The integration of foodservice and retail is unlocking exciting opportunities for innovation and customer engagement.
The upcoming Foodservice Innovation Zone at NRF 2025: Retail’s Big Show is a testament to this evolution, providing an unparalleled platform to experience the latest advancements at the intersection of these industries.
The Foodservice Innovation Zone is the focal point where foodservice technology meets retail. This area is designed to inspire retailers and foodservice professionals alike, where attendees can look forward to seeing solutions that address challenges in customer experience, operational efficiency and technological innovation.
Technologies showcased in the Zone will highlight the synergy between foodservice and retail:
Robotics and automation demonstrate advanced capabilities in food preparation and delivery, streamlining processes while offering consistent quality and efficiency.
Artificial intelligence kiosks, menu translation tools and personalized ordering systems enhance convenience and improve customer experiences.
Connected kitchens and Internet of Things devices highlight temperature monitoring, health compliance and energy optimization, providing tools that translate seamlessly from foodservice to retail operations.
Autonomous retail models eliminate friction from the purchasing experience while delivering fresh, quality products.
Online ordering and delivery applications provide new avenues of growth outside the four walls through customer connections that seamlessly integrate into and enhance foodservice offerings and experiences.
Foodservice Innovation Zone Sponsors are the key to bringing innovation and thought leadership to the Zone.
Overall Sponsor Zkong is displaying its advanced cloud-based electronic shelf labels and digital retail solutions. These technologies are transforming the way foodservice and retail businesses manage pricing, inventory and customer engagement by providing real-time updates and seamless integration with back-end systems.
Adding to the Zone’s menu are its Michelin Sponsors:
Middleby, showing retailers how they can add foodservice to their operations through a suite of innovative foodservice equipment, including energy-efficient, automated cooking and preparation systems. These tools are designed to streamline operations in both foodservice and retail environments.
MachineQ, a Comcast Business company, will highlight its IoT solutions for smart kitchens and connected retail spaces. Attendees can explore how its sensors and data platforms optimize inventory, monitor food safety and enhance operational visibility.
Toast, known for revolutionizing technology within the restaurant industry, will debut Toast Retail, a new offering specifically addressing the needs and requirements of retail. Retailers will be able to leverage deep industry experience and leadership within foodservice to enhance their retail operations and growth opportunities.
Kraft-Heinz brings the digital world to smart dispensing systems used in foodservice operations, providing operational efficiency in serving the customer while maintaining quality, consistency and choice in meeting customers’ tastes.
Sensormatic demonstrates how advanced technologies in inventory intelligence and loss prevention empower retailers and foodservice operators to reduce shrink, enhance the customer experience and ensure operational efficiency.
Retail and foodservice attendees visiting the Zone will be able to take part in its focused seminar program presented on the Foodservice Tech Stage. Between the Zone’s exhibits and seminars, you will gain an understanding of the numerous benefits of integrating foodservice and its technologies into retail operations:
Elevate customer engagement through integrated foodservice options like cafés or grab-and-go stations that enhance the shopping experience, boosting dwell time and sales.
Optimize operations with tools like IoT monitoring and automation that help retailers reduce waste, cut costs and streamline processes.
Gain competitive advantage by staying ahead of foodservice technology trends, positioning you as a leader in innovation, helping you meet consumer demands for convenience and quality.
Witness how foodservice tackles shared challenges like labor shortages and sustainability, providing valuable insights applicable to retail.
The Foodservice Innovation Zone at NRF 2025: Retail’s Big Show offers a unique opportunity to explore the innovations shaping the future of foodservice and retail. Sample the menu and see firsthand how these technologies can offer new growth avenues and ways to transform your business.
Together, we can shape the future of foodservice and retail, creating experiences that consumers will remember and return for. The insights and innovations you will discover could unlock the next big opportunity for your business.
Robert Grimes is CEO of the International Food and Beverage Technology Association.