The three essential Go-To-Market strategies for restaurant tech companies by Paul Molinari of Popcorn GTM. The strategies include: defining your Ideal Customer Profile (ICP) to focus your efforts on specific restaurant segments; mastering the sales process through clear lead qualification and team alignment; and leveraging strategic partnerships with POS systems and complementary services to expand reach and enhance product value. These strategies are critical for restaurant tech vendors to succeed in the increasingly competitive and rapidly evolving hospitality technology landscape.

~This episode is sponsored by: Gusto → https://gusto.pxf.io/PBN ~
#1 rated HR platform for payroll, benefits, and more
With 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 #GTMStrategy #HospitalityInnovation
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

With nearly 20% of America's food imported, tariffs up to 145% on Chinese goods are driving up costs for essential ingredients. Consumer pushback is rising as restaurant prices increase, with over half of Americans spending less on dining out. Large chains can absorb some costs, while independent restaurants struggle with narrower margins. Despite some relief from lower oil prices and slowing inflation, economists warn that tariffs could reverse progress, and the Fed is unlikely to cut interest rates this year due to stagflation concerns. Restaurants must balance price adjustments with customer retention strategies to navigate these challenging economic conditions.

~This episode is sponsored by: Gusto → https://gusto.pxf.io/PBN ~
#1 rated HR platform for payroll, benefits, and more
With Gusto’s easy-to-use platform, you can empower your people and push your business forward. See why over 400,000 businesses choose Gusto.

RestaurantEconomics #TariffImpact #DiningIndustry2025
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 insightful episode of The Restaurant Report, host Paul Barron and Sam Oches from Informa's Restaurant & Food Group analyze the critical challenges and opportunities facing the restaurant industry in 2025. They dive into corporate layoffs affecting major brands, the impact of Trump's tariffs on supply chains, tech integration challenges, and the evolving role of third-party delivery. The conversation balances concerns about declining margins and consumer price sensitivity with optimism about hospitality's importance and potential growth opportunities later in the year, providing restaurant professionals with valuable perspective on navigating the current market landscape.

RestaurantIndustry #FoodServiceTrends #RestaurantTechnology
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 eye-opening episode of The Restaurant Report, Abhinav Kapur, founder and CEO of Bikky, reveals how AI and data analytics are reshaping the restaurant industry. From voice ordering systems to customer retention strategies, Kapur shares insights gained from analyzing 350 million guest profiles across major brands like Bojangles and Dave's Hot Chicken. Learn why 80% of guests never return after their first visit, how the remaining 20% drive up to 75% of revenue, and why automation concepts like Sweetgreen's Infinite Kitchen are delivering dramatically improved profit margins. Whether you're running a QSR, fast casual, or traditional restaurant, this conversation offers practical guidance on using data to thrive in today's challenging market.

~This episode is sponsored by: Gusto → https://gusto.pxf.io/PBN
#1 rated HR platform for payroll, benefits, and more
With 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 #AIinHospitality #CustomerRetention
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 a recent Restaurant Report podcast episode, Bloomberg Intelligence analyst Michael Halen shared insights on restaurant industry trends, highlighting AI integration at companies like Chipotle, management changes at major chains, and Chili's remarkable 31.4% same-store sales growth under Kevin Hochman's leadership. Halen discussed Shake Shack's new kitchen innovation lab aimed at improving drive-thru efficiency, the healthy eating category's continued growth driven by Gen Z preferences, and predicted increased deal-making activity for 2025 as restaurant operations focus on fundamentals first, followed by effective marketing strategies.

~This episode is sponsored by: Gusto → https://gusto.pxf.io/PBN
#1 rated HR platform for payroll, benefits, and more
With Gusto’s easy-to-use platform, you can empower your people and push your business forward. 

RestaurantInnovation #FoodServiceTrends #RestaurantTech

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

McDonald's recent partnership with Doodles marks a significant leap into Web3 and culture marketing for the fast-food giant. This collaboration, launching on November 18, 2024, introduces a holiday-themed campaign called "GM Spread Joy" that blends physical and digital experiences12.
The campaign features:

• Limited-edition McCafé cups with custom Doodles artwork
• A digital "pack-ripping" experience through the McDonald's app
• Unlockable digital wearables and animated content

This partnership demonstrates how restaurant brands can leverage Web3 technologies for loyalty programs and cultural engagement. By collaborating with Doodles, a Web3 entertainment brand that evolved from an NFT project, McDonald's is tapping into a younger, tech-savvy audience

#RestaurantInnovation #DigitalMarketing #BrandEngagement


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📈 Learn More ~  Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry. https://www.savor.fm/restaurant-power-index

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The restaurant industry faces a complex future in 2025, grappling with inflation, changing consumer behaviors, and technological advancements. Successful chains are focusing on providing everyday value rather than relying on discounts. Fast casual restaurants are experiencing challenges due to oversaturation and lack of drive-thrus. Technology investments, including kitchen automation and drone deliveries, are becoming crucial for efficiency. Changing consumer spending habits, particularly among low-income individuals, are impacting sales. While easier year-over-year comparisons may provide some relief, ongoing economic pressures continue to shape the industry landscape. Restaurants that can adapt to changing preferences, leverage technology, and offer consistent value are likely to outperform in this evolving market.

