime. The rollout of EV charging stations at Bojangles will begin in Q4 of 2025, and fans can expect to take advantage of the EV charging stations to be largely accessible in 2026. About Bojangles, Inc. Bojangles is a Carolina-born restaurant chain specializing in craveable Southern food made by hand from real recipes. Founded in 1977 as a single location in Charlotte, N.C., the beloved brand continues to grow – currently at around 800 company owned and franchised restaurants – bringing its focus on food and folks along with it. For more information about Bojangles' handcrafted approach to food and community impact, visit To join in on the fan fun, follow Bojangles on Instagram, TikTok and Twitter. About Alyath Alyath is powering the future of mobility with one of the fastest-growing electric vehicle (EV) charging networks in the U.S. Focused on high-demand locations—from city centers and highways to retail hubs and commercial properties—Alyath is making EV charging faster, smarter, and easier than ever. With deployments underway at over 5,500 private sites, Alyath is on track to build America's largest and most reliable EV charging network. Rooted in sustainability and driven by ESG principles, Alyath is cutting carbon, curbing fossil fuel use, and helping property owners unlock long-term value—all while keeping EV drivers moving. About Smart Big Box Smart Big Box delivers outcome-driven solutions that enhance efficiency and reduce energy consumption through a holistic, integrated approach. By connecting strategic partners and leveraging cutting-edge technologies, Smart Big Box empowers organizations to optimize performance and sustainability across every key operational driver.
