Step inside the Catering Cage as we welcome Claudie Newman, Director of Catering Sales at Founders Table. In this episode, Claudie brings energy and real-world perspective to some of the industry’s toughest questions — from building confidence in catering sales, to creating a culture where teams thrive, to navigating the challenges of scaling hospitality in today’s market.

👉 What you’ll learn in this episode:

• How to turn setbacks into stepping stones for catering growth
• Why confidence and culture are non-negotiables for success
• Claudie’s personal lessons from the front lines of hospitality

In this episode of Catering Cage, host Erle Dardick sits down with Alyson Schill, Co-Founder and CEO of Careit, the digital platform that makes it easy for restaurants, caterers, and businesses to donate surplus food to local nonprofits.
Alyson shares her journey from “waste nerd” to food recovery innovator and explains how Careit helps operators cut disposal costs, unlock tax advantages, reduce environmental impact, and strengthen community ties while fighting hunger.

Key takeaways:

• Why about 40% of U.S. food goes to waste, and practical steps operators can take
• The business case for donation: cost savings, tax benefits, and brand goodwill
• Field stories of Careit rerouting leftover catering food to those in need
• How to weave food recovery into daily operations and team culture

Sustainability, social responsibility, and smart business all come together in this conversation, showing why food recovery should be on every operator’s radar.

Join the fastest-growing catering community for restaurants. It’s free to join and built to help you grow smarter and faster. Sign up and download the app at CaterLinked.com.

Join Danna Navarro from Boudin Bakery as she reveals game-changing strategies for catering sales in today's challenging business landscape. Learn how to leverage AI, integrate operations and sales teams, and build lasting client relationships through authentic human connection. From technology tools to sales techniques, this episode offers actionable insights for restaurant professionals looking to thrive amid market uncertainty.

Sponsored by:
OPGA: Off Premise Growth Academy - Join tight-knit communities for catering sales, operations, catering in the c-suite, and catering technology. Find a group that’s right for you and elevate your catering!
https://opga.academy/

CateringSales #RestaurantInnovation #BusinessStrategy
Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory

In this insightful episode of The Catering Cage, host Erle Dardick speaks with Andrew Nakkache, Co-founder and CEO of FIRST (YC W19), about revolutionizing catering delivery. Andrew shares FIRST's journey from managing their own delivery fleet to becoming a technology company that connects restaurants with delivery providers through their innovative Delivery Display System. The conversation explores the high-stakes nature of catering delivery, strategies for scaling operations beyond five deliveries per day, and the importance of a hybrid approach where restaurants handle VIP orders personally while leveraging partners for routine deliveries. Both experts emphasize relationship-building with key clients and menu consolidation as essential tactics for success in today's challenging market.

Sponsored by:
OPGA: Off Premise Growth Academy - Join tight-knit communities for catering sales, operations, catering in the c-suite, and catering technology. Find a group that’s right for you and elevate your catering! https://opga.academy/

CateringTech #RestaurantOperations #DeliveryInnovation
Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory

Join Erle Dardick as he interviews Jeremy Hood, founder of Restaurant Results Partners and former restaurant owner, who reveals how independent operators can leverage catering to dramatically increase profits. Jeremy shares his journey from working in his family restaurant to creating systems that allowed for a successful exit, and offers practical advice on menu costing, pricing strategy, and database marketing. Learn how to implement the "law of reciprocity" through strategic sampling, automate your prospecting, and finally start working ON your business instead of just IN it.

Sponsored by: OPGA: Off Premise Growth Academy - Join tight-knit communities for catering sales, operations, catering in the c-suite, and catering technology. Find a group that’s right for you and elevate your catering! https://opga.academy/

RestaurantProfits #CateringSuccess #WorkOnYourBusiness
Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory

In this eye-opening interview, Garden Catering CEO Frank Carpenteri reveals how his multi-unit restaurant operation transformed their catering strategy from "saying yes to everything" to a focused Monday-to-Friday business lunch model that's driving significant profit margins. Carpenteri shares practical insights on kitchen operations, technology integration, community partnerships, and the coming AI revolution in restaurant catering while emphasizing the importance of focusing on core strengths and consistent client follow-up to create what he calls "a virtuous cycle" where "more catering leads to more retail."

