Technology

ConverseNow acquires Valyant AI, accelerating growth in restaurant AI

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July 9, 2024

ConverseNow, a provider of voice AI technology for restaurants, has acquired Valyant AI, a pioneer in drive-thru automation. The move strengthens ConverseNow's position in the QSR industry and bolsters its offerings in both phone and drive-thru ordering.

Founded in 2018, Valyant AI is known for its AI voice assistant, Holly, which integrates seamlessly with existing drive-thru systems. This acquisition brings Valyant AI's team and technology under the ConverseNow umbrella, creating a combined entity with expertise across all QSR ordering channels.

"Our vision is to democratize AI for brands of all sizes, making it accessible across all ordering channels," Vinay Shukla, co-founder and CEO of ConverseNow, said in the press release. "This acquisition brings us closer to that goal. We are thrilled to welcome Valyant AI, whose drive-thru expertise complements our Voice AI capabilities in the QSR industry. Together, we offer robust, scalable solutions at competitive rates."

ConverseNow's AI assistants use natural language processing to understand customer intent and guide conversations. They can personalize orders, predict buying behavior, and even upsell items based on real-time data.

The acquisition also brings new technology to ConverseNow, including an AI Employee Assist product. This voice-activated application allows restaurant staff to ask work-related questions and receive immediate answers, hands-free.

Both companies will continue to serve customers under their respective brands for the foreseeable future.

"Valyant's mission has always been to support restaurant operations, ease employee workload, and enhance customer experience," Rob Carpenter, founder of Valyant AI, said in the press release. "Vinay and Rahul have created a valuable company, and I'm confident Holly will elevate ConverseNow's platform. I look forward to seeing the achievements of our combined efforts."

ConverseNow and Valyant AI believe the combined entity will offer unmatched AI solutions, improving efficiency and customer service in the restaurant industry.