Competition for talent among hot trends for employers in 2015

by Brenda Rick Smith — Editor, Networld Media Group

The upswing in the economy means competition for talent will heat up in 2015. That means employers need to up their game when it comes to attracting and…

Digital strategy produces 119% jump in Tijuana Flats' online ordering

by Brenda Rick Smith — Editor, Networld Media Group

A simplified website, local SEO optimization, Pandora ads and special events for bloggers helped lift sales and drive traffic to Tijuana Flats stores.

A peek inside Starbucks' first Reserve Roastery and Tasting Room

by Brenda Rick Smith — Editor, Networld Media Group

A projected 1.4 million pounds of small lot coffee will be roasted in the first year at the new Roastery, doubling current production rates.

The four 'Cs' driving Jason's Deli's success

by Brenda Rick Smith — Editor, Networld Media Group

Jason's Deli racks up around $2.5M in AUVs. It's achieving that success by sticking with its core strengths, listening to customers, maintaining control and…

In 5 years, your whole day could revolve around Starbucks

by Brenda Rick Smith — Editor, Networld Media Group

December 5, 2014

Just when you thought the coffee behemoth can't possibly get any bigger, it announces a five-year plan to grow even more through non-traditional…

Dickey's in the spotlight for cooking competition show

by Brenda Rick Smith — Editor, Networld Media Group

Dickey's will be the latest brand featured in TNT's cooking competition show "On the Menu." The winning dish will debut as an LTO the day after the episode…

'Black Friday' a boon to restaurants, too

by Brenda Rick Smith — Editor, Networld Media Group

Mall-based restaurants can see a significant spike in sales around the holiday season, bolstered by high traffic volumes and consumers' desire for indulgence.

8 tips for heading off holiday scheduling stress

by Brenda Rick Smith — Editor, Networld Media Group

Increased traffic coupled with more requests for time off can add up to scheduling stress. Check out these tips for reducing the stress.

Smashburger CMO: Better burgers are here to stay

by Brenda Rick Smith — Editor, Networld Media Group

Smashburger grew by about 20 percent this year, and it's likely it will continue that pace next year, according to newly-appointed CMO Josh Kern.

Of note on social media: Panda Express 'joy spotting' campaign

by Brenda Rick Smith — Editor, Networld Media Group

An eight-hour social media campaign yielded a 389-percent increase in mentions of the brand on Twitter and a 24-percent increase in followers.

Boston Market catering, takeout up 20 percent over last year

by Brenda Rick Smith — Editor, Networld Media Group

November 21, 2014

Heat & Serve options have surged 20 percent over last year, and catering is up 18 percent.

7 tips for getting Millennials to stay in love with your brand

by Brenda Rick Smith — Editor, Networld Media Group

How do brands keep once-smitten customers from getting bored and breaking up?

MAD Greens maximizing menu boards by integrating social

by Brenda Rick Smith — Editor, Networld Media Group

Lucas Clarke, director of marketing for the Colorado-based salad concept, shares some insights into MAD Greens' integration of digital signage and social media.

How a hotel became a hot fast casual concept

by Brenda Rick Smith — Editor, Networld Media Group

Marriott transformed its Courtyard food and beverage offerings away from the traditional buffet into a new fast casual format, resulting in a 27-percent jump…

Technology, desire to connect with customer drives Buffalo Wild Wings' success

by Brenda Rick Smith — Editor, Networld Media Group

Based on customer research and feedback, Buffalo Wild Wings invested significantly in defining, delivering and enhancing its brand experience using technology.

'Hidden compliance cost:' Restaurants with 50+ full-time employees must start ACA reporting in 2015

by Brenda Rick Smith — Editor, Networld Media Group

Though not mandated to offer health care coverage to employees until 2016, restaurants with 50 or more full-time employees are still required to track data…

COO: Newk's riding high on 'second wave' of fast casual

by Brenda Rick Smith — Editor, Networld Media Group

Jim Greco, newly-appointed COO of Newk’s Franchise Company, sees an opportunity for the chain to supplant early leaders like Panera thanks to culinary-driven…

What do restaurant operators need to know about Ebola?

by Brenda Rick Smith — Editor, Networld Media Group

Ebola has grabbed the headlines, but operators need to be prepared for more mundane risks, like influenza and norovirus.

Four reasons digital screens are more than menu boards

by Brenda Rick Smith — Editor, Networld Media Group

Engaging digital signage can be a key differentiator in the customer experience by educating guests about menu items, driving craving, reducing perceived wait…

Sales up, margins down as Panera continues 2.0 transformation

by Brenda Rick Smith — Editor, Networld Media Group

October 30, 2014

Comps for company stores increased 2.1 percent and 0.7 percent for franchise stores while margins declined 2 percent due to food costs and costs related to…