The Takeout, Delivery, & Catering Show

Serial entrepreneur Edmond Barseghian shares how he built Houston Hot Chicken from a pandemic recipe with his sister into one of America's fastest-growing restaurant brands, selling 100 franchises in just 5 months and becoming Las Vegas's #1 restaurant. Learn his unconventional strategies including monthly car shows, premium customer experiences, and how he applied lessons from 12 previous businesses to revolutionize the hot chicken space with 26 locations, 300+ franchise commitments, and plans to reach 200+ restaurants within three years.~This episode is sponsored by: Gusto → https://gusto.pxf.io/PBN ~#1 rated HR platform for payroll, benefits, and moreWith Gusto's easy-to-use platform, you can empower your people and push your business forward. See why over 400,000 businesses choose Gusto.RestaurantFranchise #HotChicken #FastCasualGrowthGet Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory

Dave's Hot Chicken takes home their second Fast Casual Top 100 award in three years! Join hosts Paul Barron and Cherryh Cansler as they sit down with Jim Bitticks, President & COO of Dave's Hot Chicken, to discuss the brand's explosive growth from 4 to 312+ locations in just five years. Discover how they built 3.6 million TikTok followers through authentic user-generated content, innovated with viral products like top-loaded shakes and cauliflower tenders, and maintained startup agility while scaling rapidly. From their organic social media strategy to their legendary marketing team led by industry veterans, learn the secrets behind one of fast-casual's hottest success stories.~This episode is sponsored by: Gusto → https://gusto.pxf.io/PBN ~#1 rated HR platform for payroll, benefits, and moreWith Gusto's easy-to-use platform, you can empower your people and push your business forward. See why over 400,000 businesses choose Gusto.DavesHotChicken #FastCasualTop100 #RestaurantMastermindsGet Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory

The restaurant industry is about to experience a massive technological transformation, and Oracle's Senior Director of Strategy, Amber Trendell, reveals it's happening faster than anyone expected. In this deep dive, we explore how voice AI is revolutionizing drive-thru operations, why 70% of Gen Z customers actually want to be upsold, and how agentic AI systems will soon run restaurants autonomously without human intervention. From license plate recognition triggering personalized offers to AI agents making real-time business decisions across all platforms, this isn't science fiction—it's the reality hitting restaurants within the next 1-3 years. Whether you're a restaurant owner, tech enthusiast, or curious about the future of dining, this analysis breaks down exactly how AI will transform every aspect of the restaurant experience, from ordering to kitchen operations.~This episode is sponsored by: Gusto → https://gusto.pxf.io/PBN ~#1 rated HR platform for payroll, benefits, and moreWith Gusto's easy-to-use platform, you can empower your people and push your business forward. See why over 400,000 businesses choose Gusto.#RestaurantTech #VoiceAI #RestaurantAutomationGet Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory

Join Restaurant Masterminds hosts Paul Barron and Rudy Miick as they sit down with Patrick Fore, CEO of Lime Fresh Mexican Grill, to explore how this 21-year-old brand is revolutionizing the fresh-mex space. Discover how Lime Fresh 2.0 is blending fast casual convenience with full-service hospitality through their innovative "flex casual" model featuring a full bar program contributing over 20% to revenue. Fore shares insights on creating "Lime Moments" for exceptional hospitality, revitalizing their menu with the "One Whole Lime Project," balancing digital innovation with authentic experiences, and preparing for strategic franchise growth that caters to both millennial and Gen Z consumers.~This episode is sponsored by: Gusto → https://gusto.pxf.io/PBN ~#1 rated HR platform for payroll, benefits, and moreWith Gusto's easy-to-use platform, you can empower your people and push your business forward. See why over 400,000 businesses choose Gusto.FreshMexRevolution #FlexCasualDining #RestaurantInnovationGet Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory

