Restaurant Technology Trends in 2026
Explore restaurant technology trends in 2026, including AI, automation, digital ordering, workforce tools, connected kitchens, personalization, and profitability strategies today.
Aug 28, 2026
Explore restaurant technology trends in 2026, including AI, automation, digital ordering, workforce tools, connected kitchens, personalization, and profitability strategies today.
Aug 28, 2026
Learn how to calculate restaurant cost of goods using inventory, purchases, COGS percentage, variance reviews, and regular tracking for profitability.
Aug 31, 2026
Understand how to evaluate a Kiosk system using key criteria including features, POS integration, hardware, pricing, customer experience, and support.
Aug 31, 2026
Learn the startup costs of opening an ice cream shop, including rent, equipment, renovations, permits, inventory, labor, marketing, and reserves.
Aug 28, 2026
A restaurant P&L statement reveals sales, expenses, and profits, helping owners manage costs, improve margins, and plan finances more effectively.
Aug 26, 2026
RaceTrac has appointed Jill Pemberton as chief financial officer, succeeding Karla Ahlert, who moves into the newly created role of chief administrative officer.
Aug 26, 2026
Learn practical ways to reduce labour costs through smarter scheduling, forecasting, productivity, cross-training, automation, overtime control, and performance monitoring strategies.
Aug 26, 2026
Levain Bakery appoints Lorna Sommerville and Taya Stenson as co-CEOs, blending operational and marketing expertise to power national expansion and innovation while staying rooted in its brand values.
Aug 25, 2026
Blaze Pizza welcomes Tracy Stockard as Chief Marketing Officer, bringing decades of brand and franchise experience to drive strategic growth and guest engagement.
Aug 25, 2026
Create a practical restaurant marketing plan by setting goals, targeting customers, choosing channels, budgeting wisely, scheduling campaigns, and measuring results.
Aug 24, 2026
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Explore how activist investors are reshaping the future of Red Robin Gourmet Burgers and the challenges faced by the casual-dining chain.

Two activist investors, JCP Investment Management, and Jumana Capital, have recently acquired a significant stake in Red Robin Gourmet Burgers. JCP Investment purchased 7.9% of Red Robin’s total shares, while Jumana Capital bought 3.7% of the casual-dining chain’s shares. This move has caused a noticeable increase in Red Robin’s stock price, indicating investor confidence in the company's potential.
Both JCP Investment Management and Jumana Capital have a track record of actively engaging with struggling companies to drive change and unlock value. Over the past decade, JCP Investment has played an activist role in companies like Jamba, Potbelly, and Fiesta Restaurant Group, demonstrating a history of strategic investments in the food industry. On the other hand, Jumana Capital is known for its investments in data, engineering, and technology companies, showcasing a diversified portfolio.
According to the SEC filing, both investment firms identified Red Robin as an undervalued asset with significant potential for growth. They believed that the shares were priced below their intrinsic value, presenting a lucrative investment opportunity. This strategic move aligns with the investors' objective of maximizing returns by participating in the revitalization of struggling companies.
In the face of challenges, Red Robin unveiled a comprehensive comeback plan during the January 2023 ICR conference. The 'North Star' plan aims to rejuvenate the brand by enhancing the guest experience, streamlining operations to reduce costs and complexity, and driving revenue and profitability. Despite encountering obstacles like a cautious consumer spending environment and inflationary pressures, the company remains optimistic about the success of its revival strategy.
The casual-dining sector has been navigating a difficult landscape, especially with changing consumer behaviors influenced by economic factors like inflation. Red Robin, like many other players in the industry, has felt the impact of these shifts, reflected in a substantial decline in its stock price over the past year. However, the company's resilience and commitment to initiatives like a revamped loyalty program indicate a proactive approach to addressing industry challenges.