Solutions Guide
Solving the Labor Equation
Practical ways to reduce labor strain— without compromising service.
Inside this guide
This guide brings together key insights from Avendra’s webinar, Solving the Labor Equation, highlighting the labor trends shaping hospitality operations in 2026. It pairs practical, operator-led takeaways with a curated selection of Avendra solutions—including a sampling of supplier offerings and programs—to help teams reduce labor strain, improve efficiency, and take action with confidence.
SMARTER WAYS TO REDUCE LABOR STRAIN LEVERAGING IOT: AIWX CONNECT
About Avendra International Avendra International bring together global expertise, data insights, and sustainable procurement to help clients deliver high-quality food programs.
We focus on quality, efficiency, and long-term impact – supporting teams to deliver great food while managing costs and operations effectively.
The Avendra Edge is a collection of resources designed to deliver the very latest actionable information and solutions.
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Smarter Ways to Reduce Labor Strain
As your procurement partner, we’re deeply committed to helping you identify, evaluate, and implement strategies that drive efficiency, reduce labor strain, and support your team’s success. The following insights were identified during the “Solving the Labor Equation: Smarter Ways to Reduce Strain Now” webinar by Avendra experts, a leading hospitality client, and a trusted supplier partner—bringing together real-world experience and proven solutions.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Start with Process, Not Just People
Audit workflows to identify high-friction tasks—then redesign or automate before adding headcount
Leverage Partners to Stabilize Labor
Use service partners to handle variable or non-core work and protect core teams
Adopt Technology that Delivers ROI Focus on solutions that reduce manual work, improve visibility, and pay back in <1–2 years
Shift to Proactive Operations
Use real-time data and alerts to prevent issues before they impact cost or service
Take Action in the Next 90 Days Pilot 1-2 quick wins to build momentum without major investment
WATCH THE WEBINAR ON-DEMAND NOW
Leveraging IoT: AIWX Connect
The Role of Internet-of-Things (IoT)
Why IoT Matters for Labor Optimization
Labor shortages + rising costs require smarter, techenabled operations—not just more staff
IoT enables “do more with less” by shifting from reactive to proactive operations
Real-time visibility reduces manual checks, routine inspections, and guesswork
Predictive maintenance prevents costly downtime and emergency labor needs
Demand-driven services (housekeeping, maintenance) align labor to actual usage vs. fixed schedules
Automation + alerts free staff to focus on guest-facing, highvalue tasks IoT transforms labor from manual + reactive → optimized + data-driven
AIWX Connect: IoT as a Fully Managed Service
AIWX Connect Overview:
• Turnkey IoT platform combining sensors, gateways, analytics, and support
• Operates independently of property IT infrastructure
• Scalable across single properties or multi-site portfolios
Core Capabilities:
• Refrigeration Monitoring: Prevent food loss and manual temp checks
• Water Leak Detection: Avoid damage, downtime, and emergency labor
• Energy & HVAC Monitoring: Optimize performance, reduce maintenance burden
• Smart Space / Demand-Based Services: Align cleaning and staffing to real-time usage
Labor Impact:
• Reduces manual inspections and routine checks
• Enables faster response times via real-time alerts
• Supports leaner teams with higher productivity
• Improves scheduling through actionable data
Implementation:
• Plug-and-play deployment with gateway coverage
• Training + ongoing support included
• Optional “AIWX in a Box”: 3-month free trial
CitizenM Hotels
Preventing Costly Disruptions with AIWX Leak Detection’s Real-Time Alerts
Challenge
• Repeated shower overflows causing $50K–$80K per incident in damage and downtime
• Limited visibility → delayed response → lost revenue and operational disruption Solution
• AIWX Leak Detection across 263 rooms
• Real-time alerts triggered immediate staff response
Impact
• Reduces manual checks, routine inspections, and guesswork
Avendra Contracted Solutions: Kitchen
& Housekeeping
Automated Cooking Oil Management & Grease Disposal Availability
Avendra, Aramark, HPSI
US only
Learn More www.rti-inc.com To Begin Service Bryan Foley Sr. National Sales bfoley@rti-inc.com
RTI’s Frying Oil Disposable Service
Labor Impact
Restaurant Technologies, Inc. (RTI) Total Oil Management solution automates the delivery, storage, filtering, and disposal of cooking oil through a closed-loop system.
By eliminating the need for staff to manually handle hot oil, RTI significantly reduces time spent on back-of-house tasks while improving safety and operational consistency. Kitchen teams can redirect labor from routine maintenance to food prep and guest service, helping operators run leaner, more efficient operations.
