Data Delicacies

Driving Social Impact With AI

Incentivio — Wed, 01 Jan 2025 08:00:00 -0500

On this episode of the Data Delicacies podcast, Ken Clay, co-founder and CEO of Foode, shared insights into how his platform is redefining the dining journey. As we step into a future where technology and hospitality converge, platforms like Foode exemplify the power of personalization and purpose. By prioritizing trust, creating immersive experiences, and addressing pressing global issues, Foode is setting a new standard for the industry. This transformation not only enhances dining but also empowers consumers to make a positive impact through their everyday choices.

Key Takeaways -

Redefining Personalization Through Trust - Foode’s approach prioritizes trust over subjective notions of "best." By utilizing advanced AI, the platform connects users with dining experiences tailored to their preferences and restrictions. This commitment to personalization ensures that recommendations feel meaningful and reliable, enhancing user satisfaction.
Dining as a Holistic Experience - Modern diners seek more than just good food; they crave memorable experiences. Foode integrates every aspect of the dining journey, from planning and booking to personalized in-venue interactions. This seamless approach transforms ordinary meals into unique, catered events that resonate with the individual.
Driving Social Impact Through Dining - Foode incorporates a social responsibility initiative by donating a portion of every transaction to local food security programs. This model empowers diners to contribute to their communities effortlessly while enjoying their meals. It exemplifies how businesses can combine innovation with meaningful action to address critical global challenges.

Episode Links:

ABOUT KEN CLAY:

Ken Clay is a visionary entrepreneur and 2x tech founder with a successful recent exit from Chicago. Currently, he serves as the CEO and co-founder of Foode, an AI-enabled fintech platform dedicated to combating food waste and food insecurity. Foode's mission is to empower users to effortlessly impact these global crises by connecting them to trusted dining experiences and donating a portion of each bill to local food banks.

Ken's innovative leadership at Foode integrates all dining needs into a seamless, personalized journey powered by advanced AI, allowing users to enjoy unique dining experiences while contributing to social good. His prior ventures and successful exit have provided him with the expertise and insight to drive Foode's mission forward.

Ken's passion for leveraging technology for societal benefit and his deep understanding of the hospitality and restaurant industry position him as a thought leader and influencer in the space. He looks forward to contributing to discussions at the Prosper Forum that shape the future of the industry.

ABOUT FOODE:

Foode is transforming the dining landscape through an AI-driven fintech platform that empowers consumers to effortlessly make a social impact. By integrating reservations, delivery, and payments into a single, seamless experience, Foode not only simplifies dining but also addresses critical global challenges like food waste and food insecurity. Our proprietary AI concierge, “E,” provides personalized restaurant recommendations, driving user loyalty and engagement, while our unique business model ensures that a portion of each transaction goes directly to local food initiatives. Providing an extra incentive for WHY users will choose to use Foode.

ABOUT DATA DELICACIES—

Data Delicacies is a weekly podcast that dives deep into the world of technology and data as it pertains to restaurants. Host Arun Kumar interviews some of the best and brightest in the industry about all things hospitality tech, artificial intelligence, and machine learning.

Produced by Incentivio & Cali BBQ Media

Navigating the Future of Delivery Logistics with Andrew Nakkache of FIRST

Incentivio — Wed, 18 Dec 2024 08:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Data Delicacies, host Arun Kumar chats with Andrew Nakkache, Co-Founder and CEO of FIRST, a delivery platform redefining logistics for restaurant brands, delivery fleets, and ordering services. The discussion dives into how consumer expectations for delivery speed, efficiency, and experience have skyrocketed in recent years and how businesses can adapt to meet these demands. Andrew shares insights on the evolution of food delivery, the challenges in the current market, and the solutions FIRST offers to optimize operations and keep customers satisfied. Whether you're a restaurant operator or a delivery service, this conversation offers actionable strategies to thrive in a competitive landscape.

Key Takeaways -

Scaling and Pivoting for Growth - Andrew shares how FIRST reached a milestone of 50,000 deliveries a month and $3 million in revenue but struggled to find a scalable path. The turning point came when major platforms like Uber and DoorDash opened their delivery APIs, allowing FIRST to pivot. By leveraging existing technology and integrating third-party delivery services, FIRST could offer a similar value proposition without handling deliveries directly, setting the stage for scalable growth.
Meeting Nationwide Demand - Andrew discusses the convergence of delivery and shipping in the restaurant industry, with companies like Giordano’s offering frozen pizzas for shipping. He emphasizes that restaurants with strong brand presence can meet nationwide demand by utilizing technology to simplify both delivery and shipping processes. By integrating these systems into a unified platform, technology allows restaurants to manage all customer orders efficiently, ensuring a seamless experience, whether it's delivery or shipping.
Leaning Into the Data - Andrew reflects on how, historically, restaurant operators have been too focused on the day-to-day operations to prioritize data. However, there's a shift occurring, as more restaurants are starting to value data to improve decision-making. He highlights a key challenge with third-party marketplaces—restaurants don’t have access to customer data. Andrew points out the significance of knowing who your customers are and how the lack of this data can prevent restaurants from making informed business decisions.

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ABOUT ANDREW NAKKACHE -

Andrew is the Co-Founder & CEO of FIRST, the delivery platform built for Restaurant Brands, Delivery Fleets, and Ordering Services to give businesses what they need to scale sales, reduce costs, take control over their delivery experience.

Previously, Andrew started Habitat Logistics, where him and his team offered Delivery-as-a-Service to restaurants, and they fulfilled over 1M orders with a fleet of 500 drivers serving nearly 1000 restaurants.

FIRST is backed by the same investors who backed Uber, DoorDash, and Instacart, and powers deliveries for thousands of restaurants to fulfill their end-diners appetite for both on-demand delivery and catering.

ABOUT DATA DELICACIES—

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The BEST OF Data Delicacies!

Incentivio — Wed, 11 Dec 2024 08:00:00 -0500

In this special episode of Data Delicacies, host Arun Kumar brings you some of the most interesting and compelling excepts from recent episodes of the show! Dive into the future of the restaurant industry with four visionary leaders who are shaping the way we think about technology, consumer experience, and market strategy:

Jason Valentine, Chief Strategy Officer - Botrista: Shares the game-changing role of automation in scaling operations and the best practices for testing new models.

Mateen Habib, Head of Product - GoTab, Inc.: Explores the evolution of experiential dining and the rising expectations of today’s consumers.

Patrick Bobrukiewicz, Vice President of Business Development - Nigel: Redefines the POS landscape by advocating for tailored solutions that empower operators to choose what works best for their unique business needs.

Justin Ulrich VP of Marketing - eVocalize: Highlights the untapped potential of smaller markets and the critical need for targeted marketing strategies in these areas.

Whether you're an industry veteran or just starting your journey in hospitality, this episode is packed with insights to help you adapt and thrive in an ever-changing landscape.

ABOUT JASON VALENTINE

Chief Strategy Officer Jason Valentine brings more than 25 years of experience in the restaurant industry, including leadership on both Franchisee and Franchisor sides. Most recently, he was President of the national brand Zoup! Eatery and completed a successful acquisition plan. Valentine has been listed on Restaurant Business News' Power 20 list and has been a featured speaker at the Restaurant Leadership Conference and the Fast Casual Executive Summit.

ABOUT MATEEN HABIB

Mateen Habib has a diverse work experience spanning over a decade. Their most recent role is as the Head of Product at GoTab, Inc., where they started in March 2022. Prior to that, they served as a Product Manager from October 2021 to March 2022 at the same company. Before joining GoTab, Inc., Mateen worked as an Account Growth Specialist from August 2020 to October 2021.

Earlier in their career, Mateen held the position of Director of Operations at Jupiter, Drake's Brewing, and Triple Rock Brewing from February 2010 to October 2020. In 2015, they also served as a Co-Owner at Arthur Mac's Tap & Snack from November 2015 to September 2018.

Mateen Habib earned a Bachelor's degree in Business/Managerial Economics from the University of California, Santa Cruz. Mateen attended the university from 2005 to 2009.

ABOUT PATRICK BOBRUKIEWICZ

As Vice President of Business Development at Nigel, Patrick is a strategic leader, exceptional at driving results, achieving profitable growth, and delivering industry-leading technology solutions. He has broad experience in both the restaurant and IT industries ranging from operations, systems management, project management, development and business development.

ABOUT JUSTIN ULRICH

As VP of Marketing at Evocalize, Justin Ulrich is known for his visionary approach and knack for leading innovative go-to-market strategies that drive real results. With a career spanning both B2B and B2C sectors, Justin has consistently delivered impactful marketing strategies across diverse industries, blending creativity with strategic insights to keep brands top-of-mind with target audiences and partners. His expertise spans brand marketing, partner and channel marketing, and demand generation, enabling him to bring unmatched value to every organization he serves. Justin is dedicated not only to achieving business goals but also to fostering a fun, engaging work environment.

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Reclaiming Restaurant Tech: Freemium Models, APIs, and Seamless Guest Experiences

Incentivio — Wed, 04 Dec 2024 08:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Data Delicacies, host Arun Kumar sits down with Techtris CEO/Co-Founder Jonathan Fetter to explore how technology is reshaping the hospitality industry. Jonathan shares insights on how Techtris leverages data analytics and artificial intelligence to enhance customer engagement and streamline operations. They discuss the importance of integrating technology to personalize guest experiences, improve staff efficiency, and drive revenue growth. Jonathan also highlights real-world success stories and the challenges businesses face when adopting new tools. This episode is a must-listen for hospitality professionals seeking to stay at the forefront of technological innovation.

