OCR vs AI: Which is Better for Foodservice Suppliers?

If you’ve ever squinted at a scanned purchase order or tried to decode a blurry faxed invoice, you’ve probably heard of OCR. It’s the tech that reads text from pdfs and turns it into usable data. In the foodservice space, it’s been a go-to tool for digitising paperwork like handwritten orders and PDF invoices.

But here’s the million-dollar question:

Is OCR enough to keep up with the demands of foodservice suppliers, distributors, and manufacturers today?

At FOBOH, we don’t just think about reading data — we think about doing something with it. And that’s where AI-powered agents come in.

What is OCR and How Does It Work?

OCR (Optical Character Recognition) is a type of software that scans printed or handwritten text — like what you’d find on order forms, invoices, or delivery slips — and converts it into digital characters that a computer can process. Basically, it turns pictures of words into editable text.

For example, when a PDF order comes through, OCR can extract product names, quantities, and prices, and send that information into a spreadsheet or order management system. It’s a good first step but it’s not enough.

Here’s where it falls short: OCR can read… but understanding text is a whole other challenge. On a PO with multiple products across a table, it might pull the words, but it can’t tell how everything connects — leaving your team to piece together the context.

It doesn’t know that “50L Lager Keg x2” is part of a standing weekly order, or that “Frzn Chix Tndrs” is shorthand for a specific SKU in your catalog. It just extracts the text as-is and leaves the rest to your team.

OCR is a reader — not a doer. In a fast-moving industry like foodservice, where orders are time-sensitive and relationships matter, reading the words isn’t enough. You need action.

What Makes AI the Secret Ingredient for Foodservice Success?

Enter FOBOH’s AI-powered workforce — a foodservice assistant like no other. Our AI agents don’t just read and extract data; they understand it, process it, reason with it and take action. 

While the broader AI landscape races to become the next OCR and industry standard for order processing, FOBOH is already a step ahead. We are purpose-built for foodservice suppliers, distributors, and manufacturers; which makes it easy for your team to deliver standout service to your hospo clients.

Here’s what sets FOBOH’s AI agents apart:

• AI agents understand your foodservice catalog, picking up on product information, pricing, and customer-specific preferences.

• With AI’s ability to learn from past orders and customer behaviour, FOBOH’s AI agents continuously improve, anticipating needs and streamlining operations.

• Best of all? They work 24/7, handling the nitty-gritty so your team can focus on what matters: delivering excellent service to your hospitality clients.

Why does This Matter for Your Foodservice Business?

The foodservice industry is fast-paced. You need a system that’s not only fast but also smart. OCR might save you a few keystrokes, but FOBOH’s AI agents will save you hours, prevent costly errors, and enhance your customer experience.

Think about it: Your team is already stretched thin and the cafes and restaurants you serve are demanding better service, faster. You don’t need a tool that just reads data — you need a foodservice assistant that can help you deliver on those expectations.

TL;DR — OCR Reads. FOBOH’s AI Workforce Acts.

If you’re still relying on OCR to manage your foodservice orders, it might be time for an upgrade. Let FOBOH’s AI-powered workforce take the load off your team and provide your hospitality clients with the service they deserve.

Need to see it for yourself? Let's talk about how our AI agents can transform your operations.