Emerging job opportunities in the restaurant industry's technological sector along with key insights from FSTEC 2025 conference
The Food Service Technology Conference (FSTEC) concluded in Orlando, Florida, last Tuesday, bringing together industry leaders to discuss the future of technology in the hospitality sector.
One of the key topics of discussion was the growing importance of edge computing in AI adoption. Edge computing, which allows for fast processing speeds, is being embraced by restaurants near me as a way to process data locally and without an internet connection. This can lead to improved efficiency and customer service.
For instance, Tom's Watch Bar in Orlando utilizes an AI forecasting model to predict the expected busyness of its locations based on sports schedules. During peak periods, the restaurant near me takes measures to ensure customer satisfaction, such as having multiple bars, handheld devices, and a KDS system to process orders accurately.
Another trend emerging in the industry is the role of technology in creating unique experiences for customers. Portillo's, a popular restaurant chain, recently launched a secret menu just for Perks members, its loyalty program. The Perks program, which lives in an Apple or Google digital wallet, allows guests to earn badges for exclusive rewards.
However, the integration of technology is not without its challenges. Both Wendy's and Erik Knott, CEO of Tiki Tacos, have spoken about the emotional attachment consumers have towards restaurants, making dynamic pricing a sensitive issue. Tom Kincaid, a retail specialist with Google, suggested rebranding dynamic pricing as 'dynamic menus' to help alleviate these concerns.
The conference also highlighted the importance of maintaining the human touch in hospitality operations. Some restaurants, like The Habit Burger Grill, are testing the role of employees as concierges to bring more hospitality into their operations.
Despite the challenges, many restaurant operators are embracing technology to drive frequency and improve the customer experience. Zerrick Pearson, CIO of Five Guys Enterprises, stated that restaurant operators are more forward-thinking and less concerned about integration, focusing instead on the end goal.
Portillo's, for example, engages with its Perks members using RCS messaging, a more interactive form of texting, to send personalized content and offers. The restaurant chain launched its loyalty program in March and has since grown to have about 2 million members.
In the coming year, FSTEC will move back to its original location in Dallas, continuing the conversation about AI, technology's role in the customer journey, and the importance of maintaining the human touch in hospitality operations.
Meanwhile, other restaurants, like The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill, are treating third-party app users as a distinct set of customers, recognizing the need to cater to this growing demographic. However, converting these users directly has not been as successful as expected for some restaurants near me.
Despite these challenges, it's clear that technology is playing an increasingly important role in the restaurant industry, transforming the way businesses operate and interact with their customers.
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