Restaurant Marketing: The Ultimate Guide to Modern Restaurant Marketing”

by Robert Ancill

About Me

Biography of Robert Ancill

About the Author: Robert Ancill

Robert Ancill is a globally recognized restaurant consultant, brand strategist, and design innovator based in Los Angeles. With a career spanning more than two decades, Robert has led the creation and launch of over 89 new brands and overseen more than 500 restaurant and café openings or renovations across 24+ countries. His work spans franchising, international development, and strategic planning, giving him a rare insight into both global opportunity and risk within the hospitality sector.

Born and raised in Glasgow, Scotland, Robert began his professional journey at the Glasgow College of Food Technology, graduating later with an HCIMA qualification. His early career includes tenures with prestigious companies such as Aroma Café Group (a VC-backed startup acquired by McDonald’s), Planet Hollywood, House of Fraser, Safeway, Panera Bread, and HMS Host.

In 2002, Robert founded The Next Idea, a high-energy international restaurant and hospitality consulting agency, now recognized for its forward-thinking approach to concept development, architectural design, branding, marketing, and franchising. Under his leadership, the agency has grown into a globally respected firm, working with clients such as Sizzler Restaurants, Plant Power Fast Food, Paris Baguette, Royal Caribbean, 7-Eleven, Caliburger, and many others.

In 2016, The Next Idea expanded into two distinct divisions: Heritage Restaurant Consultants for hospitality consulting
(www.heritagerestaurantconsultants.com) and The Next Idea Group for design and architecture,

(www.thenextideagroup.com). Today, Robert continues to lead creative direction and strategic growth across both platforms.

He currently serves as Board Advisor to Atmosfy.io, while also offering executive coaching to rising CEOs and leaders in the hospitality industry.

To learn more about Robert’s insights and work, visit his blog at www.globalrestaurantconsultant.com or connect with him on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/robertancill.