The Rewards Wars: Starbucks bets on AI while Panera returns to traditional math

by Cherryh Cansler — Editor, FastCasual.com

Panera is moving toward a more traditional, transparent math — replacing "surprises" with a predictable points-per-dollar system. It is about removing the…

Panera testing points-based loyalty program to boost customization, value

by Cherryh Cansler — Editor, FastCasual.com

The shift comes in response to direct feedback from MyPanera members seeking more clarity on how they earn rewards.

Founderology Growth Summit honoring inaugural 'Visionary Restaurant Founders'

by Cherryh Cansler — Editor, FastCasual.com

To celebrate the spirit of innovation, the Founderology Growth Summit, being held Feb. 2-4 in Austin, will host a special ceremony to honor the "Top 5 Movers …

The countdown is on: 10 ways RFIS will change your life

by Cherryh Cansler — Editor, FastCasual.com

Think of this as your official invite to the industry family reunion. Matching shirts not required!

Aloha, Innovation: Why L&L’s Eddie Flores Jr is a must-see at RFIS 2026

by Cherryh Cansler — Editor, FastCasual.com

Anyone who knows Eddie knows he brings a witty, frank and refreshingly honest perspective to the table. He's going to talk about the "unconventional…

Smoothie King, Tropical Smoothie Cafe join the 'proteinization' of the fast casual industry

by Cherryh Cansler — Editor, FastCasual.com

Both beverage brands join Starbucks, Nekter Juice Bar and The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf in the focus on protein

The 'proteinization' of the fast casual industry: Starbucks, Nekter, Coffee Bean & Tea bulk up winter menus

by Cherryh Cansler — Editor, FastCasual.com

While the "New Year, New Me" resolution season often focuses on restriction, smart brands are leaning into satiety and muscle recovery to drive traffic.

2025 in review: FastCasual’s 10 most-read stories

by Cherryh Cansler — Editor, FastCasual.com

Top stories centered on major brand pivots, such as Golden Corral rebranding its fast casual concept, and the return of seasonal events like Starbucks' Red Cup…

How Onigilly scaled from founder-led concept to a 20-unit franchise pipeline

by Cherryh Cansler — Editor, FastCasual.com

Founder and CEO Koji Kanematsu said the brand's corporate locations are expected to generate approximately $2 million in revenue this year.

Chipotle jumping on high protein trend

by Cherryh Cansler — Editor, FastCasual.com

The 4,000-unit chain is launching a menu next week featuring items with protein content ranging from 15 to 81 grams

Ruby Jean’s Founder: Why ‘slow growth is fast growth'

by Cherryh Cansler — Editor, FastCasual.com

Ruby Jean's operates three locations in Kansas City, offering all-natural, nutrient-dense juices, wellness shots, smoothies and shakes.

How Stonefire Grill turned top side dish into national holiday

by Cherryh Cansler — Editor, FastCasual.com

CEO David Youngberg reveals the strategy, operational discipline, and emotional connection that transformed a menu staple into a national cultural moment.

Why restaurant, retail industries won't support Visa/Mastercard swipe fee settlement

by Cherryh Cansler — Editor, FastCasual.com

With 85% of cards today tied to rewards programs, almost all would fall under the new ‘premium consumer’ category, leaving restaurants with virtually no choice…

Family, not fortune: Why Uncle Sharkii spurned $35M to guard the 'Spirit of Aloha'

by Cherryh Cansler — Editor, FastCasual.com

Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer Raymond Reyes said the fine print didn't read like freedom; it read like control.

Sweetgreen more than doubles money on Spyce sale to Wonder

by Cherryh Cansler — Editor, FastCasual.com

November 11, 2025

Sweetgreen Inc. has sold its Spyce business, which developed the robotic "Infinite Kitchen" technology, to mealtime platform Wonder for $186.4 million, more…

Chipotle taps NCR Voyix to launch rollout of next-gen POS

by Cherryh Cansler — Editor, FastCasual.com

November 6, 2025

Chipotle Mexican Grill signed a six-year exclusive agreement with NCR Voyix Corp, deepening a partnership that spans more than 25 years, NCR Voyix CEO Jim…

Noodles & Co's 3 steps to profitability: Menu innovation, closures, digital growth

by Cherryh Cansler — Editor, FastCasual.com

Although the company announced a net loss of $9.2 million, or 20 cents per diluted share, recent sales growth and the decision to close underperforming…

Top 3 learnings from Cava's Q3 earnings about growth in tight economy

by Cherryh Cansler — Editor, FastCasual.com

Cava reported Q3 2025 revenue of $289.8 million, up 20% year over year, with same-restaurant sales growth of 1.9% and restaurant-level profit margin of 24.6%.

Fast casuals embracing micro-meals, protein as traditional dayparts disappear

by Cherryh Cansler — Editor, FastCasual.com

This focus on smaller, frequent meals reflects a major cultural shift, often referred to as the “death of the daypart,” where consumers are increasingly…

Dave's Hot Chicken franchisee fights labor lawsuits with biometrics

by Cherryh Cansler — Editor, FastCasual.com

Cody Wong, president of CW Strong, a franchisee of Dave's Hot Chicken and Carl's Jr, dicusses how implementing a labor management platform is saving his…