CRS Hospitality is a group of 15 independent restaurant concepts across Champaign and Urbana, led by COO Kevin Hildebrand and grounded in a people first operating philosophy. Rather than forcing uniformity, CRS connects teams through shared systems that reduce friction while preserving each brand’s identity. Kevin’s path from golf to restaurants shaped his belief that strong hospitality comes from removing daily stress for managers and staff. That approach led CRS to adopt Kickfin, simplifying tip distribution and eliminating time consuming cash handling.

Interview Takeaways:

• People First, Systems That Support Them – Kevin Hildebrand believes hospitality starts with the humans running the restaurants. CRS Hospitality has grown to 15 concepts by creating a culture where managers are supported, teams collaborate across locations, and no one is left to struggle alone. Growth happens when people have the tools and structure to thrive, not just when new restaurants open.
• Technology Chosen for Real Operational Impact – CRS adopts technology only when it solves a true problem. Kickfin became essential because it fixed a daily pain point that was draining time and energy from managers. By integrating with Toast and making payouts transparent and instant, Kickfin helped simplify one of the most frustrating parts of restaurant operations.
• Modern Hospitality Requires Adaptation, Not Assumptions – Guest behavior continues to shift, and CRS is reshaping its restaurants accordingly. From redesigning floor plans for more takeout capacity to implementing digital tools that reduce administrative stress, Kevin and his team stay focused on meeting guests where they are. Hospitality today blends people, process, and technology working in sync.

Episode Links:

• Kevin Hildebrand: https://www.crshospitality.com/team-member/kevin-hildebrand/
• Kevin Hildebrand LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-hildebrand-95558068/
• CRS Hospitality: https://www.crshospitality.com/
• Kickfin Online: https://kickfin.com/
• Kickfin LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kickfin/
• Kickfin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kickfin2618
• Kickfin Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kickfin/
• Kickfin Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kickfin/

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