How Shake Shack is scaling hospitality through technology, AI
Hosts Paul Barron and Cherryh Cansler chat with Justin Mennen, chief information and technology officer, to talk about Project Catalyst and how Shake Shack is integrating AI.
4 operations moves behind Starbucks' 2027 growth plan
by Cherryh Cansler — Publisher, FastCasual.com
Promoted-from-within store coaches, AI that helps baristas take drive-thru orders, adding delivery to the app and a smaller-format store are how Starbucks plans to keep growing.
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Why Ruby Jean’s founder refuses to stay quiet about this Missouri ballot measure
The 2025 map would divide much of Kansas City among three districts, and one of those dividing lines follows Troost, the street long associated with racial segregation in the city. Ruby Jean's sits on Troost.
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Wonder's delivery robots move past pilot phase
by Cherryh Cansler — Publisher, FastCasual.com
Wonder is expanding its autonomous robot delivery partnership with Avride to four markets, a year after the companies first tested the robots at Wonder's…
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How TAP is redefining fast casual: Scaling Brazilian flavor, AI strategy, wellness culture
In this episode of the Fast Casual Nation Front Runners series, host Paul Barron sits down with Pedro and Cleo Uchôa, the visionaries behind TAP.
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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.