Key Takeaways -

From Freemium to Freedom - Freemium models from platforms like DoorDash and Toast have introduced many restaurant owners to apps for the first time, some of whom were previously hesitant. However, limitations such as restricted customization and lack of control over the brand experience are becoming evident. Jonathan Fetterman suggests this will lead to a shift toward custom solutions that offer greater flexibility and ownership, as restaurant operators look for ways to stand out amid app fatigue and market saturation.
Taking Back Control of the Guest Ordering Experience - Consumer expectations, shaped by personalized platforms like Amazon and Netflix, are setting a high bar for restaurant ordering experiences. Jonathan Fetterman highlights the need for agile, API-first solutions that allow restaurants to meet these demands with quick iterations and custom interfaces. Traditional tech providers often struggle to keep up, but flexible systems give restaurant owners the tools to deliver seamless, future-ready experiences that match evolving guest preferences.
Creating Seamless Checkout Experiences - Fragmented restaurant apps, which rely on external links or iframes for retail or catering, can frustrate users with clunky interfaces and multiple logins. Jonathan Fetterman emphasizes the importance of a unified, native checkout experience powered by APIs. By integrating external tools like Shopify while maintaining a consistent interface, restaurants can provide a smooth, guest-friendly experience that feels truly custom without sacrificing functionality.

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ABOUT JONATHAN FETTER

Jonathan is a seasoned hospitality leader and the CEO/Co-Founder of Techtris, a company delivering custom digital ordering solutions for restaurants. With over 15 years in restaurant operations and 5 years in hospitality technology, he brings a unique blend of operational expertise and technological innovation to the industry.

Previously, Jonathan served as VP of Operations at Planaday, a hotel tech startup. Prior to that, he held a key role at Bbot, where he drove significant sales performance and product innovation, contributing to the company's successful $15M Series A and subsequent acquisition by DoorDash. His deep understanding of restaurant operations, combined with expertise in sales, product development, and design, enables him to bridge the gap between technological solutions and real-world operational needs.

Jonathan holds a BS in Biological and Agricultural Engineering from the University of Florida.

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Navigating Hospitality's Future: Industry Trends and Insights with Jason Valentine

Incentivio — Wed, 27 Nov 2024 08:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Data Delicacies, host Arun Kumar sits down with Jason Valentine, Strategy Officer at Botrista, to explore the latest trends reshaping hospitality and technology. With years of experience and a finger on the pulse of the industry, Jason shares insights from his extensive travels and offers a front-row seat to the transformative changes impacting multiple sectors. Whether you're in hospitality, tech, or just love learning about innovation, this episode delivers an engaging and insightful conversation you won't want to miss.

Key Takeaways -

The Efficency of Automation - Botrista’s drinkbot revolutionizes beverage operations by offering a wide variety of drinks, like smoothies, cocktails, and Boba tea, all within just 4 ½ square feet. It replaces 12 traditional machines, allowing restaurants to expand their offerings without additional space or labor. This automation boosts efficiency, ensures consistency, and drives sales growth for partner brands.
The Bar for Automation and Robotics - The success of any automation depends on employee acceptance and usability. Jason’s visits to multiple locations showed that Botrista’s drinkbot excels in ease of use and quality, earning positive feedback from staff. Automation that prioritizes user satisfaction is essential for long-term adoption and scalability.
Making Automation at Scale - Botrista refined its drinkbot by balancing automation with practical scalability, adding a simple manual step to overcome early challenges. This adjustment kept the technology efficient and economically viable for widespread adoption. Successful automation must combine innovation with operational feasibility to scale effectively.

Episode Links

ABOUT JASON VALENTINE

ABOUT DATA DELICACIES—

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How Experiential Dining and Tech Are Shaping the Future of Restaurants with Mateen Habib, VP of Growth at GoTab

Incentivio — Wed, 20 Nov 2024 08:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Data Delicacies, host Arun Kumar sits down with Mateen Habib, VP of Growth at GoTab, to explore the future of dining experiences. From the popularity of food halls to the growing importance of hybrid service models, they dive deep into how the industry is adapting to post-pandemic challenges like rising costs and labor shortages. Mateen explains why restaurants are embracing experiential components—like entertainment and immersive dining experiences—to stand out in competitive urban markets. Discover how technology, such as GoTab’s innovative solutions, is enabling operators to meet these changing demands while providing flexible, engaging options for guests.

Key Takeaways -

Experiential Dining is Essential - Mateen discusses how the restaurant industry, already struggling with rising costs and labor shortages since COVID-19, has increasingly shifted toward an "experiential" dining model. He notes that in today’s market, simply offering good food may not be enough, as many areas already have high-quality dining options. Instead, he suggests that successful restaurants now often incorporate unique elements—like entertainment, food halls, or other immersive experiences—to create a memorable atmosphere that draws guests in.
Hybrid Service Models Are The Future - Mateen highlights how the restaurant industry, hit hard by rising costs and labor shortages since COVID, is increasingly turning to experiential dining to attract guests. With the market now saturated with quality food options, restaurants need something extra to stand out—whether that’s entertainment, food halls, or even elevated fine dining experiences. This trend toward hybrid service models, which combine great food with unique, engaging experiences, has become almost essential for operators to create meaningful connections with guests and encourage repeat visits.
GoTab’s RFID Tech is Revolutionizing Guest Experience - Mateen explains how GoTab’s RFID and Easy Tab features streamline the guest experience while reducing labor needs. With Easy Tab, customers receive a text with their tab that allows them to order more, move freely, and pay directly from their phones, making it ideal for venues like food halls or entertainment spaces where guests are mobile. This flexibility not only enhances the guest experience but also enables operators to run large venues with minimal staff during off-peak times by activating only certain areas as needed, optimizing both space and labor efficiency.

Episode Links

ABOUT MATEEN HABIB -

Mateen Habib earned a Bachelor's degree in Business/Managerial Economics from the University of California, Santa Cruz. Mateen attended the university from 2005 to 2009.

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Revolutionizing Restaurant POS with Patrick Bobrukiewicz of Nigel

Incentivio — Wed, 13 Nov 2024 08:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Data Delicacies, Arun Kumar welcomes Patrick Bobrukiewicz to discuss innovations in restaurant point-of-sale (POS) technology. Patrick shares how Nigel was born from a partnership between an experienced restaurant operator and a POS technology provider. Together, they aim to meet the evolving needs of restaurants by addressing operational challenges and enhancing the customer experience. Patrick discusses how they approached upgrading legacy POS systems to provide more value, better sales tools, and improved features for staff, driven by insights into what truly benefits restaurant operations.

Key Takeaways -

The Unique Foundation of Nigel - Patrick shares how Nigel was founded through a unique partnership: a 40-year restaurant operator teamed up with a POS provider to directly tackle the practical, day-to-day issues restaurants face. This pairing set the foundation for Nigel’s mission to redefine POS systems, not just from a technical standpoint but as a collaborative tool that genuinely serves restaurant operators and staff.
Replacing Legacy Systems with Operational Value - Nigel’s approach is not to push restaurants into using all of its technology but to offer flexibility and adaptability. Unlike many POS providers that require users to adopt an entire tech stack, Nigel allows restaurants to control their own setup. By focusing on an open API architecture, Nigel’s POS is designed to integrate smoothly with other tools, making it easy for restaurants to adjust as the market changes without being locked into outdated systems or expensive upgrades.
Meeting Future Needs through Continuous Innovation - Patrick highlights how Nigel’s ongoing development is fueled by the real-life operational needs of its restaurant partners. He explains that Nigel continuously integrates feedback from the field to innovate and stay ahead of changing customer demands, ensuring that the technology evolves alongside the restaurant industry.

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ABOUT PATRICK BOBRUKIEWICZ -

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The Secret to Localized Marketing Success with Justin Ulrich of Evocalize

Incentivio — Wed, 06 Nov 2024 08:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Data Delicacies, hosted by Arun Kumar of Incentivio, Justin Ulrich, VP of Marketing at Evocalize, dives into the impact of digital marketing in hospitality, especially regarding localized, AI-driven campaigns. Justin shares insights on how platforms like Evocalize help automate and personalize marketing across various locations, boosting engagement and return on investment. He discusses how digital tools support local advertising strategies, specifically with examples like Taziki's Mediterranean Café using AI-powered ads to increase sales. Justin emphasizes the value of authentic customer experiences and setting marketing goals before scaling campaigns.

Key Takeaways -

Localized Digital Marketing Is Crucial for Businesses: Justin emphasizes that successful local marketing at scale is challenging but critical, especially for brands with numerous locations. Evocalize helps streamline this process, automating ads that resonate locally and saving companies time and resources.
Optimizing Ad Spend for Local Impact: Justin highlights that major digital platforms prioritize ad spend in high-density areas like New York or LA to maximize their revenue, often sidelining smaller markets that genuinely need targeted marketing. Justin advocates for technology solutions that allocate ad dollars more equitably, ensuring local ads reach the right audiences where they’re needed most, thereby boosting both individual franchise success and overall brand performance.
Maximizing AI for Content Efficiency: Justin explains how AI can dramatically boost content production and learning rates without sacrificing quality. By leveraging AI tools, Evocalize has grown their LinkedIn engagement from 25 to 35,000 interactions monthly.

Episode Links:

ABOUT JUSTIN ULRICH -

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Data-Driven Tools and Strategic Partnerships Are Cracking the Code to Restaurant Success with David Ganton

Incentivio — Wed, 30 Oct 2024 08:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Data Delicacies, hosted by Arun Kumar of Incentivio, David Ganton, VP of Partnerships at 7shifts, explores the intersection of data, technology, and hospitality. They delve into the challenges of labor management in the restaurant industry and discuss how data-driven solutions are helping businesses tackle these issues, especially in the post-pandemic world. David also shares insights on building successful partnerships and fostering growth in organizations, blending both art and science in his approach.

Key Takeaways -

Tackling High Turnover with Data-Driven Solutions: David Ganton, VP of Partnerships at 7shifts, highlights the costly impact of replacing workers and the operational strain it places on restaurant operators. To address this, 7shifts leverages data-driven tools that track key metrics, allowing managers to proactively identify potential issues, make informed staffing decisions, and ultimately improve retention by fostering a more engaged and satisfied workforce.
Learning and Leading Through Partnerships: David Ganton reflects on his journey in the world of business partnerships, emphasizing that success comes from embracing a mindset of constant learning. He shares insights into his passion for partnerships, particularly the importance of building high-performing teams and crafting innovative solutions to meet evolving customer needs.
Embracing Flexibility Amid Industry Consolidation: As the restaurant technology industry moves toward greater consolidation, David Ganton advocates for a more tailored strategy, focusing on specialized clusters of technology that cater to the specific needs of individual restaurants. This approach ensures flexibility, allowing operators to customize their tech stack without being tied to a single platform, ultimately providing more adaptable and effective solutions.

