The Restaurant Report
Uncover the secrets of the restaurant industry with The Restaurant Report, the longest-running foodservice podcast hosted by award-winning journalists. Dive into the latest trends, hear expert insights, and enjoy exclusive interviews with industry leaders every week. With over 25 years of insider knowledge, The Restaurant Report is your guide to navigating the ever-changing world of the food and hospitality scene. Subscribe now and join the thousands of food enthusiasts and industry professionals who rely on The Restaurant Report for their weekly dose of news, insights and inspiration.
Episodes
April 17, 2024 • 24 mins
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The restaurant industry is on the cusp of a major shift driven by tech-savvy Gen Y and Gen Z consumers who prefer convenience, with mobile ordering rapidly growing and projected to account for 11% of quick-service sales by 2020. Yet the industry is slow to adopt new tech, despite benefits. C...
The restaurant industry is on the cusp of a major shift driven by tech-savvy Gen Y and Gen Z consumers who prefer convenience, with mobile ordering rapidly growing and projected to account for 11% of quick-service sales by 2020. Yet the industry is slow to adopt new tech, despite benefits. C...
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March 26, 2024 • 44 mins
The Evolution of Food Halls and Emerging Brands in the Face of Economic ChallengesIn this episode of The Restaurant Report, host Paul Barron and guest co-host Amy Hom, experts in the restaurant industry and consumer sentiment, delve into the fascinating world of food halls and emerging brands. Despite current economic challenges, such as rising prices and inflation, which have reduced restaurant visits, food halls, and innovative c...
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March 11, 2024 • 32 mins
In this episode of "The Restaurant Report," host Paul Barron is joined by Zach Goldstein, CEO of Thanx, a leading restaurant customer engagement platform. The discussion delves into the evolving landscape of consumer sentiment toward dining out, with a particular emphasis on Gen Z's unique behaviors and preferences.
As the restaurant industry grapples with declining consumer sentiment and lower frequency rates, Zach and Paul explore...
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March 4, 2024 • 45 mins
In this episode of The Restaurant Report, Paul Barron, a forward-thinker in technology and media, engages in a thought-provoking conversation with the CEO of ConverseNow, a company at the vanguard of AI-driven drive-thru technology. Together, they delve into the transformative power of artificial intelligence in reshaping customer service within the fast-food industry and beyond. Highlights of their discussion include:
The Evolution...
The Evolution...
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February 26, 2024 • 33 mins
Welcome to The Restaurant Report, where we delve into the exciting resurgence of casual dining trends in the hospitality industry. As consumers start to venture out again for dining experiences, casual eateries are seeing a significant uptick in popularity. In this episode, we explore the reasons behind this shift and what it means for the future of casual dining establishments.
Today’s Guest - Hal Lawlor, President and COO of Smoke...
Today’s Guest - Hal Lawlor, President and COO of Smoke...
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February 9, 2024 • 22 mins
In a recent episode of the Restaurant Report Podcast, Sean Kennedy, Executive Vice President of Public Affairs at the National Restaurant Association, discussed several critical issues impacting the restaurant industry. Kennedy, who joined the association in June 2019, sheds light on the Association's advocacy efforts and strategic initiatives to support restaurant operators nationwide.
We discussed various regulations that could af...
We discussed various regulations that could af...
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January 30, 2024 • 38 mins
In this episode, Paul Barron discusses the fascinating world of dynamic pricing strategies and the potential role of AI in reshaping menu modeling. Ashwin Kamlani, the CEO of Juicer, joins him as they explore the exciting possibilities that lie ahead in the food service industry.
Ashwin Kamlani, CEO of Juicer: Ashwin Kamlani, an expert in AI and its applications, joins Paul Barron to discuss the potential of AI in revolutionizing me...
Ashwin Kamlani, CEO of Juicer: Ashwin Kamlani, an expert in AI and its applications, joins Paul Barron to discuss the potential of AI in revolutionizing me...
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In this episode, Amy Hom, a veteran of the restaurant brand and technology space, and Paul Barron delve into the challenges faced by fast casual restaurants in the current landscape where technology's role in driving top-line revenue and profits is not as promising as expected. This issue is rooted in the collision between technology and consumer behavior, placing restaurant brands in a complex position.
One of the fundamental dynam...
One of the fundamental dynam...
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December 6, 2023 • 40 mins
In today’s podcast, we dive into the future of technology and innovation that seem to dominate the consumer landscape; there is a growing paradoxical trend among millennials. Many of them are embracing traditional values while seeking unique and creative experiences. This shift in consumer preferences has not gone unnoticed by brands like Chicken Salad Chick, which has successfully tapped into this emerging trend. We will explore h...
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December 1, 2023 • 37 mins
In today's podcast, we delve into the world of Taziki's Mediterranean Cafe with the extraordinary Julie Wade. Join us as we embark on a culinary adventure, exploring the vibrant flavors and rich history of Mediterranean cuisine. Julie, the visionary behind Taziki's, shares her insights on creating a thriving restaurant business, fostering a passionate team, and delivering an exceptional dining experience that has captivated guests ...