In this eye-opening episode of our Brand Series, restaurant industry experts Paul Barron and Paul Molinari dissect the current crisis in casual dining and reveal why some chains are thriving while others file for bankruptcy. Discover how Chili's achieved a remarkable 31% sales increase through strategic social media targeting and menu innovation, while TGI Fridays and Hooters struggle to connect with millennial consumers. The hosts analyze Red Lobster's repositioning strategy, debate the controversial Hooters rebranding plan, and explore how economic headwinds are creating recession indicators even for giants like McDonald's. Don't miss these critical insights on brand transformation, consumer behavior shifts, and the technological innovations poised to reshape restaurants in 2026-2027.~This episode is sponsored by: Gusto → https://gusto.pxf.io/PBN ~#1 rated HR platform for payroll, benefits, and moreWith Gusto's easy-to-use platform, you can empower your people and push your business forward. See why over 400,000 businesses choose Gusto.RestaurantBrandSeries #CasualDiningCrisis #FoodServiceFutureGet Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory

In this eye-opening Gen Z Corner segment of Restaurant Masterminds, host Paul Barron sits down with 8-year-old Colette and 9-year-old Graham to uncover what truly attracts the youngest consumers to restaurant brands. Colette reveals why texture, temperature, and customization at Chick-fil-A, Shake Shack, and Chipotle win her loyalty, while Graham offers groundbreaking insights on how gaming integration and themed environments could revolutionize restaurant experiences for young guests. These unfiltered perspectives provide restaurant operators with invaluable strategies for menu development and concept innovation that will resonate with tomorrow's customers.~This episode is sponsored by: Gusto → https://gusto.pxf.io/PBN ~#1 rated HR platform for payroll, benefits, and moreWith Gusto's easy-to-use platform, you can empower your people and push your business forward. See why over 400,000 businesses choose Gusto.GenZDining #RestaurantInnovation #GamingHospitalityGet Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory

In this insightful episode of Restaurant Masterminds, host Paul Barron and co-hosts Robin Blanchette and Rudy Miick welcome Laura Rea Dickey, CEO of Dickey's Barbecue, to discuss the critical balance between price and value in today's challenging restaurant economy. Dickey shares how her 866-location barbecue chain is navigating shifting consumer behavior by expanding value options while maintaining profitability without significant price increases. The conversation explores data-driven decision making, menu engineering strategies, loyalty program innovations, and the importance of creating meaningful guest experiences that justify pricing—essential insights for restaurant operators facing similar challenges in 2025.~This episode is sponsored by: Gusto → https://gusto.pxf.io/PBN ~#1 rated HR platform for payroll, benefits, and moreWith Gusto's easy-to-use platform, you can empower your people and push your business forward. See why over 400,000 businesses choose Gusto.RestaurantStrategy #MenuEngineering #ValueEquationGet Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory

In this thought-provoking episode of Restaurant Masterminds, host Paul Barron and fractional CMO Stacy Kane challenge traditional loyalty programs, revealing why Gen Z's $12 trillion spending power demands a fresh approach. The duo dissects Starbucks' controversial rewards devaluation, explores gamification alternatives, and introduces blockchain solutions like Blackbird that could eliminate costly third-party intermediaries. Their bold prediction? The entire loyalty tech stack may disappear within five years, making this essential viewing for restaurant operators seeking to build genuine customer connections that transcend points systems.~This episode is sponsored by: Gusto → https://gusto.pxf.io/PBN ~#1 rated HR platform for payroll, benefits, and moreWith Gusto's easy-to-use platform, you can empower your people and push your business forward. See why over 400,000 businesses choose Gusto.#RestaurantLoyalty #FoodServiceInnovation #CustomerRetentionGet Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory

In this episode of the Restaurant Masterminds podcast, host Paul Baron and culture expert Rudy Miick explore how to build a "badass brand" through strong company culture. They discuss the difference between "win-lose" versus inspirational leadership approaches, highlighting that while aggressive culture models can work, their sustainability is questionable. The conversation examines how explicit cultural values drive brand performance, especially in uncertain economic times, with only 23% of employees globally being actively engaged in the workplace. Using Coinbase as an example, they emphasize the importance of clearly defining and aligning culture with brand values, maintaining consistency in practices, and creating supportive processes that attract like-minded employees.#CompanyCulture #BrandBuilding #EmployeeEngagementGet Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory

