As part of our Sacramento Inno coverage of the startup, technology and innovation economy, the Business Journal has compiled a list of startups to watch in the new year. These startups are poised to make big moves, either in growth, funding, technology or development. We're highlighting 15 startups, generally with fewer than 100 employees, about 5 years old or less and that have raised less than $50 million.
Sacramento-based Restron Inc. has developed an app and platform to help restaurants boost revenue.
The Restron app is meant to pair engaged foodies with independent restaurants, helping the restaurants send out exclusive menus to drive higher sales and more engagement. The app is going live soon. The company’s software acts as a digital toolbox for independent restaurants.
One of its tools facilitates special menu offers to a network of local foodies on behalf of restaurants, said co-founder Clay Nutting. He is the owner of Canon restaurant in East Sacramento and Franquette in West Sacramento. Restron's other co-founder is Anthony Sarti, who is also CEO of Sacramento software firm BPXI/O.
With Restron, restaurants could have the ability to change consumer behavior by engaging foodies with specials and perks. Other features of Restron include a to-go app and an app to help restaurants comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Restron is part of the second cohort of companies at the Growth Factory, a Rocklin-based business accelerator. The company will soon be seeking to raise about $2 million for growth funding.
Locally, Restron has 15,000 foodies signed up to support 12 local independent restaurants in a beta test. There are more than 500,000 independent restaurants across the country, and they are all fighting to survive, Nutting said. Increased food costs, inflation and workforce retention are all challenging headwinds for restaurants.
