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Robot cats are being used as waiters in Japan, improving the customer experience and optimizing service in restaurants
In the heart of Tokyo, a new trend is taking restaurants and customers by storm. Cat-shaped robots glide between tables, balancing trays and announcing deliveries with a cheerful “meow.” The phenomenon, far from science fiction, reflects a shift in Japan’s service industry.
These cat robots were deployed by Skylark Holdings Co., the country’s largest table-service restaurant chain. The company already has about 3.000 of them. machines to assist employees.
But this is not an isolated initiative. Other companies are also investing in automated systems to fill the labor shortage.
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Demographics and labor shortages
Japan faces a chronic demographic problem. According to the Recruitment Works Institute, the country is expected to have a shortage of 11 million workers by 2040. Government projections indicate that by 2065, 40% of the population will be 65 or older.
With few young people entering the job market and a restricted immigration policy, companies are looking for alternatives.
Service robots have emerged as a solution. Once seen as a mere curiosity, they are now essential. They work alongside humans, helping restaurants maintain efficient service.
They also allow companies to employ older or foreign workers who might otherwise struggle with the pace or language.
Growth of the robot market
The service robot market in Japan is booming. Research firm Fuji Keizai estimates that the industry will be worth more than ¥2030 billion (about $400 billion) by 13,6. This growth is driven by the need for labor and technological advances.
The robots are equipped with 3D sensors, allowing them to navigate crowded spaces while carrying heavy dishes. Their friendly design pleases customers, but their biggest advantage is operational: they work without days off or pay.
Robots in healthcare and elderly care
In addition to restaurants, automation is gaining ground in another area: elderly care. As the population ages, the demand for caregivers is growing. However, the sector faces a serious shortage of professionals. In December 2024, there was only one candidate for every 4,25 available nursing positions.
Robots are helping to fill this gap. They are used in nursing homes to monitor patients, assist with mobility and perform repetitive tasks. In some facilities, they lead stretching sessions and act as sleep monitors, alerting staff to changes in vital signs.
AI advancement
Among the most advanced is AIREC, a humanoid robot created by Waseda University. Powered by artificial intelligence, it can help patients roll over in bed, sit up and put on socks.
The project receives government funding and is led by Professor Shigeki Sugano.Given our aging and highly advanced society and declining birth rates, we will need the support of robots for medical and elderly care, and in our daily lives.“, he told Reuters.
At the Zenkoukai institution in Tokyo, robots are already part of the routine. Health professionals believe that more sophisticated robotic assistants could improve care if they respect the individual needs of patients.
"If we have AI-powered robots that can understand the living conditions and personal characteristics of each care recipient, there may be a future for them to directly provide nursing care.,” said Takaki Ito, a caregiver at Zenkoukai.
However, he issued a warning, “I don't think robots can understand everything about nursing care. Robots and humans working together to improve nursing care is a future I look forward to."
Public acceptance
For this revolution to continue, public acceptance is essential. If people reject robotic service, companies will need to reconsider their investments.
Japan is a global testing ground for automation. Unlike other countries, where robots are causing concern about job losses, the Japanese have a more positive relationship with technology. From anime to real robots, popular culture has helped normalize their presence in everyday life.
This cultural factor facilitates the transition of robots into the workforce. In restaurants, they are seen as allies of waiters, reducing their workload. In nursing homes, they are seen as a necessary solution. For automation to spread to other countries, a change in perception about the role of robots in society may be necessary.
With information from ZME Science.