Sponsored by:
OPGA: Off Premise Growth Academy - Join tight-knit communities for catering sales, operations, catering in the c-suite, and catering technology. Find a group that’s right for you and elevate your catering!
https://opga.academy/

RestaurantCatering #B2BFoodService #RestaurantProfits
Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory

In this insightful episode of "The Catering Cage," host Erle Dardick interviews Mary Shillue Goldberg, Director of Catering at Clover Food Lab, who shares her journey from making early morning box lunches to leading catering for Boston's beloved vegetarian restaurant chain. Mary reveals practical strategies for building successful catering operations, including prioritizing operational excellence before aggressive sales, training "catering captains," creating compelling in-store displays, and leveraging community resources like Caterlink. With competition intensifying from unexpected quarters like grocery stores and convenience chains, Mary's approach of relationship-building, storytelling, and extending brand experience beyond restaurant walls offers valuable insights for operators looking to grow their off-premise business without compromising quality.

RestaurantCatering #OffPremiseSales #FoodServiceInnovation
Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. ➡ Visit www.savor.fm

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Discover how restaurant operator Nick Panos transformed his family's pizza business into a thriving catering operation through innovative technology and operational excellence. Learn his proven strategies for maximizing profit margins, building effective teams, and leveraging unused capacity to scale your catering business. From custom tech solutions to timely delivery systems, Panos shares practical insights on how restaurants can build sustainable catering revenue streams while maintaining quality and customer satisfaction.

RestaurantCatering #FoodServiceTech #RestaurantBusiness

Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. ➡ Visit www.savor.fm

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Restaurant industry insider Jason Brooks reveals the shocking truth about why most restaurants are leaving MILLIONS on the table with their catering strategies. Discover the hidden fears, critical mistakes, and game-changing solutions that can transform your food service business from struggling to successful. Whether you're a restaurant owner, manager, or aspiring food entrepreneur, this eye-opening breakdown will show you exactly how to unlock massive catering potential and boost your bottom line like never before. Get ready to revolutionize your approach and turn catering from a side project into your most profitable revenue stream!

RestaurantSuccess #CateringPro #FoodServiceInnovation
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Dive into the world of professional catering sales with industry veteran Lance VanHemel as he shares invaluable insights on building a successful B2B catering operation. From managing relationships between sales and operations teams across 42 locations to his proven strategies for identifying high-value accounts, VanHemel reveals the secrets behind his impressive track record. Learn about his lightning-fast response time approach, sophisticated objection handling techniques, and expert tips for targeting specific industries. Whether you're just starting in catering sales or looking to enhance your existing program, this comprehensive guide offers practical strategies you can implement immediately.

CateringSales #RestaurantBusiness #HospitalityIndustry

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Join us for an enlightening conversation with Quinn McKenna, co-founder of Byte Kitchen, as he shares his journey from restaurant operations to tech innovation. Learn how this groundbreaking platform is revolutionizing restaurant catering operations by consolidating multiple marketplace channels into a streamlined system. McKenna discusses how small and medium-sized restaurants can compete with larger enterprises, unlock additional revenue streams, and efficiently manage their catering operations through smart technology solutions.

#RestaurantTech #CateringInnovation #FoodServiceTechnology
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In this insightful discussion about the future of restaurant catering, industry experts explore how technology and operations are evolving to meet growing demand. From capacity management challenges to the integration of AI, the conversation reveals how restaurants are adapting to handle multiple revenue streams while maintaining operational efficiency. The discussion highlights the importance of unified platforms that can handle both catering and takeout operations while maintaining distinct workflows, and emphasizes how data-driven insights and customer engagement are becoming crucial for success in the catering space.

Guest: Lindsay Holl | Sr Sales Engineer at Olo

RestaurantCatering #FoodTech #RestaurantOperations
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📈 Learn More ~  Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry. https://www.savor.fm/restaurant-power-index

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How do you turn catering into a true brand-building moment? In this episode, host Erle Dardick sits down with Jessica Serrano, Chief Marketing Officer at Bagel Brands and former CMO at Dig Inn. Jessica has built her career creating authentic connections between guests and food brands, leading marketing efforts for Taco Bell, Burger King, Dig Inn, and, shortly after this episode was recorded, Bagel Brands.

