Today in Food Commerce: Brinker Invests in Digital Ordering; Uber Eats Partners With Ultrafast Retailer

Today in food commerce, Chili’s parent company Brinker International invests in off-premise-centric store formats, and Uber Eats promises 25-minute deliveries. Plus, funds pour in by the millions for QR code restaurant payments.

Brinker International Invests in off-Premise Growth Despite Lower Average Check

Not all restaurant concepts experience digital ordering as the cash cow it can be for leading quick-service restaurants (QSRs). Brinker International, parent company of Chili’s Grill & Bar, Maggiano’s Little Italy and two virtual brands (It’s Just Wings and Maggiano’s Italian Classics), said off-premises channels actually yield smaller-ticket purchases than its dine-in business.

Uber Eats Partners With FastAF on Ultrafast Delivery Despite Warning Signs

Apparently ignoring the writing on the wall, Uber is entering into ultrafast delivery. On-demand delivery eTailer FastAF Technologies has announced a partnership with Uber Eats to launch 25-minute delivery through Eats’ marketplace in New York City, Los Angeles and San Francisco.

India’s Qlub Nets $17M for Its QR Code Restaurant Payments Platform

Qlub, a startup working on a speedy restaurant pay solution, has raised $17 million for seed financing. Qlub works to let customers pay their restaurant bills fast through scanning a QR code on their phone, even without a registration. Customers can split the bill with others or pay via Apple Pay, credit card or through installments.

UK Grocer Asda Trials Automated Age Verification Software

U.K. grocer Asda is the first retailer to try out automated age verification software in its stores, thanks to a partnership with digital identification software company Yoti and technology leader NCR. Asda said the trial will run in its Pudsey and Stevenage stores until the end of May.

Access-as-Luxury Takes off With Private-Jet-Flown Meals From International Restaurants

For the ultra-rich, their favorite restaurant’s delivery radius just got a whole lot wider. Private jet company Farringdon Jets has announced the launch of its “Quarantine Cuisine From Around The World” offering by which the company will fly meals from anywhere in the world to consumers’ doors within 48 hours.