#RestaurantIndustry2025 #TechDrivenDining #AdaptToThrive

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📈 Learn More ~  Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry. https://www.savor.fm/restaurant-power-index

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The National Restaurant Association (NRA) is addressing the food service industry's workforce shortage by focusing on attracting, training, and retaining employees. To combat the decline in young workers, the NRA has launched initiatives like "Restaurants Work" and expanded educational programs. The organization is also prioritizing apprenticeship programs and structured career paths to increase job satisfaction and retention. Additionally, the NRA is working to make the industry more inclusive and accessible to all, while emphasizing the importance of embracing technology to stay competitive.

#NRAWorkforceInitiative #FutureOfFoodService #RestaurantCareerPaths


🫶 Subscribe NOW - Unlock a world of knowledge, innovation, and growth from the largest podcast network in food service! - https://savorfm.substack.com/

📈 Learn More ~  Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry. https://www.savor.fm/restaurant-power-index

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Fred LeFranc, founder of Results Through Strategy, shared insights on restaurant industry leadership, technology, and trends during a Prosper Forum podcast. He emphasized the importance of organizational assessments, adaptability in a dynamic business environment, and using technology to enhance existing strengths. LeFranc praised brands like Chick-fil-A and First Watch for effective tech integration, highlighted the value of data analytics, and discussed successful strategies from brands like Cava and Chili's. He stressed the importance of creating emotional connections with guests and cautioned against operational decisions that might hinder excellent service delivery.

RestaurantInnovation #HospitalityLeadership #DiningExperience
🫶 Subscribe NOW - Unlock a world of knowledge, innovation, and growth from the largest podcast network in food service! - https://savorfm.substack.com/

📈 Learn More ~  Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry. https://www.savor.fm/restaurant-power-index

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Anand Gala, managing partner of Galla Investments, shared his approach to investing in the restaurant industry during the Prosper Forum event. With a background in franchising and operations, Gala focuses on "adolescent franchisors" - brands with 25 to 250 units that have potential for growth. He emphasizes the importance of finding the right partners, valuing leadership qualities like adaptability, and focusing on fundamental operational improvements. Gala cautions against the overwhelming "tsunami of technology" in the industry, advocating for mastering basics like labor scheduling and inventory management before adopting advanced solutions. His investment strategy prioritizes long-term value creation over rapid growth, aiming to build sustainable, profitable businesses through operational excellence and strategic partnerships.

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The conversation between Paul Barron and Emily Williams Knight at the Prosper Forum highlights several critical challenges facing the restaurant industry while pointing to growth and innovation opportunities. Here's an overview of the current landscape, including recent trends and projections:
Declining Sales and Economic Pressures

Restaurant sales have been under pressure due to various factors:
Inflation has increased menu prices, causing some consumers to cut back on dining out.
Economic uncertainty has made diners more cautious with discretionary spending.
Some analysts project these headwinds could persist into 2025, creating a prolonged period of financial strain for many establishments.

📈 Learn More ~  Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry. https://www.savor.fm/restaurant-power-index

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The restaurant industry is facing significant challenges in 2024, with indicators pointing to a potential downturn. Wall Street's recent struggles, including a tech selloff, may impact high-net-worth individuals' spending on dining out. Several fast-casual chains are experiencing difficulties, exemplified by One Table Restaurant Brands' bankruptcy filing and MOD Pizza's acquisition to avoid bankruptcy. While Chipotle reported growth, consumer sentiment data suggests potential future declines. Darden Restaurants is consolidating its position through strategic acquisitions. Alcohol sales are declining globally, potentially affecting restaurant profitability. Interestingly, convenience stores are outperforming quick-service restaurants in customer loyalty retention. These trends suggest a shifting landscape in the food service industry, with restaurants needing to adapt their strategies to maintain profitability and customer loyalty in an increasingly competitive and economically challenging market.

