Starbucks takes localization approach to Europe

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

In 2009, Starbucks Corp. renovated several Seattle locations to better reflect the neighborhoods in which the coffeehouses were settled. The company is now…

The difference between social marketing and social operational insights

Operators can extract both marketing and operational insights from online feedback, but first they must understand the differences between the two.

Cosi CEO Carin Stutz talks brand turnaround

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

How Cosi's new CEO plans to rebrand, reimage and rebuild the chain.

Health and wellness: A fight against obesity

From offering lower calorie menus to baking side items, the restaurant industry needs to do its part in supporting healthy changes.

NRA: Fast casual operators optimistic about 2012 sales gains

Total restaurant industry sales will reach a record high of $632 billion in 2012, a 3.5 percent increase over 2011.

Top 5 2012 food innovation product predictions

A look at what might be the biggest 2012 food innovation trend opportunities.

Commentary: Pinterest offers restaurants another way to communicate with customers

Editor's note: This post was originally published on SmartBlog on Restaurants. For more foodservice news, sign up for Restaurant SmartBrief.

Commentary: Five key secrets of social loyalty

For restaurant operators, 2011 was a better year than 2010. But with continuing unemployment in the U.S. and Europe, and slow economic growth forecasts for…

Restaurants adapt to 'new normal' with efficiency, innovation

by Alicia Kelso — Editor, QSRWeb.com

Mergers and acquisitions market won't be as active in 2012.

Panera Bread to intensify drive-thru operations

by Valerie Killifer — Editor, FastCasual.com

Catering sales and new menu item rollouts continue to contribute to revenue, same-store sales growth.

NPD: Fast Casual only growth segment during down economy

by Valerie Killifer — Editor, FastCasual.com

According to The NPD Group, fast casual is the only restaurant segment continuing to grow throughout the current economic time, which has motivated chains in…

Commentary: Two McDonald's greats-listen and learn

By Erle Dardick

Chipotle to open second ShopHouse, additional international locations

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

Company discusses new HR software program that provides enhanced analytics to target potential new employees.

Commentary: Do higher prices drive customers away?

Talk to your customers before you make the improvements to ascertain that they're willing to pay for the improvement.

Zaxby's to unveil new store design

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

Zaxby’s has unveiled a new comprehensive restaurant design that will be rolled out at two Georgia locations, the first one in Valdosta and a second at Lake…

Fast Casual segment heads into Q1 with new store openings

by Valerie Killifer — Editor, FastCasual.com

Fast casual chains such as Baja Fresh, Fuddruckers and MOOYAH are among several concepts starting the New Year with new openings across the United States. The…

2012: The five fast casual executives to watch

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

For restaurant operators throughout the industry, 2011 had its fair share of highs and lows. While the industry rebounded slightly from the challenges present…

Gluten free goes mainstream

Gluten-free menu claims have grown 114 percent over the last three years, proving that consumers beyond those diagnosed with celiac disease are eating…

Commentary: What restaurant marketing trends will emerge in 2012?

Fast casual players are starting to look like two different groups, perhaps three, including "Fine Fast Casual," "Quick Fast Casual" and "Chain Fast Casual…

Commodity pressure mixed in early 2012

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

As restaurant operators head into 2012, industry forecasters are calling for an increase in food costs, but not every analyst is predicting a commodities…