BetterBlends, an AI-driven smoothie shop situated on Market Street in San Francisco, opened its doors in September only to close them just a few weeks late, as reported by the San Francisco Chronicle.

On promises of AI-generated, tailored smoothie recipes, BetterBlends had been subject to a positive reception. However, recent signs point towards its permanent closure, with barren shelves and the conspicuous absence of any smoothie preparation equipment. Complementary to this, Google Maps reviews have been documenting a growth in disgruntlement over sporadic functioning hours and a sudden shutdown.

Economists, despite acknowledging the potential benefits of the AI boom, warns against viewing the technology as the panacea to San Francisco's economic woes.

San Francisco's Office of Economic and Workforce Development has been making strides to stimulate the city's economy, compensating for such losses by incentivizing new businesses through grants and tax breaks.

Daniel Sider, chief of staff at the San Francisco Planning Department, contends that BetterBlends' failure should not directly reflect upon the city's overall economic situation. He cites the recent success of Ikea's new multi-story retail, food, and co-working center as evidence of potential success in the business sphere in San Francisco, per The Guardian.