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
Understand how to evaluate a Kiosk system using key criteria including features, POS integration, hardware, pricing, customer experience, and support.
Aug 31, 2026
Learn how to calculate restaurant cost of goods using inventory, purchases, COGS percentage, variance reviews, and regular tracking for profitability.
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
Learn practical ways to reduce labour costs through smarter scheduling, forecasting, productivity, cross-training, automation, overtime control, and performance monitoring strategies.
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
Create a practical restaurant marketing plan by setting goals, targeting customers, choosing channels, budgeting wisely, scheduling campaigns, and measuring results.
Aug 24, 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
A payroll advance policy helps restaurant owners define eligibility, limits, repayment, documentation, approval procedures, and compliance requirements for employee advances.
Aug 24, 2026
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Explore the pivotal roles of McDonald’s tech executives in shaping the company’s digital and technology strategy, driving innovation, and enhancing customer experience.


McDonald's digital and technology strategy has seen significant advancements under the leadership of key executives, Ashbaugh and McGinnis. Ashbaugh, who joined McDonald's in 2021 as the senior vice president of technology delivery, has since played a crucial role in global engineering and operations. Her expertise in standardizing McDonald’s consumer and restaurant platforms has been instrumental in introducing new capabilities like loyalty programs, Ready on Arrival, and innovative ordering channels.
McGinnis, with over two decades of experience at McDonald’s, became the U.S. CIO in 2021, overseeing the implementation of various cutting-edge technologies across the QSR giant's vast network of restaurants. Her contributions include the integration of point of sales systems, kiosks, digital menu boards, mobile ordering solutions, and advanced back-office programs. This technological integration has significantly enhanced operational efficiency and customer engagement.
Both Ashbaugh and McGinnis have been pivotal in revolutionizing McDonald's technology landscape. Ashbaugh's focus on developing artificial intelligence tools has propelled the company towards the future, with ongoing prototyping and testing of AI-driven solutions. McGinnis, leveraging her operational expertise and customer-centric approach, has played a crucial role in scaling innovation and delivering enhanced value across McDonald’s global platforms.
The profound industry knowledge and global perspective of Ashbaugh and McGinnis have been evident in their strategic roles at McDonald’s. Ashbaugh’s background spans diverse sectors from retail to aerospace, bringing a wealth of experience to drive technological transformation. McGinnis' extensive tenure at McDonald’s has equipped her with unparalleled insights into the company’s operations and customer needs, making her a driving force behind impactful digital initiatives.
As McDonald’s continues to lead the way in digital transformation within the QSR industry, the contributions of Ashbaugh and McGinnis will be paramount in shaping the future of technology utilization within the company. Their relentless pursuit of innovation and customer-centric approach are poised to elevate McDonald’s digital offerings, ensuring continued growth and success in an increasingly tech-driven environment.