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November 27, 2023 • 41 mins
In this episode of The Restaurant Report, we sit down with Mike LaRue, a 16+ year franchise veteran who has, since the beginning, maintained a focus on emerging brands. Mike is the VP of Franchise Development for Angry Chickz, a fast-growth Nashville hot chicken brand.
We discuss how this brand could build 20+ units without an infrastructure, which could be its secret weapon to success.
Link here for full access to our 5 brand growt...
We discuss how this brand could build 20+ units without an infrastructure, which could be its secret weapon to success.
Link here for full access to our 5 brand growt...
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November 24, 2023 • 32 mins
In today’s podcast, we interview Robert Hersch of Mastodon Ventures and discuss the market for raising capital and what you should be doing to prepare. We break down a variety of ideas.
- What are some areas you are watching for capital deployment in 2024 within the restaurant sectors?
- How the market will respond to consumer spending pressure?
- Will brands grow in 2024?
- Is franchising a viable option for early-stage brand growth?
- How d...
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November 10, 2023 • 32 mins
In this episode of The Restaurant Report podcast, I speak with Erle Dardick, of Lunchbox, a leading restaurant e-commerce platform. We discuss the top tech and consumer trends to watch in the restaurant industry in 2024, including:
- AI and its impact: AI is already having a major impact on the restaurant industry, from automating tasks in the kitchen to personalizing customer experiences. In 2024, can we expect to see even more w...
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October 30, 2023 • 31 mins
In today’s Pod, we chat with Raju Malhotra, Chief Product and technology Officer at PAR Technology (NYSE: PAR). He joined PAR by acquiring Punchh, an omni-channel loyalty and engagement startup based in San Mateo, CA.This discussion takes turns into the future of foodservice and tech as well as the overall guest loyalty journey that has begun to shift for Gen Z.
Gen Z Brand Loyalty: UX and Digital Gamification
Gen Z is the most digit...
Gen Z Brand Loyalty: UX and Digital Gamification
Gen Z is the most digit...
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October 16, 2023 • 14 mins
The restaurant industry has been at the forefront of innovation in today's fast-paced world. From digital menus to contactless payments, the industry has continually adapted to meet the changing demands of consumers. However, there is a challenge that the industry is currently facing, one that is directly impacting consumer sentiment: the struggle to keep pace with evolving expectations, particularly in areas like drive-thru servic...
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September 22, 2023 • 18 mins
Consumer spending is the driving force of the US economy, accounting for about 70% of GDP. So when consumers start to cut back on spending, it's a big red flag for the economy.
That's why economists worry about a potential fall consumer spending drop. There are several factors that could contribute to this, including:
That's why economists worry about a potential fall consumer spending drop. There are several factors that could contribute to this, including:
- High inflation: Inflation has been at a 40-year high in recent months, and it's eating into consumers' disposable...
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September 19, 2023 • 13 mins
In this podcast, we visit with the Lettuce Entertain You Leadership team to discus success and the formula for the future.
Featuring
Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises (LEYE) is a family-owned restaurant group founded in 1971 by R.J. Melman. The company has become one of the largest restaurant group...
Featuring
- Ethan Samson, Executive Partner - Vice President & Deputy General Counsel
- Amarit Dulyapaibul, Managing Partner
- Kevin Brown, CEO
Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises (LEYE) is a family-owned restaurant group founded in 1971 by R.J. Melman. The company has become one of the largest restaurant group...
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September 18, 2023 • 16 mins
In this podcast, we get a chance to talk with Stefanie Miller, President, Away From Home at Kellogg Company - We explore the way we consume food away from home is rapidly evolving. Whether grabbing a quick snack at a convenience store (C-Store), dining on a military base, or choosing options at a college or university cafeteria, the food service industry is witnessing significant changes. One of the most notable trends is the shift...
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September 15, 2023 • 10 mins
In this episode, we dive into research and trends from TJ Wommack, Partner at AlixPartners. We discuss the composition of management teams is undergoing a significant transformation. This shift is changing the face of leadership and influencing business strategies, particularly in the restaurant industry. This article delves into the demographic shifts in management teams and their profound impact on promoting diversity and inclusi...
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September 8, 2023 • 18 mins
First up, we'll be exploring the incredible journey of Big Chicken, a fast casual giant that's redefining the way we think about chicken. Stay tuned as we sit down with their visionary CEO, Josh Halpern, to uncover the secret recipe behind their remarkable growth and exciting future plans.
Also, in the episode, we'll take you on a savory journey with Dog Haus, the pioneers of gourmet hot dogs and sausages. Join us as we chat with th...
Also, in the episode, we'll take you on a savory journey with Dog Haus, the pioneers of gourmet hot dogs and sausages. Join us as we chat with th...
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