She shares how restaurants can build brand love and drive catering growth—even with lean budgets. From national campaigns to scrappy wins, Jessica unpacks what it takes to make catering and off-prem feel on-brand and unforgettable.

Join the fastest-growing catering community for restaurants. It’s free to join and built to help you grow smarter and faster. Sign up and download the app at CaterLinked.com.

In this eye-opening industry review, we explore how restaurants revolutionized their catering operations in 2024 through innovative technology and relationship-building strategies. From massive $400,000 single-event orders to AI-driven ordering systems, discover how leading brands balanced automation with personal touch to dominate the B2B catering space. Learn the secrets behind successful packaging innovations, operational excellence, and why some locations are generating up to 35% of their revenue from catering alone.

RestaurantIndustry #CateringBusiness #FoodTech
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📈 Learn More ~  Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry. https://www.savor.fm/restaurant-power-index

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Meet Szabi Bako, the innovative CEO who transformed a family-run catering startup into Helsinki's largest B2B catering operation in just three years. From launching during the pandemic to hitting million-euro revenue, Szabi reveals the crucial differences between drop-off and event catering, why most restaurants fail at B2B catering, and how the right mix of technology, operational excellence, and flexible service can create a thriving catering business. Whether you're a restaurant owner looking to expand or an entrepreneur seeking inspiration, this story shows how taking calculated risks and maintaining unwavering service standards can lead to exceptional growth in the food service industry.

RestaurantBusiness #CateringSuccess #FoodServiceTech
🫶 Subscribe NOW - Unlock a world of knowledge, innovation, and growth from the largest podcast network in food service! - https://savorfm.substack.com/

📈 Learn More ~  Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry. https://www.savor.fm/restaurant-power-index

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Discover how Ryan O'Neil's Curate is revolutionizing the catering industry with cutting-edge technology that transforms event management for restaurants. From AI-powered insights to flexible workflow solutions, this game-changing platform helps food service professionals unlock new revenue streams, streamline operations, and create unforgettable dining experiences. Learn how multi-unit restaurant operators can strategically expand into event catering without overwhelming their existing business model.

CateringTech #RestaurantInnovation #FoodServiceStrategy
🫶 Subscribe NOW - Unlock a world of knowledge, innovation, and growth from the largest podcast network in food service! - https://savorfm.substack.com/

📈 Learn More ~  Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry. https://www.savor.fm/restaurant-power-index

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Discover how modern catering technology is revolutionizing restaurant operations by providing integrated solutions that transform B2B catering from a peripheral service to a strategic, profitable business channel.

Guest: Terry Matthews

RestaurantTech #CateringInnovation #FoodServiceDigital
🫶 Subscribe NOW - Unlock a world of knowledge, innovation, and growth from the largest podcast network in food service! - https://savorfm.substack.com/📈 Learn More ~  Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry. https://www.savor.fm/restaurant-power-index

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Catering is emerging as a transformative business channel for restaurants, requiring a strategic shift in organizational culture, technological infrastructure, and operational approach. Experts argue that successful catering goes beyond traditional food service, involving specialized transaction methods, comprehensive B2B strategies, and a dedicated focus on group ordering that can potentially drive 30-40% of a restaurant's revenue.

RestaurantInnovation #CateringRevolution #FoodServiceStrategy
🫶 Subscribe NOW - Unlock a world of knowledge, innovation, and growth from the largest podcast network in food service! - https://savorfm.substack.com/

📈 Learn More ~  Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry. https://www.savor.fm/restaurant-power-index

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In this podcast episode, Taras Malyshev from Pizza Hut explores how AI can transform restaurant operations, focusing on sales, marketing, order entry, and delivery. He emphasizes AI as a strategic partner that enhances human capabilities, offering insights into dynamic pricing, personalized customer experiences, and innovative technology applications in the catering industry.

RestaurantTech #AIInnovation #CateringFuture
🫶 Subscribe NOW - Unlock a world of knowledge, innovation, and growth from the largest podcast network in food service! - https://savorfm.substack.com/

📈 Learn More ~  Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry. https://www.savor.fm/restaurant-power-index

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Renato Dayan, CEO of Flex Catering, reveals how restaurant brands can transform catering from a peripheral activity to a strategic revenue channel by leveraging advanced technologies like AI, centralized production, and specialized software solutions that prioritize relationship-based business models.

