New Phenomenon: Cook, Cashier, and Waitress Duties Handled by One Person

A trend of employees taking on multiple roles is emerging in several fast-food restaurant outlets. Unfortunately, this trend reflects a decline in consumer demand, which is forcing outlet managers to implement efficiency measures.

Based on CNBC Indonesia’s observations on Thursday (2/7/2026), a fast-food outlet in the Blok M area of South Jakarta appeared quiet, with only three tables occupied. Only one server was on duty. In addition to working as a cashier, this server was also responsible for preparing and delivering food.

The server was essentially juggling various tasks in a single work period that could normally be handled by several employees. However, these multiple tasks are now being performed by just one employee.

CNBC Indonesia later spoke with Adi, an employee at a fast-food restaurant near Kemang, South Jakarta. Adi shared that the Covid-19 pandemic and the subsequent decline in consumer demand have significantly impacted the viability of the restaurant where he works.

This is evident as the restaurant has streamlined its workforce. Initially, the restaurant employed six staff members, but now only two are on duty per shift. In fact, the restaurant is staffed by just one employee during the night shift.

‘After Corona, the number of employees decreased from six to two,’ he told CNBC Indonesia, as quoted on Monday (6/7/2026).

Like other employees, Adi handles various tasks at the restaurant, such as cooking fried chicken, French fries, and other fast-food items. At the same time, Adi also works as a cashier and delivers food to customers who place orders. Despite this, he admitted that his salary remains the same as before the workforce efficiency measures were implemented.

‘My salary is the same now as it was before,’ he explained.

According to Adi, the reduction in staff numbers is in line with the declining sales trend at his workplace. He noted that the level of customer traffic at the fast-food restaurant is relatively low. He added that fast-food outlets tend to be busy only when located in public areas such as stations or rest areas.