Overview
The Kiosk Manufacturer Association (KMA) and The Industry Group (TIG) are operating a centralized technology hub at the 2026 National Restaurant Association Show in Chicago, running May 16–19. Located at Booth #5829 in the North Building at McCormick Place, the hub showcases integrated self-service technologies focused on AI-driven ordering, contactless payments, accessibility compliance, and operational efficiency for restaurant operators.
The initiative brings together multiple vendors to demonstrate interoperable solutions designed to increase throughput, improve guest experience, and support regulatory compliance across full-service, quick-service, and fast-casual restaurant formats.
What it does
At the hub, attendees can view over 20 interactive demonstrations from participating vendors. Key offerings include:
- Pyramid Computer: Showcasing its POLYTOUCH kiosk platforms, which provide modular hardware for ordering, wayfinding, and guest engagement.
- TPGi: Demonstrating accessibility compliance tools, including support for JAWS and screen readers, to help brands meet ADA and European Accessibility Act (EAA) requirements.
- URway Holdings: Presenting conversational AI and voice-ordering systems designed to reduce user friction and improve order completion rates, particularly for users with visual or motor impairments.
- Sitekiosk: Featuring secure kiosk software with device lockdown capabilities to prevent tampering and enable remote management of unattended terminals.
- Innovative Technology: Expected to present biometric and identity validation systems, though final participation details are pending confirmation.
The hub also introduces the "NRA 2026 Tech Walking Route," a curated tour starting and ending at Booth #5829. The route guides attendees through a thematic loop of exhibitors in the North Hall, grouped by technology category—self-service, POS, payments, AI, hardware, and robotics—to reduce backtracking and improve discovery efficiency. A downloadable map and instructions are available online for pre-show planning.
TIG has also launched new company profile services for technology vendors, priced at $79. These include first-level SEO optimization and AI-driven analysis to enhance online visibility beyond basic websites. Vendors can assess their need via an online self-survey. Additionally, TIG offers Consensus research reports on topics including voice in AI self-service, cash versus credit payment trends with calculator tools, and a retrofit decision kit with ROI calculator—available free to supporting organizations.
When to use it
The KMA/TIG hub is intended for restaurant operators evaluating self-service kiosk deployments, technology integrators, and vendors seeking visibility in the hospitality tech space. The walking tour is particularly useful for attendees with limited time who want a structured, thematic overview of relevant exhibitors. The accessibility demonstrations are critical for brands aiming to meet ADA and EAA compliance standards, while the voice-ordering and biometric solutions may appeal to operators focused on frictionless customer experiences.
For more information, including a full list of exhibitors and solution overviews, visit https://kioskindustry.org/nra-national-restaurant-show. Media inquiries can be directed to Craig Keefner at [email protected] or 720-324-1837.