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 Sonic Drive-In embraced the pickle trend with Grillo's Pickles through a unique marketing campaign. Learn about the collaboration, product offerings, and the success of the 'Pickle the World' promotion.
Photo by Lucas Gallone
Photo by Lucas Gallone
Sonic Drive-In, known for its iconic offerings, embarked on an unconventional journey into pickle mania with the guidance of CMO Ryan Dickerson. Initially hesitant about the idea, Dickerson recognized the trend's relevance to the evolving tastes of Gen Z consumers. The partnership with Grillo's Pickles, a brand synonymous with unique collaborations, paved the way for Sonic's innovative foray into the briny world of pickles.
The collaboration between Sonic and Grillo's resulted in a range of limited-time promotions that pushed the boundaries of traditional fast-food offerings. From the pickled-themed Sonic Smasher burger to pickle-seasoned fries and tater tots, the menu catered to adventurous eaters seeking novel flavor experiences. The introduction of the Picklerita Slush, featuring 'flavor bubbles' reminiscent of boba tea, further exemplified Sonic's commitment to unique culinary creations.
Photo by Lucas Gallone
Sonic Drive-In made a bold statement with the 'Pickle the World' campaign, showcasing the brand's willingness to embrace unconventional marketing strategies. The collaboration between Sonic's CIO character and Grillo's mascot, Sam-Sam, brought a touch of whimsy through a visually stunning 30-second advertisement that featured over 2,000 real pickles to create a memorable 'pickle rain' effect.
Photo by Lucas Gallone
Despite initial reservations, the success of the pickle-focused campaign underscored the importance of trusting in creative partnerships and pushing the boundaries of traditional advertising. Sonic's approach to practical effects over generative artificial intelligence highlighted the brand's commitment to authenticity and humor, resonating with consumers seeking genuine and entertaining content.
The strategic collaboration between Sonic and Grillo's served as a testament to the power of innovative marketing in capturing consumer interest. Ryan Dickerson's insights into balancing creativity, partnership dynamics, and market trends shed light on the thought process behind executing a successful campaign. As Sonic continues to evolve its seasonal offerings and engage with trending flavors, the pickle mania campaign stands out as a prime example of embracing unique opportunities in the fast-food landscape.