In this episode of Restaurant Catering Smarts, Michael Attias sits down with Chris Heffernan, CEO of dlivrd—a last-mile logistics company disrupting the gig delivery space with a focus on transparency, driver empowerment, and AI-driven matchmaking.
Chris shares his vision for a delivery ecosystem where restaurant operators and drivers both win. You’ll hear how dlivrd’s platform is custom-built for catering—not just another gig app. Think: delivery driver profiles, matching based on capacity and equipment (not just location), and AI that “swipes right” on the perfect driver for every order.
Whether you’re running five catering deliveries a week or fifty, this episode will change how you think about delivery logistics.
Restaurant Catering Smarts is powered by CaterZen Catering Software, the all-in-one platform helping restaurants grow catering sales and streamline operations.
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✅ Smart Delivery Matching: dlivrd uses AI to pair the right driver—not just the closest one—based on vehicle, equipment, and reliability.
✅ Catering-Focused Technology: Their system reads delivery notes (like “bring a cart”) to assign qualified drivers who can handle large orders.
✅ Driver Community & Culture: dlivrd hosts in-person events and spotlights drivers in content, building loyalty and buy-in.
✅ Higher Earnings = Better Results: A higher pay structure means drivers protect their gig—and your catering orders.
✅ AI Chatbots for Caterers: Chris recommends using AI to handle menu FAQs and dietary needs—even while you sleep.
✅ Operational Transparency: Drivers and restaurants benefit from open, honest communication about expectations and needs.
✅ Differentiation from Big Apps: dlivrd focuses on relationships, not just transactions—making it ideal for catering’s white-glove touch.
✅ Empowering, Not Replacing: AI augments human service, helping customers place orders faster and with more accuracy.
🔹 “We’re not trying to get your order delivered fast—we’re trying to get it delivered right.”
🔹 “A $2,000 catering order isn’t going in a Mini Cooper.”
🔹 “It’s not just about matching a driver. It’s about matching a driver with the right car, the right tools, and the right mindset.”
🔹 “If you’re answering dietary questions at 3am, you're either overworked or need a chatbot.”
🔹 “We host events at Dave & Buster’s—because drivers are people, not just apps on a phone.”
🔹 “Catering needs precision. AI helps you get the right person in the right place at the right time.”
🔹 “You can’t afford a mystery delivery on your biggest catering order of the month.”