Typical Investment Profile
Model: Service-based (equipment + oil + maintenance bundled)
Upfront Cost: Minimal to none (varies by program)
Implementation Timeline: ~2–4 weeks installation and onboarding
Results
• Eliminates manual oil handling → reduces burns, slips, and workplace injuries
• Saves 2-4 labor hours per week by removing oil filtering, transporting, and disposal
• Extends oil life → fewer oil changes and reduced product waste
• Improves kitchen cleanliness and safety while maintaining consistent food quality
By automating oil management, Burger King franchisee improved efficiency while increasing profits by 8% and reducing cost of goods by 6%.
RobotLAB’s Robotics
Labor Impact
RobotLAB deploys kitchen automation that eliminates repetitive prep and cooking tasks, maintains consistent food quality, and reduces dependency on hard-to-hire kitchen labor keeping F&B operations running through staffing volatility.
• Fry station automation handles high-volume tasks, reducing reliance on hard-to-hire kitchen staff
• Consistent output every shift robots don’t call out or vary technique
• Reduces overtime & contract labor in kitchens
• Delivery robot seamlessly transport food and beverage to guest room or service areas, enhancing efficiency, and reducing labor demands.
Typical Investment Profile
Purchase, month-to-month lease, or rental. Avg. $18-42/per day. Live in 1–3 weeks
Results
Significant reduction in kitchen overtime and contract labor reliance. Staff reallocation from repetitive prep to higher-value culinary roles. Consistent output quality across all dayparts, regardless of who’s on shift.
“Kitchen automation has allowed us to redeploy our most skilled staff away from repetitive fry and prep tasks and into higher-value culinary responsibilities.”
F&B Director, Full-Service Hotel Property
Uniform
Availability
Avendra
US, Canada
To Learn More
www.cintas.com/industries /hospitality/garmentdispensing/ To Begin Service
Juliet Sullivan
Sr. Customer Relationship Manager
sullivanj2@cintas.com
Cintas’ Garment Dispensing
Labor Impact
With Cintas Garment Dispensing, every size is always available—eliminating guesswork and removing the burden on staff to hunt for the right fit. Compared to luxury property valet uniform conveyors, our dispensing solution saves 40-60 seconds per transaction, delivering faster access, better availability, and a more efficient start to every shift. It also brings unprecedented control and visibility to inventory— eliminating loss, simplifying budgeting, and reducing administrative overhead.
• Availability: New employees have day-one access to clean uniforms in their size
• Accountability: Detailed usage reports and records
• Flexibility: Managed installation, maintenance, stocking
Typical Investment Profile
There is no upfront investment or capital purchase to Cintas’ Comprehensive Program. Most properties quickly see savings with the elimination of purchases, loss charges, and lean inventory with Cintas’ Comprehensive Program. The average implementation is 6-8 weeks from agreement. Ideal for larger back-of-the house departments with 40+ employees in markets with turnover, seasonality and/or outsourced labor.
“It doesn’t get easier than just tap your card, click on what size you want and getting a chef coat out of that vending machine...having a program like this has really helped in enabling my staff to feel good, feel confident and comfortable.”
Matt Cooper, Sr. Executive Chef, Mercedes-Benz Stadium
Floor Cleaning Equipment
Availability
Avendra, Aramark
US, Canada, Caribbean, Latin America
To Learn More kaivac.com
To Begin Service
Marc Ferguson
VP, Food Services Global Sales mferguson@kaivac.com
Kaivac’s Floor Cleaner
Labor Impact
The Arnold transforms facility cleaning by unifying restroom, hard floor, and carpet care into a single, streamlined system. Designed for efficiency, it eliminates the clutter and complexity of managing multiple machines, allowing facilities to achieve consistent, professional-grade results with less equipment and training. Its innovative design integrates an indoor pressure washer and high-performance wet/dry vacuum, rivaling the capabilities of auto scrubbers and extractors. It is ideal for facilities with commercial restrooms and a mix of flooring types, such as educational facilities, hospitality, retail, office buildings, manufacturing, entertainment and more.