RestaurantApocalypse #DiningDilemma2024 #FastCasualFallout #LoyaltyWars #ConvenienceStoreRevolution
📈 Learn More ~  Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry. https://www.savor.fm/restaurant-power-index

🫶 Subscribe NOW - Unlock a world of knowledge, innovation, and growth from the largest podcast network in food service! - https://www.savor.fm/

In a dynamic podcast hosted by Paul Barron, leadership experts David Jobe and Hattie Hill from the Prosper Forum delve into the critical tactics needed to navigate the future of the food service and hospitality industries. Their discussion centers on adaptive leadership, hybrid work optimization, and data-informed decision-making, all within the framework of fostering diversity and purposeful outcomes.

#foodserviceindustry #restaurantbusiness #leadership

📈 Learn More ~ Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry. https://www.savor.fm/restaurant-power-index

🫶 Subscribe NOW - Unlock a world of knowledge, innovation, and growth from the largest podcast network in foodservice! - https://www.savor.fm/

Rock N' Roll Sushi is shaking up the restaurant franchising world with its innovative and unique concept - a rock-themed sushi restaurant chain. Founded on a love for rock music and sushi, it offers an approachable sushi experience that appeals to a broad audience.
What sets Rock N' Roll Sushi apart is its ability to make sushi accessible to those who may have found it intimidating or unapproachable in the past. By creating a fun, casual atmosphere and using technology to simplify the sushi-making process, the brand has successfully introduced sushi to Middle America.

franchiseexpansion #restaurantbusiness #franchise #franchiseavaliable
📈 Learn More ~ https://www.revernetworks.com/restaurant-power-index
Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry.

🫶 Subscribe NOW - Unlock a world of knowledge, innovation, and growth from the largest podcast network in foodservice! - https://www.savor.fm/

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. Companies like PAR, focused on innovative industry-specific POS solutions, are well-positioned to capitalize as the industry adapts to the next generation's expectations.

📈 Learn More ~ https://www.revernetworks.com/restaurant-power-index
Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry.

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 culinary concepts are showcasing significant growth and resilience.The episode starts with a discussion on Wonder Food Hall, a unique concept that recently raised an impressive $700 million in funding. Wonder Food Hall stands out by bringing together a diverse array of local and regional culinary offerings under one roof, creating a one-of-a-kind dining experience for patrons. Barron and Hom explore the factors contributing to Wonder Food Hall's success and its potential impact on the broader food hall landscape.


Next, the hosts shift their attention to Avalon Food Hall, a relatively new concept in Alpharetta, Georgia. Avalon Food Hall houses a collection of local and regional restaurants, bakeries, and culinary businesses, providing a vibrant and communal dining experience. Barron and Hom analyze the key elements that set Avalon Food Hall apart and discuss how it caters to consumers' evolving preferences, seeking unique and authentic culinary experiences.In the final segment, the podcast deeply delves into BFF Burgers, a startup brand in Shoma Bazaar. Based on their expert observations, Barron and Hom conduct a comprehensive AI outline and project analysis. They examine BFF Burgers' business model, menu offerings, and growth potential, providing valuable insights for aspiring restaurateurs and industry professionals.

Throughout the episode, Barron and Hom offer expert commentary on the evolution of food halls and the rise of innovative culinary concepts. They discuss how these trends are shaping the restaurant industry and provide valuable insights into emerging brands' strategies to thrive in the face of economic challenges.Our experts have created a new feature in the podcast - The Drawing Board- offering ideas and strategies for rising star brands to develop steps to success.





Executive Summary



BFF Burgers is a lifestyle burger brand based in Miami, Florida, that has successfully connected with an emerging demographic and young families. With its excellent graphic and design style, strong social media presence, and high-quality products, BFF Burgers has achieved a consumer sentiment score of 82.8 out of 100, comparable to the top 25 Fast-Casual restaurant brands. Through targeted strategies, the company seeks to expand its customer base, develop a stronger lifestyle connection, increase average check size, and enhance its brand vision.Market Analysis The fast-casual burger market in Miami is highly competitive, but BFF Burgers has successfully carved out a niche by appealing to Latin females and young families. The company's strong social media presence and influencer partnerships have been critical to its success. However, expanding the customer base is possible by attracting more male customers and developing a stronger...

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 the role of loyalty programs in addressing these challenges. They shed light on how Gen Z's definition of dining out fundamentally differs from previous generations and how this shift reshapes the industry's customer engagement approach.

