Operations

New restaurant equipment and back-of-the-house technology

The Cheesecake Factory benefits from a more discerning consumer

By Joe Guszkowski on May 08, 2024

Traffic at the casual-dining chain held steady thanks to what it called a “flight to quality” by customers on a budget.

Friendly's is opening restaurants again

By Peter Romeo on May 08, 2024

The 89-year-old family-dining chain has unveiled a new store in Orlando that gives a liberal nod to the brand's past while incorporating new touches like a bakery.

Operations

Noodles & Co. had layoffs and sales declines in Q1. But CEO Drew Madsen sees signs of turnaround

By Lisa Jennings on May 08, 2024

Comps and traffic turned positive in April as efforts to improve menu and operations take shape.

Operations

How to navigate the National Restaurant Show like a pro

By Lisa Jennings and Patricia Cobe on May 08, 2024

Whether you’re a first timer or conference veteran, here’s what you need to know about the biggest restaurant show in the Western hemisphere, which begins in Chicago on May 18.

Operations

Restaurant consultancy The Culinary Edge sold to CORE Foodservice

By Heather Lalley on May 07, 2024

The Culinary Edge founder Aaron Noveshen will exit the firm but will remain CEO of Starbird, a fast-casual concept developed by the consulting group.

Operations

Portillo's sees consumers reaching boiling point on pricing

By Lisa Jennings on May 07, 2024

When lower-income diners are feeling budget strain, the fast-casual Portillo's feels it most in the drive-thru. To address that, the restaurant chain is working to get orders through car windows faster.

Operations

Convenience stores are ready to take a Big Gulp of the beverage market

By Heather Lalley on May 06, 2024

Retail Watch: Instead of fretting about CosMc’s, pay attention to how c-stores are stepping up their drink offerings.

Operations

Burgerville takes on new investors with an eye on reigniting regional growth

By Lisa Jennings on May 05, 2024

Former Dutch Bros CEO Joth Ricci is among the investors in Burgerville and he joins the company as executive chair. CEO Ed Casey will remain at the helm.

Operations