Data Delicacies

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 - 

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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:

• Visit Foode online
• Follow Foode on Instagram
• Follow Foode on Facebook
• Follow Foode on Tik Tok
• Connect with Foode on LinkedIn
• Connect with Ken Clay on LinkedIn
• Follow Ken Clay on X

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.

• Listen to Data Delicacies on Spotify
• Listen to Data Delicacies on Apple
• Subscribe to Data Delicacies on YouTube
• Visit Incentivio Online
• Connect with Incentivio on LinkedIn
• Follow Incentivio on Instagram
• Connect with Arun on LinkedIn

Produced by Incentivio & Cali BBQ Media

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 -

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.

Episode Links:

• Connect with Andrew on LinkedIn
• Visit First Delivery Online
• Follow First Delivery on Instagram

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—

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.

• Listen to Data Delicacies on Spotify
• Listen to Data Delicacies on Apple
• Subscribe to Data Delicacies on YouTube
• Visit Incentivio Online
• Connect with Incentivio on LinkedIn
• Follow Incentivio on Instagram
• Connect with Arun on LinkedIn

Produced by Incentivio & Cali BBQ Media

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.

• Connect with Jason Valentine on LinkedIn
• Visit Botrista Online
• Follow Botrista on Facebook
• Subscribe to Botrista on YouTube
• Follow Botrista on Instagram
• Connect with Botrista on LinkedIn

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.

• Connect with Mateen Habib on LinkedIn
• Visit GoTab Online
• Connect with GoTab on LinkedIn
• Follow GoTab on Facebook
• Follow GoTab on YouTube
• Follow GoTab on Instagram

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. 

• Connect with Patrick Bobrukiewicz on LinkedIn
• Visit Nigel Online
• Connect with Nigel on LinkedIn
• Follow Nigel on Facebook
• Follow Nigel on X

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.

• Connect with Justin Ulrich on LinkedIn
• Visit Evocalize Online
• Connect with Evocalize on LinkedIn
• Follow Evocalize on Facebook
• Follow Evocalize on Instagram
• Follow Evocalize on Tik Tok
• Subscribe to Evocalize on YouTube
• Visit Taziki's Mediterranean Café Online

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.

• Connect with Arun Kumar on LinkedIn
• Data Delicacies on YouTube
• Listen to Data Delicacies on Spotify
• Visit Incentivio Online
• Follow Incentivio on Instagram

Produced by Incentivio & Cali BBQ Media

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 -

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.

Episode Links

• Connect with Jonathan Fetter on LinkedIn
• Visit Techtris Online
• Follow Techtris on Facebook
• Follow Techtris on X
• Follow Techtris on Instagram
• Connect with Techtris on LinkedIn

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.

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.

• Listen to Data Delicacies on Spotify
• Listen to Data Delicacies on Apple
• Subscribe to Data Delicacies on YouTube
• Visit Incentivio Online
• Connect with Incentivio on LinkedIn
• Follow Incentivio on Instagram
• Connect with Arun on LinkedIn

Produced by Incentivio & Cali BBQ Media

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 -

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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

• Connect with Jason Valentine on LinkedIn
• Visit Botrista Online
• Follow Botrista on Facebook
• Subscribe to Botrista on YouTube
• Follow Botrista on Instagram
• Connect with Botrista on LinkedIn

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 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.

• Listen to Data Delicacies on Spotify
• Listen to Data Delicacies on Apple
• Visit Incentivio Online
• Connect with Incentivio on LinkedIn
• Follow Incentivio on Instagram
• Connect with Arun on LinkedIn

Produced by Incentivio & Cali BBQ Media

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 -

1. 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. 
2. 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.
3. 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

• Connect with Mateen Habib on LinkedIn
• Visit GoTab Online
• Connect with GoTab on LinkedIn
• Follow GoTab on Facebook
• Follow GoTab on YouTube
• Follow GoTab on Instagram

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 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.

• Listen to Data Delicacies on Spotify
• Listen to Data Delicacies on Apple
• Visit Incentivio Online
• Connect with Incentivio on LinkedIn
• Follow Incentivio on Instagram
• Connect with Arun on LinkedIn

Produced by Incentivio & Cali BBQ Media

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 -

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.

Episode Links

• Connect with Patrick Bobrukiewicz on LinkedIn
• Visit Nigel Online
• Connect with Nigel on LinkedIn
• Follow Nigel on Facebook
• Follow Nigel on X

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 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.

• Connect with Arun Kumar on LinkedIn
• Data Delicacies on YouTube
• Listen to Data Delicacies on Spotify
• Visit Incentivio Online
• Follow Incentivio on Instagram

Produced by Incentivio & Cali BBQ Media

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 -

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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:

• Connect with Justin Ulrich on LinkedIn
• Visit Evocalize Online
• Connect with Evocalize on LinkedIn
• Follow Evocalize on Facebook
• Follow Evocalize on Instagram
• Follow Evocalize on Tik Tok
• Subscribe to Evocalize on YouTube
• Visit Taziki's Mediterranean Café Online

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.

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.

• Connect with Arun Kumar on LinkedIn
• Data Delicacies on YouTube
• Listen to Data Delicacies on Spotify
• Visit Incentivio Online
• Follow Incentivio on Instagram

Produced by Incentivio & Cali BBQ Media

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 -

1. 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.
2. 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. 
3. 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.

Episode Links

• Connect with David Ganton on LinkedIn
• Visit 7shifts Online
• Connect with 7shifts on LinkedIn
• Follow 7shifts on Facebook
• Follow 7shifts on Instagram
• Follow 7shifts on Tik Tok

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.

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.

• Connect with Arun Kumar on LinkedIn
• Data Delicacies on YouTube
• Listen to Data Delicacies on Spotify
• Visit Incentivio Online
• Follow Incentivio on Instagram

Produced by Incentivio & Cali BBQ Media

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 -

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.

Episode Links

• Connect with Bryan Solar on LinkedIn
• Visit Spot On Online
• Follow Spot On on Facebook
• Follow Spot On on Instagram
• Follow Spot On on X
• Subscribe to Spot On on YouTube
• Connect with Spot On on LinkedIn

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. 

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.

• Data Delicacies on YouTube
• Listen to Data Delicacies on Spotify
• Visit Incentivio Online
• Follow Incentivio on Instagram

Produced by Incentivio & Cali BBQ Media