RestaurantTechnology #CateringInnovation #FoodServiceSoftware
🫶 Subscribe NOW - Unlock a world of knowledge, innovation, and growth from the largest podcast network in food service! - https://savorfm.substack.com/

📈 Learn More ~  Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry. https://www.savor.fm/restaurant-power-index

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Catering is a goldmine for restaurant operators, but requires a distinct business approach and focus on customer experience, data collection, and nurturing B2B relationships.

🫶 Subscribe NOW - Unlock a world of knowledge, innovation, and growth from the largest podcast network in food service! - https://savorfm.substack.com/

CateringBusiness #RestaurantStrategy #CustomerExperience
📈 Learn More ~  Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry. https://www.savor.fm/restaurant-power-index

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In an inspiring podcast, Costa Vida's off-premises and catering director, Allen Beck, shares his recipe for driving catering success - from leveraging technology like Olo to centralize order-taking, to forging strong executive relationships to fund strategic investments, to optimizing packaging to protect margins. Beck's operational savvy, coupled with a customer-centric approach, have propelled Costo Vita's catering business and earned him the prestigious 2024 Operator of the Year award from Food on Demand. His insights offer a roadmap for U.S. restaurant operators looking to capitalize on the booming off-premises opportunity.

CateringDominance #OffPremisesLeadership #RestaurantSuccess
🫶 Subscribe NOW - Unlock a world of knowledge, innovation, and growth from the largest podcast network in food service! - https://savorfm.substack.com/

📈 Learn More ~  Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry. https://www.savor.fm/restaurant-power-index

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In a thought-provoking discussion, Erle Dardick and Charles Gray of Paytronix explored the rapid evolution of restaurant technology, highlighting how digital innovations are reshaping the industry's operational landscape, particularly in the growing B2B catering space. Gray shared insights on the importance of personalization, customer loyalty, and leveraging data-driven strategies to drive business success in an increasingly competitive and technology-driven market.

#RestaurantTech, #FoodserviceInnovation, #DigitalTransformation

🫶 Subscribe NOW - Unlock a world of knowledge, innovation, and growth from the largest podcast network in food service! - https://savorfm.substack.com/

📈 Learn More ~  Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry. https://www.savor.fm/restaurant-power-index

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Get ready for the Restaurant Catering Workshop (RCW) in Austin! In this episode of the Catering Cage, Erle sits down with Cherryh Cansler and Kelly Grogan to preview what’s ahead at this year’s event and talk about why catering is becoming a critical growth channel for restaurants.

We cover the crowded tech landscape, how brands are balancing third-party with first-party, practical ways to align the C-suite with on-the-ground catering teams, and the key sessions that will define this year’s workshop.

The conversation also explores how the CaterLinked community is helping operators year-round — creating a space for education, sharing strategies, and building relationships that make catering stronger across the industry.

Join the fastest-growing catering community for restaurants. It’s free to join and built to help you grow smarter and faster. Sign up and download the app at CaterLinked.com.

Restaurant industry veteran Charley Donaldson has revolutionized community fundraising through DonationScout, a platform that transforms traditional restaurant fundraising events into profitable revenue streams. Speaking with Erle Dardick, Donaldson revealed how his experience as a Slim Chickens franchisee led to creating a system now used by over 4,000 restaurants across 25 brands. The platform automates fundraising management while delivering 30-40% flow-through profit margins, despite the standard 20% giveback to participating organizations. Beyond immediate financial benefits, these programs generate catering leads, strengthen community bonds, and create lasting customer relationships, proving that strategic community marketing is both good citizenship and smart business.

