We're proud to share that the Groucho's Deli franchise system is one of five finalists for the 2026 MURTEC Breakthrough Awards, announced by Hospitality Technology. Hospitality Technology recognized us for building a decision intelligence layer across our franchise network that turns every sale in every restaurant into a smarter plan for tomorrow.

Now in their 20th year, the MURTEC Breakthrough Awards honor restaurant companies that use bold digital strategies and smart technology integrations to drive growth, efficiency, and better guest experiences. Hospitality Technology editors and research advisory board members chose the finalists after judging technology achievements, strategic execution, and measurable business impact over the past 18 months.

We're in great company. Our fellow 2026 finalists are Applebee's Neighborhood Grill + Bar, ClusterTruck, Oliver's Real Food and Rōti Modern Mediterranean. Winners will be revealed on Friday, October 23, at the MURTEC Executive Summit, held October 21–23 at the Loews Coronado Bay Resort near San Diego.

"What started as a celebration of IT milestones has evolved into a showcase of total business transformation," said Hospitality Technology Editor-in-Chief Charlie Pogacar. "In 2026, we are honoring brands that weave digital DNA into every fiber of their operation to elevate their brands."

Forecasting prep and inventory is one of the hardest jobs in any restaurant, and it often comes down to experience and gut feel. We wanted every Groucho's franchise partner to have the same data-driven playbook, whether their store opened last year or has been slicing meat for decades.

Here's how it works: ClearCOGS AI forecasting turns live Square sales data into daily prep guides and ordering sheets, delivered straight to our kitchen teams through Fresh KDS. For our kitchen teams, that means a clear prep plan at the start of every shift. For our franchise partners, it means ordering based on real demand, which helps control food costs and waste. For our guests, it means fresh ingredients and The STP Dipper made the way we've always made it.

Groucho's Deli opened in Columbia, South Carolina, in 1941, and The STP Dipper and our signature Formula 45 sauce have been fan favorites ever since. Being named a MURTEC finalist alongside brands like Applebee's shows that a family-rooted franchise system can lead in restaurant technology, too.

Thank you to Hospitality Technology, its judges, our fellow finalists, and our technology partners at Square, ClearCOGS, and Fresh KDS. Most of all, thank you to our franchise partners, team members and guests. We'll find out the winners on October 23. Until then, stop by your nearest Groucho's and taste what 85 years of getting it right looks like.