Tech
Uber, Wonder issue layoffs
Uber and Wonder recently announced layoffs respectively, with Uber cutting about 3,000 jobs and Wonder about 150, aiming to simplify organizational structures and focus on core businesses.
Restaurant Dive Trendline on How AI is shaping the restaurant industry
The latest report from the National Restaurant Association (NRA) shows that more than a quarter of restaurant operators are already using AI-related tools, with marketing being the most common application. Although AI ordering has not yet become widespread, consumer acceptance of AI ordering is rising, especially among younger groups. Operators continue to increase technology investment to cope with cost pressures, and giants like Yum Brands and McDonald's are also advancing their AI strategies.
Murphy USA to trial automated White Castle kiosks
Murphy USA announced on Thursday that it will pilot an automated food platform developed by Automated Retail Technologies at select large stores, initially offering White Castle food. Customers can order via touchscreen and receive their food in about two minutes. This initiative aims to test demand for freshly prepared convenience food in compact spaces, but the company did not disclose the number of specific stores.
Panera overhauls rewards program
Panera Bread has introduced MyPanera 2.0, a revamped loyalty program that shifts to a points-based system with three tiers. The change, announced Wednesday, provides members with more control and flexibility in redeeming rewards, and is part of the company's broader RISE turnaround strategy.
Why restaurant loyalty programs need to go beyond the points-based game
As punch cards fade into history, loyalty programs are no longer just about transactions. Experts from Patronix and Tropical Smoothie Cafe discuss how personalization, gamification, and data-driven strategies are reshaping customer retention in the restaurant industry.
How Cava outperforms in fast casual despite frugal marketing budget
Cava reported a 9.0% increase in same-restaurant sales and 5.3% guest traffic growth in Q2 2026, beating Wall Street expectations despite a marketing spend of just over 1% of revenue. CEO Brett Schulman highlighted the success of the Mediterranean Summer Supper Series with Airbnb. In an interview, SVP Nitya Madhavan discusses efficient marketing tactics, creator partnerships, social channel evolution, loyalty program enhancements, and a cautious approach to AI in creative work.
Wendy’s new CEO pushes for experience consistency as part of turnaround
Wendy's new CEO Bob Wright is spearheading a turnaround that emphasizes consistent customer experience and digital enhancements. In Q2 2026, U.S. same-restaurant sales fell 7%, but customer satisfaction improved. Wright plans to leverage his Potbelly experience to address operational gaps and invest in technology.
Toast aims to drive AI into dining
Restaurant software and payment company Toast is using AI tools to take over restaurant operations. Its first AI product, Toast IQ Grow, has been expected to reach $10 million in annual revenue since its launch in May. The company's CEO stated that more "agentic products" will be introduced, covering scenarios such as demand forecasting, scheduling, and tax.
How is AI disrupting restaurant operations? Craftable Crafti makes data speak
Restaurant operators often make slow decisions due to scattered data and cumbersome reports. Craftable has launched an AI assistant, Crafti, which provides conversational insights from cost diagnosis to menu optimization based on real operational data, and enhances trust through transparent, traceable methods.