49. Integrating Success: Derek Tonn on Upgrading Black Rock Coffee's Tech Stack

SUMMARY:

In this insightful episode of The Coffee Experts Club Podcast, hosts Aaron, Ben, and Drew sit down with Derek Tonn, CEO of Black Rock Coffee, to delve into the complexities of upgrading a point of sale (POS) system across over 100 locations. Derek shares the journey of moving from a limited POS system to Revel Systems, an iPad-based, cloud POS with an open API, enabling seamless integration with various enterprise systems.

Derek explains the challenges and triumphs of integrating their new POS with third-party applications like Seven Shifts for time and attendance, and Patronix for online ordering. Also how these integrations have streamlined operations, enhanced reporting accuracy, and boosted customer experience through a cohesive system that allows for real-time data flow and unified inventory management.

Derek also discusses the strategic importance of choosing technology partners that specialize in specific functionalities rather than opting for an all-in-one solution. From ensuring consistent naming conventions across menus to leveraging data for optimizing supply chains, this episode is packed with practical advice for coffee shop owners looking to scale their operations efficiently.

Whether you're running a single location or managing a multi-store operation, this episode offers valuable insights into the tech-driven strategies that can propel your business forward. Tune in to hear Derek's expert tips and lessons learned from overseeing a massive technology upgrade at Black Rock Coffee.

Minute by Minute:

0:00 Introduction and get to know Derek Tonn

6:51 Pursuing the best point of sale system

11:00 The pain of swapping software for your business

15:42 Flowing data between many different stores

21:41 Considering supply chain across regions

26:14 Utilizing vendors at a large scale

28:20 Suggestions for technology and your growing process