In a significant development for the quick-service restaurant (QSR) industry, Steak Escape has announced its decision to implement Square as its unified commerce platform across its 23 locations. This partnership marks a pivotal step in the brand's journey toward modernization and expansion, as it seeks to enhance operational efficiency and customer experience.

Steak Escape, famous for its fresh-grilled cheesesteaks and made-to-order grill line, is evolving amid a growing franchise network that includes drive-thru restaurants. The company aims to build a robust infrastructure that supports its upcoming growth phase, prioritizing speed, consistency, and a seamless customer journey.

2. Embracing Technology for Long-Term Relevance

Kyle Turner, CEO of Steak Escape, articulated the brand's vision for the future: “We’re rebuilding Steak Escape for long-term relevance: across the menu, the franchise system, and the technology that powers it all.” The transition to Square is not merely about replacing an outdated point-of-sale (POS) system; it is a strategic initiative to provide real-time visibility, effective cost control, and consistent execution at every location.

Turner emphasized that the previous fragmented system created operational friction and limited visibility. The need for a more connected, scalable solution became apparent as the company navigated the complexities of franchise operations and expanding drive-thru services.

3. From Fragmentation to Integration

Before partnering with Square, Steak Escape relied on a disjointed technology stack that hindered operational efficiency. Turner recounted the challenges of managing disconnected systems, stating, “As a longtime owner and operator, I’ve lived firsthand how disconnected systems can create serious friction in day-to-day operations.” The decision to switch to Square was driven by the demand for actionable data and franchisor-level visibility, essential for the company’s next growth stage.

After evaluating multiple platforms, Square emerged as the ideal choice for Steak Escape due to its customer data capabilities, innovative hardware, open APIs, and overall total cost of ownership. The collaboration represents a long-term partnership aimed at fulfilling Steak Escape's growth vision while ensuring an intuitive user experience for frontline teams.

4. Comprehensive Solutions for Enhanced Operations

The implementation of Square’s comprehensive commerce platform includes several key components:

Square Register: Used for in-store service.

Square Handheld: Designed for drive-thru ordering.

Square Kitchen Display System: Facilitates seamless kitchen communication.

Square Kiosk: Offers self-service ordering capabilities.

Square for Franchises: A management solution tailored for food & beverage operations.

Additionally, the brand benefits from first-party integrations for loyalty, marketing, and online ordering, alongside an integration with Restaurant365 for financial management.

5. Improving Employee Experience and Operational Efficiency

A notable impact of the Square rollout has been the enhancement of the employee experience. The platform's user-friendly interface reduces training time and allows staff to focus on delivering exceptional hospitality rather than struggling with complicated technology.

Nick Molnar, Global Head of Sales & Marketing at Block, commented on the challenges faced by multi-entity franchises, stating, “We built our platform to solve the unique challenges faced by these F&B sellers.” Square’s unified approach enables brands to manage menus, reporting, and performance across their entire network, providing deeper insights and visibility.

6. Looking Ahead: A Focus on Growth and Core Values

As Steak Escape embarks on this new chapter, the brand remains dedicated to its core values of passion, purpose, and pride. With Square as its technology backbone, Steak Escape is poised to scale efficiently, make informed decisions, and maintain the essence of what has made it a beloved cheesesteak destination for over 40 years.

This partnership not only signifies a technological upgrade but also reflects Steak Escape’s commitment to delivering an unparalleled customer experience, ensuring that every visit is a highlight of the day for its guests.

For further insights on Square’s solutions tailored for food & beverage sellers, interested parties can explore the offerings on their website.

7. About Square and Steak Escape

Square, founded in 2009, has transformed the financial landscape for small businesses with its innovative solutions. From point of sale to online commerce, Square provides the necessary tools for sellers to thrive in their communities.

Founded in 1982 in Columbus, Ohio, Steak Escape has become a staple in the QSR sector, known for its fresh-grilled offerings and commitment to quality. With 23 locations across the United States, the brand continues to prioritize customer satisfaction and operational excellence.

Original press release