Restaurants

Trends in the restaurant industry reveal a growing consumer demand for take-out/to-go options from casual dining and fast-food establishments; a market that accounted for 58 percent of total restaurant traffic in 2001, according to the National Restaurant Association. From wireless networks to online ordering, technology continues to play a critical role in meeting customer expectations for greater efficiency and speed.

In today's world of flat-plasma screens, powered by high-definition cable and satellite signals, the television has grown way beyond a 19-inch "boob-tube" hidden behind armoire doors. Today's designs are sleeker and sexier, and thanks to the advent of hard-disc recorders and "on-demand" services, hotels are now able to let guests watch their favorite movies and shows at their leisure.

Luke Mellors, IT Director at the Dorchester Hotel was recently named CIO of the Year at the UK Technology Innovation & Growth Awards.

Carlson Restaurants Worldwide selects ConnectSmart Hospitality Automation Solution from QSR Automations (qsrautomations.com) for its company-owned T.G.I. Friday's restaurants.

According to data compiled in the Seventh Annual Restaurant Industry Technology Study, Driving Restaurant Profitability, productivity (47%) is the top priority for QSR restaurants IT projects, followed by cost savings (41%).

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide has entered into a Master Energy Services Agreement (MESA) with Alliance Star Energy, a joint venture between FuelCell Energy and Alliance Power.

Sybra, Arby's second largest franchise, announces that it will use Spacenet (spacenet.com) Connexstar broadband satellite network to provide broadband service to its 237 Arby's restaurants.

Ten seconds doesn't sound like a long time, until you multiply it by the number of cars visiting your drivethru at lunchtime. Then, ten seconds can mean higher revenue, more accurate orders and more satisfied customers.