Harris Poll forewarns of potential upheaval due to upcoming OT regulation

by S.A. Whitehead — Food Editor, Net World Media Group

Americans have a hard time putting work away. In a new Harris Poll, most said it's at least partly because they have too much to do to in an eight-hour day.

Are you ready to 'pitch' your fast casual concept?

by Cherryh Cansler — Editor, FastCasual.com

Fast Casual is now accepting entries for The Perfect Pitch — what we like to describe as a friendlier version of "Shark Tank."

International franchise expansion requires hefty work upfront

by Judy Mottl — Editor, RetailCustomerExperience.com & DigitalSignageToday.com

Domestic franchisors, whether running one location or 100 in the U.S., face a challenging journey in the quest to go international.

Snapchat campaigns capture a lot of dough for Virginia pizza chain

by S.A. Whitehead — Food Editor, Net World Media Group

Ever thought of using that perpetual teenage social media favorite, Snapchat, in your social media marketing? Virginia-based Firenza certainly did, and the…

Uncle Maddio's partners with George Peach Council for 'peachy' pizza campaign

June 20, 2016

Peachy Keen pizza and Summer Grilled Peach salad are back again at Uncle Maddio’s Pizza this summer, which is co-marketing the LTOs with the Georgia Peach…

Pancheros Mexican Grill launches third Minnesota location

June 20, 2016

Bob Thomson, owner of two existing Panchero franchises in Minnesota, is opening his third location at  284 57th Avenue, in Fridley, Minnesota on June 21.

Panda Express to open fifth NYC location

June 20, 2016

Panda Express is opening a new location in New York City, its fifth, at 835 Third Ave.

Wahlburgers expands into Washington D.C.

June 20, 2016

Wahlburgers, the Massachusetts-based burger franchise, is opening its first Washington, D.C. location.

Tips, advice for married couples taking the vow to run a franchise

by Judy Mottl — Editor, RetailCustomerExperience.com & DigitalSignageToday.com

A happy union of marriage is no easy feat as it requires love, passion, dedication, commitment, loyalty and lots of communication, just to name a few top…

New plans on the horizon for Fiesta Restaurant Group

June 17, 2016

Fiesta Restaurant Group Inc is separating its current restaurants, Pollo Tropical and Taco Cabana, into two companies. Its headquarters will be moving to…

How to get 'free' money out of your landlord

When it comes to opening a location in a shopping center, obtaining a lease with a prime location and reasonable lease terms can be difficult for many small…

You CAN take it with you: Super-portable pizza cones set to conquer the world

by S.A. Whitehead — Food Editor, Net World Media Group

Easy entry for franchisees and portability for customers are helping Kono Pizza expand around the world.

Fast Casual Summit - Interview with Jim Mizes, Blaze Pizza

Many businesses in the Fast Casual industry are taking on mobile initiatives to enhance diners’ experiences. At the 2015 Fast Casual Summit Hughes sat down…

Why the problem of restaurant pathogens REALLY may have a "silver" lining

by S.A. Whitehead — Food Editor, Net World Media Group

A non-toxic type of cleaner that kills pathogens with a form of ionized silver is spreading in use after showing great results in several chains nationally.

Corner Bakery Café introduces new franchise locations

June 17, 2016

Corner Bakery Cafe recently opened three new franchise locations in Montana, Washington and Oregon., according to a company press release.

The peanut butter (allergy) crunch heard ‘round the country

by Betsy Craig — pres, menutrinfo.com

In what should serve as a cautionary tale for the entire foodservice industry, Panera Bread faces a $500,000 lawsuit over a grilled cheese sandwich…

Fast Casual Summit-Interview with Roland Dickey Jr., Dickey's Barbecue

At the 2015 Fast Casual Summit, Hughes had the opportunity to and speak with Roland Dickey of Dickey’s BBQ about the value data brings to his restaurant and…

Fast Casual Summit-Interview with Maureen Donahue Chick fil A

At the 2015 Fast Casual Summit, one of the hottest topics was the use of mobile technology. Among those connecting with their customers through mobile devices…

Fast Casual Summit- Interview with Carin Stutz, McAlister’s Deli

At the 2015 Fast Casual Summit, Hughes sat down with Carin Stutz of McAlister’s Deli to talk about technology adoption and getting franchisees on board.

2015 Fast Casual Summit - Interview with Christina Coy Pie Five Pizza

In Miami at the Fast Casual Summit 2015, Christina Coy of Pie Five Pizza sat down with Hughes to discuss how the restaurant connects with its customers through…