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.

Wonder deploys free battery systems at NYC restaurants to cut energy costs

Food tech company Wonder is installing plug-in batteries at 21 of its New York City locations through a partnership with energy supplier David Energy, the…

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.

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.