Beyond the Front Desk with HOSPA

105 Years of Innovation at the National Restaurant Association Show

In this TechBytes episode, host Rob Grimes talks with Tom Cindric, President of the National Restaurant Association Show, about what’s ahead for the 105th edition of the industry’s largest foodservice event. From AI and automation to beverage trends, smart kitchens, and interactive exhibitor tours, the conversation explores how technology is transforming every part of hospitality. Tom shares insights into new education tracks, networking experiences, and keynote speaker Andre Agassi, while explaining why the Show continues to unite operators, suppliers, and innovators from around the world. A must-listen preview for anyone attending—or following—the future of foodservice and restaurant technology.

Beyond the Front Desk with HOSPA

Join Rob Grimes at HRC / HT360 in London for a special TechBytes episode with Jane Pendlebury, CEO of HOSPA. They explore how hospitality is evolving at the intersection of technology, revenue management, and genuine service. From the rise of revenue managers and digital transformation to QR codes, robotics, chatbots, and AI, Rob and Jane dig into what really works in hotels and restaurants today. You’ll hear how independent operators, hotel–restaurant partnerships, and changing guest expectations are reshaping labor, innovation, and the guest journey—without losing the human touch that defines hospitality.

Global Hospitality, Local Guests

In this episode of TechBytes, host Rob Grimes sits down with William Connors, International Technology & Systems Manager at Starbucks, to talk about everything but Starbucks. William traces his journey from food & beverage roles at Club Med and Radisson through hotel IT, Oracle implementations, and global restaurant tech. They explore how data, connected kitchens, CCTV, and AI can transform feedback, prevent equipment failures, and optimize operations. The conversation dives into international perspectives, customer loyalty, rising costs, and how suppliers and operators can better collaborate. It’s a fast-moving discussion about using the tech you already have to unlock new value.

How Smalls Sliders Scales Without Losing Hospitality

On this episode of TechBytes, host Rob Grimes sits down with Kris Douglas, Vice President of Technology at Smalls Sliders and co-chair of the IFBTA Atlanta chapter. Kris shares how Smalls went from under 10 locations to 47 units across 12 states, with ambitions of hitting 1,000+ locations—powered by a best-in-breed tech stack, data-driven decision-making, and a deep focus on the guest experience. They dig into AI beyond the hype, loyalty that actually drives engagement, and how to build scalable technology from the ground up without losing hospitality at the front line.

Next on the Menu: MURTEC 2026

In this TechBytes episode, host Rob Grimes speaks with Abby Lorden about the upcoming MURTEC Conference, coming to Las Vegas March 9-11, and how restaurant technology is evolving. From the debut of the AI Summit to a renewed focus on connection, collaboration, and real-world case studies, Lorden explains how the event helps operators and business leaders navigate today’s fast-changing tech landscape. With attendees spanning IT, operations, marketing, and finance, MURTEC reflects how deeply technology now influences every part of restaurant success. If you want insight into where hospitality tech is heading—and how to stay ahead—this episode offers a valuable preview of the industry’s technology season kickoff.