Paul Barron and Paul Molinari discuss the transformative power of content marketing for restaurants. They explore key strategies to enhance both local and national branding, including:Local Marketing: Building community ties through partnerships with local influencers and highlighting locally sourced products.Visual Content: Leveraging high-quality images and videos to showcase brand identity and engage customers.Social Media Strategies: Utilizing platforms like Instagram and TikTok for consistent brand storytelling.National Branding: Integrating local efforts with broader campaigns to expand reach while maintaining local relevance.Measuring Success: Analyzing metrics to refine marketing strategies.~This episode is sponsored by: Gusto → https://gusto.pxf.io/PBN ~#1 rated HR platform for payroll, benefits, and moreWith Gusto's easy-to-use platform, you can empower your people and push your business forward. See why over 400,000 businesses choose Gusto.#RestaurantInnovation #FoodServiceTrends #RestaurantBranding--------------------------------Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory

In this episode of Restaurant Masterminds, host Paul Barron and co-hosts Paul Molinari and Anna Tauzin explore effective social media strategies for restaurant brands. Anna Tauzin, CMO of MAC Corporation, shares insights from managing nine diverse brands across Texas, covering platform selection, content creation, measurement tactics, and tech tools. The discussion includes practical tips on Instagram vs. TikTok usage, visual content development, engaging community events, and how independent operators can compete without enterprise-level resources.~This episode is sponsored by: Gusto → https://gusto.pxf.io/PBN ~#1 rated HR platform for payroll, benefits, and moreWith Gusto's easy-to-use platform, you can empower your people and push your business forward. See why over 400,000 businesses choose Gusto.RestaurantMarketing #SocialMediaStrategy #FoodServiceSuccessGet Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory

In a recent Restaurant Masterminds podcast, hosts Paul Barron and Rudy Miick interviewed Darren Spicer of Clutch Coffee Bar about effectively connecting with Gen Z consumers. Spicer, with prior experience at Dutch Bros, shared that hiring Gen Z staff is crucial for attracting Gen Z customers, as authenticity resonates with this demographic. Clutch's success stems from its vibrant color palette matching "Gen Z palette 2025," purpose-driven approach of "serving positive energy," immersive atmosphere with music, dedicated app-based rewards system, and menu diversification beyond coffee. Spicer predicts industry consolidation in the next five years with Dutch Bros and Seven Brew dominating, while Clutch focuses on densifying its Carolina presence before expanding elsewhere.#GenZMarketing #CoffeeInnovation #BrandAuthenticity~This episode is sponsored by: Gusto → https://gusto.pxf.io/PBN ~#1 rated HR platform for payroll, benefits, and moreWith Gusto's easy-to-use platform, you can empower your people and push your business forward. See why over 400,000 businesses choose Gusto.Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. ➡ Visit www.savor.fmFollow on X: Savor_fm

Fast Casual expert Cherryh Cansler joins Restaurant Masterminds to reveal how Gen Z is revolutionizing the restaurant industry in 2025. From the rise of GLP-1 medications affecting menu development to the death of traditional loyalty programs, this episode dives deep into the forces reshaping fast casual dining. Discover why technology integration is becoming make-or-break for brands, how TikTok is driving food trends, and why the next generation of consumers demands total transparency from restaurants. Plus, learn about the emerging trend of experiential rewards replacing traditional discounts and why your brand's tech stack might be holding you back.FastCasual2025 #RestaurantIndustry #FoodTrendsAre you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. ➡ Visit www.savor.fmFollow on X: Savor_fm

Join restaurant marketing experts as they dive deep into the power of short-form content for modern restaurant brands. From understanding the ideal video length of 20 seconds or less to crafting authentic content that maintains brand standards, discover how successful restaurants are drawing inspiration from unexpected sources to create engaging social media content. Learn why focusing solely on vanity metrics might be hurting your marketing efforts, and get practical tips for creating purposeful content that drives real business results. Whether you're just starting with social media or looking to enhance your existing strategy, this discussion offers valuable insights into building meaningful connections with Millennial and Gen Z audiences through strategic short-form content.Guest: Wayne MullinsRestaurantMarketing #ShortFormContent #HospitalityBrandingAre you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. ➡ Visit www.savor.fmFollow on X: Savor_fm

