Mathew D. Focht

Mathew D. Focht is a highly experienced entrepreneur and investor in the hospitality sector, with over 25 years of experience. He is the Founding Managing Partner of EMERGING, a growth equity and concept development firm that helps restaurant and entertainment operators scale nationally through strategic growth plans, data analytics, real estate acquisition, financial analysis, and capital raising. emergingconcepts+3

Focht has a strong focus on leveraging technology and AI within the hospitality industry. He champions the use of AI for real estate analytics, menu intelligence, guest engagement, and streamlining operations, believing it's crucial for the future growth and profitability of restaurant and experiential concepts. emerging+2

He is a serial co-founder, having established multiple companies including Emerging Concepts, Consolidated Concepts, Acutely, Inc, and F&B Insights. Consolidated Concepts, co-founded in 2008, is notably the GPO arm of Buyers Edge Platform, providing procurement solutions and cost reduction for multi-unit restaurants. emergingconcepts+3

Mathew's background combines engineering and business acumen, holding a BS in Civil Engineering and an MBA in Real Estate and Finance from the University of Cincinnati. This unique combination provides him with a data-driven approach to real estate development and investment in the hospitality sector. emergingconcepts+2

His career prior to founding EMERGING involved significant roles in commercial real estate and restaurant development, including positions at Robert K. Futterman & Associates, Sierra Realty Advisors, Pyramid Companies, and Steiner + Associates. This experience focused on leasing, marketing, consulting, and securing expansion sites for various restaurant and entertainment chains. emergingconcepts+1