Part 3: Smaller brands, offbeat products win big in trend toward higher-end eating

by S.A. Whitehead — Food Editor, Net World Media Group

Within the food service industry, the growing trend toward upscale ingredients delivered quickly is not only changing the way restaurants do business, but it's…

How embracing humane animal practices enhances profits

by Joseph Grove, Contributing Writer — Founder, Orchard Content

When a social movement as powerful as the one rising forth for the humane treatment of animals in our food chain creates an opportunity to nurture that good…

It's almost summer: Is your restaurant set for the big stink?

by S.A. Whitehead — Food Editor, Net World Media Group

Summer is just around the corner and so are the odors inherent when warmer weather and food mix at your restaurant. Here are six tips from the maintenance…

Why restaurant ordering kiosks won't replace employees

by Bradley Cooper — Editor, Connect Media

As QSR giants begin to deploy order-taking kiosks, some people are asking whether the devices will replace employees. With questions like this, it's important…

NRA2016: What you need to know about emerging global markets (Part 2)

by S.A. Whitehead — Food Editor, Net World Media Group

In part two of this series on global markets for restaurateurs, Euromonitor International shares discussed what global restaurateurs must keep in mind when…

NRA 2016 focuses on sustainability, technology

by Katy Jones — VP of Marketing, FoodLogiQ

Sustainability and technology were two hot topics this year as a variety of sessions discussed both topics, and a multitude of vendors presented products to…

Big data: Can it help you build a better restaurant?

Big data can be a game-changer for restaurateurs, helping them understand the unseen drivers behind sales.

Breakfast or a snack? Study says consumers see both the same way

America is fast becoming a nation of snackers and a new study indicates that the trend starts with breakfast.

Industry leaders weigh in on labor regulations

by Cherryh Cansler — Publisher, FastCasual.com

FastCasual interviewed a variety of industry leaders hoping to find a consensus regarding the labor ruling. Instead, we learned that the issues sparked a…

Why restaurants are singing 'Ode to the Hamburger'

by S.A. Whitehead — Food Editor, Net World Media Group

All around the country, restaurants are paying tribute to that all-American mainstay — the hamburger.

Uncovering 4 secret ingredients of 'the modern brand'

by Jeff Fromm — Executive Vice President, Barkley

Modern brands, including Panera, Starbucks, Shake Shack, are more than restaurants or food products. They represent the lifestyle of modern consumers today.

The pre-shift meal: Sometimes simple is best for team building

by Jennifer Yugo, Ph.D. — Principal Consultant, Engaging Business Communications

One of the easiest and most effective options for "team building" is the pre-shift meal.

Study: Americans' view of healthful food is changing

by S.A. Whitehead — Food Editor, Net World Media Group

About 55 percent of those surveyed said they trusted locally operated and owned restaurants more than national chains, which just 49 percent said they trusted.

Real vs authentic: Which word should describe your restaurant?

by Steven Starr — President, starrdesign

Steve Starr describes how authenticity is about communicating your brand’s true ideals to the consumer while the term real references the use of natural…

Time's up: FDA takes final step toward menu labeling

by Betsy Craig — pres, menutrinfo.com

Menu-labeling expert Betsy Craig discusses some of the FDA's newest requirements.

5 ways to protect your brand from food-safety crises

by Betsy Craig — pres, menutrinfo.com

Industry execs discussed food-safety best practices at the Restaurant Franchising and Innovation Summit in Dallas.

How many software solutions does your restaurant need?

by Dave Bennett — President & CEO, Mirus Restaurant Solutions

No brand needs every system, but most need most of them, according to Dave Bennett of Mirus.

Restaurant kiosks and the 'Goldilocks Zone'

by Christopher Hall

The reason our planet supports life is because it exists in an ideal state known as the 'Goldilocks Zone.' The same principle applies to customer experience…

Dunkin' Donuts loyalty app stirring up trouble for Starbucks?

by Cherryh Cansler — Publisher, FastCasual.com

With the DD Perks Rewards program, guests earn five points for every dollar they spend on qualifying purchases at Dunkin’ Donuts when they pay using an…

Infographic: What to look for in a franchisor

by Cherryh Cansler — Publisher, FastCasual.com

An infographic provides a variety of information to help business owners decide which franchise is best for them.