Special Events (choose 1 of 8)
Every activity within the RLC agenda is an opportunity to expand your professional network. Whichever you choose, you'll be surrounded by the restaurant industry's best and brightest. Don't miss this opportunity to meet new friends, chat with old ones and, most importantly, have fun. Approximately 8-10 weeks prior to the conference, guests will receive an invitation to register for the outing of their choice. Please be aware that capacity is limited and excursions will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Preregistration for special events is required. You are also required to check in for each special event at the special event desk the morning of your selected activity to secure your spot. If you do not check-in at least 10 minutes prior to bus departure time, you forfeit your place to an attendee on the wait list.
Innovation Forums (choose 1 of 11)
Led by the brightest professionals in foodservice, RLC's innovation forums are packed with hot topics and powerful messages designed to spark new ideas. Connect with the industry's game changers and gain valuable takeaways from the latest and greatest in foodservice innovation. There's something for everyone!
RLC Marketplace
Location: RLC MarketplaceWith almost 200 suppliers on display, you're sure to find all the industry-shapers within the RLC Marketplace. It's all about the connections you make and the hands you'll shake here, where suppliers and operators gather to uncover the latest solutions, sample new products and even close deals.
RLC Running Club
Location: Departure from the Sunset Terrace (outside the Saguaro Ballroom)You just can't beat the beautiful weather and scenery of Arizona! Join us for an invigorating morning run around the picturesque JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa and get your day started on the right foot.
Innovation Forums (Choose 1 of 11)
Led by the brightest professionals in foodservice, RLC's innovation forums are packed with hot topics and powerful messages designed to spark new ideas. Connect with the industry's game changers and gain valuable takeaways from the latest and greatest in foodservice innovation. There's something for everyone!
General Session
Virtual kitchens have become remarkably popular during the pandemic and have the potential to change how the industry develops and creates new concepts and generates returns on investment. This session discusses the economics and operations of virtual kitchens and how they can help operators generate sales and entrepreneurs make money fast.
Editor-in-Chief | Moderator
Restaurant Business
President & CEO | Panelist
Wow Bao
Founder and CEO
The Culinary Edge and Starbird
Innovation Forums (Choose 1 of 11)
Led by the brightest professionals in foodservice, RLC's innovation forums are packed with hot topics and powerful messages designed to spark new ideas. Connect with the industry's game changers and gain valuable takeaways from the latest and greatest in foodservice innovation. There's something for everyone!
General Session
Few individuals ever become iconic enough to be known by one name – Shaq. A cultural icon, Shaquille O’Neal is best known for an NBA career spanning nearly two decades and earning him the sport’s highest honors including membership in the NBA Hall of Fame. O’Neal has since pivoted that same discipline into several businesses, including television and media, and even restaurants. As a board member of Papa John’s, he has become the brand’s ambassador and investor in nine locations, in addition to his ownership over several other franchises, including Five Guys, Auntie Anne’s, and Krispy Kreme. Dedicated to overachieving, on and off the court, Shaq joins us to share his story and the lessons he learned along the way.
Member NBA Hall of Fame & 15-Time NBA All Star Player, Media Personality, Entrepreneur and Philanthropist
RLC Marketplace
Location: RLC MarketplaceWith almost 200 suppliers on display, you're sure to find all the industry-shapers within the RLC Marketplace. It's all about the connections you make and the hands you'll shake here, where suppliers and operators gather to uncover the latest solutions, sample new products and even close deals.
It's time for everyone's favorite hour … happy hour! Take a well-deserved break, and mix and mingle among the displays in the Restaurant Product Gallery. With almost 200 suppliers on display, you're sure to find all the industry-shapers within the RLC Marketplace. It's all about the connections you make and the hands you'll shake here, where suppliers and operators gather to uncover the latest solutions, sample new products and even close deals.
Innovation Forums (Choose 1 of 9)
Led by the brightest professionals in foodservice, RLC's innovation forums are packed with hot topics and powerful messages designed to spark new ideas. Connect with the industry's game changers and gain valuable takeaways from the latest and greatest in foodservice innovation. There's something for everyone!
General Session
Location: Grand Saguaro BallroomAdmiral William H. McRaven eloquently draws on his extensive career of 37 years of service as a Navy SEAL. The discussion addresses issues such as U.S. foreign policy, the current geopolitical landscape, leadership during high-stress situations, risk management, teamwork, resilience in the face of adversity, resourcefulness, personal accountability, and the determination to succeed.
Commander of U.S. Special Operations Command (2011-2014) and of U.S. Joint Special Operations Command (2008-2011)