RestaurantMarketing #CommunityGiving #hospitalitytech

Restaurant Fundraiser ECON 101: Community Impact Meets Financial Growth
https://www.donationscout.com/insights/restaurant-fundraiser-econ-101-community-impact-meets-financial-growth/

The Hidden Synergy: Leveraging Restaurant Fundraiser Programs to Boost Catering
https://www.donationscout.com/insights/the-hidden-synergy-leveraging-restaurant-fundraiser-programs-to-boost-catering/

🫶 Subscribe NOW - Unlock a world of knowledge, innovation, and growth from the largest podcast network in food service! - https://savorfm.substack.com/

📈 Learn More ~  Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry. https://www.savor.fm/restaurant-power-index

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In a recent "The Catering Cage" episode, host Erle Dardick and Brett Spiegel, VP of Direct Ordering at Checkmate, discussed the evolution of catering technology in restaurants. They emphasized the need for bespoke catering solutions, robust back-end systems, and data consolidation to enhance operations. Spiegel highlighted the potential of AI in transforming various aspects of restaurant operations, from order-taking to customer support. The conversation underscored the importance of industry collaboration and designing solutions that address real-world challenges in the catering space, ultimately aiming to make it easier for restaurants to expand and optimize their catering operations.

#CateringTech #RestaurantInnovation #FoodServiceAI

🫶 Subscribe NOW - Unlock a world of knowledge, innovation, and growth from the largest podcast network in food service! - https://savorfm.substack.com/

📈 Learn More ~  Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry. https://www.savor.fm/restaurant-power-index

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Industry experts discuss the evolving landscape of catering technology, highlighting the shift from POS-centric systems to comprehensive solutions that prioritize customer relationships and complex order management. They emphasize the growing importance of catering and takeout for restaurants, the potential impact of AI and marketplaces, and the need for integrated systems that can handle multi-channel orders while providing personalized experiences. The future of restaurant technology is envisioned as operating systems capable of managing B2B transactions and seamlessly connecting all customer touchpoints.

CateringTech #RestaurantInnovation #DigitalHospitality
🫶 Subscribe NOW - Unlock a world of knowledge, innovation, and growth from the largest podcast network in food service! - https://savorfm.substack.com/

📈 Learn More ~  Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry. https://www.savor.fm/restaurant-power-index

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Jen Saunders-Haynes, Subway's Global Catering Director, offers invaluable insights into the evolving catering industry. She emphasizes the importance of treating catering as a distinct business, highlights the challenges of scaling operations in a multi-unit environment, and discusses the potential impact of automation and AI on the future of catering. Haynes stresses the significance of local engagement, relationship-building, and providing exceptional service to ensure repeat business. She also touches on the blurring lines between different off-premises channels and provides encouragement to industry professionals, advising them to stay passionate and be their own advocates in this dynamic field.
CateringInnovation #SubwayStrategy #FutureOfFoodService
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📈 Learn More ~  Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry. https://www.savor.fm/restaurant-power-index

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Michael Attias, founder of CaterZen and a veteran restaurant operator, has emerged as a visionary in the catering technology industry. With over 15 years of experience, Attias transformed his firsthand knowledge of catering challenges into a comprehensive software solution. CaterZen, launched in 2008, addresses the unique needs of restaurant catering operations, streamlining order management, production, and delivery. Attias emphasizes the importance of understanding catering as a distinct business within restaurants, advocating for tailored technological solutions and strategic approaches to boost profitability. His insights continue to shape the industry as he shares his expertise at events like the upcoming Restaurant Catering Workshop in Denver.

#CateringTech #RestaurantInnovation #FoodServiceSolutions
🫶 Subscribe NOW - Unlock a world of knowledge, innovation, and growth from the largest podcast network in food service! - https://savorfm.substack.com/

📈 Learn More ~  Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry. https://www.savor.fm/restaurant-power-index

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In a recent discussion, industry experts Erle Dardick, Bill Holloman, and Samir Wagle emphasized the critical importance of leadership development and training in the catering and B2B food sector. They highlighted the complexity of integrating off-premises programs with existing restaurant operations and stressed the need for a standardized approach. The experts advocated for investing in people through specialized training and certification programs, arguing that well-trained teams are crucial for success in this growing market. They concluded that prioritizing leadership development not only addresses the industry's need for specialized talent but also helps restaurants position themselves as leaders in the evolving food service landscape.

CateringLeadership #B2BFoodIndustry #RestaurantInnovation
🫶 Subscribe NOW - Unlock a world of knowledge, innovation, and growth from the largest podcast network in food service! - https://savorfm.substack.com/

📈 Learn More ~  Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry. https://www.savor.fm/restaurant-power-index

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Seasoned restaurant industry veterans TJ Shear and Sam Stanovich share their hard-won insights on successfully integrating catering into the restaurant business, emphasizing the importance of building a dedicated catering sales force, community engagement, and leveraging their new book "The Smart Restaurant Guide to Catering Domination" and an upcoming workshop to help restaurant owners unlock the full potential of this lucrative revenue stream.

