Welcome back to the Restaurant Technology Guys’ blog! In this post, we’re diving deep into the world of restaurant WiFi technology with Todd Myers, CEO of GoZone WiFi. Todd brings a wealth of experience in the WiFi and tech industry, having pioneered numerous innovations over the span of his 25-year career. Join us as we explore how GoZone WiFi is revolutionizing the way restaurants and brick-and-mortar businesses leverage WiFi to enhance their operations, improve customer engagement, and drive revenue.
Introduction to GoZone WiFi
Jeremy: Welcome back to the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast. Today, we’re excited to be joined by Todd Myers, CEO of GoZone WiFi. Todd, why don’t you introduce yourself and tell us a bit about what you do at GoZone?
Todd Myers: Sure. My name is Todd Myers, and I’m the CEO of GoZone WiFi, a software company based in St. Petersburg, Florida. We help companies monetize their WiFi through a series of tools that allow them to market themselves and generate revenue from their WiFi services.
Todd’s Background and GoZone’s Beginnings
Jeremy: Todd, your career in WiFi technology is impressive. Can you tell us more about your journey and how you came to start GoZone?
Todd Myers: This is my ninth company, all in the WiFi or tech space. I’ve been in the WiFi space for about 25 years, even before it was called WiFi. I pioneered citywide wireless networks in the late 90s, and was also the first to put passenger WiFi into airports. GoZone began during a sabbatical in Mexico when I realized the need for ubiquitous and easy-to-use WiFi for travelers. Initially, we offered it free in bars and restaurants, supported by advertising. Over time, we rebranded to GoZone and started focusing on collecting data to help our clients market better to their customers.
Evolution of Public WiFi and Data Monetization
Jeremy: WiFi has evolved significantly from paid services to data-driven models. Can you walk us through this evolution and why data is now the new currency in the WiFi space?
Todd Myers: Initially, WiFi was a paid service, but over time, it transitioned into a hybrid model with ads. Now, the primary focus is on data collection. When we started GoZone, we provided free WiFi in exchange for advertising opportunities. As we evolved, we began focusing on gathering data from users, like email addresses, to remarket and enhance customer loyalty. This is the key to generating revenue and creating repeat customers.
The Security Aspect of Public WiFi
Jeremy: Security is often a concern with public WiFi networks. Can you discuss the importance of security for restaurants and how GoZone addresses this?
Todd Myers: Security is critical, especially for restaurant operations. Many establishments aren’t aware that giving out generic passwords can expose their internal systems. The real risk is to the restaurant, not necessarily the guest. GoZone ensures that there are separate pathways for guest and operational networks, either through VLANs or physical separations, making it a PCI-compliant and secure solution.
Benefits of Managed WiFi for Restaurants
Jeremy: Let’s talk about the benefits of having a managed WiFi network. How does GoZone help restaurants enhance their customer engagement and gather valuable data?
Todd Myers: Managed WiFi networks offer a direct communication channel with customers. Our system allows restaurants to present welcome screens, share promotions, and gather customer data. This data can then be used to send targeted marketing messages, like special offers or loyalty rewards, driving repeat business and increasing customer loyalty.
Case Study: Sunpubs
Jeremy: Can you share some success stories or unique ways that your clients have used GoZone to their advantage?
Todd Myers: One great example is Sunpubs, a chain of bar and grill establishments in Florida. They effectively use our system to collect guest information and drive revenue through text message promotions. By sending out 5,000 text messages on a busy evening, they can instantly fill their locations. This demonstrates the immediate impact that targeted marketing through a managed WiFi system can have.
Getting Started with GoZone
Jeremy: If someone is interested in implementing GoZone, what does the engagement process look like?
Todd Myers: We integrate with over 35 different hardware brands, so most businesses can retain their existing infrastructure. For smaller operations, we provide a simple plug-and-play hotspot. Activation is straightforward, and we work closely with IT teams to set everything up. We also offer a freemium model, allowing businesses to start using our basic services for free.
Conclusion
Jeremy: Thank you, Todd, for sharing your insights and the story of GoZone WiFi. As our listeners now know, utilizing a managed WiFi network like GoZone can significantly enhance customer engagement and drive revenue. For more information, visit www.gozonewifi.com and start exploring how this technology can benefit your restaurant or retail business.
Todd Myers: Thank you, Jeremy. It’s been a pleasure discussing how GoZone can help businesses thrive in the digital age.
Jeremy: For our listeners, make sure to subscribe to our podcast and check out our monthly newsletter. Until next time, thanks for tuning in to the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast!
