Technology/Services

Top Tech Stories of 2014

Tools, standards, apps and security issues that every retailer should be watching

OAKBROOK TERRACE, Ill. -- In cataloging its top technology stories of the year for restaurants, CSP sister publication Restaurant Business collected a list of value to any retail business, c-stores included. Here's a look at the new tools, standards, apps and security issues that topped the list.

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  • Data breaches force operators to look at network security

It was just a year ago that the cyber-attack on Target compromised approximately 110 million customers. Since then, numerous restaurants, including Jimmy Johns, some P.F. Chang’s locations and Tom Colicchio’s QSR ‘wichcraft, have been the victims of data breaches.

  • Chip-and-pin set to shake up payment systems

The October 2015 deadline to switch to EMV-enabled credit-card devices is fast approaching, whether or not operators want to believe it. Those who ignore it may be risking enhanced liability if a data breach should strike.

  • Location-based technology helps restaurants target nearby guests

McDonald’s is the latest chain to talk of expanding its test of iBeacon technology, offering in-store promos to get nearby guests in the door. Others, too, have found geotechnology a useful and relatively cost-effective tool to delivery hospitality in new ways.

  • App all-stars of 2014

The proliferation of mobile apps has left consumers overloaded and reluctant to add more … or even to use all of the ones they have. No longer is it enough for an operator to simply have a mobile app. It has to be relevant, useful and a value-add for consumers.

  • Apple Pay hits the streets with an i-bang

Many have tried to establish their mobile wallets as the industry’s standard, but few prompted widespread adoption. At least, that was, until Apple announced the rollout of Apple Pay during its Apple Live event on CNET in September. Now, bell-weather chains such as McDonald’s, Subway and Starbucks have partnered with Apple to put the mobile-pay option in their stores, and others are considering Apple Pay a top priority when updating their payment systems.

Click here to readRestaurant Business' complete list of top tech stories of the year.

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