📈 Learn More ~  Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry.
 https://www.savor.fm/restaurant-power-index

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The catering industry is undergoing significant changes driven by technology and evolving delivery models. Experts from Jason's Deli and DeliverThat highlight the importance of managing third-party deliveries, leveraging AI for operations, and potentially returning to first-party delivery solutions. Successful catering operations require treating it as a distinct business, focusing on menu management, identifying a niche, and maintaining high standards in packaging and timing. Networking within the industry emerges as a crucial factor for staying informed about best practices and new technologies, emphasizing the value of community in driving innovation and problem-solving in catering.

CateringInnovation #DeliveryTech #RestaurantNetworking
📈 Learn More ~  Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry. https://www.savor.fm/restaurant-power-index
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The catering industry is undergoing significant changes, with multi-unit restaurants recognizing its potential as a major revenue stream. Expert Kelly Grogan highlights the untapped opportunities in catering, emphasizing the need for dedicated leadership and resources. While technology integration is crucial for streamlining operations, maintaining human relationships remains essential. The emerging "food at work" movement is expanding B2B food service opportunities beyond traditional catering. To succeed, restaurants must prioritize catering in their business strategy, discuss it in every team meeting, and adapt to evolving market trends.

CateringRevolution #FoodAtWork #RestaurantGrowth
📈 Learn More ~  Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry. https://www.savor.fm/restaurant-power-index

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Jason Schlenker, a veteran in the customer service industry and representative of Inktel Contact Center Solutions, shared insights on centralized phone systems for restaurants and retail businesses in a recent interview. With over 26 years of experience, Inktel supports major brands across various sectors, improving customer experience and boosting sales, particularly in catering and takeout. Schlenker emphasized the importance of efficient call handling, proactive customer relationship management, and the complementary role of AI in customer service. He expressed optimism about the future of the Business Process Outsourcing industry and will be sharing more insights at the upcoming Restaurant Catering Workshop in Denver.

📈 Learn More ~  Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry. https://www.savor.fm/restaurant-power-index

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Join host Erle Dardick and DeliverThat CTO Matt Benzel as they explore the dramatic evolution of catering delivery from simple driver debates to sophisticated hybrid ecosystems. Discover how restaurants are moving toward specialized catering production facilities, leveraging AI for delivery optimization, and why the industry needs dedicated expertise rather than generic solutions. Learn about the operational challenges of managing B2B catering versus B2C takeout, the rise of orchestrated delivery platforms, and predictions for centralized kitchen operations with robotics integration.

Sponsored by:
OPGA: Off Premise Growth Academy - Join tight-knit communities for catering sales, operations, catering in the c-suite, and catering technology. Find a group that’s right for you and elevate your catering! Visit https://opga.academy/

CateringDelivery #RestaurantTech #FoodServiceInnovation
Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory

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Notable success stories include Panera Bread, which reported that catering made up 10% of its sales in 2019, and Chipotle, whose catering business has seen double-digit growth in recent years.
This insightful discussion on "Catering Cage" offers valuable perspectives on the evolving landscape of the food service industry. As restaurants and catering businesses navigate these trends, adaptability and innovation will be key to success in the future.

📈 Learn More ~  Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry. https://www.savor.fm/restaurant-power-index
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🫶 Subscribe NOW - Unlock a world of knowledge, innovation, and growth from the largest podcast network in food service! - https://savorfm.substack.com/

The catering and food-at-work movement is emerging as a crucial revenue stream for restaurants, offering significant growth potential in the business-to-business sector. Industry expert Erle Dardick emphasizes the need for restaurants to invest in specialized technology, training, and sales teams to capitalize on this opportunity. As economic pressures mount, there's a potential resurgence in employer-provided meals, echoing practices from the early 1900s. The future of catering involves increased efficiency through automation, standalone order management systems, and potentially transforming restaurants into multi-channel food manufacturers. While some chains excel in catering, many brands have yet to tap into this lucrative market fully, making it a critical area for innovation and growth in the evolving restaurant industry.

