Restaurant turnover isn't a hiring issue — It's a culture problem, say Fast Casual Executive Summit panelists

by Richard Slawsky — Editor, Connect Media

Tiki Taco's Eric Knott and Training Simplified's Sam Worobec preview their session at the 2026 Fast Casual Executive Summit, Oct. 4–6 in Arlington, Texas.

Flytrex, Nash focus on flexible delivery, not just drones

by Amy Sorter — Writer and Editor, Connect Media

Flytrex and Nash have partnered to provide the best delivery service from restaurant to home, whether via drone or food courier.

Pumpkin season arrives earlier than ever as fast casuals race to claim fall season

For coffee and bakery chains, capturing pumpkin-obsessed customers first, before rivals and before summer even ends, has become as much a part of the season as the spice itself.

Smoothie King gives pumpkin spice season GLP-1 makeover

Pumpkin spice is everywhere this fall, but Smoothie King says it's the first chain to make one specifically for guests on GLP-1 medications.

AI and the Future of Restaurants: From Foot Traffic to Predictive Insight

As consumer behavior and privacy expectations evolve, restaurants need smarter ways to understand diners and drive growth. Gladys Kong of Azira and Isabelle Soriano of Goodway Group explore how AI and location intelligence can inform site selection, media strategy, audience engagement, and faster, more informed decisions.

How Bonchon is using AI to enhance operations, increase profit

Bonchon CEO Suzie Tsai joins Fast Casual Nation hosts Paul Barron and Cherryh Cansler to talk candidly about the Korean fried chicken brand's AI journey.

2026 Fast Casual Top 100 Movers & Shakers

Welcome to the 2026 edition of the Fast Casual Top 100 Movers & Shakers. Each year, this report serves as a pulse check for the industry, celebrating the brands and leaders who aren’t just keeping pace with the market—they are redefining it.