Typical Investment Profile
Extremely low cost of ownership, easy to maintain and in-house repair; no service call or technician required. Upfront cost range: $6,414
• Average implementation timeline: Filled with 2 weeks of order
Results
• Cleans restrooms in 1/3 the time it takes traditional tools and methods
• Removes 60 times more soil and dirt than mopping
• Walk-behind features clean +20,000 sq. ft. of hard surface and carpeted flooring /hour
• Removes 99% of soils and bacteria from surfaces
Availability
Avendra, Aramark, HPSI
US, Canada, Caribbean
To Learn More
www.camfil.com/en-us
To Begin Service
Spencer Haywood
Business Dev. Manager
spencer.heywood@camfil.com
Camfil USA’s Air Filtration Systems
Labor Impact
Camfil’s filters decrease the frequency of replacements, reducing labor hours and minimizing HVAC system downtime. Lighter, easier-to-handle filter designs further streamline maintenance tasks, while local stocking programs reduce time spent on inventory management and emergency sourcing.
Typical Investment Profile
Model: Capital purchase with national contract pricing
Implementation Timeline: Immediate availability; full facility filter replacement typically completed within 4-6 weeks (dependent on labor capacity)
Results
• Fewer filter changes → reduced maintenance hours and disruptions, fewer system shutdowns for filter replacement.
• Lower pressure drop improves HVAC efficiency and reduces energy costs.
• Reduced waste, improved indoor air quality and lower carbon footprint.
• Performance backed by testing and written guarantees, ensuring consistent filtration performance in demanding environments.
Global leader in the beverage industry cuts annual filter usage by more than 80% . . . significantly lowering labor and waste.
Avendra Contracted Solutions: Guest-facing Automation
& Self-service
| Delivery | Guest Experience
Aramark, HPSI
RobotLAB’s Robotics
Labor Impact
RobotLAB delivers turnkey robotics for housekeeping, public space, F&B and more — from assessment and deployment to repairs and ongoing support, available via purchase, lease, or rental.
• Autonomous floor care delivers 30-70% reduction in manual cleaning time per shift
• Delivery robots handle amenity drops & linen runs 24/7
• Guest experience robots greet & guide guests without adding headcount
• Frees staff from repetitive tasks, reducing burnout & turnover
• Scales across properties: pilot to ROI in 30–60 days
Typical Investment Profile
Purchase, month-to-month lease, or rental. Avg. $26-$38/per day.
Live in 1–3 weeks.
Results
• 30%-50% productivity improvement in floor care operations
• 2-4 labor hours saved per robot per day
• Pilot to multi-unit rollout in 30-60 days
“Operators report improved guest experience, cleaner facilities, and reduced labor stress — without any disruption to operations.”
Property Operators, Hospitality & Casino Clients
Automated Retail Stores
Availability
Avendra, HPSI, Aramark
US
To Learn More
www.swyft.com
Watch MIL Podcast
To Begin Service
Rick Cusick
Chief Revenue Officer
rick.Cusick@swyft.com
Tim Adams
VP, Location Sales & BD
tim.adams@swyft.com
Swyft’s Better+ Solution
Labor Impact
Swyft’s automated retail solutions shift routine transactions into intelligent unattended retail environments. By automating product dispensing, payments, and inventory monitoring, operators can redeploy staff toward higher-value activities such as guest service, food preparation, and merchandising.
• Provides 24/7 fully turnkey retail access without additional staffing or expense
• Reduces disruption on front desk staff
• Eliminates hotels having to invest and manage inventory
• Automates checkout, inventory tracking, and payment processing
• Ideal for hotel lobbies, airport terminals, and high-traffic hospitality environments
Typical Investment Profile
Swyft is a full turnkey solution with zero upfront cost. We fund everything and then pay location partners a % of revenue.
Results
Our hotel concepts average $25K-$100K per year, and that range is based on location on property, room count, turnover and occupancy.
“Swyft’s Better+ solution has been immediately well received by both guests and staff. We are now able to provide our guests with instant 24/7 on-property access to most needed OTC and personal care products during their stay, while eliminating staff disruption and bandwidth.”
Filtered Drinking Water Systems
Availability
Avendra, Aramark, HPSI
US
To Learn More
quench.culligan.com
To Begin Service
Jeff Doughty
VP National Accounts
JDoughty@CulliganQuench.com
Culligan Quench’s Water Dispensers
Labor Impact
In addition to significant savings versus expensive bottled water delivery, it helps with elimination of deliveries, stocking, moving, and replacing all sizes of delivered bottled water (5-gallon bottles, Glass bottled table water, & cases of single-serve plastic water bottles). Also, elimination of the delivery of bottled water to guest rooms by housekeeping staff, and the removal of waste & recycling of empty bottles.
Typical Investment Profile
Typically, zero upfront cost on the Quench/Avendra Rental Program. Rental and purchase options are available on the Quench Program.
Average implementation timeline of 3-4 weeks from signed Avendra PLA.
