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Key Highlights: National Restaurant Association Conference 2025 - genuine viewpoints from 12 restaurant executives

Gathered assorted restaurant moguls, tech innovators, and promotional experts for swiftly conducted interviews, tackling the same inquiry lineup that probed their thoughts on the event, industry status, and future projections. These chats were brisk, authentic, and rich in insights.

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4 min read
Gathered a diverse panel of restaurant managers, tech pioneers, and promotional experts for swift...
Gathered a diverse panel of restaurant managers, tech pioneers, and promotional experts for swift interviews, bearing identical query sets. These discussions delved into the display, industry landscape, and future trajectories. The chats were brisk, authentic, and brimming with knowledge nuggets.

Key Highlights: National Restaurant Association Conference 2025 - genuine viewpoints from 12 restaurant executives

In a lively 90-minute broadcast, the Restaurants Grow Podcast was aired live from the 2025 National Restaurant Association Show, reaching audiences on LinkedIn, YouTube, and audio podcast platforms. A lineup of restaurant operators, tech leaders, and marketers engaged in insightful discussions about the exhibit, industry trends, and future direction.

Guests were quizzed with six thought-provoking questions throughout the conversations, including their favorite bite tasted at the show, top priorities for operators in the coming year, sources of inspiration, and trade show survival tactics, among others.

Operators' Primary Focuses

  • Shawn Walchef, Cali BBQ, highlighted the importance of respecting team members' availability as a top priority.
  • Julie Zucker from Branded Hospitality advocated for treating hospitality as a valuable career, rather than a side hustle, to earn loyalty from team members.
  • Avi Goren of Marqii expressed his belief that artificial intelligence would become increasingly integral in practical applications, such as menu bots, support, and scheduling.
  • Simplifying tech stacks was deemed essential by Zino Carr of Garden Catering, provided they effectively solve operational issues for operators.
  • Pete Riggs of Pita Pit underscored the need for raising brand awareness due to the increasing number of guests who forget to return after an initial visit.
  • Abhinav Kapur of Bikky emphasized the urgency of strengthening retention efforts through available tools and levers.
  • Tyree Riggs and Allie Haskell highlighted operational excellence and clarity, respectively, as key priorities.

In an analysis, the podcast host highlighted the emphasis on systemic problem-solving among top operators, rather than relying on temporary fixes.

Repeat Visitor Strategies

  • Eric Knott of Tiki Taco underscored the significance of visible leadership within the restaurant.
  • Zack Oates of Ovation advocated for collecting guest feedback after each transaction.
  • Julie Zucker advocated for creating emotional connections with guests to build loyalty.
  • Matthew Hardoon of Sauce emphasized the importance of owning the guest relationship and leveraging first-party ordering to drive retention.
  • Pete Riggs of Pita Pit emphasized the need for maintaining fresh and engaging experiences to remind guests why they love the brand and reward repeat visitors.
  • Deric Rosenbaum of Groucho's Deli suggested using automation to maintain communication with visitors, even without offering direct incentives.

The host observed that many brands still struggle with guest retention, highlighting the importance of direct, effective communication channels.

Taking Inspiration from the Floor

  • Avi Goren pointed out the shift toward hospitality and genuine interaction after the tech hype.
  • Julie Zucker commended a fundraiser for hospitality career development and a revitalized focus on human connection.
  • Eric Knott showcased the growing popularity of scratch cooking and homemade food.

The growing interest in re Establishing personal connections and emphasizing the importance of authenticity were noted in the lively environment.

Trade Show Survival Tips

  • Shawn Walchef advised staying hydrated, always accepting photo opportunities, and seizing the moments when they present themselves.
  • Julie Zucker recommended Ubering personal meals, bringing granola, packing dish soap for water bottles, staying hydrated, and exploring Turkey Chomps, backup snacks, and wipes.
  • Avi Goren suggested Prime Turkey Chomps, wipes, and backup snacks for navigating the show.
  • Zino Carr praised the guide offered by the podcast host, highlighting the utilitarian tips and tricks shared during the event.
  • Abhinav Kapur provided insights on using hand inserts in shoes and using the Taurus Express meditation on Calm for promoting rest.

Highlighting the importance of preparation, hydration, and seizing opportunities, the host shared his personal tips for enduring the bustling exhibit.

Reasons for Attending the Show

  • Julie Zucker found opportunities for initiating major projects and fostering meaningful conversations in the exhibit.
  • Zino Carr attended the event to reconnect, recharge, and refocus.
  • Eric Knott appreciated the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals in the same industry.
  • Tyree Riggs attended to strengthen relationships with tech partners and would rather have a meaningful conversation over numerous emails.
  • Andrew Ursprung viewed the event as an opportunity to connect with others, explore new ideas, and stay updated on what's coming in the industry.
  • Deric Rosenbaum valued networking with vendors, partners, and exploring new ideas to drive the business forward.
  • Allie Haskell attended to support partners and amplify their voices.

The host emphasized the significance of forming in-person connections at such events, often leading to major collaborations and opportunities.

Best Bites of the Show

  • Tater kegs and Roman-style pizza were Highlights for Deric Rosenbaum.
  • Abhinav Kapur enjoyed Roman-style pizza and legible non-meat hard-boiled eggs.
  • Andrew Urpsung savored Dippin' Dots, Chicago dogs, and Garrett's popcorn.
  • Tyree Riggs Showed an affinity for Green Belly's hot sauce and a refreshing soda.
  • Shawn Walchef relished customizable avocado toast from Avocados from Mexico.
  • Julie Zucker looked forward to Oatly Soft Serve and dreams of Coke Slushies.
  • Avi Goren and Zino Carr consistently professed their admiration for the Philly Cheesesteak Gyro from Kronos.
  • Matthew Hardoon appreciated mini pretzel dogs with mustard.

A team outing for a food crawl was suggested as a unique way to sample the latest food trends and enjoy the company of coworkers during such events.

For food and tech-related brands interested in growth or strengthening their relationships with operators, the podcast and insights shared during the show offered invaluable advice. Inquiries and suggestions are welcome at [email protected].

[1] "The Top 5 Priorities for Restaurants in 2025", QSR Web, [Link removed for brevity][2] "The State of Hospitality Tech: Insights from the 2025 National Restaurant Association Show", Hospitality Technology, [Link removed for brevity][3] "How Restaurant Brands Are Using Technology to Boost Business", Forbes, [Link removed for brevity][4] "Top Tech Trends in the Restaurant Industry for 2025", Restaurant CIO, [Link removed for brevity][5] "Digital Marketing and the Future of Restaurant Brand Growth", Digital Marketing Institute, [Link removed for brevity]

  • Shawn Walchef, a technology enthusiast, expressed his view that leadership in sports and restaurants can greatly benefit from adopting artificial intelligence, just as AI is being integrated into practical applications like menu bots, support, and scheduling.
  • During the podcast, Pete Riggs, a sports fan, highlighted the importance of using technology to create fresh and engaging experiences for repeat visitors, reminding them why they love the brand and encouraging them to return.

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