📈 Learn More ~  Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry. https://www.savor.fm/restaurant-power-index
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Join Erle Dardick and education expert RaVae Beck as they expose the #1 reason most restaurant catering programs plateau at just 12% of sales while industry leaders like Jason's Deli hit 50%+ at top locations. Discover the game-changing training framework that saved one restaurant group during the pandemic, learn why the industry desperately needs its first "Chief Catering Officer," and get exclusive insights into the Off-Premises Growth Academy's revolutionary approach to scaling catering success across restaurant brands, grocery chains, and beyond.

Sponsored by:
OPGA: Off Premise Growth Academy - Join tight-knit communities for catering sales, operations, catering in the c-suite, and catering technology. Find a group that’s right for you and elevate your catering! Visit https://opga.academy/

RestaurantTraining #CateringSuccess #OffPremisesGrowth
Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory

In this insightful episode of The Catering Cage podcast, host Erle Dardick interviews Jennifer Saunders-Haynes, Catering Strategist at Elizabeth Jewel Consulting. The conversation explores the critical importance of executive-level catering leadership, with Jennifer emphasizing how a Chief Catering Officer coordinates across operations, marketing, and supply chain departments. They discuss community building in the catering industry, preparing for economic uncertainty by retaining talent who can pivot to off-premises opportunities, and addressing growing competition from non-restaurant sectors like grocery stores. Jennifer shares practical advice for restaurant professionals navigating changing market conditions and emphasizes how skills in catering management transfer to third-party delivery operations.

Sponsored by:
OPGA: Off Premise Growth Academy - Join tight-knit communities for catering sales, operations, catering in the c-suite, and catering technology. Find a group that’s right for you and elevate your catering! https://opga.academy/

CateringStrategy #RestaurantManagement #FoodIndustryLeadership
Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory

In the latest Catering Cage podcast, host Erle Dardick and CaterZen's Michael Attias discuss how AI and automation are transforming restaurant catering while emphasizing the need for specialized management systems, strategic investment during economic uncertainty, and community collaboration. They predict a future with AI order-taking and robot-assisted preparation but stress that investing in catering strategies now can potentially double restaurant profits.

Sponsored by:
OPGA: Off Premise Growth Academy - Join tight-knit communities for catering sales, operations, catering in the c-suite, and catering technology. Find a group that’s right for you and elevate your catering!
https://opga.academy/

CateringInnovation #RestaurantTech #FutureOfFoodservice
Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory

In this insightful episode of The Catering Cage, host Erle Dardick shares crucial advice for restaurant catering operations facing economic uncertainty. Drawing from 30 years of industry experience, he explains that while corporate spending cuts often impact food budgets first during downturns, these challenges are always temporary. Dardick emphasizes that the most powerful investment during tough times is in people—spreading catering expertise throughout your organization rather than keeping it siloed. He also highlights the importance of community connections through platforms like caterlink.com, where operators can share experiences and solutions. With convenience stores and grocery chains emerging as significant competitors, restaurants must focus on strategic investments now to emerge stronger when the inevitable recovery arrives.

Sponsored by:
OPGA: Off Premise Growth Academy - Join tight-knit communities for catering sales, operations, catering in the c-suite, and catering technology. Find a group that’s right for you and elevate your catering!
https://opga.academy/

CateringSuccess #RestaurantStrategy #EconomicResilience
Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory

In this insightful episode of The Catering Cage, host Erle Dardick joins catering experts Kelly Grogan and Cherryh Cansler to discuss why restaurants should invest in catering during economic uncertainty. The trio reveals how catering can contribute up to 50% of profits while only representing 20% of sales, making it a strategic focus during challenging times. They preview the upcoming Restaurant Catering Workshop in Austin (October 7-8) and emphasize the importance of investing in sales talent rather than cutting back, highlighting catering as both a revenue driver and effective marketing channel that leverages existing restaurant assets without requiring additional real estate.

Sponsored by:
OPGA: Off Premise Growth Academy - Join tight-knit communities for catering sales, operations, catering in the c-suite, and catering technology. Find a group that’s right for you and elevate your catering!
https://opga.academy/

RestaurantCatering #ProfitableGrowth #FoodServiceStrategy
Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory