As the hospitality industry evolves, so too does the role of the modern bartender. Once defined primarily by charisma, craftsmanship, and speed, today’s bartending landscape is being reshaped by a wave of innovation.
In our 2025 report, “The Future of Bartending: Technological Integration and Innovation,” Local Bartending School (LBS) surveyed over 2,000 working bartenders across the U.S. to better understand how technology is affecting their workflows, customer service strategies, and outlook on the profession.
Key Questions and Findings Summary
Our comprehensive research sought to answer critical questions about the intersection of technology and bartending. Here’s what we discovered:
- Digital Tool Adoption: 68% of bartenders now use at least one digital tool for managing inventory, orders, or scheduling—a 15% increase from our 2023 survey.
- Attitudes Toward Automation: While 26% of bartenders are excited about AI and automation in bartending, 49% remain cautious, and 25% express concern about potential job displacement.
- Impact on Customer Experience: 72% of bartenders believe technology improves service quality and speed, with 58% noting enhanced personalization capabilities.
- Technology Openness: 74% of bartenders are open to incorporating new technologies into their workflow—particularly younger professionals, with 83% of bartenders under 35 expressing enthusiasm.
- Future Growth Areas: 66% predict significant growth in online ordering and delivery services over the next five years, with cocktail kits and subscription services seen as particularly promising.
Bartending Technology: A Growing Trend
From robotic bartenders to inventory management apps, technology is now part of daily life behind the bar. According to our study, 68% of bartenders report using at least one digital tool to assist with tasks such as inventory tracking, scheduling, or ordering supplies. The most commonly used bartending technologies include:
- Inventory management software (used by 52%)
- Point-of-sale (POS) integrations with mobile ordering (46%)
- Scheduling and shift-trading apps (38%)
- Cocktail creation apps or recipe platforms (31%)
- Digital recipe measurement tools (27%)
- Customer relationship management systems (23%)
This widespread adoption of tech tools reflects a shift in how bartenders approach efficiency and communication. Bar owners are increasingly implementing integrated systems that connect front-of-house and back-of-house operations, streamlining service and improving accuracy.
“In Chicago, we’ve seen a 40% reduction in inventory discrepancies since implementing digital tracking systems,” explains Derrick Washington, bar manager at a popular River North establishment. “What used to take hours of manual counting now happens automatically, letting us focus on what matters—creating exceptional guest experiences.”
How Bartenders Feel About Robotic Bartenders and Automation
One of the more futuristic trends in the bartending industry is the use of robotic bartenders and automated drink stations. While this might sound like science fiction, installations like “Toni” the robotic bartender in Las Vegas or cruise ship automation systems are already in use.
However, our research reveals mixed feelings among professionals:
- 26% of bartenders feel excited about the potential of automation to reduce repetitive tasks.
- 49% feel cautious or neutral, citing the risk of losing the human touch.
- 25% expressed concern or disapproval, fearing that automation could replace jobs or cheapen the art of mixology.
“I can see how a robotic bartender might work well in high-volume venues or for simple drinks,” said Nadia L., a bartender from Miami. “But the personal connection and experience you get from a live bartender can’t be replicated.”
Interestingly, our data shows significant regional variations. In tech-forward markets like San Francisco, 38% of bartenders expressed excitement about automation—12 percentage points higher than the national average. Meanwhile, in New Orleans, where cocktail tradition runs deep, only 17% viewed automation positively.
Q&A: Automation in Boston’s Bar Scene
Q: How are Boston bartenders adapting to increased automation in the industry?
A: “In Boston, we’re seeing a fascinating hybrid approach,” says Emma Sullivan, head mixologist at a Seaport District cocktail bar. “High-volume sports bars near Fenway are experimenting with automated draft systems and pre-batched cocktail dispensers, which help handle game day rushes. But in the craft cocktail scene around Beacon Hill, technology is more behind-the-scenes—think digital inventory and sophisticated POS systems rather than robots mixing drinks. Bostonians want that personal touch when they’re paying $18 for a craft cocktail.”
The Impact of Technology on Customer Experience
Despite concerns about automation, the vast majority of bartenders agree that technology has the potential to enhance the customer experience—when used intentionally.
Our study shows:
- 72% of bartenders believe tech improves service speed and accuracy.
- 58% believe personalization is possible through tech tools like order history tracking, loyalty apps, or customer feedback systems.
- 44% report using customer preference data to suggest personalized recommendations.
- 37% have implemented tableside ordering systems during peak hours.
- Only 12% believe that technology reduces the quality of interaction with guests.
“When a POS system remembers a guest’s favorite drink or alerts me to an allergy, that’s powerful,” said Marcus T., a bartender in Portland. “Tech isn’t a replacement—it’s a support system.”
In New York City, where competition among bars is fierce, technology has become a key differentiator. “We’ve implemented a custom app that lets regulars skip the line and have their usual waiting when they arrive,” explains Jessica Chen, bar director at a trendy Lower East Side establishment. “It’s increased our customer retention by 22% and boosted our average check size by 15%.”
Bartenders Are Open to Innovation
As more tools become available, many bartenders are not only open to using them—they’re actively seeking out ways to modernize their approach.
- 74% of bartenders reported openness to incorporating new technology into their workflow if it leads to better efficiency or customer service.
- 39% are interested in learning more about AI-driven recommendations and apps that suggest custom cocktails based on mood or flavor profile.
- 28% have experimented with digital flavor mapping tools to create signature drinks.
- 17% have already used cocktail-making robots in a professional or training setting.
This shows a clear trend: while the core of bartending remains human-centric, professionals are looking for ways to use technology to elevate the craft.
