The Latest News

Steve Ells’ Startup Kernel Axes Robots and Rebrands
Dubbed “Counter Service”, it’s shifted gears to an artisanal sandwich concept.

Sauce Adds a Customer Retention Module To Its White-Label Delivery Platform
Sauce automates individualized messages to existing customers and operators don’t have to do a thing.

Outstanding Operator: Viva Chicken
The QSR with the tasty Peruvian-style poultry is expanding to new locations, supported by a revamped tech stack and a deep confidence in its catering program.

Outstanding Operator: Playa Bowls
Founded by passionate surfers Robert Giuliani and Abby Taylor, the brand continues to expand, including in off-premises operations, with its innovative loyalty program and customizable menu.

The Catering Journey Part 2: Framework, Commitment, Offering
In part two of the series, Jim Rand covers the key steps to building a successful catering program, from aligning your brand vision to securing leadership commitment and offering a standout menu.

ClearCOGS Deploys AI for Clear Forecasting
The vendor serves up a multitude of data points for operators, resulting in savings in food waste and staff sanity.

Key Trends Shaping the Restaurant Industry in 2025
From closures to automation, AI advancements, and ongoing investment in off-premises we explore predictions for the year ahead.

Grocery Delivery Is On the Ascendance. Some Grocers Are Worried.
A Deloitte study shows just how rabidly consumers value convenience from their grocery stores.

UrbanPiper Completes Ordermark Integration and Aims for U.S. Growth
It’s been more than a year since integrations provider UrbanPiper acquired Ordermark. It’s now looking to 10X its U.S. presence by 2027.

CFOs Marvel at Strength of Third-Party Delivery
Top finance officers gathered at the Restaurant Finance & Development Conference and agreed that off-premises sales have a high ceiling.

KFC’s Digital Twin ‘Saucy’ Aims to Capture Gen Z
KFC’s Chief New Concept Officer, Christophe Poirier, talks about the design behind Saucy, the brand’s first spin-off, where technology and digital innovation play a central role.

Super-apps vs. Pure Players: The Strategic Evolution of Global Delivery Platforms
A look at how super-apps like Meituan, Gojek and others have positioned themselves as comprehensive digital ecosystems, integrating food delivery with services like ride-hailing, grocery and financial services.
Food On Demand Topics
Finance
Rising Restaurant Costs Reveal Generational Divide in Spending
Amid rising prices, older consumers are dining out less, while younger generations are choosing lower-priced restaurants.
Research
State of Restaurant Industry Reports $997B in Sales, Tech Adoption Up
National Restaurant Association’s annual survey highlights several “pandemic pivots” that became permanent, including an increase in tech investments, expansion of delivery and more.
The Deliverers
DoorDash Partners With Lyft On Discounts and Upgrades
Not only will consumers receive savings, they will receive a nightlife report.
Best Practices
What are your peers doing in delivery? Get some of the best practices out there.
Bojangles Partners With GRUBBRR For Kiosks
Bojangles was pleased with the results of a pilot program that showed an improvement in throughput.