Wendy’s Embraces AI And Innovation Under CIO Matt Spessard

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Wendy's, led by CIO Matt Spessard, is leveraging AI and innovation to enhance customer and crew experiences. Since February 2024, Spessard's focus has been on digital transformation, including a new mobile app and self-service kiosks, resulting in a 40% increase in digital revenue. The FreshAi platform redefines drive-thru operations using generative AI and is currently expanding. Wendy's adopts a rigorous innovation process, prioritizing successful technologies while exploring further AI applications. Spessard emphasizes careful implementation to maintain quality service while advancing restaurant technology.

https://www.forbes.com/sites/peterhigh/2025/03/03/wendys-embraces-ai-and-innovation-under-cio-matt-spessard/

Samsung and GRUBBRR Promise Results or Clients Don’t Pay With New Guarantee Initiative

Samsung and GRUBBRR introduce the GRUBBRR Guarantee, ensuring clients receive ROI from self-ordering technology or their SaaS fees are waived. Customers must sign up by May 1, 2025, and share POS data weekly to activate the guarantee after the first three months. This initiative aims to reduce risks for businesses adopting new technology while enhancing operational efficiency and profitability.

https://news.samsung.com/us/samsung-grubbrr-promise-results-clients-dont-pay-new-guarantee-initiative/

9 Catering Trends Revealed

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9 key catering trends:
1. Sustainability is essential.
2. Wellness-focused meals boost productivity.
3. Hybrid catering models combine delivery and experiences.
4. Data drives personalized catering.
5. Digital ordering is preferred.
6. Menu inclusivity for dietary restrictions is crucial.
7. B2B catering demand is increasing.
8. Tech firms invest in catering solutions.
9. Community knowledge sharing is vital for success.

https://www.fastcasual.com/blogs/9-catering-trends-revealed/

Interview: Eugene Lee Exits McDonald’s, Reflects on His Career and the Industry

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Eugene Lee, McDonald's international CMO, is leaving after 15 years to prioritize family and seek new opportunities in industries like eSports and automotive. Reflecting on his career, he emphasizes the importance of insights-based marketing over transactional approaches. Lee believes great campaigns stem from strong consumer insights and stresses the need for long-term brand relationship building instead of immediate ROI focus. His successor is Erwin Dito.

https://www.marketing-interactive.com/exit-interview-mcdonald-s-intl-cmo-eugene-lee-reflects-on-his-career-and-the-industry

Fast Food & Quick Service Restaurants Business Report 2025:

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TLDR: Fast Food & Quick Service Restaurants market projected to grow from $316.1B in 2024 to $384B by 2030 (CAGR 3.3%). Growth driven by urbanization, convenience demand, digital ordering, health-conscious menus, and sustainability practices in emerging markets. Technology enhances customer experience, operational efficiency, and menu variety, including plant-based options.

https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/02/28/3034816/0/en/Fast-Food-Quick-Service-Restaurants-Business-Report-2025-Global-Market-to-Reach-384-Billion-by-2030-Emerging-Markets-Fuels-Industry-Growth-Through-New-Franchises-and-Regional-Speci.html

Key Trend Shaping the Digital Food Management Market in 2025: Samsung Introduces Personalized Food Service To Simplify Meal Preparation And Ingredient Ordering As Revealed In New Report

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Samsung launches AI-driven personalized food service to simplify meal prep and ingredient ordering, contributing to the digital food management market growth, projected to reach $3.28 billion by 2025. Factors driving growth include increased internet access, smartphone adoption, and food delivery service demand. Future trends involve innovations like self-driving delivery, 5G impact, blockchain for food traceability, and augmented reality in menus. North America leads the market, with Asia-Pacific expected to grow fastest. Major players include Oracle, Uber, and DoorDash.

https://www.whatech.com/og/markets-research/food-beverage/936959-key-trend-shaping-the-digital-food-management-market-in-2025-samsung-introduces-personalized-food-service-to-simplify-meal-preparation-and-ingredient-ordering.html

Restaurant Point of Sale Terminal Market to Reach USD 48.46 Billion by 2032

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Restaurant POS market projected to grow from USD 21.49B in 2023 to USD 48.46B by 2032, at a CAGR of 9.5%. Growth driven by cloud adoption, mobile POS, digital payments, and automation. Mobile and software components dominate, ensuring improved efficiency and customer experience. North America leads, while Asia Pacific shows rapid expansion due to rising digital transactions. Full-service restaurants are key market players, leveraging advanced technology for customer engagement.

https://www.einnews.com/pr_news/789660782/restaurant-point-of-sale-terminal-market-to-reach-usd-48-46-billion-by-2032-sns-insider

Sweetgreen’s Automated ‘Infinite Kitchen’ Readies for a Step Up in 2025

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Sweetgreen plans to enhance its automated ‘Infinite Kitchen' system in 2025, with around 25 new locations deploying this technology. This shift follows a year of reduced menu innovation, focused instead on operational stability. The Infinite Kitchens, introduced in 2023, have shown promising results, improving speed, reducing labor costs, and increasing digital sales. The company aims to increase locations from 12 to 33, potentially maximizing efficiency in high-demand areas. Despite challenges in early 2025, including weather impacts on California stores, Sweetgreen anticipates revenue growth and a revamped loyalty program alongside new menu items, including “Ripple Fries” and collaborations with chefs.

https://www.qsrmagazine.com/story/sweetgreens-automated-infinite-kitchen-readies-for-a-step-up-in-2025/

What Stadium Eateries Can Learn From Restaurants’ Tech Tools

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Stadium eateries can enhance fan experiences by adopting restaurant technology such as mobile ordering and self-service kiosks, aimed at reducing wait times and boosting satisfaction. Implementing these tools can streamline service, improve menu offerings, and leverage data analytics for better operational decisions. It's crucial to balance technological innovations with personal service, particularly in premium areas. Overall, integrating tech with a human touch can create memorable dining experiences for fans.

https://www.qsrmagazine.com/story/what-stadium-eateries-can-learn-from-restaurants-tech-tools/

Self Service Technologies Market Size to Hit USD 131.83 Billion by 2034

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Self service technologies market expected to grow from USD 53.32B in 2025 to USD 131.83B by 2034, with a CAGR of 10.58%. Key growth drivers include increased adoption of automation, AI, and demand for contactless solutions. North America leads the market, while Asia Pacific shows fastest growth. Major segments include ATMs and vending machines. Consumer preference for speed and convenience presents opportunities, despite data security concerns.

https://www.precedenceresearch.com/self-service-technologies-market

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