Jon StojanPandemic startups include some of the most lucrative new developments to modern business, with the US Chamber of Commerce recognizing entrepreneurs for their versatility during these unprecedented times. As the world took precautions and prioritized measures for safety, Michael Richardson grasped the opportunity to develop his entrepreneurial vision and innovate the food service industry. UrHost Local is the culmination of this vision, offering immersive three-dimensional menus that go beyond product descriptions and improve the overall dining experience.
Whilst the worldwide population began relying on food delivery systems to enjoy restaurant-quality food at home, Michael discovered a lack of visualization in traditional menus; whether printed, online, via QR code, or website, menus included prices and a general description of food and drinks. Responding to this outdated method of food selection, Michael comments: “By not encouraging customers to visualize the food they wish to receive, I realized something was missing within the current system. Food is an art, and as a business, we quickly began working on an innovative solution to do justice to the creativity behind the presentation of food.”
With the suitable tagline of ‘See it, Like it, Get it’, UrHost Local grants restaurateurs the ability to present enticing and accurate imagery of their menu items – complete with direct calls to action, reviews, and comments from fellow food enthusiasts. All three-dimensional visualizations are true to reality and utilize photographic methods to enhance images, Michael adds: “The food looks real because it is real! We use a different form of photography that accurately captures menu items in an interactive and life-like manner.” Through AR (augmented reality) and 3D technology, UrHost Local brings dishes to life and increases the level of transparency between restaurants and consumers throughout the United States.
The UrHost Local initiative appeals to both businesses and the general public as it provides solutions for either side of the exchange. Customers are offered a new way to order their favorite foods and try new restaurants without the fear of ordering incorrectly – while restaurants are relieved of common staffing problems through an efficient and cost-effective method of order processing. UrHost Local enables people to complete orders directly from their mobile devices, via chat or an AI voice waiter who takes payment and communicates the order straight to the kitchen.
Post-pandemic, Michael continued to receive requests for 3D imagery of menu offerings. From this, he began branching out his enterprise, establishing a growing demand for his technological solution. With previous experience in marketing and credit card processing, Michael developed an AI chatbot named ‘Rich’ – an interactive and incredibly personable member of the UrHost Local team. Rich is a vital component to the company’s ground-breaking progress as he is programmed to welcome guests, relay entire menus, take note of table numbers and customer names, take gratuity tips, and put together a receipt of transaction. Michael describes the introduction of Rich as: “something that really changed the trajectory of our business. As technology has changed over time and allowed us to explore new avenues of development, Rich helped us solve a relevant problem and the general response to him has been overwhelmingly positive – he is funny, inviting, and always engages customers with his charming persona.”
As Michael continues researching new ways to grow his blooming enterprise, UrHost Local technology has been implemented across a number of US restaurants. From large chains to boutique local eateries, Michael champions the progression of small businesses as well as some of America’s favorites. Today, he invites investors and collaborators to join him in his journey toward revolutionizing the food service industry with innovative technology.