McAlister’s Deli founders find second-time success

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

Nine years after the sale of McAlister's Deli, the Newcomb family gains ground with Newk's Express Café.

FREEBIRDS reveals 2011 growth strategy

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

In recognition of its 20th anniversary, the creator of the Monster burrito looks to take a bigger bite out of Texas.

What to consider before you Groupon

Successful restaurant marketing can increase guest counts, but if your restaurant is unprepared, it also could ruin your brand.

Industry leaders define fast casual

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

From decor to food quality and service, fast casual insiders weigh in on what the segment means to them, the industry and consumers.

Despite Q3 losses, investment firm gives Jamba Inc. a “Buy”

On paper, healthy juice and grub fast casual chain Jamba Inc. looks to have had a hard Q3: total revenue for the quarter decreased 16 percent from last year…

Penn Station charters new growth territory

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

As the sub-sandwich chain celebrates 25 years, its founder and president keep their eyes focused on the future.

Genghis Grill launches interactive television channel

by Valerie Killifer — Editor, FastCasual.com

Last week at Genghis Grill's franchise conference, the group unveiled its latest customer-engagement tool: Genghis Grill TV.

Top That! pizza tackles build-your-own model

How BBI plans to build a pizza empire based on the operational strategies of Subway and Quiznos.

Data security takes a layered approach

In 2009, 23 percent of the hospitality industry experienced a data breach, with restaurants and hotels leading the majority of cases. Here's how new…

Fazoli’s caps year of growth with Wal-Mart pilot

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

Over the past three years, Lexington-based Fazoli’s and its team of veteran executives have worked hard to overcome the chain’s once downward slide. But since…

Coffee innovation from Starbucks

Darrel Suderman, founder of the Food Innovation Institute, gives Starbucks' VIA ready-brew offering a 5-star salute.

Killifer: Summit not just business, it's personal

by Valerie Killifer — Editor, FastCasual.com

The Fast Casual Executive Summit in review.

LaVoie: Supply chain trends for 2011

Where technology and logistics are expected to lead the restaurant industry.

Slideshow: Fast Casual Executive Summit Food Tour

by Valerie Killifer — Editor, FastCasual.com

The Fast Casual Executive Summit kicked off Oct. 10 with the second annual Fast Casual Food Tour.

How to apply for a liquor license

Serving drinks will boost your restaurant profits, but before you apply, note that different agencies regulate the process in different states.

Boston Market CEO leaves post

by Valerie Killifer — Editor, FastCasual.com

Boston Market's CEO F. Lane Cardwell is stepping down and will be replaced by George Michel, former CEO of Timothy’s Coffees of the World Inc.

Survey: Restaurants get raw deal with Groupon

A recent study from the Jesse H. Jones Graduate School of Business at Rice University concluded that restaurant businesses fare the worst of all…

Mediterranean diet spurs concept growth

by Valerie Killifer — Editor, FastCasual.com

How two concepts are providing healthful Mediterranean cuisine to Detroit and Denver diners.

The dos and don'ts of green restaurant marketing

Restaurant sustainability requires reevaluating your operations to find ways to conserve resources and be more efficient. Convey this to customers.

McAlister’s digs in to operational changes

A new president and a menu and equipment overhaul will bring in the next generation of McAlister's delis.