Operations

FastCasual extends deadline for 2027 'Brands to Watch' nominations

Photo: Connect Food

October 12, 2026

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FastCasual has extended the deadline to nominate restaurant concepts for its eighth annual "Fast Casual Brands to Watch in 2027" report. Restaurant operators and leaders now have until Oct. 16, 2026, to submit their entries.

The special report highlights rising stars, trailblazers and innovative concepts shaping the future of the fast casual industry through bold culinary creations, strategic scaling or transformative technology.

While the report prioritizes newer concepts launched within the past seven years that have not been featured previously, established brands are also encouraged to apply. Judges are seeking existing concepts that have rolled out major initiatives over the past 12 months, such as full brand pivots, major technology implementations or new franchising models.

Nominations were originally set to close Oct. 5, but restaurant executives may submit their concepts here through Oct. 16 deadline.

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