How Cowboy Chicken plans to smoke the competition

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

Chain president Sean Kennedy is looking to expand the brand into markets outside Texas.

Social media report: What consumers are saying about restaurants

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

Foodservice Social Media Universe keynote speaker Jason Falls highlights who's winning and losing the social media conversation.

Giardino Gourmet Salads adds to Florida healthy eating options

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

Giardino Gourmet Salads launched in 2004 in southern Florida by Ody and Kenny Lugo. Today, there are seven locations throughout the region.

Fazoli's breadsticks hit the road

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

June 25, 2012

Food trucks have become a great brand extension for restaurant chains and chefs looking to extend market reach. And restaurant chains continue to capitalize on…

Top 5 ways multiple HR systems kill your brand

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

Webinar discusses biggest obstacles, solutions to multiple-platform use.

Caribou Coffee prefers middle path to sales success

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

Caribou Coffee's senior vice president of marketing and product development prefers a slow and steady pace when it comes to brand positioning.

Penn Station data breach grows in scope

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

The number of Penn Station locations impacted by a data breach first reported in early June has grown from 43 locations to at least 80. Between March and the…

Zoës Kitchen intros new menu items

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

June 14, 2012

The launch of Steak Kabobs and Orzo Tabouli Salad marks the first major menu additions for Zoës Kitchen in four years.

SEC joins Chipotle hiring probe

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

Chipotle received a subpoena from the SEC May 17 requesting information in regard to its hiring practices.

Fast casual segment rises above competition

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

A new study conducted by market research firm Technomic has found that sales at the top 150 fast casual chains grew 8.4 percent in 2011. In comparison, 201…

Smashburger CEO David Prokupek's smashing success

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

How Smashburger’s CEO and chairman is banking on better burgers.

Starbucks to remove controversial bug colorant from syrup

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

April 19, 2012

In response to public outcry over Starbucks' use of cochineal extract in its Strawberries & Crème Frappuccino, as well as its Strawberry Smoothies, the…

Fast Casual releases 2012 Top 100 Movers & Shakers

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

The Fast Casual Top 100 Movers & Shakers ranks the top concepts, people, technology, menu and innovation trends that impacted the segment in 2011.

Ruby Tuesday takes the plunge: Will purchase Lime Fresh for $24M

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

Ruby Tuesday formalized its ownership of Lime Fresh Mexican Grill for the purchase price of $24 million.

Chipotle battles new criticism from growers' group

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

CIW has challenged major chains before, promoting farm workers' rights.

The Chalak Group secures $17 million in funding

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

March 25, 2012

The Chalak Group has raised $17 million in equity financing that will be used to expand its Genghis Grill and Baker Bros. American Deli chains, in addition to…

Daphne's California Greek launches national franchise plan

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

The new franchise program is expected to double Daphne's unit count over a three-year period.

Starbucks to open first Evolution Fresh retail location

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

March 19, 2012

In November, Starbucks announced its purchase of Evolution Fresh, a producer of "never heated" juices sold in retail outlets primarily along the West Coast.

Panera Bread's Bill Moreton, Ron Shaich to become Co-CEOs

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

March 15, 2012

St. Louis-based Panera Bread Company has announced that, effective immediately, founder and executive chairman, Ron Shaich, and president and current chief…

Caribou Coffee uses social media to spearhead evolution

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

Caribou Coffee underwent a brand relaunch in late 2009 and is using social media to ensure its evolution continues down the right path.