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ABOUT DAVID GANTON -

David Ganton has a diverse work experience spanning several industries. David is currently the Vice President of Partnerships at 7shifts, a team management software platform for restaurants. Prior to this, David served as the Head of Channel Partnerships at 1Password and held senior roles at Miovision, VMware, LG Electronics, Research In Motion, and Sandvine. Throughout their career, they have focused on building and managing partnerships, driving revenue growth, and developing channel programs.

David Ganton attended Wilfrid Laurier University from 2000 to 2004, where they completed an Honours Bachelor of Business Administration in the field of Business Administration. Furthermore, they also obtained a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) with a focus on Business/Managerial Economics at Wilfrid Laurier University, although the specific dates are not provided.

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The Key to Long-Term Success with SpotOn CPO Bryan Solar

Incentivio — Wed, 23 Oct 2024 08:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Data Delicacies, host Arun Kumar sits down with Bryan Solar, Chief Product Officer at Spot On, to discuss how data and technology are revolutionizing the restaurant industry. Bryan dives deep into how point of sale systems have evolved from basic cash registers to becoming the operational "brain" of modern restaurants. He shares insights on the power of data, how Spot On curates top-tier technology solutions to simplify operators’ lives, and why prioritizing value over ego is key to long-term success. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or a restaurant operator, this episode offers valuable takeaways on the future of restaurant tech.

Key Takeaways -

Data is the Next Oil: In today’s hospitality industry, data is becoming as valuable as oil, fueling the advancements in AI and reshaping how restaurants operate. The evolution of point-of-sale (POS) systems from basic cash registers to cloud-based platforms is transforming how restaurants manage their operations. With the influx of data, POS systems are becoming more proactive, offering real-time insights that help businesses not only track revenue but also optimize profitability. This shift is creating exciting opportunities for restaurant owners to leverage technology to enhance efficiency and increase profits.
Simplifying Technology Maximizes Efficiency: The restaurant tech industry has often overwhelmed operators with too many choices, forcing them to navigate complex integrations themselves. Bryan Solar emphasizes that more options aren’t always better, as it adds unnecessary burden to operators already managing day-to-day operations. At Spot On, the goal is to simplify technology adoption by curating and integrating only the best solutions, reducing the complexity and "diligence-pain" for restaurant owners. By offering a few well-vetted, reliable options, Spot On aims to make technology more accessible and effective, allowing operators to focus on running their business.
Low Ego, High Value: Bryan Solar stresses the importance of providing high-value solutions over pushing proprietary products simply because they’re developed in-house. At Spot On, the focus is on partnering with the best tools, whether first-party or third-party, like Ovation, which Solar praises for its quality. This "low ego, high value" approach ensures that operators receive the most effective solutions, keeping the end-user’s best interests in mind. By prioritizing what’s truly valuable for customers, Spot On aims to create better tech stacks and foster longer, more meaningful customer relationships.

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ABOUT BRYAN SOLAR —

Bryan is passionate about helping Restaurant owners and their staff live a better life through technology. As the Chief Product Officer at SpotOn, he leads a team on a mission to create innovative, user-friendly products that empower restaurants to grow their business, streamline their operations, and uplevel their customer experiences.

Before joining SpotOn, he was was the GM and Head of Restaurants at Square, where he oversaw the Product, Engineering, Data Science, Marketing and Creative teams. During his tenure the Restaurants division generated triple-digit revenue growth and was featured on the cover of the company's 10-Q report.

Prior to Square, he also held various product leadership roles at Google and served as CEO of multiple startups he helped launch.

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How Technology is Revolutionizing Allergy-Friendly Hospitality with Erica Anderman

Incentivio — Wed, 16 Oct 2024 08:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Data Delicacies, hosted by Arun Kumar of Incentivio, Erica Anderman, Co-Founder and Chief Revenue Officer of Foodini discussed the critical role that data plays in creating inclusive dining experiences for individuals with food allergies and dietary restrictions. As the prevalence of food allergies rises and restaurant menus become increasingly complex, Erica shares insights on how leveraging data can empower both consumers and restaurants to navigate these challenges effectively. Join us as we delve into the innovative solutions being developed to enhance transparency and accessibility in the dining industry, and learn how understanding customer needs can lead to better service and customer loyalty.

Key Takeaways:

Emerging Trends in Food Allergies: Food allergies are increasingly common, affecting at least one in three Americans, especially among younger generations. This trend forces restaurants to adapt their menus to accommodate a wider variety of dietary needs. Addressing these needs proactively can enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty, while simplifying how restaurants manage complex menu information.
Empowering Inclusive Dining: Foodini aims to provide people with dietary restrictions accurate information to make informed dining choices. However, most restaurants lack structured allergen data. By partnering with restaurants, Foodini extracts data from allergen matrices and inventory systems, using AI to provide detailed menu information. This helps both consumers make better choices and restaurants stay on top of dietary trends.
The Urgency for Technological Solutions: Improved transparency around food allergies is crucial as outdated methods, like word of mouth, are unreliable and uncomfortable for diners. Foodini leverages technology to provide accurate data, empowering individuals to make safe choices without awkward conversations. This push towards better information not only benefits diners but also helps restaurants cater to health-conscious customers.

Episode Links

Connect with Erica Anderman on LinkedIn
Visit Foodini Online
Connect with Foodini on LinkedIn
Follow Foodini on Facebook
Follow Foodini on Instagram
Follow Foodini on Tik Tok

ABOUT ERICA ANDERMAN

Erica Anderman is a leading expert in the hospitality industry, with over 15 years of experience in go-to-market and revenue strategy. She is also a founding team member at SinglePlatform (acq by Tripadvisor), Slice, and Seated, and lead the go-to-market teams at Odeko.

Erica's deep understanding of the hospitality industry and her experience building innovative solutions for restaurants and consumers make her a valuable asset to the Foodini team. She is passionate about using technology to solve real-world problems, and she is excited about the potential of Foodini to make dining out safer and more enjoyable for everyone.

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The Future of Voice AI Is Here…But Are We Ready For It? Feat. Nick Laidlaw

Incentivio — Wed, 09 Oct 2024 08:00:00 -0400

In this insightful episode of Data Delicacies, host Arun Kumar welcomes Nick Laidlaw, Chief Technology Officer of Voicify, for a deep dive into the evolving world of voice AI technology. With the restaurant industry at the forefront of voice AI adoption, Nick reveals how Voicify is blending AI innovation with structured controls to enhance customer interactions while maintaining precision and reliability. Join Arun and Nick as they discuss how voice AI is transforming industries, the unique challenges in deploying AI responsibly, and the future of conversational technologies. Tune in to hear how Voicify is leading the way in making voice AI smarter, safer, and more effective.

Key Takeaways

Working Together for Better Voice Technology: Voicify's approach combines human-designed rules with AI capabilities to manage restaurant menus effectively. Instead of letting AI work autonomously, Voicify uses generative AI selectively to resolve unclear situations, while keeping the rest tightly controlled. This balance ensures both accuracy and a better customer experience.
Restaurants Lead the Way in Voice AI Adoption: Restaurants are at the forefront of adopting voice AI to solve urgent challenges, unlike slower-moving sectors like healthcare. Nick explains how restaurants’ willingness to innovate has allowed them to push the boundaries of voice AI, turning the industry into a testing ground for these technologies.
Keeping Voice AI Focused and Reliable: Voicify keeps its AI models tightly focused on restaurant-specific scenarios, ensuring they remain helpful and accurate. By setting clear boundaries, the AI avoids trying to answer unrelated questions, reducing mistakes and maintaining trust with customers. This controlled approach keeps interactions on track and reliable.

Episode Links

Visit Voicify online

Connect with Nick Laidlaw on Linked In

Follow Nick Laidlaw on X

ABOUT NICK LAIDLAW—

Nick Laidlaw is co-founder and CTO for Voicify. He is part of a rare breed of technical executives who still knows how to work in the trenches while inspiring team members around him. He brings over twenty years of hands-on development and leadership experience in the marketing and advertising industry. Prior to Voicify, Nick was co-founder and CTO of Agency Oasis, a national digital advertising agency focused on web solutions. He helped to grow the agency over 16 years until it was acquired in 2016.

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Advancing AI and Loyalty Programs in Restaurant Marketing with Jeremy Theisen

Incentivio — Wed, 02 Oct 2024 08:00:00 -0400

In a recent episode of Data Delicacies, hosted by Arun Kumar of Incentivio, Jeremy Theisen, Chief Revenue Officer of Hang, provided insightful commentary on the evolving landscape of restaurant marketing, particularly the role of AI and loyalty programs in driving customer engagement. Theisen highlighted the challenges many brands face in utilizing the abundance of data available for customer retention, suggesting that AI could bridge the gap between tools and actionable insights, allowing brands to operate smarter with fewer resources.

Advancing AI in Restaurant Marketing

With an abundance of tools available to capture data for customer attraction and retention, it is important to assess the need for skilled personnel to effectively utilize that data. Many brands struggle with maximizing these tools, opting to assign the task of managing complex loyalty campaigns to junior marketers. Jeremy Theisen believes the key to growth lies in continually expanding the database, and integrating AI-driven tools could bridge the gap, providing smarter insights and strategies without the need for large, highly experienced teams.

Loyalty Programs as Revenue Generators

Jeremy Theisen says when loyalty programs are operating correctly, vendors should have transparent conversations with brands about the true costs of implementing loyalty programs, including the required personnel, and the potential outcomes. He notes that loyalty programs are often viewed in a negative light, limiting their potential, leaving untapped potential for loyalty programs to be leveraged as key revenue generators.

