Unlocking Restaurant Success: A Deep Dive with Matt Plapp on Marketing and Loyalty

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast, host Jeremy Julian is joined by Matt Plapp, a seasoned marketing expert in the restaurant industry and CEO of America's Best Restaurants. Matt, also known as the Chief Energy Officer, shares insights on creating memorable guest experiences and leveraging digital loyalty programs to keep restaurant guests returning. He discusses his journey from working with his father's clients in the restaurant business to growing a marketing company that now serves thousands of restaurants nationwide. Matt explains the importance of customer acquisition and retention, emphasizing the value of capturing and utilizing customer data effectively. The conversation also touches on the challenges and opportunities in restaurant marketing, with real-world examples of success stories driven by strategic marketing and technology adoption. The episode highlights the significance of continuous self-improvement for restaurant owners and managers, encouraging them to invest in both personal development and smart marketing strategies to drive business growth.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest
01:21 Matt Plapp's Background and Journey
04:28 Marketing Strategies for Restaurants
07:20 The Importance of Customer Data
14:22 Challenges and Solutions in Restaurant Marketing
22:32 Real-Life Examples and Success Stories
28:05 A Pizza Restaurant's Remarkable Growth
28:34 The Power of Business Coaching
29:29 Avery's Success Story
30:13 Engaging with Social Media
30:35 Road Trip with Dad
31:40 Matt Plapp's Marketing Philosophy
32:53 Customer Acquisition Strategies
40:57 The Birth of Driver
43:02 The Importance of Continuous Improvement
49:24 Connecting with Matt Plapp
50:27 Final Thoughts and Farewell

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast, Jeremy Julian, CRO of Custom Business Solutions with over 25 years in restaurant tech, hosts Can, a serial entrepreneur and founder of Finch. Finch offers innovative digital media platforms tailored for restaurants, allowing them to advertise in-house specials and sell screen time to third-party advertisers. Can explains how Finch aims to help restaurant owners enhance guest experiences, drive behavior, and boost margins without incurring costs for hardware or installation. Highlights include real-time advertising capabilities, success stories and upcoming features to enhance customer loyalty and venue revenues. Finch currently operates in New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Miami. For more information, restaurants can reach out directly via Instagram @FinchVenues or email [email protected].

00:00 Introduction to Today's Episode
00:09 The Rise of Digital Media in Retail
00:27 Introducing Can and His Digital Media Platform
01:21 Meet Jeremy Julian
01:50 Welcome to the Restaurant Technology Guys Podcast
02:37 Can's Journey in the Startup Industry
03:38 The Concept Behind Finch
04:54 How Finch is Revolutionizing In-Venue Advertising
06:15 Real-World Applications and Success Stories
12:11 Ensuring Security and Customization
14:36 Cost and Implementation of Finch
29:43 Future Plans and Expansion
31:38 Conclusion and Contact Information

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast, host Jeremy Julian is joined by Alicia Kelso, Executive Editor for Nations Restaurant News. They discuss a wide array of topics, including Alicia's extensive background in restaurant journalism, the current and future trends in the restaurant industry, and the impacts of automation and technology on restaurant operations. They also touch on the importance of providing value and a holistic experience to consumers, the challenges and strategies of labor management, and the benefits of loyalty programs. The conversation delves into macroeconomic challenges, such as inflation and labor shortages, and practical advice on how restaurant operators can adapt to a rapidly evolving landscape.

00:00 Audio of Alicia NRN
01:06 Introduction and Guest Introduction
01:41 Alicia Kelso's Background and Career
02:46 The Draw of the Restaurant Industry
05:33 Current Trends and Challenges in the Restaurant Industry
11:54 The Importance of Value and Experience
20:15 Role of Technology in the Restaurant Industry
30:31 Future Outlook and Conclusion

