As the restaurant industry becomes increasingly immersed in the world of technology, Chris Fletcher, founder of Tech on Toast, is addressing the gaps between restaurant operators and tech suppliers. 

Chris Fletcher, founder of Tech on Toast, recognized a significant gap between tech suppliers and restaurant operators during his extensive industry experience. Fueled by a desire to address this gap, he established Tech on Toast to serve as a bridge between the two. Tech on Toast operates as a marketplace and consulting service, connecting tech suppliers with operators, leveraging Fletcher’s dual expertise in operations and technology to foster collaboration and innovation.

“You’ve got an Ops Director who’s great with people, great with experience, great with food, but actually isn’t too knowledgeable about tech. So I found this gap and I wanted to fill it.” expresses Fletcher to host Shawn Walchef of Cali BBQ Media.

Beyond the digital realm, Chris Fletcher has successfully built a vibrant digital community through Tech on Toast. Recognizing the irreplaceable value of in-person events, Fletcher emphasizes the growing camaraderie among tech industry leaders. In addition to fostering connections, Tech on Toast’s live events serve as a platform for industry insights, addressing topics ranging from retention to food and labor costs, creating a space where operators can gain valuable knowledge while building relationships.

“It’s just about community.” says Fletcher. “We can connect online, but doing it in person, there’s nothing better. And I think that’s where you get the real value of what you’ve built or what you’re building and you really understand what you can do better.”

When it comes to tech stacks, the goal should be to make work more efficient. For Fletcher, there is power in simplifying complex technology stacks. He advises companies to start with a clear problem in mind. Then, reverse engineering to a solution and use tech tools that quantifiable help with that process.

 “The first thing to do is start with a problem in mind…really look at the problem you’re trying to fix before you do anything.” says Fletcher. 

“When we buy a piece of tech, how do we measure the success of it?”