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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7Spice Cajun Seafood plans 5 Houston-area openings
7Spice Cajun Seafood, plans to open five restaurants across Greater Houston in late 2026 and early 2027, increasing its footprint to 25 locations.
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Protein without the hype: Juice It Up execs on navigating modern beverage trends
In this episode, Susan Taylor, President & CEO, and Chris Britt, Co-Owner of Juice It Up!, dive into the realities of modern beverage trends.
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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.
