Newsletter

Friends of Branded! Happy Saturday! It’s still completely dark outside b/c it’s super early as I’m

Can the Labor Shortage Bring Out the Best in Restaurants? Technomic predicts surge in in-person dining for 2023, and Ovation partners with Incentivio to enhance the customer experience.

Larry H. Miller Companies acquire Swig, while Convive Brands unite three innovative concepts. Discover VROMO's new eBook, revealing how restaurants can implement self-delivery without hiring additional drivers.

October sees the lowest VC-backed funding rounds of the year, but restaurants continue to invest in back-of-house technology. In NYC's Midtown East, Monterey emerges as the standout new restaurant to try.

Hopper secures $96 million USD from Capital One, boosting its valuation to over $5 billion. However, the economic crash leads to thousands of tech layoffs, leaving many workers uncertain about their future.

Amidst growing skepticism, startups struggle to make instant groceries a viable option. CloudKitchens is cutting jobs. PepsiCo turns to startup collaborations for innovation, and Meez's culinary recipe tool secures an impressive $11.5mm funding round led by Craft Ventures.

A growth equity fund invests $10 million in a cookie shop, while Capital One unveils new airport lounges and hotel perks for its 'Premier Collection'. Hartbeat Ventures takes its first outside investment from J.P. Morgan, and Spendgo partners with next-gen POS system QU POS.

With an influx of available funding, now is the opportune time for startups to secure investment. what Taco Bell is doing with the most ambitious prototype in its history. Hilton partners with PMB for automated beverage dispensing.

Kroger acquires Albertsons for $25 billion, but may face antitrust challenges. Meanwhile, the future of restaurant tech and M&A is rapidly evolving.

Restaurants are embracing dynamic pricing. Leasecake is simplifying lease and location management for busy operators. Plus, a crash course in Investing 101.

From Investments to Layoffs: The Current State of Food Tech Startups and Chains.

VC funds find it challenging to evaluate tech startup valuations. Delivery robots are becoming increasingly popular as labor shortages continue. Meanwhile, diners are struggling to make restaurant reservations.