Emerging Tech Trends in Loyalty

Customer engagement plays an important role in the success of any business. As business evolves, Jeremy Theisen foresees revenue recapture tools as an incoming wave within the loyalty space that will help businesses understand where gaps may exist and who should be tapped within the company to address them.

ABOUT JEREMY THEISEN—

With over 20 years of experience in the restaurant industry, Jeremy Theisen has built a reputation for driving growth, optimizing revenue, and leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance operations. As the Chief Revenue Officer at Hang, Jeremy excels in creating dynamic, high-performing teams and fostering a vibrant company culture. His expertise in blending innovation with strategic leadership has helped numerous brands navigate the complexities of modern customer engagement and loyalty, positioning them for long-term success.

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Preston Junger: Balancing Technology, AI, and Customer Engagement

Incentivio — Wed, 25 Sep 2024 12:16:50 -0400

Preston Junger, co-founder of Nift Restaurants and Mile Square Labs, joined Arun Kumar on Data Delicacies, powered by Incentivio, to share his expertise on the changing dynamics of technology, customer relationships, and the growing influence of AI in the hospitality industry.

Evolving Customer Connection -The increased implementation of technology in business can decrease the customer connections created by human interaction. Preston Junger believes that technology is an addition to business, but operators must be intentional in taking advantage of opportunities for customer connection and maintaining that relationship.

AI in Hospitality - AI integration has become nearly a necessity for current businesses. However, even with the increased digital presence, AI is still in the beginning stages as companies and customers continue to see what works best and AI companies continue to evolve into new, more efficient tools. Preston Junger believes that eventually, AI tools with staying power will surface and become a staple in the hospitality industry.

The Value of First Party Data - Data collection is vital to business, but Preston Junger says that having the control of the first party data, or data collected directly from the customer, is extremely important. First party data, according to Junger, helps businesses manage, prioritize, and build on customer engagement.

#podcast #interview #technology

Episode Links

Connect with Preston Junger on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prestonjunger/

Visit Preston Junger Website: https://preston-junger.mystrikingly.com/?

Follow Preston Junger on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pjunger/?hl=en

Visit Nift Online: https://www.gonift.com/

Visit Miles Square Labs Online: https://milesquarelabs.com/

ABOUT PRESTON JUNGER

With over two decades of experience in scaling high-growth companies, Preston Junger is recognized for turning early-stage ventures into market leaders. His career highlights include launching Yelp's first NYC office, growing revenue from $2MM to $700MM annually, and expanding teams from 80 to 4,000 employees. Preston has also secured significant investments, including an $80MM Series C led by SoftBank in 2022.

Known for his strategic vision and innovation, Preston excels in enterprise sales, business development, and talent acquisition. He combines his expertise with a global perspective, making him a key player in international expansion and startup growth. Outside of work, Preston enjoys sports, travel, and staying up-to-date with emerging technologies.

Subscribe to Incentivio on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2Moho25817IAptekSS1NQJwx2AFLRBpW

Subscribe to Data Delicacies on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/29ExS0n9X3Z3FyK4HuSPKH?si=652ca096d5c74ec8

Subscribe to Data Delicacies onApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/data-delicacies/id1745336821

Visit Incentivio Website: https://www.incentivio.com/data-delicacies

Follow Incentivio on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/incentivio/

Troy Hooper: Building Community and Simplifying Tech Stacks

Incentivio — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 12:18:35 -0400

Serial entrepreneur Troy Hooper shared his insights on how businesses can improve customer acquisition, maximize the value of their tech tools, and better communicate their brand’s value on the latest episode of Data Delicacies hosted by Arun Kumar.

With a background in developing successful hospitality brands, Hooper brings a wealth of knowledge on creating lasting relationships with customers and running efficient operations.

Key Takeaways

Building Community is Customer Acquisition - Customer acquisition can be a difficult, expensive process for businesses. For Troy Hooper, the acquisition can come from building a community and a fan base to both create a customer pool and foster customer retention.
Simplification and Collaboration - With so many tech options in business space, it can become a task to figure out a tech stack that performs harmoniously. Luckily, Troy Hooper believes that things are trending in a direction of universal fits between tech options. However, according to Hooper, it is important to simplify the operation to maximize the value of the tools being used for their optimal purposes.
How to Explain What You Do - Ask more than you tell. Troy Hooper points to that as the foundational approach to finding solutions for customer issues. To Troy, it is important to find the person who is most capable of discussing the companies value and it is the company’s responsibility to listen and find solutions specific to customer needs.

Episode Links

ABOUT TROY HOOPER

Troy Hooper is a dynamic leader with a passion for connecting with those he mentors, inspiring them to surpass their own expectations. His career is guided by a commitment to balancing the needs of his team, the guest experience, and business profitability. Hooper's professional accomplishments span diverse sectors, from elevating properties to a Platinum Club of America 5-Star Rating and AAA 4-Diamond status, to managing complex hospitality operations including fine dining, casual venues, and large-scale events. He has overseen property remodels, implemented successful membership drives, and managed Caribbean-based operations. A lifelong water enthusiast, Troy is also a Master Dive Instructor and USCG Captain, often found photographing underwater marvels.

ABOUT DATA DELICACIES

Maximizing the Potential of Data in the Restaurant Industry with Brandon Overstreet of i40 Group

Incentivio — Wed, 11 Sep 2024 11:00:00 -0400

On a recent episode of Data Delicacies by Incentivio, hosted by Arun Kumar, i40 Group CMO Brandon Overstreet shared invaluable insights into the evolving role of data in the restaurant industry. Overstreet, known for his data-driven approach, discussed how restaurants can harness data not just to understand the present, but to predict the future and optimize growth strategies.

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Using Data to Predict the Future - Brandon Overstreet is an advocate for data and acquiring as much data as possible. Overstreet believes that data is not only a picture of what is happening in a restaurant, but a look into the future and a way to analyze costs.

Breaking through the Glass Ceiling of Stagnation - As the world changes and technology evolves, Brandon Overstreet believes that many database platforms are antiquated and insufficient for customer loyalty programs. To maintain growth, specifically financially, Overstreet believes companies need to work hard to find the next best company on the rise to work with.

Courageous Data Integration - Brandon Overstreet is a fan of the courageous pursuit of data. Then, having restaurants integrate that data into their business. However, Overstreet says it's best to use partners within the data cycle, and not try to go at it alone due to the amount of data there is to measure

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Episode Links:

ABOUT BRANDON OVERSTREET

Brandon Overstreet is an accomplished Chief Marketing Officer and Brand Strategist with over two decades of experience driving growth and innovation across a wide range of industries. He excels in crafting and implementing comprehensive marketing plans that boost brand visibility, engage consumers, and build loyal customer bases, all contributing to strong business results. His expertise in understanding consumer behavior, technology, and market dynamics allows him to design campaigns that connect with key audiences. Overstreet has a strong track record of transforming both static and emerging marketing departments into top-performing teams, fostering an environment of creative thinking, data-driven strategy, and accountability. His leadership has been pivotal in launching new products, rejuvenating established brands, and delivering substantial revenue growth. With a passion for data-informed marketing, Overstreet consistently pushes for innovation and stays ahead of industry trends. He holds a film degree from the University of Southern California.

ABOUT DATA DELICACIES—

Incentivio

How Incentivio is Using Data to Create Healthier Businesses

Incentivio — Wed, 04 Sep 2024 11:37:57 -0400

Incentivio Co-Founder and COO, Sash Dias joins Arun Kumar on Data Delicacies to discuss the importance of clean data, how personalization is the next chapter for AI and the ways that Incentivio leverages data to create healthier businesses.

Takeaways

The importance of having “clean” data - One of the first things that Sash and his fellow co-founders at Incentivio learned when starting the business is the importance of having clean, usable data. This data-driven approach helps restaurants increase guest retention, optimize operations, and personalize marketing, leveling the playing field with larger chains.
Is Personalization the Next Chapter in the AI Revolution? - AI has unlocked an incredible new world of possibilities for business owners and what that means for the future of marketing, Sash highlighted the importance of personalization at scale.
How Incentivio Helps Businesses Improve Through Data - Incentivio has followed the same north star for the last 10 years and that is to help businesses develop a data-driven approach to building a healthier, better business.

Episode Links

About Sash Dias

Sash Dias has over 20 years of experience in the technology sector. Sash began their career in 1999 as a Systems Analyst at John Keells Computer Services pvt Ltd. In 2002, they became a Program Manager at Virtusa. In 2007, they joined Nadastra as a Program Manager, where they implemented a Program Management Office for a $16bn property management company and managed the ramp up of an operations center in Asia for a Fortune 500 company. In 2008, they moved to Aeturnum as the VP Engineering & Client Services and later as the Director Engineering & Client Services. In 2016, they became the Co Founder & Chief Operating Officer at Incentivio.

ABOUT DATA DELICACIES—

Data Delicacies is produced by Incentivio in partnership with Cali BBQ Media

Unlocking Digital Success and Transforming Customer Feedback with Bryan Rutcofsky of Marqii

Incentivio — Wed, 28 Aug 2024 10:00:00 -0400

On the latest episode of Data Delicacies powered by Incentivio and hosted by Arun Kumar, Bryan Rutcofsky, co-founder and CRO of Marqii, shared valuable insights on the evolving digital landscape for businesses, particularly within the restaurant and hospitality industries.

Takeaways:

Customer Feedback Matters - For Bryan Rutcofsky, customer feedback is a key cog to the decision making process of consumers. Marqii is able to dig deep into that data and give actionable steps to the establishments to address what is being said, positive or negative.
AI Power Personal Responses - Answering customer feedback is necessary, but can be tedious. Instead of programming canned, generic answers, Marquii is able to use AI to help businesses create genuine, specific responses to customers.
Being “Crawlable” - Being searchable and crawlable is important to a business in today’s digital landscape. In order for business to accomplish this, Rutcofsky says three things matter, location, relevance, and prominence.

