Blazing Innovation in Restaurant Tech with Chris Demery

Step onto the floor of FS/TEC 2025 in Orlando for a dynamic conversation with Chris Demery, Chief Technology Officer at Blaze Pizza, as he sits down with Rob Grimes for an episode that dives deep into the future of restaurant technology. With decades of experience spanning Domino’s, Outback, Dunkin’, and now Blaze Pizza, Chris brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for innovation that’s reshaping the way we think about food service.

In this episode, Chris shares his journey from military program management to leading technology transformations in some of the world’s most recognized restaurant brands. He discusses the evolution of guest experience, the critical role of speed of service, and how AI and automation are changing the game for operators and customers alike. Chris offers candid insights into the challenges and opportunities of implementing new tech, from camera vision AI to predictive ordering and the realities of fresh food automation.

Listeners will get a behind-the-scenes look at how Blaze Pizza is reinvigorating hospitality, investing in labor, and leveraging data-driven solutions to create memorable guest experiences. Chris also explores the importance of speaking the language of both operations and technology, and how bridging these worlds is key to driving meaningful change in the industry.

Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, a restaurant operator, or simply a fan of great pizza, this episode is packed with actionable ideas. Discover why consistency, adaptability, and a guest-first mindset are at the heart of successful restaurant innovation—and get inspired by Chris’s vision for the future, from AI-powered coaching to the potential of drone delivery.

Tune in for a conversation that’s as insightful as it is entertaining, and find out what’s next for the intersection of food, technology, and hospitality.

Available on Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | iHeartRadio