Last week, I attended my first Restaurant Finance Conference 2024 (#RFDC2024), after my customer Dhanani Group Inc who is a top franchise operator recommended I go. The goal was clear: connect with franchise owners, operators, and franchisors as we expand rtZen's presence in this space. The energy at the conference was incredible—it felt like an annual reunion. Despite the camaraderie, the focus on business growth and maximizing cash flows was evident, with technology innovation as a key theme.
Kate Jaspon, CFO of Inspire, highlighted the role of data-driven strategies and tech to streamline operations across 2,000+ restaurants. Greg Flynn, CEO of the Flynn Group, shared insights on operational efficiency in casual dining, even amid market fluctuations. Kim Malek, founder of Salt & Straw, emphasized the importance of strong financial records for attracting investors. These discussions reinforced the need for tech-driven solutions in financial operations—exactly where rtZen, Inc (artisan) excels.
I spent much of the conference networking, and by the end of day one, I felt right at home thanks to the warm, welcoming conversations. We're now following up with multi-unit franchise operators interested in how rtZen can help streamline their locations. With 54% of franchises now multi-unit, the opportunity is huge. We're also excited about the potential for rtZen to serve franchisors, providing a unified platform for both franchisors and franchisees. As multi-unit ownership grows, particularly in QSR, holding companies like Inspire, Restaurant Brands International , and Yum! Brands! will likely seek solutions like rtZen. I'm excited about the opportunities ahead and grateful for the connections made at RFDC2024. If you missed us or want to learn more, feel free to DM me or email [email protected]
On a fun note, I also met Kim Malek (founder of Salt & Straw) and Erwan de Guichen the CEO of Amorino—both brands my kids adore, along with Hillary Frei of Handel's Homemade Ice Cream a brand I am going to try. Ice cream is my guilty pleasure, and I'd love the opportunity to solve their finance operations while enjoying some sweet perks! My suggestion for next time: bring samples! #rtZen #FranchiseManagement #MultiUnitFranchising #AI #Automation #Fintech #EnterpriseSW
Restaurant Finance Monitor
Thanks to all those who made my first RFDC an awesome event (too many to tag) - Zohaib Dhanani Usman Dhanani Amin Dhanani Nadeem Bajwa
Rebekah Schaapveld Sarah Ehambe Doug Smithhisler Christina Scott, Bill Schaffler Kelly Sennatt Esten Andrew Lester Gonzalo A. de la Melena Jr. Howard Barish Ashwin Kamlani Ravi Thanawala Kajal Patel Jamil Ali Alexis M. Kayla Stacy Irvin Williams Jeni Castro William Washington Karlie Pelczar Andrew Landis Jim Rand Dora Furman Jeff Moore Daniel Tsentsiper Jana Zschieschang Tom Hartman