Innovating Blaze Pizza: Tech Transformations and Guest Experience

Innovating Blaze Pizza: Tech Transformations and Guest Experience

Author: Restaurant Technology Guys Podcast, sponsored by Custom Business Solutions November 4, 2024 Duration: 37:07

In this insightful episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast, host Jeremy Julian chats with Chris Demery, CTO of Blaze Pizza, about the technological advancements at Blaze Pizza, particularly post-COVID-19. Chris highlights the pivotal role of user-friendly technology in enhancing both on-premise and off-premise dining experiences. The discussion covers the seamless implementation of the Qu POS system across more than 270 locations, the importance of open APIs, and the challenges and solutions related to managing digital and in-store orders. Further, the episode explores how predictive analytics, data optimization, and customer data platforms are key to improving operational efficiency and guest satisfaction. Listeners will gain practical insights into adapting technology to meet evolving guest needs, maintaining balance between digital and on-site service, and the significance of industry-specific networking for staying ahead in technological innovations.

00:00 Introduction to Today's Episode
00:51 Meet Chris Demery: A Legend in Restaurant Technology
01:27 Chris Demery's Career Journey
02:43 Philosophy on Technology and Operations
04:23 The Importance of Predictable Technology
05:46 Challenges and Innovations at Blaze Pizza
12:45 Adapting to Post-COVID Changes
16:27 Sponsor Messages
17:28 Understanding Blaze Pizza's Unique Model
18:43 Innovative Changes in Restaurant Operations
19:33 Speed of Service and Wait Time Metrics
20:56 Challenges with Custom Orders
24:16 Managing Digital and In-Person Orders
27:32 Leveraging Data for Better Staffing
29:11 Future Innovations and Guest Experience
35:17 Staying Connected and Final Thoughts


Ever feel like the tech in your restaurant is more of a headache than a help? You’re not alone. The Restaurant Technology Guys Podcast brought to you by Custom Business Solutions cuts through the noise, offering real talk from people who’ve been in the trenches. Host Jeremy brings a lifetime of perspective-his family founded Custom Business Solutions, and he spent school vacations soldering components, giving him a unique, ground-up understanding of the systems that keep dining rooms and kitchens humming. This isn’t abstract theory; it’s practical knowledge forged from years of combined hands-on experience in implementation, marketing, and daily operations. Each episode feels like a conversation with a trusted advisor, breaking down complex topics into actionable advice you can use immediately. Whether it’s navigating a new point-of-sale rollout, understanding how to leverage data, or simply making your current tech stack work harder for you, this podcast provides clarity. Tune in for straightforward discussions that focus on one core goal: using technology to run your business more smoothly and profitably. It’s a resource built on genuine expertise, designed specifically for owners and operators who need reliable solutions, not just flashy trends.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

The Restaurant Technology Guys Podcast brought to you by Custom Business Solutions
Podcast Episodes
Navigating Restaurant Tech and Trends with Alicia Kelso [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 36:02
In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast, host Jeremy Julian is joined by Alicia Kelso, Executive Editor for Nations Restaurant News. They discuss a wide array of topics, including Alicia's extensive bac…
Revolutionizing Restaurant Tech: Yaro's Journey with PickPad [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:34
Revolutionizing Restaurant Tech: Yaro's Journey with PickPadIn this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast, Jeremy Julian interviews Yaro, a multiple-time founder in the realm of restaurant technology. Yaro sh…
Maximizing Kitchen Efficiency with QSR Automations' Brian Wayne [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 34:28
In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast, Jeremy Julian is joined by Brian Wayne, VP of Customer Success at QSR Automations. They discuss how QSR Automations' technology solutions, such as the ConnectSma…
Navigating the Future of the Restaurant Industry with Danny Klein [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 36:33
In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys Podcast, Jeremy Julian talks with Danny Klein, freshly promoted to VP Editorial Director at WTWH Media's FRH properties. They delve deep into the state of the restaurant…