Why Restaurant Repairs Are the Hidden Backbone of Hospitality

Running a restaurant is one of the most challenging—and rewarding—business ventures out there. From long hours to razor-thin margins, the demands are relentless. But behind every perfectly plated dish and bustling Friday night crowd is an unsung hero: the repair technician who keeps the kitchen running.

At the heart of that effort is someone like Cory Yates, managing partner and co-founder of Alpha & Omega Restaurant Equipment and Repair, a Phoenix-based company redefining restaurant repairs.

In a recent episode of Digital Hospitality, Cory sat down with host Shawn Walchef to discuss:

• Why he’s passionate about the restaurant industry
• What led him to start Alpha & Omega
• How technology like 86 Repairs is helping companies like his deliver faster, more reliable service

Built by Mistake—but Fueled by Passion

Cory’s path into restaurant repair wasn’t a straight line. Like many entrepreneurs, it evolved over time, starting with janitorial supplies in the late '80s. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to build and sell multiple businesses before launching Alpha & Omega in 2015. Throughout his career, one thing stayed constant: a deep admiration for the restaurant industry.

“I love to eat,” Cory joked. But his respect for restaurants extends beyond the food. He’s drawn to the grit and passion of restaurateurs—people who, as he puts it, “never wear watches” because they work until the job is done.

That kind of dedication inspires him, which is how he found his niche not in running  kitchens, but in keeping them running.

Filling the Gap in a Fragmented Industry

What sets Alpha & Omega apart is its mission to operate in the space between two extremes: large, slow-moving corporate repair firms and small, often uninsured independents.

According to Cory, the giants often struggle with responsiveness and communication. “They’re not tip of the spear,” he said. Meanwhile, one-man operations may be skilled, but they lack the infrastructure to handle serious issues—or the liability protection restaurant owners need.

Alpha & Omega’s goal? Be the trusted, nimble middle.

“We’re going to be honest, transparent, quick, and we’re going to communicate like rock stars,” Cory said.

That dedication has paid off—within 90 days of launching, they had 100 clients, and continued their growth from there.

The Reality of Red Ink

A critical message Cory wants restaurant owners to understand is this: repair services are a cost center.

“When we walk in the back door—we are red ink, period,” he said.

Unlike food or drinks, repairs can’t be resold. Yet the cost of doing business is high. Outfitting a single service truck costs about $90,000, and that’s before inventory, labor, or fuel.

Repairs are also an unavoidable fact for restaurant operators. Any business with a high volume of guests and constant use of industrial-grade equipment in the heat of a kitchen is going to require routine maintenance and repair.

From Cory's perspective the symbiosis comes down to partnership.

“Big invoices don’t necessarily equate to big profits for service companies,” Cory explained. “Nobody’s getting rich doing this.” But he’s committed to building trust with clients by being transparent about where their money goes and ensuring they feel the value of the service.

Technology That Actually Helps

One of the most eye-opening parts of the conversation was Cory’s perspective on 86 Repairs, a technology platform that helps restaurant operators manage repairs and maintenance. Cory was introduced to 86 through a corporate client, and the partnership has transformed how Alpha & Omega operates.

“Before we even jump in the truck, we know so much more about the repair request,” he said.

With detailed information already in hand, his team can get right to work—saving time and money for everyone involved. This level of efficiency isn’t just about speed; it also leads to better diagnostics, fewer repeat visits, and a more sustainable business model.

The kicker? It doesn’t cost Alpha & Omega anything to be in the 86 Repairs network. “If you’re good, they want to help you reach even more restaurants within your territory,” Cory said. “If you suck, don’t bother.”

Digital Storytelling in a Hands-On Industry

Beyond repairs, Cory is also an advocate for digital storytelling. With help from his wife, who owns a design firm, he’s embraced social media and online video to showcase his team and company culture.

It’s a strategy that’s paid off in unexpected ways—building a professional network across the country and providing a support system for those moments when his team runs into challenges they can’t immediately solve.

“There’s value you can’t put a price on,” he said. Whether it’s advice from a peer in another state or simply visibility to prospective clients, showing what they do—and who they are—has helped Alpha & Omega stand out in a crowded market.

Looking Ahead with Cautious Optimism

Cory isn’t blind to the challenges ahead. Inflation, labor shortages, and rising operating costs are squeezing everyone. He recently spent $98 on a simple breakfast. Everything is more expensive now. That worries him. Will quality dining soon be out of reach for many?

Yet his faith in the industry remains strong.

“What gives me hope is the grit of the people who are so passionate about this industry,” he said. “They’re going to succeed. They’re going to build great restaurants. And people are going to flock to them.”

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, Cory Yates and Alpha & Omega are proof that repair companies aren’t just vendors—they’re partners. When the fryer breaks down at 9 p.m. on a Friday night, the people who show up to fix it are just as essential to the guest experience as the ones serving the food.

And with the right mindset, technology, and respect for the hustle, companies like his can make a real difference in the restaurant world.

Visit this page to learn more about joining Alpha & Omega, along with thousands of other service companies in the 86 Repairs network.