Quick service restaurant, Oliver’s has developed Australia’s first truly conversational and unscripted AI for drive-thru, named Ollie. Unlike other AI systems, Ollie offers a fully contextual and two-way interaction.

Partnering with global leader in AI products, Sodaclick, customers can use natural speech to order at Oliver’s, for an efficient drive-thru experience. Ollie is integrated with food software Prepit to list and recommend products and answer questions about ingredients, allergens and dietary preferences.

Launching first at Pheasant’s Nest, NSW, the Voice Order experience acts as a touch-free virtual assistant, accessible to those with both visual and physical impairments.

Oliver’s CEO, Natalie Sharpe said, “We’re thrilled to launch this Australian-first innovation enhancing the drive-thru experience so our team can focus on creating nourishing healthy wholefoods and a memorable experience at Oliver’s.

“Like most industries, QSRs have been impacted by the global labour shortage. At Oliver’s we want to give our customers the best possible experience wherever they choose to order and our newest team member, Ollie helps us do this at the drive-thru.”

Oliver’s customers are greeted by a sign at drive-thru that reads: ‘Ollie, our AI assistant, is in training. If you would like to speak with another staff member, please ask’.

Working as an assistant to Oliver’s team members, Ollie can display detailed menu information, including allergens to assist customers in making informed decisions based on their dietary needs.

Sodaclick CEO, Ibrahim Jan said it’s been a momentous journey to integrate Australia’s first drive-thru conversational AI assistant for Oliver’s.

“Customers placing their orders might be surprised that Ollie is actually an AI, since Ollie delivers exceptional customer service. The AI has been trained extensively to be non-linear in its interactions and is completely unscripted, distinguishing itself from other AI assistant ordering models, giving customers a friendly, natural and human-like conversation. Our aim is to use technology in a seamless manner that enhances the overall customer experience and streamlines operations for staff.”

Oliver’s technology was featured by Google at this year’s Integrated Systems Europe (ISE), the world’s leading audiovisual and systems integration exhibition held in Barcelona in early 2024.

Oliver’s CEO, Natalie Sharpe with Ollie.