Explore how AI is revolutionizing the restaurant industry, from personalized ordering systems and voice AI to operational automation, with technologies like DeepSeek making advanced solutions more affordable and accessible for businesses of all sizes.RestaurantTech #AIInnovation #FutureOfFoodAre you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. ➡ Visit www.savor.fmFollow on X: Savor_fm

Barcelona Wine Bar is revolutionizing the chain restaurant model by giving each location's executive chef control over most of their menu. Chief Creative Officer Gretchen Thomas reveals how this unique approach, combined with their focus on social dining and community connection, has led to successful growth across multiple markets. While most chains standardize everything, Barcelona Wine Bar embraces local flavors and community needs, creating authentic neighborhood destinations that combat modern loneliness through shared experiences and genuine hospitality. Discover how this innovative brand balances growth with maintaining independent restaurant soul.RestaurantInnovation #SocialDining #HospitalityTrends

AI is revolutionizing the restaurant industry by offering advanced technological solutions that enhance operational efficiency, democratize access to sophisticated tools, and create more personalized experiences, with a focus on back-of-house operations, voice-driven interfaces, and leveraging technology to augment human hospitality.RestaurantTech #AIinHospitality #FutureOfDining

Join the Restaurant Masterminds Podcast for their explosive 2025 kickoff episode featuring an all-star lineup of industry experts! Marketing whiz Stacy K, go-to-market guru Paul Mulinari, and culture specialist Rudy Mick come together for a power-packed discussion on the future of restaurants. From cutting-edge technology trends to market insights, this roundtable covers it all. Don't miss their takes on branding, marketing strategies, and evolving consumer behaviors that will shape the industry this year. Tune in for expert analysis and actionable insights that every restaurant professional needs to hear!RestaurantIndustry #FoodTech2025 #HospitalityTrends

Restaurant technology is evolving beyond the AI hype of 2024, with operators seeking practical solutions that directly impact their bottom line in 2025. From contactless payments and handheld POS systems to customer data platforms that enhance personalization, the industry is embracing tools that improve both operations and guest experience. Sustainable practices are getting a tech upgrade through smart inventory management and sourcing platforms, while emerging payment technologies like stable coins could significantly reduce transaction fees. Social media platforms are opening new revenue streams through real-time shopping experiences and subscription-based models, giving restaurants more opportunities to expand beyond traditional dining.RestaurantTech2025 #FoodTechInnovation #RestaurantOperations

In this engaging industry discussion, restaurant experts explore the critical dynamics of founder transitions, brand evolution, and modern operational challenges. From analyzing successful transitions like Dave's Hot Chicken's expansion to addressing workforce management in today's multi-generational environment, the conversation reveals key insights for restaurant professionals. The discussion highlights the importance of systematic approaches to maintaining brand integrity, particularly in franchising, while emphasizing the need for clear financial planning and strategic decision-making when entering the restaurant business or considering expansion.RestaurantBusiness #RestaurantIndustry #FoodService

Discover how Taco Cabana, the Texas-born Mexican fast-casual chain, is revolutionizing the restaurant industry with its innovative approach to franchising and operations. From its humble beginnings as a late-night taco spot in San Antonio to its current 146-unit operation, learn how the brand balances traditional TexMex favorites with modern menu innovations, leverages double drive-thru technology, and strategically expands across the Sun Belt and Midwest. Director of Franchise Sales John Ramsay shares insights on their unique franchise strategy, integrated technology stack, and focus on younger suburban communities.#RestaurantIndustry #FranchiseGrowth #FastCasualDining

In this compelling exploration of restaurant brand dynamics, we delve into the strategies of Cracker Barrel, BurgerFi, and Dave's Hot Chicken, revealing how successful brands navigate transformation, leadership challenges, and market adaptation. From Cracker Barrel's strategic modernization under female leadership to Dave's Hot Chicken's targeted demographic approach, and highlighting the critical nonprofit work of CORE supporting food service workers, this analysis offers invaluable insights into surviving and thriving in the competitive restaurant industry.Guest: Jill Chapman | Director of Corporate Partnerships at CORERestaurantInnovation #BrandStrategy #FoodServiceTrends

