Keynote and Featured Session
Be inspired and awed by industry icons, celebrated figures, and innovative thinkers we’re bringing to the Show.
Game. Set. Match. Andre Agassi Serves Up Keynote '26
Sunday, May 17, 2026 - 1:00 p.m. CST - Grand Ballroom, S100
A conversation with Award-winning Tennis Player and Entrepreneur Andre Agassi
The 2026 Restaurant Show Keynote will feature an inspiring conversation with celebrated tennis legend, Olympic gold medal winner, philanthropist, and education advocate, Andre Agassi. Widely regarded as one of the most accomplished athletes of all time, Andre was ranked as the world #1 in men’s singles by the ATP for 101 weeks, including as the year-end No. 1 in 1999. He won 60 ATP Tour-level singles titles, including eight majors, completing the career Grand Slam after a dramatic five-set comeback victory in 1999.
Andre’s journey—from the pressures and obstacles of the global stage to championing education and creating opportunities for at-risk children—offers valuable lessons in resilience, perseverance, reinvention, and leadership.
Andre will share how the mindset of a champion applies far beyond the court, inspiring foodservice professionals to push boundaries, embrace change, and lead with vision. He will challenge attendees to reframe setbacks as opportunities and embrace evolution—both personally and professionally—while reflecting on the importance of discipline, adaptability, and giving back.
The keynote session will begin with an introduction and presentation by Michelle Korsmo, President and CEO of the National Restaurant Association. Then Michelle and Andre will have an engaging interview-style Q&A, exploring his career evolution, philanthropic mission, and the principles that help leaders thrive.
Technomic Featured Session
Monday, May 18, 2026 - 1:00 p.m. CST - Grand Ballroom, S100
Here for a Good Time, Not for a Long Time: Mastering Limited-Time Offers for Business Success
Discover secrets to harnessing the power of Limited-Time Offers (LTOs) to transform your business and captivate customers like never before. This must-attend session is designed to give you a competitive edge in today’s fast-paced market. Join us for an electrifying exploration of strategies to identify top-selling LTO trends and seamlessly integrate LTOs into your business model—while keeping costs and execution in focus. You’ll gain actionable insights, including expert tips on planning cycles and real-world success stories that will inspire and empower you.
The highlight? A dynamic session featuring Joseph Pawlak, Managing Principal at Technomic, alongside leading independent and chain operators who have mastered the art of LTOs. Hear firsthand how they’ve leveraged these powerful tools to boost sales, engage customers, and stay ahead of the competition. This is your chance to gain exclusive insider knowledge and unlock the full potential of LTOs for your business. Don’t miss out—this session is your ticket to innovation and success!
Headshots
Joe Pawlak
Managing Principal, Technomic



