Episode Links:

About Bryan Rutcofsky

Bryan Rutcofsky led sales at Yext from 2007 to 2017, beginning as VP of Sales for SMB and rising to SVP of Sales for Mid-market and Partnerships. During his tenure, he expanded the sales team to 140 members and helped generate nearly $100 million in revenue. Following his success at Yext, Bryan co-founded Marqii, where he now serves as CRO, providing software solutions for managing listings, menus, and reviews for the hospitality industry.

About Data Delicacies

Data Delicacies is produced by Cali BBQ Media and Incentivio

Stream CEO Brett Berman on Customer Loyalty and the Future of AI

Incentivio — Wed, 21 Aug 2024 10:00:00 -0400

On this episode of the Data Delicacies podcast powered by Incentivio, co-founder of Stream, an online menu management platform, Brett Berman, sat down with host Arun Kumar to discuss the origins of Stream, the significance of customer loyalty, and the emerging role of AI in the restaurant industry.

Stream Origin Story - Brett Berman knew he had to pivot on the backside of the pandemic shut down. Using the resources he had, he and his team quickly went to work to help restaurants differentiate themselves and created Stream.

Creating Loyalty - For Brett Berman, loyalty is based on the customer experience. The better the experience, the higher chance of creating loyalty, but it is important for restaurants to have a way for customers to leave that feedback.

AI Usage in Restaurants - Artificial Intelligence is being used in almost all walks of life, and increasingly so in restaurants. However, Brett Berman believes that we are still in the very early stages of AI and machine learning and the possibilities of where AI can be applied are endless.

Episode Links:

Stream Online

Brett Berman LinkedIn

ABOUT STREAM

Stream is revolutionizing an industry dominated by manual processes by building scalable, automated solutions. It offers self-service tools that empower restaurants to manage their online menus and seamlessly integrate orders directly into their POS systems. Whether it's a small family-owned business or a multi-billion-dollar tech company, Stream's mission is to equip them with the technology, intuitive UI/UX, and innovative strategies needed to run their businesses more efficiently.

ABOUT DATA DELICACIES—

Data Delicacies on Spotify

Incentivio Online

Incentivio Instagram

Produced by Incentivio & Cali BBQ Media - https://www.incentivio.com/ | https://betheshow.media

Hospitality-First Approach to Maximizing Efficiency and Loyalty with Bill Lindsey

Incentivio — Wed, 14 Aug 2024 11:02:13 -0400

Bill Lindsey, co-founder of COGS-well, shared valuable insights into how COGS-well helps restaurants optimize production, rebuild customer loyalty, and maintain a strong focus on hospitality on the latest episode of the Data Delicacies podcast powered by Incentivio.

Key Takeaways

Optimizing Production Efficiency - COGS-well optimizes production by using historical data to predict the future of company costs. In doing so, Lindsey says they help lower costs for their restaurant partners.

Rebuilding Customer Loyalty - There are valuable lessons that restaurants could have learned from the Pandemic. Now, post-pandemic, restaurants need to find ways to reengage customers and rebuild customer loyalty, which, when done correctly, Bill Lindsey says is absolute gold.

A Hospitality Business, Not a Tech Business - Bill Lindsey still believes in the value of hospitality. For him, it is important for COGS-well to treat their customers as well as the customer would treat their customers so that no disconnects are present.

Episode Links

Bill Lindsey on Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bill-lindsey775/
COGS-well Online: https://www.cogs-well.com/
COGS-well on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cogs-well-llc/

About Data Delicacies

Data Delicacies on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/29ExS0n9X3Z3FyK4HuSPKH

Incentivio Online - https://www.incentivio.com/

Incentivio Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/incentivio/

Produced by Incentivio & Cali BBQ Media - https://www.incentivio.com/ | https://betheshow.media

A Journey of Vibes, Boundaries, and Storytelling with Jason Berkowitz

Incentivio — Wed, 07 Aug 2024 09:28:18 -0400

In this episode of Data Delicacies powered by Incentivio, host Arun Kumar welcomed Jason Berkowitz, Founder of Arrow Up Training and industry veteran passionate about creating positive restaurant environments and effective training programs. Berkowitz shared his insights on the importance of vibe in restaurants, the need for clear workplace boundaries, and the enduring power of human storytelling in training.

Catch up on our key takeaways below or stop by our website for a full recap of this episode.

Vibe Matters - Jason Berkowitz was drawn to the overall feeling of a restaurant between coworkers and customers as a youngster. He has since taken that discovery with him when training industry leaders to convey the importance of setting the correct vibe for customer acquisition.

A Course to Navigate Workplace Boundaries - Jason Berkowitz, like many employees, struggled with the blurred lines of professionalism and friendship. To build better leadership within a positive environment, Berkowitz has created a course that he believes does just that while capturing stories and the human spirit.

The Power of Human Storytelling in Training - Even in training, storytelling is a powerful tool. According to Jason Berkowitz, despite the increasing inclusion of Artificial Intelligence and other advanced technology, human stories remain engaging and promote buy-in.

Episode Links

Arrow Up Training Online: https://arrowuptraining.com/
Jason Berkowitz Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jdberko/
Arrow Up Training Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arrow_up_training/?locale=English
Arrow Up Training TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@arrow_up_training
Jason Berkowitz LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasondberkowitz/

About Jason Berkowitz

Jason Berkowitz is a hospitality veteran dedicated to developing modern online training and InsurTech tools that help organizations meet compliance, lower liability and risk, and strengthen their teams, culture, and operations. His career spans over 50 restaurant openings, from fast-food to fine dining, and he has served as VP of Operations for Umami Burger, COO for Tocaya Organica, and is the founder of ARROW UP Training. Berkowitz’s progressive ideas and forward-thinking approach have made his training programs standard practice for independent restaurants and large-scale corporations like GUCCI Osteria, 800 Degrees, Sweet Lady Jane, Jack in the Box, El Pollo Loco, Joe and the Juice, Umami Burger, Toca Madera, and Tocaya Organica.

A wine enthusiast, he has curated wine lists for Mastro’s Steakhouse, Craft, Cube, Umami Burger, and smoke.oil.salt. Currently, Berkowitz is the CEO of ARROW UP Training and Partner at The Madera Group. His Psychology degree from Michigan State University has shaped his management style, focusing on understanding and appealing to the core of human nature.

As a lifelong musician and author, he has co-written the title track for Showtime's 'Shameless' and authored the book 'Please Don't Sleep With The Host - 50 Tips For Managing A Functional And Profitable Restaurant.' Berkowitz believes that all decisions must measure against the sustainability of small businesses, society, and the planet.

About Data Delicacies

Data Delicacies on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/29ExS0n9X3Z3FyK4HuSPKH

Incentivio Online - https://www.incentivio.com/

Incentivio Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/incentivio/

Produced by Incentivio & Cali BBQ Media - https://www.incentivio.com/ | https://betheshow.media

Stacey Sikorski: Navigating the Post-COVID Era AI, Loyalty, and Technology

Incentivio — Wed, 31 Jul 2024 11:04:00 -0400

Stacey Sikorski, a seasoned veteran in the industry and current Director of Mid-Market Sales at Incentivio, recently made a compelling appearance on Data Delicacies, powered by Incentivio. During her insightful discussion with host Arun Kumar, Sikorski shared her experiences and perspectives on the evolving landscape of customer loyalty, the importance of catering to top-tier guests, and the intentional use of technology in the post-COVID era.

TAKEAWAYS:

AI, Loyalty, and the Customer Experience - Stacey Sikorski is an industry vet that saw a massive shift in operation during COVID. With the influx of AI coming out of COVID, Sikorski believes that customer loyalty has become paramount as businesses and customers adapt to the new landscape.

Catering to Top Tier Guests - Stacey Sikorski believes that top tier guests should not only be identified, but also receive access to deals and opportunities exclusive to them. To her, that is a way for those customers to feel how important they are to the business.

Intentional Use of Technology - COVID forced companies to embrace technology in a way they hadn’t previously, which may have caused an overreach. However, Stacey Sikorski believes that customers are beginning to center their purchasing by vetting their potential tech partners functionality within the company tech stack.

ABOUT STACEY SIKORSKI

Stacey Sikorski is an established revenue leader and team builder focused on driving success and positive impact within the restaurant industry. Passionate about dynamic relationship management, fostering long-term connections, and solving problems to strengthen restaurant brands through innovative tech solutions, she brings proven expertise in B2B sales, partnerships, leadership, customer relations, and marketing. With specialized experience in restaurant tech, including GTM strategy and building early-stage SaaS revenue team infrastructure, Stacey is dedicated to supporting individual growth within a team environment. Energetic and enthusiastic, she contributes to a positive and collaborative workplace.

ABOUT DATA DELICACIES—

Data Delicacies on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/29ExS0n9X3Z3FyK4HuSPKH

Incentivio Online - https://www.incentivio.com/

Incentivio Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/incentivio/

Produced by Incentivio & Cali BBQ Media - https://www.incentivio.com/ | https://betheshow.media

Optimizing Operations to Explode Your Business with Seth Temko of FullOn Strategy

Incentivio — Wed, 24 Jul 2024 10:00:00 -0400

Seth Temko is the CEO and Chief Strategist at FullOn Strategy, a full service business strategy consulting company that helps businesses own their “go to market success”. On this episode of Data Delicacies, powered by Incentivio, Temko and host Arun Kumar delve into the transformative potential of AI in the restaurant industry, highlighting key innovations and practical applications.

AI for Operations: Adjusting in Real Time: Companies like FasterLines and Holometer use video AI to optimize drive-thru and in-store lines by identifying bottlenecks and alerting managers in real-time, allowing immediate action to boost revenue. For Seth Temko, by addressing operational issues instantly rather than relying on post-fact analysis, companies can offer a higher value proposition

AI for Daily Business - AI operates so quickly that it often needs built-in delays to match human interaction speeds, taking milliseconds to validate, retrieve data, and respond. Seth Temko believes the rapid efficiency possibilities for AI can assist businesses in daily endeavors, such as handling customer inquiries, including answering phones.

