Technology not optional for QSRs to remain competitive: KPMG leader

Join Ross Widdows as he talks more about this at the QSR Media Australia Conference & Awards 2023, powered by Redbull.

Implementing POS solutions, leveraging AI-driven analytics and investing in technology to improve the customer experience is no longer an option if QSRs wish to remain competitive, according to Ross Widdows, Partner in KPMG Australia’s Cyber Security Practice.

Ross, who will participate as a speaker at the upcoming QSR Media Australia Conference & Awards 2023, powered by Redbull on 30 October in Sydney, Australia, has over 17 years of experience in advisory and operational roles across the UK, Europe, Middle East.

He works with organisations to take a threat-based approach to build security resilience. This enables the identification of the likely threat actors, their motives and techniques, and allows him to help clients, prepare for, detect, and respond to these cyber threats.

QSR Media talked to Ross about his insights into the industry.

How should QSR tackle challenges like changing consumer preferences, talent shortage, and technology advancements to take their business to the next level?

To tackle this constantly shifting landscape a proactive and agile approach is required. Investments in market research and customer feedback to stay attuned to the changing customer needs, both in terms of eating habits and shopping habits, are vital. This will allow for both tactical and strategic planning and allow QSRs to remain competitive.

In the current market hiring and retaining talent is a large problem across industries. Striking a balance between creating an inclusive workplace culture, salary packages, training, and development opportunities remains key.

Finally, leveraging technology is no longer optional. Implementing POS solutions, leveraging AI-driven analytics for inventory and demand production (or customer services chatbots) and investing in improving the ordering process (smart drive-thru, AR (Augmented Reality) menus, self-ordering etc.) are at the forefront of improving the customer experience.

Please give us an overview of the unique perspectives you will be sharing during your discussion.

Our talk will focus on 4 key areas, supply chain, AI, hardware, network and point of sale. All are vital elements for QSRs. We will bring perspectives from our clients both locally in Australia and on the global stage and hopefully some ideas or quick wins people can implement or plan to implement in their businesses.

What key takeaways would you like the attendees to gain from your session?

We would like people to come away with some insights into what we see in the market, ideas to overcome challenges or risks they are concerned about and some insight into what the future may hold.

For more information about the upcoming QSR Media Australia Conference & Awards 2023 powered by Redbull, please click this link.

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