What a whirlwind! The 2025 National Restaurant Association Show has come and gone, and we’re still buzzing with excitement from everything we saw, learned, and experienced. From May 17–20, Chicago was once again the heartbeat of the foodservice industry, bringing together innovators, operators, and visionaries from all corners of the business. Motion Technology, Inc., the proud manufacturer of the AutoFry, was thrilled to be part of the action — connecting with long-time partners and welcoming new faces into our world of ventless frying solutions.

Here’s a look at some of the biggest trends we saw on display and how they’re shaping the future of foodservice:

💡 Technology or BUST!

If one message rang loud and clear this year, it was this: Technology is no longer a “nice-to-have” — it’s a must. Across the show floor, automation and data-driven decision-making stole the spotlight. From a fryer with a built-in oil filtration system, to AI-powered kitchen management systems, the push toward intelligent, integrated operations is picking up speed. For operators, this means real-time insights, reduced waste, and streamlined workflows. For manufacturers like us, it’s a clear signal: innovation is the way forward.

🍽️ Unique Dining Concepts on the Rise

Creativity was alive and well in Chicago! We saw immersive dining experiences, hybrid retail-foodservice spaces, and ghost kitchens expanding into fully branded micro-locations. The message? Consumers want food that fits their lifestyle — whether that means grabbing a gourmet bite in a bowling alley or ordering upscale eats via delivery-only models. Flexibility and identity are both key in this new dining landscape.

👩‍🍳 Tackling the Staffing Crunch

Staffing challenges remain a top concern, and the NRA Show didn’t shy away from addressing it. From automated prep equipment to training software and smart scheduling platforms, solutions designed to support smaller teams were everywhere. The common thread: finding ways to maintain quality and efficiency even with limited staff. At Motion Technology, this is a topic near and dear to our hearts — more on that in a moment.

🌱 Sustainability & Footprint

Sustainability was more than just a buzzword this year — it was a business imperative. Operators are looking for equipment that saves energy, reduces food waste, and minimizes environmental impact. We were inspired by the range of sustainable packaging, energy-efficient appliances, and closed-loop concepts that are helping shape a greener industry. As a manufacturer, we’re committed to continuing our journey toward more environmentally conscious solutions.

🔥 Where AutoFry Fits In

As the foodservice industry evolves, we’re proud to say AutoFry® is more relevant than ever. In an age where staffing is tight, operations are data-driven, and space is at a premium, our fully enclosed, ventless frying system offers operators a smarter way to serve high-quality fried food — with minimal labor and no costly hood installation.

Whether you’re a high-volume QSR, a small bar looking to expand your menu, or a non-traditional venue tapping into the grab-and-go trend, AutoFry fits right into your vision. It's tech-forward, efficient, and designed to meet the needs of a changing industry.

🎥 Want to See the Action for Yourself?

Check out our official 2025 NRA Show Recap Video — catch highlights from the show floor, behind-the-scenes booth moments, and a firsthand look at AutoFry in action, producing crispy delights like chicken fingers, French fries, and mozzarellas sticks.
👉 Watch the video now!

👋 Until Next Year!
We’re already counting down the days until the 2026 NRA Show! A heartfelt thank you to everyone who stopped by our booth, shared stories, and explored what’s new in the world of ventless innovation. It was so great to see old friends and make new ones — because at the end of the day, foodservice is about people just as much as it is about food.

See you next year, Chicago! 🍟