11.1.2024
Global leader in restaurant technology solutions provider QSR Automations has received a strategic, majority growth investment from Battery Ventures, a global, technology-focused investment firm. This investment represents a pivotal moment in QSR Automations’ history, positioning the company for accelerated growth, enhanced innovation, and expanded market reach.
Founded in 1996, QSR Automations has been at the forefront of developing innovative technology solutions for the restaurant industry, including kitchen display systems (KDS), guest management software, table management, and digital recipe solutions. With nearly three decades of experience, the company has built a reputation for improving operational efficiency, enhancing guest experiences, and driving profitability for restaurant operators worldwide. The company’s ConnectSmart technology is currently used in 21 of the nation’s 25 largest casual-dining chains including The Cheesecake Factory and Brinker International.
Alongside the new investment, QSR Automations announced that Battery Executive-in-Residence Robbie Payne, a longtime software-industry executive, will become the company’s new CEO. Angela Leet, who has served as CEO of the company since 2021, will remain involved with the company as a board member.
“I have been so impressed with the business Angela and her team have built at QSR Automations, and the traction the company has gotten inside large restaurant accounts,” said Payne, who previously ran Battery-backed, smart-manufacturing solutions company CAMBRIO, which was acquired by Sweden’s Sandvik AB three years ago. “We are excited about working with the team to help take QSR Automations to the next level and scaling the business through this next growth phase.”
Leet said: “It’s been such an honor to lead this company. But now, my team and I are incredibly excited for QSR Automations’ next chapter. Partnering with Battery allows us to re-focus on our product development efforts, expand our market reach, and continue delivering exceptional value to our customers. This investment provides the resources and expertise we need to innovate even faster and meet the evolving needs of the restaurant industry.”
Battery Ventures has a long history of backing and scaling business-focused software companies, including those in the hospitality technology space. Founded in 1983, the firm backs companies at all stages, ranging from seed and early to growth and buyout, and invests globally from offices in Boston, San Francisco, Menlo Park, New York, London, and Tel Aviv. In restaurant tech, Battery has backed Olo (NYSE: OLO), Crunchtime, and Vita Mojo.
“QSR Automations has built an impressive platform that we feel provides a critical service to restaurant operators worldwide,” said Battery General Partner Morad Elhafed. “We see a unique opportunity to build on their success and are thrilled to partner with such an innovative team to help drive the next phase of growth.” Elhafed will join the company’s board, along with his Battery colleagues Satoshi Harris-Koizumi and Becca Jones.
QSR Automations, headquartered in Louisville, KY with offices in the United Kingdom, is a global industry leader in kitchen automation and guest management services. Since 1996, restaurant operators have turned to the brand’s signature platform, ConnectSmart®, for customized solutions to improve the guest experience and drive operational excellence. Used in 21 of the nation’s top 25 casual dining chains, ConnectSmart® leverages data to create customized solutions that make calmer kitchens, simpler workflows, and happier guests.
The Battery growth investment is designed to accelerate QSR Automations’ ability to deliver cutting-edge technology solutions that help restaurant operators streamline their operations, improve guest satisfaction, and optimize their workflows. The company will continue to operate under its existing brand, with no immediate changes to its day-to-day operations.
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