In the latest episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast, host Jeremy Julian welcomes the dynamic Jay Ashton, affectionately known as “Canada’s Restaurant Guy.” The conversation dives into the intricate world of restaurant management amidst challenging regulations and market conditions, offering a wealth of insight for restaurateurs.
The Intersection of Politics and Dining
Jeremy and Jay kick off the episode by tackling the often complex relationship between politics and the restaurant industry. While the podcast is not explicitly political, the discussion highlights how tariffs and regulations, especially between Canada and the U.S., can significantly impact restaurant operations. Jay, with over 35 years in the industry, shares his perspective on these regulatory challenges and the importance of planning to mitigate their impacts on revenue and supply chains.
Jay Ashton: A Multifaceted Restaurateur
Jay Ashton brings a wealth of experience to the discussion, having worked across various facets of the restaurant industry for decades. From roles in the supply chain to hosting his own podcast and newsletter, Jay’s commitment to helping restaurant owners is evident. Jeremy acknowledges Jay’s prolific output and passion for fostering the success of dining establishments.
Navigating Tariffs and Economic Challenges
A significant portion of the conversation revolves around the potential economic impact of tariffs. Jay dubs this issue “tariff talks,” emphasizing the need for restaurateurs to have structured plans to adapt to these economic fluctuations. Anticipating challenges such as inflation and currency depreciation, Jay stresses the importance of being prepared with strategies that cover every aspect of the business model, from pricing to operations.
Reinventing Business Models
Adapting to changing market conditions might require restaurants to reconsider their entire business models. Jeremy and Jay explore various ways restaurants can innovate, from adjusting menu selections to considering new service formats like virtual brands or delivery-only models. Jay encourages restaurateurs to tap into AI technology to optimize decision-making processes and streamline operations.
The Power of Community and Innovation
In challenging times, community plays a pivotal role in the survivability of restaurants. Jay shares past experiences where community initiatives successfully supported local restaurants. Leveraging the power of community can lead to shared resources, innovative marketing strategies, and strengthened local support systems.
Embracing Technology and AI
Jay highlights the critical role of technology, particularly AI, in driving restaurant success. He encourages restaurant owners to experiment with AI as a virtual assistant to enhance productivity and decision-making. Understanding this technology’s potential allows restaurateurs to make informed choices about marketing, layout optimization, and other business aspects, thus staying ahead of the curve.
Building Resilience through Support and Partnership
Both Jay and Jeremy emphasize the importance of seeking help from industry veterans and partners. By collaborating with suppliers and local competitors, restaurants can build resilient ecosystems capable of weathering economic challenges. For Jay, offering support and sharing knowledge is his way of giving back to an industry that shaped his career.
Closing Thoughts
As the episode wraps up, Jeremy and Jay reflect on the resilience and passion that define the restaurant industry. Throughout the podcast, they stress the importance of adapting, innovating, and cultivating supportive environments to ensure sustained success. For restaurateurs looking to thrive, leveraging technology and community support can make all the difference.
For more insights, connect with Jay Ashton through LinkedIn and explore his valuable newsletters and podcasts. Stay informed, stay connected, and continue to support each other in the culinary community. Thank you for tuning into the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast.
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