In this episode of Restaurant Talk, host Kieron Bailey speaks with Chris Heffernan, CEO of dlivrd Technologies, a last-mile delivery tech solution company. They discuss how restaurants can streamline their off-premise operations through integrated technology, the importance of honest metrics over vanity numbers, and the power of people-first business practices. Chris shares insights on scaling from mom-and-pop operations to enterprise brands, the philosophy behind strategic partnerships, and why authentic company culture matters more than perks.
The conversation also explores the balance between automation and humanization, the real success rate of deliveries beyond industry hype, and how personal branding helps tech leaders connect with the restaurant community.
Takeaways
- Why integrated tech is worth more than the sum of its parts.
- The unexpected interview question that reveals true partnership potential.
- How automation actually buys you more time with people that matter.
- Why operators' gut instinct about prep times is probably wrong.
- The uncomfortable truth about industry success metrics that everyone ignores.
- One customer service move that turns complaints into loyalty.
- What delivery drivers really need from leadership.
- The problem with company culture and what to do instead.
- Why certain restaurant types thrive on delivery platforms.
- How a CEO's personal brand makes a tech company feel human.
This episode is sponsored by Save Fry Oil — cutting fry oil costs up to 50% while making food crispier. No power, no chemicals. Get your free cost savings estimate.
Chapters
- (00:00:00) - Restaurant Talk: Week 3
- (00:00:30) - Restaurant Talk
- (00:01:15) - Irish entrepreneur to start Del in the UK
- (00:02:59) - How To Build a Single Tech Stack for Catering
- (00:07:05) - Where to Work With Franchises and Brands
- (00:09:03) - Bojangles' Tailgate Parties
- (00:11:38) - Chips: Four Pillars of Engagement
- (00:16:58) - Frylo: Save Fry Oil
- (00:17:30) - Pushing Data-driven Insights into the Operator Experience
- (00:19:25) - How To Use Data Driven Insights in Your Business
- (00:22:07) - In the Elevator With Sir Elton
- (00:22:41) - How To Build a Partnership With Your Customers
- (00:25:16) - Operators Talk About Culture
- (00:26:59) - The Right Metrics for Delivery
- (00:29:55) - What A Successful Delivery Is
- (00:32:58) - Foodie Friday: When Will I Be a Influencer?
- (00:37:30) - The Last Thing That You Ate That Will Destroy You
- (00:42:28) - The Executive Chef At D'Fruit Tar
- (00:44:49) - Starting a Business: What Advice Would You Give?
- (00:46:43) - Tick Tock