Results
Immediate monthly cost savings of 35%-65% for drinking water, and 100% labor cost savings.
Culligan Quench delivers unlimited high-quality drinking water, sparkling water, ice, and flavored water to guests and employees.
Pool Safe Inc’s LounGenie
Labor Impact
By Pool Safe Inc.
Smart Cabana System
Availability
Avendra US, Canada, Caribbean, Latin America
To Learn More www.loungenie.com
To Begin Service
David Berger
Founder dberger@poolsafeinc.com
This revenue driven program helps staff become more efficient and increases F&B revenue. It provides guests security for their valuables, while having the ability to charge their electronic accessories. Features include:
• Waterproof electronic safe to store guests’ valuables
• USB charging port for charging small electronic devices
• F&B call system (customizable to the hotel, resort, country club, or water park)
• Storage compartment
• Insulated ice bucket
• Three beverage holders
Typical Investment Profile
Majority of our clients use our “no cost, no risk” revenue placement program. We design, build and install at NO COST to the hotel or resort and only receive a $12 fee every time a cabana, daybed or premium seat is rented.
Results
In addition to improving staff efficiency, the program increases F&B up to 30% everywhere we install. This is done by a dedicated food and beverage call button thus eliminating guest wait time for servers.
“Our guests love the convenience and value LounGenie provides, We, of course, love the positive impact it has had on our F&B sales.”
Bobby Covach, Cabana / F&B Director, Cowabunga Bay
Avendra Contracted Solutions: Staffing
Staffing Solutions
Labor Impact
By supplementing in-house teams, LGC helps reduce weekly labor hours and overtime while maintaining service levels. As the employer of record, LGC handles recruiting, hiring, and workforce management, and W2s all associates. Employees are covered under LGC’s workers’ compensation and general liability insurance, with LGC also managing unemployment claims reducing administrative burden and risk for clients.
For a comprehensive list of national and regional providers in your area, visit myAvendra or contact your Avendra Representative.
To Learn More
HPSI
lgcassociates.com
Begin Service
Rachel Crump Chief Operating Officer
rachelc@lgcassociates.com
Labor Impact
HoTrec emphasizes quality-driven labor solutions over volume. Each associate is trained by a HoTrec manager at no-cost, to ensure seamless integration. HoTrec collaborates with properties to measure productivity, offering flexible tracking either through property systems or its own data-driven approach. With a focus on accountability, retraining, and performance, HoTrec helps maintain consistent service standards and operational efficiency.
For a comprehensive list of national and regional providers in your area, visit myAvendra or contact your Avendra Representative.
HPSI
Matthew Rasmussen VP, Business Development
matthewr@hotrecllc.com
Avendra Contracted Solutions: Kitchen Equipment
Availability
Avendra, Aramark, HPSI
US & the Caribbean
To Learn More
Avendra’s FF&E Services
FFE@avendra.com
To Begin Service
Not yet an FF&E customer? Apply today by completing our online application and start purchasing within 24 hours.
Blodgett’s Invoq Combi Oven Model 61
Labor Impact
• High-performance combi oven with multi-rack capability
• Allows simultaneous cooking of different foods at varying temperatures
• Time Savings: Cuts production time by ~50% across many food items
• Labor Reduction: Faster throughput reduces labor hours and overtime needs
Typical
Investment Profile
• Cost Range: ~$14K–$29K (model dependent)
• Payback Period: Average is 2.5 years
• Implementation: Quick adoption with on-site training
Results
• Food Quality: Higher yield, less shrinkage, consistent output
• Operational Impact: Eliminates slow production bottlenecks; ideal for all kitchen formats (F&B, catering, room service)
Blodgett’s Im-Vection Oven
Availability
Avendra, Aramark, HPSI
US & the Caribbean
Labor Impact
• Multi-rack combi oven with multi-cavity capability
• Allows simultaneous cooking of different foods at varying temperatures
• Time Savings: Reduces cook/production time by ~50%
• Labor Reduction: Enables parallel cooking → fewer active cooking stations needed
To Learn More
Avendra’s FF&E Services
FFE@avendra.com
To Begin Service
Not yet an FF&E customer? Apply today by completing our online application and start purchasing within 24 hours.
Typical Investment Profile
• Cost Range: ~$20K
• Payback Period: ~1-1.5 years
• Implementation: Minimal; on-site training provided
Results
• Food Quality: Improved yield with less shrinkage; consistent results
• Operational Impact: Addresses slow production and throughput constraints across all kitchen types (F&B, banquets, full-service kitchens)
Availability
Avendra, Aramark, HPSI
US & the Caribbean
To Learn More
Avendra’s FF&E Services
FFE@avendra.com
To Begin Service
Not yet an FF&E customer? Apply today by completing our online application and start purchasing within 24 hours.