Revolutionizing Restaurant Tech: Yaro's Journey with PickPad

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast, Jeremy Julian interviews Yaro, a multiple-time founder in the realm of restaurant technology. Yaro shares his background, detailing his migration from Ukraine to the United States and his 15-year journey in developing tech solutions for the restaurant industry. The discussion focuses on Yaro's latest innovative product, PickPad, a modular system aimed at optimizing the pickup experience in quick-service restaurants (QSR). The conversation sheds light on how PickPad uses sensors and machine learning to improve both customer and employee journeys, enhancing efficiency and experiences at the critical intersection of online and offline operations. Jeremy and Yaro discuss the future potential of digital transformation in the QSR sector, the importance of data points in improving operations, and the benefits of integrating such technology from both the staff and customer perspectives.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Background
01:18 Yaro's Journey in Restaurant Tech
03:46 The Birth of PickPad
06:07 How PickPad Enhances Customer Experience
10:28 The Role of Data in PickPad's Success
19:47 Future of Customer Experience with PickPad
26:49 Engaging with PickPad
30:28 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast, Jeremy Julian interviews Yaro, a multiple-time founder in the realm of restaurant technology. Yaro shares his background, detailing his migration from Ukraine to the United States and his 15-year journey in developing tech solutions for the restaurant industry. The discussion focuses on Yaro's latest innovative product, PickPad, a modular system aimed at optimizing the pickup experience in quick-service restaurants (QSR). The conversation sheds light on how PickPad uses sensors and machine learning to improve both customer and employee journeys, enhancing efficiency and experiences at the critical intersection of online and offline operations. Jeremy and Yaro discuss the future potential of digital transformation in the QSR sector, the importance of data points in improving operations, and the benefits of integrating such technology from both the staff and customer perspectives.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Background
01:18 Yaro's Journey in Restaurant Tech
03:46 The Birth of PickPad
06:07 How PickPad Enhances Customer Experience
10:28 The Role of Data in PickPad's Success
19:47 Future of Customer Experience with PickPad
26:49 Engaging with PickPad
30:28 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Empowering Family Businesses: Insights from 'The Family Business Manifesto'

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast, host Jeremy Julian is joined by business coach and author Mike to discuss his new book, 'The Family Business Manifesto.' The conversation delves into the unique challenges and dynamics of family-run businesses, sharing key lessons from the book that aim to help such enterprises thrive. Mike highlights the importance of establishing clear roles, responsibilities, and communication, while also maintaining family harmony. The episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone involved in or associated with family businesses.

00:00 Family Business Manifesto
00:51 Introduction and Welcome
01:00 Guest Introduction: Meet Mike
01:41 Mike's Background and New Book
03:10 The Prevalence of Family Businesses
04:40 Challenges and Dynamics in Family Businesses
08:24 Key Principles for Family Business Success
15:32 The Importance of Clear Roles and Responsibilities
24:36 Establishing Core Values and Behaviors
34:10 Effective Communication Strategies
36:13 Conclusion and How to Learn More

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys Podcast, host Jeremy Julian talks with Rishabh, a serial entrepreneur aiming to transform the beverage industry with his innovative startup, Sidework. The discussion delves into the current challenges faced by the beverage sector, especially in coffee shops and bars dealing with complex drink orders. Rishabh explains how Sidework's agnostic ingredient dispensing system simplifies and speeds up the preparation process, improves accuracy, and enhances both barista and customer experiences. The episode also explores the broader potential of this technology in various settings, including under-invested aspects of the restaurant industry and non-traditional locations. The conversation underscores the immense opportunity for beverage-focused technology to significantly boost margins and operational efficiency.

00:00 Sidework
00:56 Introduction and Episode Overview
01:19 Guest Introduction: Rishabh Background
02:48 Introducing Sidework: Revolutionizing Beverage Dispensing
04:14 Challenges and Opportunities in Restaurant Technology
11:27 The Evolution of Beverage Complexity
17:24 How Sidework Enhances Efficiency
22:39 Addressing Concerns About Automation
27:35 Expanding Beverage Menus and Non-Traditional Environments
36:20 Conclusion and Contact Information

In this episode, Jeremy Julian speaks with Andrew Scott, a former restaurant owner who transitioned into empowering restaurant owners through his company, Ownership Training. Andrew shares his journey from struggling with restaurant management to founding a company that helps other restaurateurs scale their businesses and regain their freedom. The discussion covers his three-step process to enhance restaurant profitability, effective hiring practices, and understanding business seasonality. Andrew emphasizes the importance of intentional and deliberate actions to transform restaurant operations, ensuring owners can achieve both financial success and a better work-life balance.

