TechBytes

In this episode of TechBytes, Rob Grimes speaks with Jim Grandahl, Director of National Accounts at DIRECTV, about the powerful role entertainment plays in hospitality. From sports programming and commercial licensing to music, ambiance, and employee engagement, Jim explains how restaurants can create more memorable guest experiences through thoughtful entertainment strategies. The conversation explores how technology simplifies content management, why music is often an overlooked part of brand identity, and how frontline employees can provide valuable insights into guest preferences. It’s a unique look at the intersection of technology, culture, and customer experience in today’s hospitality industry.  

In this TechBytes episode, host Rob Grimes talks with Tom Cindric, President of the National Restaurant Association Show, about what’s ahead for the 105th edition of the industry’s largest foodservice event. From AI and automation to beverage trends, smart kitchens, and interactive exhibitor tours, the conversation explores how technology is transforming every part of hospitality. Tom shares insights into new education tracks, networking experiences, and keynote speaker Andre Agassi, while explaining why the Show continues to unite operators, suppliers, and innovators from around the world. A must-listen preview for anyone attending—or following—the future of foodservice and restaurant technology.

Join Rob Grimes at HRC / HT360 in London for a special TechBytes episode with Jane Pendlebury, CEO of HOSPA. They explore how hospitality is evolving at the intersection of technology, revenue management, and genuine service. From the rise of revenue managers and digital transformation to QR codes, robotics, chatbots, and AI, Rob and Jane dig into what really works in hotels and restaurants today. You’ll hear how independent operators, hotel–restaurant partnerships, and changing guest expectations are reshaping labor, innovation, and the guest journey—without losing the human touch that defines hospitality.

In this episode of TechBytes, host Rob Grimes sits down with William Connors, International Technology & Systems Manager at Starbucks, to talk about everything but Starbucks. William traces his journey from food & beverage roles at Club Med and Radisson through hotel IT, Oracle implementations, and global restaurant tech. They explore how data, connected kitchens, CCTV, and AI can transform feedback, prevent equipment failures, and optimize operations. The conversation dives into international perspectives, customer loyalty, rising costs, and how suppliers and operators can better collaborate. It’s a fast-moving discussion about using the tech you already have to unlock new value.

On this episode of TechBytes, host Rob Grimes sits down with Kris Douglas, Vice President of Technology at Smalls Sliders and co-chair of the IFBTA Atlanta chapter. Kris shares how Smalls went from under 10 locations to 47 units across 12 states, with ambitions of hitting 1,000+ locations—powered by a best-in-breed tech stack, data-driven decision-making, and a deep focus on the guest experience. They dig into AI beyond the hype, loyalty that actually drives engagement, and how to build scalable technology from the ground up without losing hospitality at the front line.

In this TechBytes episode, host Rob Grimes speaks with Abby Lorden about the upcoming MURTEC Conference, coming to Las Vegas March 9-11, and how restaurant technology is evolving. From the debut of the AI Summit to a renewed focus on connection, collaboration, and real-world case studies, Lorden explains how the event helps operators and business leaders navigate today’s fast-changing tech landscape. With attendees spanning IT, operations, marketing, and finance, MURTEC reflects how deeply technology now influences every part of restaurant success. If you want insight into where hospitality tech is heading—and how to stay ahead—this episode offers a valuable preview of the industry’s technology season kickoff.

In this TechBytes episode, Rob sits down with Matt Hodgins, Project Director at Montgomery Group, to spotlight HRC – Hotel, Restaurant & Catering 2026 and the launch of Hospitality Tech360 (HT360) in London, March 30–April 1. They explore how HRC is evolving to serve the full hospitality ecosystem—from hotels and restaurants to catering, bars, pastry, pizza, and more—while HT360 focuses on real-world tech case studies, curated roundtables, and year-round networking. If you’re a hospitality leader, IT, marketing, operations, or finance decision-maker, this is a must-listen preview of the UK’s most comprehensive hospitality tech gathering, coming to ExCel next month.  

Starbucks, McDonald’s, AI, and global tech strategy—all in one conversation. In this episode of TechBytes, host Rob Grimes sits down at the National Retail Federation’s NRF 2026: Retail’s Big Show with Vikram Badhwar, Director of International Technology at Starbucks, to explore how major brands scale digital experiences across thousands of stores and dozens of countries. They dive into Starbucks digital solutions, lessons from McDonald’s just-in-time kitchens, mobile order & pay, computer vision in drive-thru, and where AI truly moves the needle. This episode offers a fast-paced, practical look at the future of restaurant and retail technology.

Dive into the inspiring world of Women in Restaurant Leadership (WiRL)! In this special TechBytes episode, host Rob Grimes chats with Satyne Doner and Danny Klein of QSR/FSR about the third annual WiRL conference, coming to Charleston this February. Discover how this unique event elevates, empowers, and educates women across hospitality, featuring powerhouse keynotes (including leaders from McDonald’s and Culver’s), dynamic panels, and real industry connections—all designed to create an authentic, supportive community. Don’t miss the inside scoop on everything WiRL has to offer and how it’s changing the landscape for women in foodservice!

In this special TechBytes episode, Rob Grimes is joined by Susan Newman, Senior Vice President of Events Strategy at the National Retail Federation, for a behind-the-scenes look at NRF 2026: Retail’s Big Show and the growing convergence of retail and foodservice. Susan shares why the Big Show has become the “Super Bowl of retail,” drawing 40,000 attendees from over 100 countries, and explains how foodservice innovation now plays a central role across the event. From AI-focused stages to the Foodservice Innovation Zone and immersive activations like the Pit Stop, this conversation offers a must-hear preview of the technologies, experiences, and connections shaping the future of retail and hospitality.