Tech on the Rise
Michael Sien, Director, Enterprise Business Development at Qu, observed a growing focus on restaurant technology. “We’re seeing more innovative, niche companies at shows like NRA than ever before, and that’s a great sign for the future of the industry,” he said.
Niko Papademetriou, Co-Founder & SVP, Sales & Business Development at Qu, noted a surge in back-of-house innovation: “A lot of startups are homing in on the back-of-house, especially inventory and supply chain management. It’s refreshing to see that area finally getting the innovation attention it deserves.”
Solving the Traffic Problem
“Restaurants’ biggest problem—or the biggest problem they’re trying to solve this year—is more traffic,” said Jace Kovacevich, Co-Founder of Dish.io, citing research from the National Restaurant Association.
Just a few years ago, labor and operations were top-of-mind, but now, he said, the most pressing question is: “How do I get more people through the door?”
Dish.io, exhibiting in the South Hall, showcased its marketing platform that uses QR codes to capture guest information, allowing brands to retarget those guests and drive return visits. Kovacevich emphasized that mobile visibility is critical:
“If restaurants aren’t showing up on guests’ phones where they’re spending 5 or 6+ hours a day, they risk being invisible.”