00:00 Owner Shift Training
00:44 Introduction and Guest Welcome
01:27 Andrew's Journey in the Restaurant Industry
02:14 Challenges of Restaurant Ownership
03:33 Turning the Business Around
08:05 Defining Restaurant Freedom
11:17 Three-Step Plan for Restaurant Success
18:41 Leveraging Technology and Systems
22:09 The Importance of Consistency in Hiring
23:25 Effective Interview Techniques
25:31 Success Stories and Results
27:01 Understanding Business Seasons
29:51 Client Engagement and Ideal Clients
35:28 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast, Jeremy Julian is joined by Brian Wayne, VP of Customer Success at QSR Automations. They discuss how QSR Automations' technology solutions, such as the ConnectSmart kitchen display system and front desk software, enhance kitchen efficiency and guest experience. Brian shares insights into his journey with QSR Automations, the evolution of their products, and the importance of data in improving restaurant operations. The conversation highlights the benefits of transitioning from kitchen printing to more sophisticated kitchen management systems, including improved food quality, reduced noise, and better guest communication. Brian also touches on the significance of real-time data, partnerships, and predictive analytics in the future of restaurant technology.

00:00 QSR Automations
00:39 Introduction and Guest Introduction
01:03 Brian's Journey with QSR Automations
02:55 What is QSR Automations?
05:25 The Evolution of Kitchen Display Systems
12:03 Real-Time Data and Guest Communication
19:30 Front Desk Software and Integration
26:11 The Future of Restaurant Technology
29:48 Touchscreens vs. Bump Bars in Kitchens
32:37 Conclusion and How to Engage with QSR

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast, Jeremy Julian, Chief Revenue Officer of Custom Business Solutions, is joined by Jeff Porter and Ryan Burhorn, co-founders of RAD, a next-generation analytics platform designed for restaurant operators. Their guest, James McGee, CFO and franchisee at Dave's Hot Chicken, shares insights into how RAD helps the rapidly growing brand make data-driven decisions that improve guest and employee experiences. The discussion covers RAD's innovative approach to providing actionable insights from existing data systems, the importance of understanding financial versus productivity metrics, and the critical role of customer sentiment. The episode highlights RAD's customized analytics solutions and how they help franchisees enhance their return on investment while maintaining consistent, high-quality service in a scalable manner.

00:00 Introduction to Today's Episode
01:00 Meet the Co-Founders of Rad
02:00 Introducing James McGee from Dave's Hot Chicken
02:20 The Genesis of Rad
03:24 Rad's Approach to Data Analytics
05:51 Holistic Data Analysis in Restaurants
08:03 James McGee's Journey and Dave's Hot Chicken
09:48 Actionable Data and Productivity Metrics
13:42 Engaging Franchisees with Rad
26:16 Future of Rad and Restaurant Analytics
30:46 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast, host Jeremy Julian is joined by Brandi Villareal, head of Uber Direct's online food delivery for the U.S. and Canada. They explore the advantages of Uber Direct's first-party delivery solution, which allows restaurant brands to maintain control over customer data and enhance customer loyalty, unlike third-party marketplaces. Brandi shares her extensive background in the food and beverage industry, including technology and operations, and provides insights on how Uber Direct can help restaurants of all sizes easily integrate delivery services through APIs, partnerships with point of sale systems, and other technology providers. The discussion also touches on the benefits of hybrid delivery models and the growing importance of digital sales for restaurant success. Featured case studies, such as the Salad House, demonstrate significant growth and enhanced customer experiences through Uber Direct.

00:00 Audio Uber Direct
01:06 Introduction and Guest Welcome
01:27 Brandi Villareal's Background
02:18 Overview of Uber Direct
04:25 Benefits of Uber Direct for Restaurants
10:40 Success Stories and Case Studies
21:12 Hybrid Delivery Models
27:24 Getting Started with Uber Direct
29:46 Future of Uber Direct and Conclusion