Can you measure craveability? Technomic says yes. In its ongoing Consumer Brand Metrics study, the researcher asks consumers to rate leading chains on offering “craveable items I can only get here.” These are the fast-casual concepts with the highest ratings and the unique items their customers yearn for.
Most craved: Burritos What fans said: “I really love ... how they use healthy ingredients.”
Fifteen percent of respondents in a Morgan Stanley study from January said they wouldn’t return after recent outbreaks, though ratings of food quality, taste and value weren’t affected.
The Bottom Line: The coffee shop giant’s sales struggles worsened earlier this year, despite a flurry of efforts to improve operations and employee satisfaction.
After a strong first quarter, Dallas-based Wingstop expects double-digit same-store sales growth this year, as it plans on becoming a Top 10 global restaurant brand.
Behind the Menu: Favorites like mac and cheese, bowls and salads join the fast casual’s Afro-Portuguese-rooted dishes, including the signature peri-peri chicken.