Planet Smoothie embarks on franchise tour

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

Companies get creative to woo new operators as franchise sales flatten.

Fast casual execs adopt QSR approach

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

How lessons learned from the quick-service segment have shaped fast casual operations.

Will national menu labeling take hold?

Support grows for federal standards as more communities propose their own rules for calorie count postings.

Newsletters, intranet keep franchisees up to speed

How a variety of communication tools can connect brands to their outposts.

Brand profile: Pita Pit

Joining the green movement reaps savings, recognition and franchises.

Fast casuals target urban markets

Higher household incomes and increased foot trafffic make downtowns a viable choice.

Real estate redo

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

Economic troubles send franchisees and landlords back to the bargaining table.

Restaurants look to play a new song

by Julie Sturgeon — independent journalist, CEOEditor, Inc.

As dining options increase, yesterday's music model is undergoing a revolution of sight and sound.

Fast casuals light it up

by Julie Sturgeon — independent journalist, CEOEditor, Inc.

Restaurants find cost savings through the use of natural and LED light.

Beautiful Brands to franchise Tulsa-based bakery-cafe

Beautiful Brands to add sixth concept to portfolio.

Fast casual menus focus on the familiar

Consumers are seeking out flavors that are tried and true, but there is still room for innovation.

Mama Fu's intros new restaurant prototype

Mama Fu's latest brand to launch store redesign.

Sandwich segment holds its own

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

Portability, customization and healthful options create market opportunities.

Food futures: Buy now, pay later

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

Locking in food prices can be a losing venture or a saving grace.  

Buffalo Wild Wings revenue up 32%

Comps, revenue and net income increase despite negative economic factors.

NAPICS 2009 to serve operator tips

North American Pizza & Ice Cream Show to offer info on staying profitable in tough times.

Shane's Rib Shack, Planet Smoothie open in the Middle East

One of each concept opens in Saudi Arabian mall.

Meal deals gain fast casual presence

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

While QSR's tout $1 menus, fast casuals are defining their own version of value.

Restaurants hit by Heartland data breach

With literally tens of millions of card transactions at risk, malware found on the server of Heartland Payment Systems may make history.

NAFEM, FS/TEC open next week

Co-located manufacturing, technology shows to feature innovations in foodservice industry.