Digital strategy produces 119% jump in Tijuana Flats' online ordering

by Brenda Rick Smith — Editor, Networld Media Group

A simplified website, local SEO optimization, Pandora ads and special events for bloggers helped lift sales and drive traffic to Tijuana Flats stores.

The four 'Cs' driving Jason's Deli's success

by Brenda Rick Smith — Editor, Networld Media Group

Jason's Deli racks up around $2.5M in AUVs. It's achieving that success by sticking with its core strengths, listening to customers, maintaining control and…

'Black Friday' a boon to restaurants, too

by Brenda Rick Smith — Editor, Networld Media Group

Mall-based restaurants can see a significant spike in sales around the holiday season, bolstered by high traffic volumes and consumers' desire for indulgence.

Minimum wage: how restaurants are responding to the 'inevitable'

by Alicia Kelso — Editor, QSRWeb.com

Many restaurant operators believe a minimum wage increase is inevitable, and they are responding in a variety of ways.

How a hotel became a hot fast casual concept

by Brenda Rick Smith — Editor, Networld Media Group

Marriott transformed its Courtyard food and beverage offerings away from the traditional buffet into a new fast casual format, resulting in a 27-percent jump…

Technology, desire to connect with customer drives Buffalo Wild Wings' success

by Brenda Rick Smith — Editor, Networld Media Group

Based on customer research and feedback, Buffalo Wild Wings invested significantly in defining, delivering and enhancing its brand experience using technology.

COO: Newk's riding high on 'second wave' of fast casual

by Brenda Rick Smith — Editor, Networld Media Group

Jim Greco, newly-appointed COO of Newk’s Franchise Company, sees an opportunity for the chain to supplant early leaders like Panera thanks to culinary-driven…

Four ways the game has changed for restaurant brands

Nimbleness, dynamic customer relationships, customization and millennial insights are all key to brand success, says FOCUS Brands CEO Steve DeSutter.

New guide caters to restaurateurs, retailers looking to boost income with ATMs

'How to Profit from ATMs: A Guide for Retailers and Restaurateurs' delivers 40 pages packed with essential information about the business of owning, operating…

Chipotle cites increased throughput as a driver behind same-store sales lift

by Brenda Rick Smith — Editor, Networld Media Group

Same-store sales drive strong second quarter results.

Report: Food industry franchising profitability on the rise

by Alicia Kelso — Editor, QSRWeb.com

More than 70 percent of franchisees surveyed said they would recommend their brand to other candidates – a strong indicator of job satisfaction.

NYC approves soda ban; restaurant association responds

by Alicia Kelso — Editor, QSRWeb.com

Big-margin soft drinks are good for operators' bottom lines.

Fast casual concepts among fastest growing U.S. companies

by Alicia Kelso — Editor, QSRWeb.com

Smashburger's growth is down from last year but is still the fastest-growing concept in the segment.

The changing role of corporate consciousness

by Valerie Killifer — Editor, FastCasual.com

How fast casual CEOs are turning an enlightened approach to sales success.

Qdoba franchisee same-store sales lagging

by Alicia Kelso — Editor, QSRWeb.com

Promotional and product activity expected to pick up in Q4.

Square and Starbucks to form mobile payment partnership

by James Wester

Coffee giant to invest $25 million in payment company and accept Pay with Square.

The new direction of digital technology

by Valerie Killifer — Editor, FastCasual.com

With smartphone adoption outpacing the PC revolution and Internet boom, restaurant operators have increased opportunity to reach every guest.

Higher menu prices boost earnings, but can it last?

by Valerie Killifer — Editor, FastCasual.com

Operators prepare for higher food costs as droughts continue in the Midwest and overseas competition threatens the U.S. food supply. 

Panera Bread sales success boosted by investment initiatives

by Valerie Killifer — Editor, FastCasual.com

The company sees gains at it continues to improve marketing, catering, operational and food quality.

The next fast casual cuisine: Are we ready?

Consumers are poised and ready for the next fast casual cuisine. But, what is it and how will it affect menu development?