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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Discover how Applebee's leveraged social media to drive growth, engage consumers, and launch a successful NFL season campaign.
Photo by Marina Matusevich
Photo by Marina Matusevich
Applebee's recent success in driving a 4.9% increase in same-store sales in Q2 2025 can be attributed to its strategic shift towards leveraging social media as a core element of its marketing approach. By enhancing its in-house social media team and focusing on real-time engagement, the casual dining chain saw remarkable improvements in consumer reach and brand resonance.
John Peyton, CEO of parent Dine Brands and president of Applebee’s, highlighted the benefits of an agile, in-house-led approach to social storytelling during an earnings call. The brand's emphasis on creating original content, embracing trending moments, and maintaining authenticity has significantly elevated its presence on platforms like TikTok, X, and Meta. Applebee's saw substantial growth in video views, user reach, and engagement, showcasing the impact of staying culturally relevant.
Applebee's upcoming NFL season campaign, positioning itself as the official grill and bar of the league, demonstrates the brand's commitment to meeting consumers where they are culturally. The focus on the Ultimate Trio menu item, offering a mix-and-match experience, coupled with engaging ads featuring NFL personalities, aims to create a memorable game day experience and establish a deeper connection with fans.
In a competitive casual dining landscape, Applebee's success is also attributed to its three-part strategy of enhanced menus, value platforms, and elevated guest experiences. By offering attractive deals like the two for $25 promotion, Applebee's not only delivers value but also encourages guests to explore new menu items, fostering loyalty and driving sales growth.