Lukas Podolski, the former Arsenal forward and 2014 World Cup winner, is embracing cutting-edge technology to revolutionise his kebab shop chain, Mangal LPx10.
While his football career may be winding down—he is set to have a farewell match in Cologne on October 10th—the German star is fully engaged in his entrepreneurial ventures, particularly in the fast-food industry, where he is incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) to streamline operations.
Podolski’s post-football venture
Podolski, who enjoyed a globetrotting football career with stints at Bayern Munich, Arsenal, Inter Milan, Galatasaray, and Gornik Zabrze, is now making headlines for his innovative approach to the food industry.
As a co-owner of the Mangal LPx10 chain—named after his initials and shirt number—Podolski is partnering with the Hamburg-based tech company Circus to introduce AI-powered robots in his restaurants.
Mangal LPx10, which Podolski runs alongside restaurateurs Metin and Salih Dag, has grown significantly since opening its first location in Cologne in 2018.
The chain now boasts multiple locations across Germany, including in Düsseldorf, Leverkusen, and Essen. The latest expansion strategy involves deploying AI robots to automate the production of kebabs, köfte, and bulgur, eliminating the need for human intervention in the cooking process.
AI revolution in fast food
Circus, a leading AI robotics company specialising in fast-food catering, has signed a multi-stage preliminary contract with Mangal LPx10 for the deployment of up to 2,400 CA1 robots. The initial rollout will take place in flagship stores in the Düsseldorf/Cologne area in 2025, with plans to expand the technology to over 1,600 robots across Germany and 800 in Poland in the coming years.
The estimated sales potential from this partnership alone could reach approximately €400 million.
The introduction of AI in Podolski’s kebab shops marks a significant shift in how fast food is prepared and served. The robots developed by Circus are designed to handle every aspect of production, from slicing the meat to assembling the final product, ensuring consistent quality and efficiency.
This move is expected to not only streamline operations but also set a new standard in the fast-food industry, where speed and precision are paramount.
Podolski’s growing business empire
Podolski’s involvement in Mangal LPx10 is just one aspect of his broader business portfolio.
The former footballer has diversified his investments, including ownership in an ice cream parlour in Cologne, football halls, a brewery, and a fashion label.
He has also recently ventured into event management. Although Podolski is not involved in the day-to-day operations of these businesses, his name and image remain powerful marketing tools, particularly in his hometown of Cologne.
The success of Mangal LPx10 and its expansion through independent franchisees can be partly attributed to Podolski’s status as a local football icon. His association with the brand has undoubtedly helped attract customers and franchise partners alike, demonstrating the enduring appeal of his persona off the pitch.
A technological milestone
The partnership between Mangal LPx10 and Circus represents a milestone not just for Podolski’s business endeavors but also for the broader food industry.
By integrating AI and robotics into the fast-food sector, Podolski is positioning his chain at the forefront of technological innovation, ensuring that Mangal LPx10 remains competitive in an increasingly automated world.
As the rollout of AI robots begins next year, all eyes will be on how this technology transforms the operations of Podolski’s kebab shops.
For a player who has always been known for his powerful shots and charismatic personality, this latest move into AI-driven fast food could be another winning strategy for the former Arsenal star.