NRA panel to discuss fast casual growth strategies

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

May 7, 2009

Fast casual operators will come together during the 2009 NRA Show to share their insights about the segment and its five-star value proposition.

Seven top fast casual independent operations

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

From Kansas City to New York City, these independent operations are changing the fast casual landscape.

Workshops play integral role during NRA Show

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

Profitability and sustainability are a few of the topics covered through educational sessions held yearly at the NRA Restaurant, Hotel-Motel Show.

Better burgers beef up sales

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

The fast casual burger segment opens wide as new concepts enter the field and existing ones look toward growth.  

Schlotzsky's changes service model

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

In an effort to enhance the brand experience, the sandwich chain is beefing up service and operational procedures.

Planet Smoothie embarks on franchise tour

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

Companies get creative to woo new operators as franchise sales flatten.

Fast casual execs adopt QSR approach

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

How lessons learned from the quick-service segment have shaped fast casual operations.

Coming to America

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

March 26, 2009

The U.S. adventures of a European fast casual.

Q&A with John Offerdahl

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

March 26, 2009

Florida's former bagel king catches grilling fever.

Real estate redo

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

Economic troubles send franchisees and landlords back to the bargaining table.

Sandwich segment holds its own

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

Portability, customization and healthful options create market opportunities.

Food futures: Buy now, pay later

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

Locking in food prices can be a losing venture or a saving grace.  

Meal deals gain fast casual presence

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

While QSR's tout $1 menus, fast casuals are defining their own version of value.

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.

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.

ASK THE EXPERTS: What is fast casual?

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

January 8, 2009

For many restaurant-industry operators, the fast casual segment has been difficult to define. Fast casual restaurants offer a dining experience quite…

The top fast casual stories for 2008

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

January 7, 2009

The year 2008 proved to be an interesting one for fast casual operators. Here's a rundown of our top five stories for the year.   1. The economy. While casual…

Q&A with Eric Ersher

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

Zoup! co-founder talks customers' changing tastes.

COVER: On the menu

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

June 22, 2008

R&D is critical. Are you doing it right?