Wendy’s AI-Powered Drive-Thru Revolution: CIO Matt Spessard on How FreshAi & Digital Innovation Are Transforming QSR

Technovation with Peter High (CIO, CTO, CDO, CXO Interviews)

How can AI revolutionize the $2B+ quick-service restaurant (QSR) industry? In this episode of Technovation, Wendy’s CIO Matt Spessard joins Peter High to reveal how the company is leveraging AI, automation, and digital transformation to enhance customer and crew experiences.

With 7,000+ locations worldwide, Wendy’s is redefining fast food with FreshAi, its AI-powered drive-thru assistant, developed in partnership with Google Cloud. Matt shares how this cutting-edge technology is boosting order accuracy, improving speed, and optimizing crew workflows. Plus, he discusses how Wendy’s revamped CRM, loyalty program, and mobile-first strategy led to 40% growth in digital revenue in 2024.

Key Takeaways:

• FreshAi: The AI-powered drive-thru system redefining QSR efficiency.
• 40% Digital Growth: How Wendy’s revamped CRM and mobile experience is driving revenue.
• AI-Driven Innovation: Wendy’s framework for testing, iterating, and rejecting 6 out of 7 ideas.
• The Future of AI in QSR: Edge computing, spatial computing & what’s next for digital transformation.