Marlin Connections

Membership has its privileges...want to be part of the best party of Restaurant Show Weekend?

Club Metamorphosis was SO. MUCH. FUN. From the stellar venue to the outrageous food and drinks and lavish entertainment, we're still celebrating over here. Were you one of the hundreds of foodservice people on the dancefloor? Did you get your tarot reading? Were you caught on camera wearing a butterfly mask? We're proud to host the wildest party of NRS every year, and we want you to be part of it. If you're a manufacturer, now is your chance to sponsor next year's shindig. It's a unique way to showcase your products and meet operators who are hungry for menu ideas. Networking has never been this fun...get in on the ground floor, then get on the dance floor.

For more information on sponsorship (or for an invite to next year's bash) send an email to [email protected]

GLP-1s didn't slow down after the hype cycle, and neither did the impact on foodservice.
Monday, May 18th | 2:30pm–3:15pm | S403

In her speaker session, 'A Year of GLP-1s: Consumer Behavior That's Here to Stay,' Rachel Royster returns to NRS with a one-year follow-up on the dining behaviors and menu shifts operators are seeing play out in real time after GLP-1s went mainstream. Let's explore what's sticking and where the industry is heading next.

-1s

The training manual probably isn't cutting it anymore.
Saturday, May 16th | 2:00pm-2:45pm | S503

In the NRS speaker session 'Training in the TikTok Era,' our own Steve Madonna joins fellow panelists to explore what actually resonates with today’s younger, more tech-driven workforce. From micro-learning to mobile-first tools and shorter-form training, this conversation dives into how operators can better train and retain modern restaurant teams. We can't wait to see you there!

The food deserves its own spotlight! At Club Metamorphosis, it’s part of the transformative experience. From smoky chili crisp and lobster grilled cheese to interactive cocktails and cheese boards built like edible art, every bite is designed to feel a little unreal.

Make sure to request your invite before it’s too late. https://hubs.ly/Q04gkr3M0

Training in the TikTok era is a whole new feat.
Join Steve and panelists at NRS to explore how a younger, more tech-driven workforce is shifting expectations around training. Traditional approaches are harder to sustain in high-turnover environments, pushing operators to find new ways to engage and retain their teams. This session looks at how micro-learning and digital tools are being used to build stronger habits, improve performance, and create a training approach that supports both the business and the people behind it.

Let's get with the times together, shall we? Join us Saturday, May 16th from 2:00pm - 2:45pm in room S503.

A year of GLP-1s, what's the scoop?

Back at NRS one year later, Rachel Royster picks up the GLP-1 conversation—this time with real-time data and behavior shifts taking shape. As adoption grows, guests are rethinking how they order and eat and the effects on foodservice are noticeable. In this must-see speaker session, Rachel is connecting the dots between what’s changed, what’s sticking, and how operators can respond with smarter menu and business strategies.
Join us Monday, May 18th from 2:30pm – 3:15pm in room S403.

At Connections, we know that a thriving workplace is the foundation of exceptional service. When our people feel valued, supported, and inspired, that energy and enthusiasm flows directly to our partners and customers. This certification confirms what we already know: we have something truly special here.

And to prove that Acxion has been certified as a Great Place To Work® in both the United States and Canada for 2026! 🏆
This speaks to the dedication, passion, and heart that our team brings to work each and every day. We stay committed to fostering a culture where every voice is heard, every contribution matters, and everyone has the opportunity to grow. (https://hubs.ly/Q04fHw8v0)

Thank you to our incredible team for making Connections a place where people love to come to work. We are just getting started.

We’re getting ready to dance the night away. Are you?
Club Metamorphosis is quickly approaching. And with a surreal soundscape shaped by DJ Madrid, spinning globally inspired beats and Too Much Molly—an electric, energy catalyst, there won’t be a dull moment in the evening. Add in an exclusive crowd comprised of foodservice’s biggest brands and brightest minds, and it becomes a night you won't want to miss.

Request an invite and celebrate transformation with us. https://hubs.ly/Q04flfvM0

Where's the party at?
A venue made for ultimate flourishing... Club Metamorphosis is taking place May 17th at Untitled Supper Club. Untitled Supper Club is a gorgeous, super-secret hideaway bursting with moody ambiance. Its central downtown location places it steps from major hotels, nightlife, and the Chicago River, making it a convenient destination for both locals and visitors. This is an occasion you won't want to miss.
Request an invite today to experience unmatched networking, entertainment, food, drink, and thrills.
https://hubs.ly/Q04f2PMB0