Halal Shack CEO Jamal Rasoully reveals how innovative restaurant brands can thrive in college campuses by prioritizing quality, authentic experiences, and adapting to the unique challenges of contract food service, demonstrating a successful strategy for connecting with the next generation of consumers.RestaurantInnovation #CampusDining #FoodTech

Join Aaron Novashen, CEO of Starbird, as he reveals how his fast-casual restaurant chain is revolutionizing the industry through AI and technology integration. Learn how Starbird achieves remarkable efficiency with 85% digital orders, uses predictive analytics for production, and maintains exceptional employee retention by implementing tech solutions that enhance both guest and staff experiences. Discover practical insights on balancing high-tech innovations with genuine hospitality in this must-watch episode for restaurant professionals.RestaurantTech #AIinHospitality #FutureOfDining

Industry experts Paul Barron, Rudy Miick, and Paul Molinari discuss the evolving fast-casual restaurant landscape on Restaurant Masterminds podcast, emphasizing the critical need for brand differentiation, operational consistency, and unique value propositions. The conversation explores emerging opportunities in health-conscious and allergen-friendly dining, while highlighting challenges in managing food costs and maintaining brand identity. Key insights include the struggles of established chains like Chipotle and Cava to distinguish themselves, the importance of reliable customer experiences, and the potential growth in specialized dietary segments, all while keeping core costs under control to deliver perceived value.FastCasualDining #RestaurantInnovation #FoodServiceTrends

TikTok has emerged as a transformative force in the restaurant industry, with 53% of millennial users visiting restaurants they discover on the platform. The app contributes $24 billion to GDP and supports 224,000 American jobs, while potentially generating nearly $1 billion in annual restaurant sales through its influence. Its success in the food service sector stems from its visual appeal, authentic content, viral potential, and user-generated content, making it an essential marketing tool for modern restaurants.#FoodTikTok #RestaurantMarketing #DiningTrends

Building Gen Z teams in the restaurant industry requires a fresh approach to recruitment, retention, and management. Industry experts emphasize the importance of quick hiring processes, clear communication, and creating a purposeful work environment. Gen Z employees value instant feedback, recognition, and opportunities for growth. Successful restaurants are adapting by leveraging technology, fostering inclusive cultures, and providing clear paths for career development. Leaders must be adaptable, transparent about company values, and continuously reinforce the organization's mission. By understanding generational differences and commonalities, restaurants can create workplaces that appeal to Gen Z while benefiting team members across all generations, ultimately building stronger, more engaged teams in a challenging labor market.GenZWorkforce #RestaurantHR #FutureOfHospitality

The restaurant industry is experiencing significant changes, with major chains like Chipotle investing in innovative technologies such as collaborative robots and autonomous delivery vehicles. However, challenges persist, exemplified by BurgerFi's bankruptcy filing, signaling potential market consolidation in the fast casual segment. The blurring lines between QSRs and fast casual concepts are intensifying competition, while economic pressures may impact consumer spending habits. Franchising and refranchising strategies are being explored as ways to generate cash and reduce costs. As the industry looks towards 2025, success will likely depend on a brand's ability to innovate, clearly communicate its value proposition, and adapt to evolving consumer preferences.RestaurantInnovation #FastCasualChallenges #FoodTechTrends

Louis Basile, founder of Wildflower Bakery, shared insights on the company's evolution in delivery services, hospitality, and continuous improvement. From its roots in a family diner to embracing modern delivery platforms, Wildflower has adapted to changing consumer needs while maintaining a focus on quality and efficiency. The company strategically manages its delivery menu, emphasizes hospitality towards drivers, and uses technology to ensure order accuracy. Wildflower's commitment to fostering a positive work environment, celebrating successes, and encouraging open communication has been key to its growth and customer satisfaction.

The restaurant industry is embracing technological advancements, with AI and personalization leading the way. Mitesh Gala of Altametrics highlights the development of AI-powered systems for data analysis and the increasing use of personalized experiences in restaurants. While technology offers cost-cutting opportunities, Gala emphasizes the importance of using it to improve worker productivity and compensation. He advises independent restaurants to focus on product quality and customer service while adapting to changing consumer preferences for convenience and value. Ultimately, the goal is to leverage technology to enhance the human element in restaurants, creating better experiences for customers and employees alike.