By RTN staff - 5.10.2025
The first full week of May 2025 witnessed significant developments in the restaurant technology sector, including major acquisitions, AI-driven innovations, and strategic investments aimed at enhancing customer experience and operational efficiency.
DoorDash Expands Global Footprint with Major Acquisitions
DoorDash announced two significant acquisitions to broaden its services beyond food delivery:
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Deliveroo Acquisition: DoorDash is set to acquire UK-based food delivery firm Deliveroo for $3.86 billion, expanding its international presence to over 40 countries and serving 50 million monthly users.
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SevenRooms Acquisition: In a move to enhance its merchant tools, DoorDash will purchase New York-based restaurant tech startup SevenRooms for $1.2 billion. SevenRooms offers a platform that includes reservation and waitlist management, automated marketing, guest profiles, and operational analytics, used by major hospitality venues like MGM Resorts and Mandarin Oriental.
Applebee’s Implements Pay-at-the-Table Technology
Applebee’s has introduced Ziosk’s zMini tablets at 460 locations, allowing diners to order food, pay bills, and access entertainment directly from their tables. This technology aims to enhance customer convenience and reduce wait times, while also assisting staff efficiency amid ongoing labor challenges in the restaurant industry.
MyVenue Secures Investment for Global Expansion
Adelaide-based tech startup MyVenue has secured a multi-million dollar investment from Tennessee-based investment firm Greater Sum Ventures (GSV), acquiring a majority stake in the company. MyVenue provides point-of-sale platforms used in nearly 200 major sports and entertainment venues worldwide. The investment will accelerate MyVenue’s global expansion, with its leadership team remaining in place.
Wendy’s Expands AI-Driven Drive-Thru Ordering
Wendy’s announced plans to implement its AI-powered drive-thru ordering system, FreshAI, in 500 to 600 restaurants by the end of 2025. Developed in partnership with Google Cloud, FreshAI aims to enhance order accuracy and efficiency. The system includes a feature allowing customers to switch to Spanish by saying “Spanish” or “Español” at the start of their order, promoting inclusivity and streamlining service times.
Popmenu Files Lawsuit Against Owner.com Over Website-Grading Tool
Restaurant tech supplier Popmenu has filed a lawsuit against rival Owner.com, alleging that Owner’s website-grading tool infringes on Popmenu’s intellectual property. The dispute centers around the use of proprietary technology designed to evaluate and enhance restaurant websites.
PAR Technology Releases 2025 QSR Operational Index Report
PAR Technology Corporation released its 2025 Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) Operational Index Report, analyzing over 4.5 billion transactions and $67 billion in sales from more than 30,000 QSR locations. The report highlights the impact of digital transformation on the industry, noting significant increases in transactions, profits, and the adoption of digital engagement tools such as loyalty programs and mobile ordering.
These developments underscore the restaurant industry’s commitment to leveraging technology to enhance operational efficiency, customer experience, and adaptability in a rapidly evolving market.