The Communication Sweetspot - Effective communication in restaurant marketing requires balance to avoid over or under-communicating and instead focus on personalized, segmented messaging that ties into your overall brand. Seth Temko believes leveraging AI and support from tech companies like Incentivio can help create engaging themes and messages to incentivize customer return.

Episode Links:

Seth Temko LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethtemko/

FullON Strategy Online: https://fullonstrategy.com/

ABOUT SETH TEMKO

Seth Temko is an innovative leader who combines the science of digital technology with the artistic value of human-centric experiences to drive and expand economic and humanistic value. Driven by curiosity and determination, Temko has had a diverse career founding, collaborating, and supporting both tangible products and digital solutions. His executive experience spans brand marketing, digital growth marketing, product strategy, product management, manufacturing, and go-to-market strategy for ventures ranging from startups to Fortune 500 companies.

Temko's varied career includes roles such as CMO at PAR Technology (NYSE: PAR), CMO at TouchBistro, VP of Marketing for Xenial/Heartland Commerce within Global Payments (NYSE: GPN), co-founder of RFID company Capton, and leadership positions at Yext (NYSE: YEXT) and Monster Worldwide. He has also co-founded Hi-Five Franchising and led B2B eCommerce strategy for Hartford Computer Group. Innovation has been the driving force behind his efforts and successes in developing reliable and cost-effective SaaS products and leading growth initiatives.

Currently, Temko brings his extensive experience to B2B companies through his consultancy, FullON Strategy, where he leads a high-powered team. He believes in the power of collaborative efforts, stating, "Groups of people can do amazing things far beyond individuals," and feels fortunate to have worked with and often led many great teams.

ABOUT DATA DELICACIES—

Data Delicacies on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/29ExS0n9X3Z3FyK4HuSPKH

Incentivio Online - https://www.incentivio.com/

Incentivio Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/incentivio/

Produced by Incentivio & Cali BBQ Media - https://www.incentivio.com/ | https://betheshow.media

Leveraging Data and Loyalty Marketplaces in QSR Tech with Michael Sien of Qu POS

Incentivio — Wed, 17 Jul 2024 09:48:25 -0400

For Michael Sien, Director of Enterprise Business Development at Qu POS, success in the tech industry is built on two foundational principles: focus and responsibility. These principles guide both strategy and execution at Qu.

Watch now to learn more about focus and responsibility in the tech industry, an innovative loyalty marketplace, and how data is the great equalizer.

Follow Incentivio on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@incentivio

Episode Links:

Qu POS Online: https://www.qubeyond.com/
Michael Sien LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-sien-59888b61/
Qu POS Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/qu_pos/
Qu POS YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6dZO3GIG_sZYk0CrCkya7A/videos

Takeaways:

Focus and Responsibility in the Tech Industry - For Michael Sien, success in the industry hinges on maintaining a clear focus on goals and taking responsibility for actions. This principle underpins effective strategy and execution.

Innovative Loyalty Marketplace - Michael Sien is enthusiastic about a loyalty marketplace where restaurants can showcase themselves and loyalty companies can utilize AI to target customers who favor those brands. He compares this concept to a "Kayak for loyalty" and believes collaboration among loyalty companies can enhance the market and benefit all parties involved.

Data is the Great Equalizer - According to Michael Sien, data-driven strategies enable smaller brands to compete on a level playing field with larger brands by leveraging similar technologies and gaining similar data insights.

ABOUT MICHAEL SIEN

Michael Sien is a 40+ year hospitality/technology veteran. Currently serving as Director of Enterprise Business Development at Qu POS, his perspective on all aspects of modern hospitality is 100% focused on great guest experience and how modern tech facilitates that for all brands that seek that with their guests.

ABOUT DATA DELICACIES—

Data Delicacies on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/29ExS0n9X3Z3FyK4HuSPKH

Incentivio Online - https://www.incentivio.com/

Incentivio Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/incentivio/

Produced by Incentivio & Cali BBQ Media - https://www.incentivio.com/ | https://betheshow.media

Scaling, Personalization, and AI-Driven Delight with Jared Cohen of Protein Bar & Kitchen

Incentivio — Wed, 10 Jul 2024 10:00:00 -0400

Jared Cohen, COO of Protein Bar & Kitchen, remains relevant in the market with transformative strategies for modern businesses. In a conversation with Arun Kumar on Data Delicacies, Cohen provided a comprehensive approach to overcoming common growth challenges by leveraging these techniques.

Watch now to learn more about building a strong infrastructure, the power of personalization, and AI driven delight.

Follow Incentivio on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@incentivio

Episode Links:

Protein Bar & Kitchen Online: https://www.theproteinbar.com/
Protein Bar & Kitchen Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theproteinbar/
Jared Cohen LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaredscohen/

Takeaways:

Scaling with Insight: Building a Strong Infrastructure - As businesses grow, maintaining consistency becomes a challenge. To tackle this, developing a strong company culture and training system is essential. With solid infrastructure, decision-making and forecasting improve, supporting rapid expansion. This system ensures that whether you're running 15 restaurants or franchising across the country, you have the insights and muscle to grow effectively.

Personalization Power: Customized Offers for Loyal Customers - Generic discounts are out; personalized offers are in! By using customer data, businesses can craft specific deals based on individual preferences. For instance, frequent shake buyers get shake discounts, while entree lovers receive entree offers. This targeted approach has proven to boost redemption rates significantly, showing that a little personalization goes a long way in building customer loyalty.

AI-Driven Delight: Smarter Personalization for Happier Customers - Imagine a system that knows exactly what you want before you do. By integrating AI and data, businesses can create highly personalized customer experiences. For example, a first-time protein bar buyer might receive a series of tailored emails and offers, designed to convert them into a regular customer. This smart personalization not only increases variety in purchases but also strengthens customer loyalty.

ABOUT JARED COHEN:

As COO of Protein Bar & Kitchen, Jared Cohen is dedicated to expanding the brand's offering of delicious, nutritious, and protein-packed food. At PBK, he oversees strategy, finance, technology, and other functional areas to build a leading better-for-you restaurant company. With the company now franchising and licensing, Jared is eager to connect with potential partners.

Prior to joining PBK, he was a Senior Director of Strategy at McDonald's, where he focused on new business development, including the launch of McDonald's on Uber Eats. His background also includes management consulting, specializing in strategy for major CPG, retail, and media clients.

ABOUT DATA DELICACIES—

Data Delicacies on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/29ExS0n9X3Z3FyK4HuSPKH

Incentivio Online - https://www.incentivio.com/

Incentivio Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/incentivio/

Produced by Incentivio & Cali BBQ Media - https://www.incentivio.com/ | https://betheshow.media

Unlocking Deep Hospitality and Building Community with Shawn Walchef of Cali BBQ Media

Incentivio — Wed, 03 Jul 2024 09:59:00 -0400

Shawn Walchef, founder of Cali BBQ Media, has a unique definition of hospitality. For Walchef, hospitality is more than just a warm greeting; it’s about creating lifelong relationships built on trust. While at the National Restaurant Association Show 2024 in Chicago, Walcef discussed the importance of building a community with host Arun Kumar.

Listen now to learn more about loyalty in hospitality, the truth about advertising, and the power of opportunities and connections.

Follow Incentivio on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@incentivio

Episode Links

Cali BBQ Media Online: https://content.calibbq.media/
Cali BBQ Media Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/calibbq/
Shawn Walchef Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shawnpwalchef/
Shawn Walchef TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@shawnpwalchef
Shawn Walchef LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawnpwalchef/
Cali BBQ Media TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@calibbq
Cali BBQ Media YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CaliBBQMedia
Cali BBQ Media LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cali-comfort/

Takeaways:

Loyalty is Hospitality - Shawn Walchef has built a business and community on hospitality. For Walchef, hospitality extends beyond a warm greeting, and into creating friendships built on trust.

Be the Show, Not the Commercial - If you have heard Shawn Walchef speak, you know his philosophy of being the show, meaning telling your story, over advertising to potential customers. He truly believes that customers don’t buy from you until they buy into you

Opportunities and Connections - Shawn Walchef has made it his life work to create deep connections and authentic relationships. That intention has brought him and Cali BBQ opportunities that he couldn’t fathom.

ABOUT SHAWN WALCHEF

Shawn P. Walchef (@shawnpwalchef) is the founder of Cali BBQ Media, a podcast host, business coach, and proud dad. Since opening Cali BBQ in 2008, his family-run restaurant and media company in San Diego has generated over $30 million in sales. As a restaurateur who started during the Great Recession, Shawn mastered using digital tools and innovative ideas to stay afloat. During the pandemic, he and his team developed a scalable plan that tripled the profitability of the traditional full-service restaurant model.

Shawn hosts two weekly video podcast series: Digital Hospitality and Restaurant Influencers. These podcasts are part of his growing media empire, which also includes content creation, consulting, and digital services to help others with their smartphone storytelling. His strategies have garnered attention from major media outlets like Amazon Prime TV, Bloomberg TV, Entrepreneur, Inc., Eater, ABC, NBC, CBS, and Fox News. Committed to helping others succeed, Shawn is dedicated to guiding businesses to the right digital tools and social media strategies to unlock endless opportunities.

His Motto: “Stay Curious. Get Involved. Ask for Help.”

ABOUT DATA DELICACIES—

Data Delicacies on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/29ExS0n9X3Z3FyK4HuSPKH

Incentivio Online - https://www.incentivio.com/

Incentivio Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/incentivio/

Produced by Incentivio & Cali BBQ Media - https://www.incentivio.com/ | https://betheshow.media

The Value of Industry Experience and Finding Inspiration in Hip Hop with Dan Diaz of F3 Technologies

Incentivio — Wed, 26 Jun 2024 10:12:11 -0400

Finding Solutions to Restaurant Problems

Restaurant owners often work with tight budgets and limited time. F3 Technologies provides cost-effective IT solutions and services to address these challenges.

Answering the Call for Customers

Dan Diaz emphasizes the importance of availability to customers, fostering trust and loyalty.

Valuing the Value of Restaurant Experience

Dan builds his team with individuals experienced in the restaurant industry, believing that surviving this industry equips one for any challenge.