Los Angeles bartender Carlos Mendez shares his experience: “I was skeptical at first, but using digital tools has actually made me more creative. I use an AI cocktail development platform that suggests unexpected flavor combinations I might never have considered. Last month, it helped me create a smoked pineapple and sage mezcal cocktail that’s now our top seller.”
Online Ordering and Drink Subscriptions Are Here to Stay
The pandemic fast-tracked the growth of online ordering, virtual cocktail classes, and drink subscription boxes, and bartenders see these services as a lasting change.
- 66% of bartenders believe online ordering for cocktails will grow in the next five years.
- 48% think cocktail kits and drink subscriptions offer a viable revenue stream for bars and brands.
- 37% report their establishments have developed an online presence specifically for to-go cocktails.
- 21% are currently involved in curating or shipping at-home cocktail kits.
Drink kits also open the door for creative branding and extending a bar’s reach beyond its physical walls. Bartenders like Naomi R. from Denver say these services allow her to build community even when customers can’t come to the bar.
“In Denver, we’ve built a whole secondary business around our subscription cocktail program,” Naomi explains. “Every month, we ship kits with everything needed to make our signature seasonal drinks at home, complete with video tutorials. What started as a pandemic necessity is now 30% of our revenue.”
What This Means for Bartending Education
With bartending technology evolving quickly, the way we train the next generation of bartenders must evolve too. At Local Bartending School, we are integrating modules on tech tools and bar software into our curriculum. Future courses will include:
- Intro to POS Systems and Automation Tools
- Digital Inventory Management
- Customer Relationship Management (CRM) for Bartenders
- Cocktail Design Using AI and Recipe Apps
- Virtual Reality Bar Simulation Training
“Our goal is to future-proof our students,” says Samantha Hall, Director of Training at LBS. “Whether they go on to work in high-end cocktail bars or fast-paced venues with robotic elements, they’ll be prepared.”
According to our research, 82% of bar managers now list “digital literacy” as an important hiring criterion—making technology training an essential component of bartender education.
Chicago Spotlight: Training the Tech-Savvy Bartender
In Chicago’s competitive hospitality scene, bartenders with technological proficiency are increasingly in demand. “Five years ago, I might have hired based solely on personality and cocktail knowledge,” notes James Wilson, who manages three popular bars in Chicago’s West Loop. “Today, I need staff who can troubleshoot a POS crash, manage digital inventory, and analyze sales data to help optimize our menu offerings. The modern bartender is part mixologist, part tech specialist.”
The Future of Bartending: What's Next?
So, what does the future of bartending look like over the next decade? Our research suggests:
- Hybrid models where human bartenders and robotic assistants work side-by-side in busy environments
- A rise in AI-driven personalization tools for regular guests
- Continued expansion of digital mixology platforms where bartenders can share and monetize their creations
- Increased reliance on data-driven tools to optimize drink menus, manage waste, and boost profits
- Virtual reality training becoming standard in bartending education
“In Seattle, we’re already seeing the beginning of this future,” says David Kim, a technology consultant for hospitality businesses. “Several bars have implemented AI systems that analyze customer preferences and suggest new menu items based on trending flavor profiles. One client increased their profit margin by 18% after implementing these recommendations.”
Opportunities for Growth
One promising area for innovation is the fusion of tech with mixology education. Imagine a world where AI-driven bartending tutors offer personalized critiques on cocktail technique, or VR training simulates real-time bar scenarios. These are more than gimmicks—they represent scalable, accessible models for upskilling a new generation of bartenders.
Another major area of growth lies in the integration of eco-conscious technology. Automated pour control systems, for instance, can help reduce waste and over-pouring, while inventory analytics can flag spoilage trends. Technology isn’t just streamlining operations—it’s contributing to sustainability.
Our data shows that bars implementing digital inventory management reported an average 23% reduction in product waste and a 17% increase in profit margins—compelling numbers for any business owner.
Atlanta Case Study: Technology Driving Sustainability
“In Atlanta, we’ve pioneered what we call ‘zero-waste digital bartending,'” explains Tanya Williams, sustainability director for a popular Midtown cocktail lounge. “Our integrated system tracks everything from citrus usage to ice production, helping us identify waste patterns. We’ve reduced our environmental footprint by 35% while simultaneously cutting costs. The technology literally pays for itself.”
Challenges Ahead
While most bartenders are optimistic, challenges remain. Some tech solutions are cost-prohibitive for small bars. Others require tech literacy that’s uneven across the industry. Training programs, both at LBS and in-house at bars, must bridge this gap.
There’s also the matter of cultural resistance. A segment of bartenders—about 19%, according to our study—say they’re hesitant to adopt technology that could disrupt tradition or require a steep learning curve. These perspectives must be acknowledged and supported with resources, rather than dismissed.
Our research indicates that the average investment for a small bar to implement basic digital systems starts around $5,000, with more comprehensive solutions exceeding $15,000—a significant barrier for many independent establishments.
Conclusion: The Tech-Enhanced Bartender
The bartender of tomorrow won’t just be a master of spirits and hospitality—they’ll be a digitally fluent operator with the tools to blend classic service with modern efficiency. As our study shows, technology is not replacing bartenders—it’s empowering them.
From robotic assistance to smarter inventory tracking, from AI-powered suggestions to personalized drink recommendations, the future of bartending is as inventive as it is inspiring. Those who embrace these innovations will not only thrive—they’ll lead.
Curious about how to stay ahead in the industry? Local Bartending School offers cutting-edge training that blends classic techniques with the latest technology. Whether you’re just starting or looking to upskill, we’ve got a program tailored for the future of bartending.
Visit LocalBartendingSchool.com to learn more and download our full report on “The Future of Bartending: Technological Integration and Innovation.”