Throughout the episode, Zach shares valuable insights and strategies for operators seeking to adapt to this changing consumer landscape. He discusses the power of personalization, the importance of seamless digital experiences, and the potential of data-driven loyalty programs to foster long-lasting relationships with Gen Z diners.Key Takeaways:

• Understanding Gen Z's unique dining preferences and behaviors
• The declining consumer sentiment towards dining out and its impact on the industry
• How loyalty programs can be leveraged to attract and retain Gen Z customers
• Best practices for creating personalized and engaging loyalty experiences
• The role of technology and data in driving successful loyalty programs

Whether you're a restaurant owner, operator, or simply interested in the future of the dining industry, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable strategies to navigate the changing consumer landscape and win over the next generation of diners.

Join Paul Barron and Zach Goldstein as they delve into the future of restaurant loyalty programs and explore how operators can adapt to the evolving demands of Gen Z consumers.

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 of AI: An in-depth analysis of the current state of AI technology and its potential trajectory. They explore emerging trends, potential breakthroughs, and the ethical considerations of increasingly autonomous systems. The conversation illuminates how AI's rapid advancement will continue to alter the landscape of various industries, emphasizing adaptability and innovation.
Adoption Process in the Restaurant Business: A comprehensive breakdown of how restaurants can integrate AI-driven solutions like ConverseNow's technology. They discuss the step-by-step process for onboarding, the challenges restaurants face during this digital transformation, and the tangible benefits such as improved efficiency, personalized customer experiences, and increased profitability. The dialogue also covers strategies for overcoming resistance to technological adoption within traditional business models.

Building In-House Large Language Models: The dialogue critically examines why many enterprises or brands choose not to develop their large language models, despite the apparent advantages. They explore the complexities, costs, and expertise required to build and maintain these systems. The conversation highlights the importance of partnerships with specialized AI companies that offer scalable, customizable, and cost-effective solutions, enabling businesses to leverage the power of AI without the need for in-house development.

This episode offers a rare glimpse into the future of AI in service industries, providing valuable insights for entrepreneurs, business leaders, and anyone interested in the intersection of technology, innovation, and customer service. Join us to uncover the practicalities and possibilities of AI, through the experiences of two industry pioneers leading the charge towards a more efficient, personalized, and tech-driven future.
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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 Smokey Bones

Smokey Bones is a growing casual dining brand known for its delicious barbecue and creative menues. At the helm of this culinary adventure is Hal Lawlor, a seasoned professional with years of experience in the restaurant industry. Join us as we discuss:

1. The factors driving the renewed interest in casual dining include changes in consumer behavior, the rise of the foodie culture, and the desire for unique dining experiences.
2. Social media and online reviews shape consumer preferences and how restaurants can leverage these platforms to attract more customers.
3. The importance of menu innovation and the role of seasonal and local ingredients in attracting and retaining customers.
4. The future of casual dining trends and what to expect in the coming years, including the influence of technology and the growing demand for personalized dining experiences.

Please tune in to our podcast as we chat with industry experts, restaurant owners, and food enthusiasts to uncover the latest casual dining trends and what they mean for the hospitality industry. Don't miss out on this informative and engaging discussion!

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 affect the restaurant industry in ways we have not seen in the past two decades.

Credit Card Competition Act: Addressing Swipe Fee Challenges
One of the major topics discussed in the podcast is the Credit Card Competition Act. Kennedy emphasizes how credit card swipe fees often rank as the third highest cost for restaurants, following food and labor expenses. The proposed act seeks to introduce greater competition among banks by requiring the issuance of new cards to support at least two processing networks. This move aims to alleviate the financial burden imposed by swipe fees on restaurant businesses.

NLRB 2023 Joint Employer Final Rule: Implications for Franchise Operators
Kennedy delves into the implications of the NLRB's 2023 Joint Employer Final Rule, which broadens the circumstances defining joint employer status under the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA). This rule change significantly increases liability risks for operators engaged in franchisor-franchisee relationships or independent contracts for onsite services. Kennedy highlights the Association's support for Congressional actions aimed at overturning this rule to protect operators' interests.

FTC "Junk Fees" Proposal: Impact on Restaurant Pricing and Transparency
The discussion extends to the Federal Trade Commission's proposed rule on "unfair or deceptive fees," targeting industries including restaurants. Kennedy outlines the potential consequences of the proposed rule, which could compel restaurants to eliminate various surcharges and adopt a pricing model reflecting total costs per item. This shift not only imposes substantial compliance costs but also diminishes customer transparency and affects the wages of tipped employees.

Preserving the Tip Credit: Clarifying Misconceptions
Kennedy addresses misconceptions surrounding the tip credit and labor groups' efforts to eliminate it. Contrary to claims of subminimum wages, Kennedy explains that tipped workers already earn at least the minimum wage, with tips supplementing their earnings. Preserving the tip credit is crucial for maintaining the current wage structure and ensuring fair compensation for tipped employees across the industry.

Listen to the entire Episode and Subscribe!
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