Applebee's Chooses Toast as New Tech Partner: A Strategic Shift in Dining Experience

In a significant move for both companies, Toast Inc. (NYSE: TOST), the leading digital technology platform tailored for the hospitality sector, has announced a partnership with Dine Brands Global, Inc. (NYSE: DIN), the parent company of Applebee's Neighborhood Grill + Bar®. This collaboration is set to enhance the dining experience across Applebee's locations nationwide through the implementation of Toast's advanced point-of-sale (POS) and Kitchen Display Systems (KDS).

Applebee's, one of America’s largest casual dining chains, will be integrating a range of Toast technologies, including Toast Go® handhelds and the Restaurant Management Suite Enterprise. This suite of tools is designed to improve operational flexibility, streamline labor efficiency, and enhance the overall experience for guests.

Justin Skelton, Chief Information Officer at Dine Brands, emphasized the importance of this technological upgrade, stating, “POS and KDS systems are essential to efficient operations and can have major impacts on both the guest and team member experience." This statement highlights the critical role that technology plays in the modern restaurant landscape, where customer expectations are continually evolving.

The partnership aims to create a more engaging and efficient dining experience. Tom Finocchiaro, Vice President of Operations Services for Applebee’s, remarked on this goal, stating, “By leveraging technology touchpoints, like handhelds to improve efficiency, our team members will have more time to interact with guests.” This reflects a broader trend in the restaurant industry, where the focus is increasingly shifting towards enhancing customer service through innovative technology.

Toast's capabilities are not limited to Applebee’s; the company currently serves a diverse range of multi-unit brands, including Caribou Coffee, Choice Hotels, and Papa Gino's & D'Angelo. This partnership with Applebee's further solidifies Toast's position as a key player in the restaurant technology sector. Kelly Esten, Chief Marketing Officer at Toast, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “Applebee’s is an iconic brand and at the heart of so many communities. Like Toast, they are focused on enabling moments that bring people together around a great meal.”

Toast is known for its comprehensive suite of software as a service (SaaS) products designed to support restaurants in various operational aspects, including point of sale, payments, and digital ordering. The company aims to streamline operations, boost revenue, and enhance guest experiences, making it a fitting partner for a brand like Applebee's.

Applebee's, with its extensive reach of 1,567 restaurants across the United States and several international locations, is committed to providing a lively and welcoming dining environment. The brand prides itself on being a community-focused establishment, known for its commitment to local charitable efforts and creating spaces for friends and families to connect.

The collaboration between Toast and Applebee's signals a proactive approach to modernizing the dining experience in a competitive market. As the restaurant industry continues to evolve, the integration of advanced technology will likely play an essential role in meeting customer demands and enhancing operational efficiency. With this partnership, both Toast and Applebee’s are poised to set new standards in the casual dining sector, benefiting guests and team members alike.