The hospitality industry in India has seen a paradigm shift with the introduction of technology driven solutions, transforming how beverages are created, served and experienced. At the forefront of this change is Barsys, a brand committed to bringing cutting-edge innovation into the mixology space. Akshet Tewari, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Barsys, shares his insights on how technology is reshaping the beverage landscape and driving customer engagement in India’s growing hospitality sector.
“Barsys’ product line, including Barsys 360 and Coaster 2.0, is designed to revolutionise the Indian hospitality industry by making the art of cocktail-making more interactive and precise. Traditionally, mixology in India has been driven by the experience and flair of bartenders,” he says, adding, “Barsys enhances this by integrating technology that automates repetitive tasks, enabling bartenders to focus on creativity and customer interaction. As a result, Barsys elevates the guest experience, offering an engaging and memorable interaction through a comprehensive library of cocktail recipes tailored to diverse palates.”
Revealing further about Barsys’ importance in the evolving alco-bev industry, Tewari informs, “For bars and restaurants, consistency in cocktail preparation is paramount. Barsys’ automated systems ensure that every drink meets the highest standards of quality and taste, reducing human error and enhancing operational efficiency. This translates to a unique value proposition for Indian hospitality businesses, helping them stand out in a competitive market. Moreover, by introducing features like real-time inventory tracking and performance analytics, we provide owners insights to optimise costs and streamline operations, making it a win-win for both businesses and customers.”
Barsys’ AI-powered cocktail recommendation engine
As guests increasingly seek unique and tailored experiences, personalisation is fast becoming a key trend in the Indian F&B space. Barsys’ AI-powered cocktail recommendation engine is a game-changer in this regard. Elaborating on it, he adds, “By analysing user preferences, past orders and even mood settings, the system can suggest cocktails that cater to specific tastes, dietary restrictions or occasions. This not only delights guests with curated options but encourages them to step outside their comfort zones and explore new flavours.”
He further adds, “In the Indian context, where preferences vary widely across regions, this technology offers a customised experience that resonates with local tastes. Barsys’ AI models continuously learn from user interactions, refining recommendations to ensure relevance and satisfaction. For hospitality businesses, this personalisation fosters deeper engagement and enhances brand loyalty, positioning them as establishments that prioritise customer-centricity.”
Design and functionality
“The Barsys 360 was developed with a keen focus on precision, aesthetics and adaptability, keeping the diverse requirements of the Indian market in mind. Indian consumers are known for their appreciation of craftsmanship and Barsys 360 combines sleek, modern design with functionality that appeals to both professional bartenders and home users. It features automated pumps for precise ingredient dispensing and weight sensors to ensure perfect measurements, which is crucial for achieving consistency, especially in a bustling bar environment,” states Tewari, shedding light on the design and functionality of Barsys for the Indian market.
Delving further into the topic, he adds, “The Barsys 360 is designed to be user-friendly, breaking the notion that advanced technology is complex. With intuitive controls and an easy-to-navigate app interface, it empowers users to create a variety of drinks effortlessly. Given the growing trend of hosting at home in urban India, Barsys 360 is not just a professional tool but also a centrepiece for home bars, making mixology accessible and enjoyable for enthusiasts.”
Ethical implications
The hospitality industry is a major source of employment in the nation. For a nation like India, skill development and employment generation become essential for its people and industry. Tewari opines, “Barsys’ innovation addresses some key ethical concerns, particularly regarding its impact on employment and creativity in the mixology profession. However, rather than being viewed as a product that replaces bartenders, Barsys serves as a complementary tool that enhances the bartender’s role. By automating repetitive tasks, it allows mixologists to focus more on creativity, customer engagement and delivering a unique experience. This shift does not reduce the need for human bartenders but enhances their ability to perform higher-level functions that technology cannot replicate. Barsys not only preserves the artistry and social interaction in mixology but also opens new opportunities for learning and creativity.”
Expansion strategy
“India is a dynamic market and we are committed to evolving our products to meet the unique needs of Indian consumers. This includes introducing AI-driven insights and analytics for Indian bars and restaurants to better manage inventory and predict customer preferences. We are also working on expanding into Tier II and Tier III cities, where there is untapped potential for premium mixology experiences,” shares Tewari.
“Additionally, we plan to introduce non-alcoholic options, mocktails and wellness-focussed beverages, catering to the growing demand for healthier alternatives. Sustainability is another key focus – our next-generation products will aim to minimise waste and energy consumption, aligning with the increasing environmental consciousness in India. By staying ahead of trends and continuously innovating, Barsys is set to revolutionise the mixology landscape in India, making high-quality cocktails and beverage preparation more accessible and enjoyable for all, notes Tewari.
Envisioning the future
As the hospitality industry in the nation evolves at a rapid pace it is actively looking towards technology-driven solutions to continue its relentless pursuit of excellence. Tewari emphasises on the brand’s vision for the future, “Barsys envisions becoming a household name in India, synonymous with innovation in the beverage space. As the market matures, we aim to be part of every individual’s first experience with mixology, whether in a high-end bar or at a house party. Over the next five years, Barsys plans to lead the digital transformation of the Indian spirits industry by focusing on responsible consumption, incorporating local flavours, and adapting to regional preferences.”
Barsys is also exploring partnerships with Indian liquor brands and hospitality groups to introduce products tailored specifically for the Indian market. By localising offerings, the brand hopes to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Indian beverages while introducing a new generation of consumers to the art and science of mixology. Through its innovative approach and commitment to customer satisfaction, Barsys is not just changing how drinks are made; it’s changing how they’re experienced. As the Indian hospitality industry embraces technology, Barsys stands ready to lead the way, bringing the art of mixology into the future while honouring the traditions that make every cocktail unique.
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