Unlocking Restaurant Success: A Deep Dive with Matt Plapp on Marketing and Loyalty

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast, host Jeremy Julian is joined by Matt Plapp, a seasoned marketing expert in the restaurant industry and CEO of America's Best Restaurants. Matt, also known as the Chief Energy Officer, shares insights on creating memorable guest experiences and leveraging digital loyalty programs to keep restaurant guests returning. He discusses his journey from working with his father's clients in the restaurant business to growing a marketing company that now serves thousands of restaurants nationwide. Matt explains the importance of customer acquisition and retention, emphasizing the value of capturing and utilizing customer data effectively. The conversation also touches on the challenges and opportunities in restaurant marketing, with real-world examples of success stories driven by strategic marketing and technology adoption. The episode highlights the significance of continuous self-improvement for restaurant owners and managers, encouraging them to invest in both personal development and smart marketing strategies to drive business growth.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest
01:21 Matt Plapp's Background and Journey
04:28 Marketing Strategies for Restaurants
07:20 The Importance of Customer Data
14:22 Challenges and Solutions in Restaurant Marketing
22:32 Real-Life Examples and Success Stories
28:05 A Pizza Restaurant's Remarkable Growth
28:34 The Power of Business Coaching
29:29 Avery's Success Story
30:13 Engaging with Social Media
30:35 Road Trip with Dad
31:40 Matt Plapp's Marketing Philosophy
32:53 Customer Acquisition Strategies
40:57 The Birth of Driver
43:02 The Importance of Continuous Improvement
49:24 Connecting with Matt Plapp
50:27 Final Thoughts and Farewell

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast, Jeremy Julian, CRO of Custom Business Solutions with over 25 years in restaurant tech, hosts Can, a serial entrepreneur and founder of Finch. Finch offers innovative digital media platforms tailored for restaurants, allowing them to advertise in-house specials and sell screen time to third-party advertisers. Can explains how Finch aims to help restaurant owners enhance guest experiences, drive behavior, and boost margins without incurring costs for hardware or installation. Highlights include real-time advertising capabilities, success stories and upcoming features to enhance customer loyalty and venue revenues. Finch currently operates in New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Miami. For more information, restaurants can reach out directly via Instagram @FinchVenues or email hi@FinchNow.com.

00:00 Introduction to Today's Episode
00:09 The Rise of Digital Media in Retail
00:27 Introducing Can and His Digital Media Platform
01:21 Meet Jeremy Julian
01:50 Welcome to the Restaurant Technology Guys Podcast
02:37 Can's Journey in the Startup Industry
03:38 The Concept Behind Finch
04:54 How Finch is Revolutionizing In-Venue Advertising
06:15 Real-World Applications and Success Stories
12:11 Ensuring Security and Customization
14:36 Cost and Implementation of Finch
29:43 Future Plans and Expansion
31:38 Conclusion and Contact Information

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast, host Jeremy Julian is joined by Alicia Kelso, Executive Editor for Nations Restaurant News. They discuss a wide array of topics, including Alicia's extensive background in restaurant journalism, the current and future trends in the restaurant industry, and the impacts of automation and technology on restaurant operations. They also touch on the importance of providing value and a holistic experience to consumers, the challenges and strategies of labor management, and the benefits of loyalty programs. The conversation delves into macroeconomic challenges, such as inflation and labor shortages, and practical advice on how restaurant operators can adapt to a rapidly evolving landscape.

00:00 Audio of Alicia NRN
01:06 Introduction and Guest Introduction
01:41 Alicia Kelso's Background and Career
02:46 The Draw of the Restaurant Industry
05:33 Current Trends and Challenges in the Restaurant Industry
11:54 The Importance of Value and Experience
20:15 Role of Technology in the Restaurant Industry
30:31 Future Outlook and Conclusion