105 Years of Innovation At the National Restaurant Association Show

In this special TechBytes episode, host Rob Grimes sits down with Tom Cindric, President of the National Restaurant Association Show, for an inside look at what attendees can expect from one of the largest and most influential foodservice events in the world. Now entering its 105th year, the Show returns to Chicago’s McCormick Place with more than 2,200 exhibitors, attendees from over 80 countries, and thousands of innovations spanning every corner of the hospitality industry.

Tom explains how the Show continues to evolve beyond a traditional trade event into a global gathering place where operators, suppliers, technologists, and innovators come together to discover what’s next. One of the biggest themes this year is the rapid rise of artificial intelligence and automation, with operators now moving past experimentation and actively applying technology to improve consistency, labor efficiency, productivity, and decision-making.

The episode explores how technology is no longer confined to a single pavilion or category. From smart kitchen equipment and automated workflows to personalization trends and beverage innovation, tech now touches nearly every aspect of foodservice. Tom and Rob discuss how attendees need to look beyond the North Hall technology exhibits and explore the full Show experience to truly understand where the industry is heading.

Listeners also get a preview of several new additions for 2026, including an AI Essentials Workshop for Operators, guided exhibitor tours, expanded education tracks, and networking experiences throughout the city. Tom shares details about keynote speaker Andre Agassi, who will discuss competition, leadership, and his passion for food alongside National Restaurant Association CEO Michelle Korsmo.

The conversation highlights how the Show serves businesses of every size—from global chains to independent operators—and why it remains the “Super Bowl of foodservice.” Whether attendees are searching for breakthrough technology, emerging food trends, operational solutions, or simply unexpected “panda moments” hidden throughout the halls, the Show offers something for everyone.

Packed with industry insight, humor, and practical advice, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes preview of the trends, experiences, and innovations shaping the future of hospitality.

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