Pat & Oscar's under new ownership

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

President, EVP lead management buyout of the 19-unit San-Diego-based chain.

Fast casual finance

Economic turmoil leaves operators scrambling for ways to raise startup money.

Shane's Rib Shack and Planet Smoothie sold

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

Raving Brands has sold two of its five concepts, the company has announced.

Fast casual concepts break new ground

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

Atlanta Bread, LP Bistro, relaunch brands amid image upgrades.

New payment options increase efficiency

How pay-at-the table, mobile tablet solutions are changing the check-out line.

The year ahead

Seven take-to-the-bank predictions for 2009. 

The nature of sustainability

by Rebecca Barnes

Restaurateurs, consumers take holistic approach to what they serve and eat.

NRA releases forecast for 2009

Restaurant industry sales expected to reach $566 billion in 2009.

Fast casuals build catering business

Catering can be a stable addition to a restaurant's revenue stream.

Marketing food by mobile

Operators experiment with promoting restaurants via cell phone.

Service dogs and the restaurant industry

Proper treatment of those with service dogs can win customers and head off legal problems.

Fast casuals face threat from other segments

Casual dining concepts develop faster, trendier fare.

Fast casuals find cash in compost

Recycling organic material helps operators reduce waste-hauling costs.

Fast casuals market to millennials

by Julie Sturgeon — independent journalist, CEOEditor, Inc.

Advertising approach, atmosphere need tweaking to reach younger demographic.

Smooth sailing for Tropical Smoothie Cafe

New president works to improve communication with franchisees.

Bailout bill bonuses

Economic bailout package offers some tasty tax tidbits for fast casual operators.

Keeping a legal workforce

E-Verify can help protect against immigration battles.

QSRs want slice of fast casual pie

Quick-serve restaurants move to upscale décor, menu to attract customers.

Caught in the crisis

Economic conditions batter the industry, but operators insist quality still key.

From single-unit success to multiunit growth

The decision to develop a multiunit franchise may give an owner more control.