Helping Restaurant Owners Find More Time

Dan Diaz discusses the premium on time for hospitality leaders and how F3 Technologies alleviates IT management and integration pain points. He also addresses the affordability of their services for businesses on tight budgets.

Why Experience in the Restaurant Industry is So Valuable

Dan prioritizes hiring employees with restaurant experience, sharing his own background as a bartender, which has shaped his leadership skills.

Finding Inspiration from a Hip Hop Legend

Dan draws inspiration from Nipsey Hussle, who taught him the value of self-investment and perseverance.

F3 Technologies, under Dan Diaz's leadership, has grown to become a trusted IT partner in the hospitality space, recently expanding into the UK.

Episode Links

Dan Diaz on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-d-diaz/
F3 Technologies Website: https://www.f3tech.com/
F3 Technologies on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/f3inc/
F3 Technologies on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/f3inc/

About Dan Diaz

Daniel Diaz is the CEO and a Director of F3 Technologies, Inc., with experience in POS, Medical Marijuana, Networking, Healthcare IT, and the Restaurant & Hospitality Industries. Prior roles include managing Field Implementation Engineers for Toast POS and serving as a senior IT specialist. Dan began F3 with less than 10 technicians and has grown the company to over 50 employees. He lives in Chicago with his wife, three children, and two dogs.

About Data Delicacies

Data Delicacies is a weekly podcast exploring technology and data in restaurants. Host Arun Kumar interviews industry experts on hospitality tech, AI, and machine learning.

Data Delicacies on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/29ExS0n9X3Z3FyK4HuSPKH

Incentivio Online: https://www.incentivio.com/

Incentivio Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/incentivio/

Produced by Incentivio & Cali BBQ Media:

Incentivio: https://www.incentivio.com/

Cali BBQ Media: https://betheshow.media

How to make a better loyalty program w/ Kim DeCarolis of Craveworthy Brands

Incentivio — Wed, 19 Jun 2024 10:01:58 -0400

Kim DeCarolis, Senior Vice President of Strategic Growth at Craveworthy Brands, is at the forefront of identifying and implementing trends in hospitality technology. DeCarolis spoke on pioneering growth for Craveworthy Brands with host Arun Kumar.

Watch now to learn about technology trends, making loyalty more engaging, and maintaining brand identity through AI influence.

Sponsor:

Follow Incentivio on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@incentivio

Episode Links:

Takeaways:

Identifying trends in hospitality tech - Kim Decoralis highlights the trends taking place in the hospitality technology industry in which we are starting to see more and more companies focused on solving a specific problem for their customers.

Creative ways to make loyalty more engaging - Combining your brand’s personality and your target audience when creating your loyalty rewards is a great way to make the brand more approachable and the rewards more enticing.

Maintaining brand authenticity in the era of AI - As AI becomes a tool used more and more in brand messaging, it’s never been more important to ensure that your brand’s voice is authentically represented in all forms of marketing.

ABOUT KIM DECAROLIS–

Kim DeCarolis comes into Craveworthy Brands with over a decade of experience in driving organizational growth through sales leadership in the restaurant operations and technology industry, DeCarolis has made significant strides in fostering high-growth partnerships and advancing innovative solutions. As the first woman named to the Executive team as Vice President of Sales at Punchh, she played a pivotal role in scaling revenue to $50 million. Her tenure as Director of Strategic Franchise Sales for FAT Brands further showcased her ability to create and nurture successful partnerships. As an active member of the Women's Food Service Forum, Kim DeCarolis is committed to advancing women in the restaurant industry. Her career is defined by a passion for growth, leadership, and innovation in the dynamic restaurant and tech sectors.

ABOUT DATA DELICACIES—

Produced by Incentivio - https://www.incentivio.com/

Produced by Cali BBQ Media - https://betheshow.media

Jamil Bhuya: A Top Dining Experience with Burgers n’ Fries Forever

Incentivio — Wed, 12 Jun 2024 09:54:52 -0400

The restaurant industry is saturated with countless restaurants serving burgers and fries. In his conversation with Data Delicacies host, Arun Kumar of Incentivio, Jamil Bhuya, the founder of Burgers n’ Fries Forever (BFF), spoke on how he has made BFF a sought-after destination across various demographics.

Watch now to learn about creating an engaging dining experience, the power of word of mouth marketing, and the role human motivation plays in customer loyalty.

Follow Incentivio on YouTube

Episode Links:

ABOUT JAMIL BHUYA–

Jamil's entrepreneurial drive centers on cultivating brands through heartfelt design and human-focused storytelling. At 22, he founded Burgers n’ Fries Forever (BFF) and successfully expanded it to two cities, achieving an average unit volume (AUV) of over $1.6 million. His efforts in influencer partnerships, paid advertising, PR, and organic content have resulted in millions of digital impressions. Jamil also launched Yellow Beauty, an e-commerce CPG brand, growing it to six-figure annual revenue with a bootstrapped budget. Previously, he served as Marketing Director for a restaurant group, leading a creative team across four different restaurant concepts. Over the past year, he has developed more than 30 digital marketing plans for various restaurant groups and franchises. Recently, he introduced Small Fry Studio, a Fractional CMO service.

ABOUT DATA DELICACIES—

Incentivio Online

Incentivio Instagram

Produced by: Incentivio - https://www.incentivio.com/ | Cali BBQ Media

Using Effective Data Collection to Boost Customer Loyalty with Peter Baghdassarian

Incentivio — Wed, 05 Jun 2024 10:00:00 -0400

Building customer loyalty can be a daunting task for many businesses, but Peter Baghdassarian, the current head of family owned quick service Mediterranean micro chain Massis Kabob, has made it remarkably straightforward. Leveraging QR codes and a no-nonsense approach to technology, Baghdassarian is setting new standards for customer engagement and satisfaction.

Watch now to learn more about simplifying loyalty programs, the importance of functional technology, and building relationships with tech sales people.

Follow Incentivio on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@incentivio

Chapters:

[06:46] - Maintaining Proximity to Brick and Mortar Spaces

[08:09] - Performing Spot Checks on Locations

[14:44] - Tech Trends in Hospitality

[27:09] - Deciding When to Implement New Technology

[34:19] - Interest in Biohacking

Episode Links:

Massis Kabob Online: https://www.massiskabob.com/
Peter Baghdassarian LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-baghdassarian-a480728/
Massis Kabob Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/massiskabob/
Massis Kabob Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/massiskabobery

Takeaways:

QR Codes: Simplifying Loyalty Programs - Having customers sign up for loyalty programs can be a complicated pain for business owners. With Massis Kabob, Peter Baghdassarian has streamlined that process with QR Codes and less data collection for frictionless customer experience.
Importance of Functional Technology - It seems like a simple concept to not release an app prior to it functioning correctly. However, it happens and Peter Baghdassarian firmly believes that it should not. With the increase in technology reliance, he believes it is important for companies to have technology that functions properly to obtain and maintain customer trust.
Honesty in Tech Sales - As you would imagine, Peter Baghdassarian receives quite a bit of sales calls with sales people attempting to sell the latest and greatest innovation. In the name of efficiency and relationship building, he believes it is best practice for sales pitches to be as honest and transparent as possible during their interactions.

ABOUT PETER BAGHDASSARIAN –

Peter Baghdassarian spent over two decades in the entertainment industry, contributing to live-action films, TV series, and major animated projects before fully transitioning to the restaurant sector. He now co-manages and expands Massis Kabob, a family-founded Mediterranean quick-service restaurant chain that started 48 years ago, alongside his brother. Under their leadership, Massis Kabob has grown to seven bustling locations in Southern California. Peter's enthusiasm for technology and cuisine drives him to continuously seek ways to enhance the business,

integrating new tech for improved efficiency and customer experience without losing the essence of what has made Massis Kabob beloved for nearly half a century. An alumnus of the University of Southern California, Peter holds a Master’s Degree in Communication Management from USC Annenberg School and a law degree from USC Gould School of Law, and he frequently shares his insights as a speaker on industry panels.

ABOUT DATA DELICACIES—

Data Delicacies on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/29ExS0n9X3Z3FyK4HuSPKH

Incentivio Online - https://www.incentivio.com/

Incentivio Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/incentivio/

Produced by Incentivio & Cali BBQ Media

Zack Oates Reveals the Secrets to Business Success, Customer Engagement, and AI Innovation

Incentivio — Wed, 29 May 2024 11:14:45 -0400

In a compelling interview on “Data Delicacies” with host Arun Kumar, Zack Oates, founder of Ovation, shared insights on focus, customer-centric strategies, and the future of AI in personalization.

Watch now to learn about the importance of a singular focus, being the “anti-survey” company, and the future of AI in hospitality.

Follow Incentivio on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@incentivio

Chapters:

[03:13] - The "Why" Behind Ovation

[06:51] - Balancing Work, Family, and Business Commitments

[10:35] - Becoming Obsessed with Building Value

[27:04] - Defining Loyalty

[35:08] - Closing the Education Gap in the AI Era

[45:16] - Utilizing AI Day to Day

Episode Links:

Takeaways

"You Can Do Anything. You Can't Do Everything" - Zack Oates’ dad Bart carved out a successful NFL career. Zack Oates attributes that success to Bart being able to do “one thing deep” and focus on being good at that thing. That mentality was passed down to Zack and it has served him well in his own business endeavors.

Surveys with the Customer in Mind - Zack Oates has branded Ovation as the “Anti-Survey” company. They have differentiated themselves from other survey companies by beginning with collecting data on how customers preferred being surveyed as opposed to simply forcing customers to inefficiently answer long questionnaires.

The Future of AI in Personalization - Ovation uses Artificial Intelligence, but Zack Oates values the personal touch of in person conversations. He does, however, see the future of AI adding to the personalization of hospitality by adding a layer to the customer satisfaction.

