Consumers moving away from comfort

February 27, 2011

Culinary Tides Inc. has released a new report “Shifting Sands 2011,” that is a cross analysis of predictions across government, technology, health, consumer…

Ron Shaich: The accidental philanthropist

by Valerie Killifer — Editor, FastCasual.com

How Panera Bread's chairman and former CEO used skill, knowledge and know-how to launch an industry movement.

Emerald City Smoothie to open first international locale

February 24, 2011

With more than 60 locations operating across the United States, Emerald City Smoothie is embarking on its first international journey with a new-store opening…

Au Bon Pain finds success in store redesigns

February 24, 2011

Au Bon Pain’s store redesign in several Boston locations has proven positive for the bakery-café chain of more than 300 locations.

NBC offers free Chipotle for America's Next Great Restaurant promo

by Valerie Killifer — Editor, FastCasual.com

February 24, 2011

NBC has launched a promotion with Chipotle in anticipation of its new television show, America’s Next Great Restaurant.

Commentary: Coffee wars shift to oatmeal

Foodservice giants have upped the ante on menu competition, and McDonald's recent introduction of oatmeal is the perfect example.

Thanks, Tyler

by Don Fox — CEO, Firehouse of America

As Firehouse Subs continues to grow (407 restaurants and counting), it is imperative that my HQ team assists our franchisees in their efforts to establish and…

Menusoft Systems integrates mobile platform into Digital Dining POS

February 23, 2011

Menusoft Systems and Mocapay have entered into a strategic partnership to integrate Mocapay’s mobile platform into the Digital Dining point-of-sale software…

Einstein Noah to restate FY 2009 financial results

February 23, 2011

Einstein Noah Restaurant Group Inc., primary operator of Einstein Bros. Bagels, Noah's New York Bagels, and Manhattan Bagel brands, will postpone its…

Garbanzo uses Facebook to launch customer-diet initiative

February 23, 2011

Garbanzo Mediterranean Grill introduced its Mediterranean Middle Meltdown (MMM) Diet initiative in early February on the company’s Facebook page.

NRA collaboration aims for zero waste

February 23, 2011

The National Restaurant Association is collaborating with the Atlanta-based Zero Waste Zone program to identify best practices, create resources and measure…

Jeffrey Schlosser appointed Freshii COO

February 23, 2011

Industry veteran and former Freshii San Francisco franchise partner Jeffrey Schlosser has been appointed COO of the company. Schlosser headed up Freshii…

Qdoba units, comps increase in Q1

February 23, 2011

Jack in the Box Inc., parent company of Jack in the Box and Qdoba, reported its first quarter earnings for fiscal 2011, ended Jan. 23.

Green Mountain Coffee appoints VP of HR

February 22, 2011

Green Mountain Coffee Roasters Inc. has appointed Linda Kazanova as vice president and chief human resources officer effective immediately.

NRA names 2011 Kitchen Innovation award winners

February 22, 2011

The National Restaurant Association has announced the recipients of its 2011 Kitchen Innovations (KI) Award, which recognizes groundbreaking kitchen equipment…

UFood Grill creates health and nutrition advisory panel

February 22, 2011

UFood Restaurant Group Inc. has formed a Health & Nutrition Advisory Panel, comprised of current and retired military members, to advise the company as it…

Panera Bread settles lawsuit for $5.75M

February 22, 2011

Panera Bread Co. has agreed to pay $5.75 million to shareholders who alleged the chain misled investors about the success of its Crispani pizza. The company…

Hold the salt: 5 quick tips for serving low sodium menu items

by Betsy Craig — pres, menutrinfo.com

Cutting out the salt to make dishes healthier is no new concept; however, cooking without the salt can be a challenging and daunting task. That’s why we…

Noodles & Co. to use PeopleMatter hiring software

February 21, 2011

Noodles & Company has signed a partnership deal to implement PeopleMatter's Hire software-as-a-service solution in its restaurants.

Boston Market completes restaurant upgrades

February 21, 2011

Boston Market has announced that 400 of the company’s restaurants have completed upgrades meant to enhance the customer experience, increase sales and reduce…