Middleby Marshall’s Long Wave and CTX InfraRed Ovens
Labor Impact
• Long-wave infrared and conveyor oven systems
• Automated, continuous cooking via conveyor belt
• Time Savings: Reduces protein cook times by ~50%
• Labor Reduction: “Set-it-and-forget-it” conveyor system reduces need for skilled grill cooks
Typical Investment Profile
• Cost Range: Starting at ~$20K+ (varies by configuration)
• Payback Period: ~2 years
• Implementation: Minimal; only a few hours of training required
Results
• Food Quality: Automated cooking delivers uniform results with minimal oversight
• Operational Impact: Removes grill/broiler bottlenecks; improves throughput during peak service
Availability
Avendra, Aramark, HPSI US & the Caribbean
Labor Impact
• Intelligent, connected cooking systems that automate cooking processes
• Combines multiple cooking functions into one unit
To Learn More
Avendra’s FF&E Services
FFE@avendra.com
To Begin Service
Not yet an FF&E customer? Apply today by completing our online application and start purchasing within 24 hours.
• Payback Period: ~1–1.5 years
Typical Investment Profile Results
• Efficiency Gains: Up to 55% cook time reduction in studies
• Operational Impact: Reduces training needs, improves scheduling flexibility, lowers food waste
Availability
Avendra, Aramark, HPSI
US & the Caribbean
To Learn More
Avendra’s FF&E Services
FFE@avendra.com
To Begin Service
Not yet an FF&E customer? Apply today by completing our online application and start purchasing within 24 hours.
TurboChef High-speed Countertop Ovens
Labor Impact
• Rapid cook technology
• Ventless operation, do not require a costly hood installation
• Time Savings: Reduces protein cook times by ~50%
• Labor Reduction: Ease of use with one touch control for consistency and speed of service
Typical Investment Profile
• Cost Range: Starting at ~$7,695 (depending on model)
• Payback Period: ~2 years
• Implementation: Minimal; only a few hours of training required
Results
• Food Quality: Automated cooking delivers uniform results with minimal oversight
• Operational Impact: Removes bottlenecks; improves throughput during peak service
Availability
Avendra, Aramark, HPSI
US & the Caribbean
To Learn More
Avendra’s FF&E Services
FFE@avendra.com
To Begin Service
Not yet an FF&E customer? Apply today by completing our online application and start purchasing within 24 hours.
Hobart Warewash Dishwashers
Labor Impact
• Automated commercial dishwashing systems with advanced labor-saving features
• Includes technologies like Automatic Soil Removal (ASR), auto-deliming, and capless wash arms
• Time Savings: 20–40% labor savings per shift
• Process Automation:
✓ Up to 20% reduction in pre-scrapping labor (ASR)
✓ Eliminates manual deliming and reduces cleaning time
Typical Investment Profile
• Implementation: 1 day or less (small units); 1–4 days (larger systems)
Results
• Operational Efficiency: Saves up to 30 minutes per wash water change
• Labor Reallocation: Frees dishroom staff to support other kitchen areas
• Operational Impact: Reduces manual dishwashing, streamlines dishroom workflows, and accelerates end-of-day closing
Additional Resources
Avendra’s Cut Protein Programs
Avendra’s Cut Steak, Poultry and Fish Programs offer a breadth of high quality, portion-controlled cut steak and fish with competitive pricing, available through your regional providers.
• Controlled costs of raw material
• Formula-based pricing model
• Provides 100% yielded product, eliminating waste and excess labor costs
• Ready-to-use product allows chefs to go directly to preparation
• Produces more consistent cooking times and uniform plate presentation
Consider your Master Food Distributor’s pre-cut produce programs offering prewashed, pre-cut, and ready-to-use fruits and vegetables. For a list of “Pro’s and Con’s” of pre-cut produce, access Avendra’s Fresh Produce Guide on myAvendra or request a copy from your Avendra representative.
Avendra International is the leading strategic procurement and supply chain partner to a wide range of organizations worldwide.
Leveraging $20.5B in purchasing power, our local experts offer tailored solutions to drive efficiency, savings, innovation and sustainability. We get it, and we can help.
Questions? Reach out to your Avendra representative or Customer Service at +1 (301) 825-0200. For more information contact marketing@avendra.com.
www.avendra.com