ABOUT ZAK OATES –

Zack Oates is an accomplished author, devoted husband, and proud father. Recognized as one of the Top 100 Entrepreneurs, he has had the honor of ringing the NASDAQ bell and winning the world’s largest business competition. With an MBA from BYU, Zack has founded three companies and provided customer experience consulting for Fortune 100 companies. His expertise in dating and customer experience consulting led him to create Ovation, a leading tool for actionable guest feedback in restaurants, where he serves as Founder and CEO.

ABOUT DATA DELICACIES—

Produced by: Incentivio - https://www.incentivio.com/

A Hybrid Approach to a Hospitality Revolutionize with Alistair Levine of KitchenSync

Incentivio — Wed, 22 May 2024 10:00:00 -0400

Alistair Levine is the CEO of multiple restaurant concepts and a Partner and Head of Business Development at KitchenSync. He shared his vision with Data Delicacies powered by Incentivio. A vision that includes leveraging a hybrid approach that capitalizes on the unique strengths of both technology and human expertise.

Listen now to learn about the importance of human touch and technology, the strategic usage of dynamic pricing, and making good decisions with good data.

Technology vs. Human Touch - Alistair Levine understands that both human touch and emerging technology are both important pieces of today’s hospitality industry. He has a goal at Kitchen Sync to create a hybrid approach that takes advantage of the strengths that both entities have to offer.

Dynamic Pricing for Better Guest Experience - When it comes to technology, Alistair Levine believes that as the options become more complicated, restaurants will have to narrow their focus to find root problems on the path to solutions.

Making Good Decisions with Good Data - Even though Alistair Levine believes that hospitality is a human driven industry, he also believes that Artificial Intelligence will serve a purpose of helping businesses make better decisions based on their ability to receive enhanced data from reliable sources.

Follow Incentivio on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@incentivio

KitchenSync Online: https://www.kitchensync.us/
Alistair Levine Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alistairlevine/
Alistair Levine LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alistair-levine-6997b359/
KitchenSync LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kitchensync3/
Left Bank Brasserie: https://www.instagram.com/leftbankbrasserie/
LB Steak Santana Row: https://www.instagram.com/lbsteaksantanarow/
Meso Restaurant: https://www.instagram.com/meso.restaurant/
Petite Left Bank: https://www.instagram.com/petiteleftbank/
Rollati Ristorante: https://www.instagram.com/rollatiristorante/

The Emergence of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning with 5-Out’s Branden McRill

Incentivio — Wed, 15 May 2024 09:52:00 -0400

Branden McRill, a restauranteur and CEO and Co-Founder of 5-Out, envisions a future where restaurants operate with unparalleled efficiency. Powered by Toast, 5-Out harnesses the potential of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and predictive analytics to drive profitability.

Watch now to learn about revolutionizing restaurant operations, adopting AI and machine learning, and properly vetting AI resources.

Follow Incentivio on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@incentivio

Chapters:

[01:06] - Braden McRill's Background

[07:23] - Pulling from Prior Experience

[16:48] - The 5-Out Origin Story

[28:01] - The Early Days of Forecasting

[34:34] - Skepticism Around AI and Machine Learning

[48:24] - Vetting Effective AI/ML Options

***

Episode Links:

5 Out Online: https://www.5out.io/

Branden McRill Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandenmcrill/

Branden McRill LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/branden-mcrill-35b1baa/

5 Out Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/5out_io/

Takeaways:

Revolutionizing Restaurant Operations with 5-Out - With 5-Out powered by Toast, Branden McRill has a vision to use artificial intelligence, machine learning, and predictive analytics to drive efficiency in restaurant operations to make restaurants more profitable.

Emerging Adoption of AI and ML in Restaurant - As Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AIML) continues to emerge, more companies will adopt the technology. Branden McRill is already beginning to see quick and full service begin to adopt the AIML as a part of their business model and tech stack.

Vetting Artificial Intelligence Resources - Artificial Intelligence and machine learning, or AIML, is in its very early stages of business integration. According to Branden McRill, proper vetting of potential resources is important to the effectiveness of their product, and specific questions should be asked and answered.

***

ABOUT BRANDEN MCRILL—

Branden McRill brings over 26 years of hospitality industry experience to his most current role as co-founder and CEO of 5-Out where he is responsible for driving the vision, strategy, and implementation of 5-Out. McRill’s extensive background also includes founding and co-founding successful restaurants and cafes like The Post PHL, Walnut Street Cafe, Rebelle, and Pearl & Ash. Additionally, he served as beverage director and manager for esteemed chefs and groups such as Marcus Samuelsson, Jean-Georges, David Burke, and Alain Ducasse.

ABOUT DATA DELICACIES—

Data Delicacies on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/29ExS0n9X3Z3FyK4HuSPKH

Incentivio Online - https://www.incentivio.com/

Incentivio Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/incentivio/

Produced by: Incentivio - https://www.incentivio.com/

Innovation in Authentic Italian Dining with Due' Cucina's Davide Macchi

Incentivio — Wed, 08 May 2024 10:00:37 -0400

Takeaways:

Changing the Branding Script - Davide Macchi knew that his food was good. However, in the US, unlike in Italy, aesthetic branding, and overall ambiance is as much a part of the product as the food itself. Macchi and his partner reluctantly hired help that switched a few small things in the restaurant, and the results were immediately positive.
Using Data from Incentivio to Propel Business - As the world and restaurant industry become more digital, the amount of data available increases. Davide Macchi and Due' Cucina have partnered with Incentivio to provide such data, but they are charged with parsing that information to efficiently use the data as their business expands.
A Brand Promise of Variety - Davide Macchi believes that variation can be an excellent thing. With that in mind, the pizzas at Due' Cucina are made by hand, which means each pizza is slightly different but equally delicious.

Meet Davide Macchi, the visionary CEO and Co-Founder behind Due' Cucina.

As a native of Italy, Macchi studied Business Administration at Cal-Berkeley and received his MBA from the vaunted MIT. During this time, he and his business partner waited tables in London, where they obtained restaurant experience, learned English, and sparked their idea to own a restaurant.

“We learned (about the restaurant industry) in the other experiences that we had across the globe because we both worked internationally. That’s kind of what led us to think: what if we put these two things together and we build a brand with the best in class technology and a data-driven approach.” reminisces Macchi to host Arun Kumar of Incentivio in the latest episode of Data Delicacies. “But something also built for people that really love the personable and the interpersonal aspect of hospitality.”

Aesthetic Branding Mastery

Jumping into building a restaurant, Macchi leaned heavily into his Italian background of having great food offerings. However, he soon recognized the importance of ambiance alongside exceptional cuisine and redefined Due' Cucina's identity in the competitive US market.

"We came up with three cheap things we could do that could change the script. We painted the walls, changed the lighting, and added string lights," he shares. “Within a week, the moment the ceiling was painted and the lighting changed, revenue was up 35%.”

Harnessing Data with Incentivio

As Due’ Cucina expands in the digital era, Macchi is learning to leverage cutting-edge tools like Incentivio to harness customer data, such as dining patterns, personal data, and order frequency effectively. DataThe insight provided drives targeted marketing and personalized experiences, optimizing Due' Cucina's expansion strategy.

"Customer data platforms help us merge profiles and understand preferences. They're pretty well established. And once again, we need to have good leads." he explains.

“We don't yet have a fully grown customer data platform, but with Incentivio, we have a lot of features that are a good proxy.”

Variety as a Brand Promise

At Due' Cucina, authenticity shines through handmade pizzas—a nod to Italian culinary heritage. Being handmade gives each pizza a personal touch and makes each slightly unique. For Macchi, it is important for Due’ Cucina to lean into customer loyalty and tap into the idea of slight variations to their favorites, evoking the nostalgia and excitement of eating Grandma’s cooking.

“Our brand promise is to make it from scratch. And in making from scratch, it's always going to be great but it might taste slightly different. And that's exciting. Because when you would go to your Italian Grandma’s on Sunday for lunch, it [the food] wasn't always exactly the same because she wasn't even measuring things all the time. But it was always very good.”

Episode Links:

Due’ Cucina Online - https://duecucina.com/

Due’ Cucina Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/duecucina

Due’ Cucina TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@duecucina

Due’ Cucina Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/duecucinaitaliana/

Due’ Cucina App on Google - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ce.android.brand.duecucina&hl=en_US&gl=US&pli=1

Due’ Cucina App on Apple - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/due-cucina/id1509690249

Davide Macchi Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/davmacchi/

Davide Macchi LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidemacchi/

ABOUT DAVIDE MACCHI

Davide Macchi is the Co-founder & CEO of Due' Cucina, a unique fast-casual concept specializing in authentic Italian pasta. Due' Cucina currently operates four locations in Seattle, WA (with one more on the way) and, following a recent equity round, is about to open three additional units in Texas. Before Due’, Davide worked as a strategy consultant for Kearney, and in a variety of management roles in Australia and the US for Rocket Internet and Amazon. Davide studied media, economics, and business administration at University of Bologna, UC Berkeley, and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where he received his MBA in 2016.

ABOUT DATA DELICACIES

This is where a show description will live. We can work together to come up with one that will fit your mission and vision that will be attached to every episode.

Produced by: Incentivio

Introducing: Data Delicacies from Incentivio

Incentivio — Wed, 08 May 2024 09:43:00 -0400

Data is king!

Every hospitality business uses data to make important decisions. Knowing how to obtain efficient, effective data is paramount for business success.

Incentivio, the “fully automated intelligence-driven guest engagement platform for restaurants & virtual kitchens”, introduces Data Delicacies; which will present those data conversations to the public.

Host Arun Kumar, who also serves as the Director of Strategic Partnerships at Incentivio, says “we’re going to be talking to some of the best and brightest in the industry. We’re going to be talking all things hospitality, we’re going to be talking a lot of tech, and AI, machine learning, and all the fun stuff”

Debuting on Wednesday, May 7, Data Delicacies will release weekly on YouTube with interviews from the industry leaders, restaurant owners, and special appearances from Incentivo insiders.

Be sure to follow Incentivio on all platforms and subscribe to the newsletter to stay up to date with all things Data Delicacies.

As Kumar says in anticipation of the show’s debut, “Can’t wait to build this amazing community.”