Shake Shack Inc. (NYSE: SHAK) announced Project Catalyst, a technology initiative designed to support the company's expansion to 1,500 company-operated locations.

The program includes modernizing point-of-sale and kitchen display systems through a partnership with Qu, a cloud-native commerce platform. The new systems aim to improve order accuracy and operational speed across digital and in-store channels.

Shake Shack will launch its first loyalty platform to strengthen customer relationships and drive repeat visits. The platform will integrate across digital channels to enable personalized communication and experiences.

The initiative includes expanded artificial intelligence capabilities focused on operational insights and decision-making support for restaurant operators. An intelligent operating layer will provide alerts and recommendations to help manage daily restaurant operations.

Project Catalyst also advances the company's data foundation to provide faster access to operational insights and customer behavior analytics. This foundation will support the AI capabilities and enable more personalized customer experiences.

"Project Catalyst strengthens the technology and digital capabilities that power our restaurants and connect us more meaningfully with our guests," said Rob Lynch, Chief Executive Officer of Shake Shack. "These investments will help our teams operate more efficiently, enhance the guest experience, and position Shake Shack to scale successfully toward 1,500 Company-operated Shacks."

The company reiterated its first quarter and fiscal year 2026 guidance, stating that the financial outlook incorporates the planned impacts of Project Catalyst initiatives.

Shake Shack currently operates over 670 locations system-wide, including approximately 430 locations across 35 U.S. states and Washington D.C., and over 240 international locations.