How AI can help in operational efficiency, labor productivity, productized compliancePhoto: Adobe StockAugust 28, 2025In a recent webinar "Labor Forecasting 2.0: Predicting Future Demand and Staffing for Efficient Growth with AI," presented by Deputy and hosted by Networld Media Group, experts explored how AI-powered labor forecasting can revolutionize workforce planning in the QSR and retail sectors. "We're at a really, really interesting and exciting time in technology's history," Johnson said. "We've been using AI for years and companies have also employed machine learning and we interact with AI every single day." The webinar touched on three core themes: operational efficiency, labor productivity and productized compliance. Johnson and Ferris shared insights from their extensive experience, including Johnson's implementation of AI labor optimization at Dutch Bros Coffee.