EDUCATION SESSIONS

Experience bold thinking on innovation, digital transformation and value creation from Coca-Cola leaders live on the main stage.

 

Speaker: Eric Blumenthal, Senior Vice President, Foodservice Commercial Leadership & Growth, The Coca-Cola Company

Session 1: Winning Guests Through Value Creation

Timing:
Saturday, May 17, 2:30-3 p.m. in the Innovation Theater, North Hall

Speaker:
Eric Blumenthal, Senior Vice President, Foodservice Commercial Leadership & Growth, The Coca-Cola Company

Description:
As menu prices rise, consumers are scrutinizing value more than ever, pushing beyond just affordability. In this session, we will explore how the traditional “cheap and fast” model is no longer enough. Attendees will learn how to bridge the widening value gap by prioritizing quality and enhancing the overall consumer experience. This session will highlight strategies to offer customers more for what they pay, giving restaurants that focus on value-driven service a distinct competitive advantage.
Josh Gurley, Vice President, FSOP Digital Partnership & Capabilities, The Coca-Cola Company

o Brad Christian, Head of Strategic Growth, US Channel Performance, Ipsos

Keith McLellan, Group Director, Digital Customer Experience, Whataburger

Session 2: Digital Dining: Enhancing Your Online Ordering Experience to Drive Revenue

Timing:
Sunday, May 18, 2:30 – 3 p.m. in the Discovery Theater, South Hall

Speaker:
• Josh Gurley, Vice President, FSOP Digital Partnership & Capabilities, The Coca-Cola Company

• Brad Christian, Head of Strategic Growth, US Channel Performance, Ipsos

• Keith McLellan, Group Director, Digital Customer Experience, Whataburger

Description:
Discover how to elevate your restaurant’s online presence with “Digital Dining: Enhancing Your Online Ordering Experience to Drive Revenue.” This session will explore the critical role of menu optimization and the latest digital tools and strategies to boost sales. Learn from industry experts on how to create an engaging and efficient digital ordering experience that satisfies customers and drives revenue. Join us to uncover actionable insights and best practices for leveraging beverage options to enhance digital menus and maximize your restaurant’s potential in the fast-evolving digital landscape.
Megan Tallman, Vice-President, Coca-Cola Freestyle and Foodservice Innovation at The Coca-Cola Company Steven Goldstein, Founder, foodthinqueBarbara Linn, Sr. Director, Brand Marketing and Calendar Strategy, Burger KingJamie Richardson, VP Marketing and Public Relations – Restaurants & Retail, White Castle

Session 3: Crafting the Future of Beverages: The Power of LTOs and Custom Drink Innovations

Timing:Monday, May 19, 2:30-3 p.m. in the Discovery Theater, South Hall

Speaker:
• Megan Tallman, Vice-President, Coca-Cola Freestyle and Foodservice Innovation at The Coca-Cola Company

• Steven Goldstein, Founder, foodthinque

• Barbara Linn, Sr. Director, Brand Marketing and Calendar Strategy, Burger King

• Jamie Richardson, VP Marketing and Public Relations – Restaurants & Retail, White Castle

Description:
Discover how Coca-Cola is redefining beverage innovation through limited-time offerings (LTOs) and customizable drink combinations that captivate consumers. In this insightful panel discussion moderated by Coca-Cola, hear directly from leaders at Burger King, White Castle, and the founder of foodthinque—a creative studio known for crafting brand-defining food and beverage experiences. Panelists will share real-world examples of successful collaborations, revealing how tailored beverage experiences can drive customer loyalty and boost sales. Attendees will walk away with actionable strategies to leverage LTOs and customization in their own operations, staying ahead of evolving consumer preferences.