Powerhouse Keynoters Speak at MURTEC
The speaking roster for the 2008 Multi-Unit Restaurant Technology Conference (MURTEC) is packing several powerhouse keynoters and is expected to draw a record numbers of attendees. Chief information officers from Dunkin' Donuts, Quiznos and IHOP, which recently acquired Applebee's, will all deliver keynote addresses over the course of the two-day educational and networking event for restaurant IT executives, which takes place March 12-14 in Las Vegas. The fourth and final keynote address will be delivered by industry visionary Nolan Bushnell, founder of Atari and Chuck E. Cheese restaurants.
Named one of Newsweek's "50 Men That Changed America," Bushnell has started more than twenty companies, the most recent being uWink Media Bistro, an interactive entertainment restaurant.
uWink Bistros have touch screen video terminals at each table which allow customers to complete their orders without server assistance. The terminals allow patrons to view ingredients and nutritional information for each entree, and support customization in both food and drink orders. While waiting for their food, patrons have the option of playing social games, or viewing movie trailers, music videos, horoscopes and more.
Bushnell will deliver a keynote address on the future of the technology landscape in the foodservice industry. He will share insights into uWink's successes, challenges and potential, along with his perspective on emerging technologies that are expected to take hold in the coming decade, and how they will impact the hospitality industry.
Quiznos' chief information officer Frank Hood will deliver a keynote address that closes the first day of sessions. Hood will share Quiznos' visionary approach to balancing the needs and resources of both the corporate entity and its franchise partners.
The third keynote, "Powerhouse Integration Strategies," will be presented by chief information officer of IHOP, Patrick Piccininno. The 2007 landmark acquisition of Applebee's by IHOP is a prime example of how innovation helps facilitate integration for distinctly unique business units. Piccininno shares the company's incredible integration story and a host of integration best practices.
MURTEC is held at the Rio All Suites Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. For more information, including a complete roster of speakers and sponsors or to register, visit www.htmagazine.com.