Stephen Leitch

Papers

Total Citations

107

H-Index

About

Stephen Leitch is a leading researcher in hospitality and service technology, with a focus on the intersection of robotics, consumer behavior, and public health. His work critically examines how automated systems reshape dining experiences, particularly in off-premise and post-pandemic contexts. Leitch’s most cited study, “Robot vs human: expectations, performances and gaps in off-premise restaurant service modes” (2021, 99 citations), pioneers the analysis of consumer expectations for food delivery robots compared to human staff, revealing critical performance gaps that inform industry adoption. More recently, his 2024 paper “Masks, gloves, or robots? Factors influencing consumers’ health risk perceptions and behavioral intentions of in-restaurant dining” (8 citations) explores how safety measures—from personal protective equipment to robotic service—affect diners’ risk perceptions and choices. By bridging technology adoption theory with real-world hospitality challenges, Leitch provides actionable insights for operators navigating automation and health crises. His work is essential reading for students and practitioners seeking to understand how robotics and safety protocols are redefining the future of dining.