Kiosks killing jobs? Current events beg the question, but the facts say otherwise

by Elliot Maras — Editor, Automatic Merchandiser

Several restaurant chains are using kiosks and other technology that allow orders to be placed more rapidly and efficiently. Kiosks are fostering fears about…

Panera promotes Blaine Hurst to president

December 9, 2016

Panera Bread has named company veteran Blaine Hurst as its president effective Dec. 12, following the resignation of Drew Madsen for personal reasons…

Hardee's CEO tapped as labor secretary: What's in it for restaurant biz?

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

December 8, 2016

Where the nation and the restaurant industry labor force are concerned, Andy Puzder is quite vocal in his pro-automation and anti-regulation views. These views…

Trumping the restaurant industry

The founder and owner of the six-restaurant Uncle Jack's brand and former host of the Food Network's "Restaurant Stakeout" discusses how he thinks…

Dickey's opens locations in TX and OR

December 8, 2016

Texas and Oregon are getting more barbecue, according to a press release. Dickey's Barbecue Pit opened two locations this Thursday, one in Frisco and the other…

McAlister's Deli names president

December 7, 2016

Paul Macaluso has taken over as president of McAlister's Deli, according to a press release from the brand's parent company, Focus Brands. Before joining Focus…

Why Moe's Southwest Grill, A&W focusing on digital marketing

by Cherryh Cansler — Editor, FastCasual.com

Digital media is always changing, so it's important to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and developments.

Chipotle's stocks drop after Ells admits 'nervous' about 2017 outlook

December 7, 2016

Chipotle's Steve Ells isn't satisfied with the rate of recovery and the quality of the experience offered to customers. He addressed investors Tuesdays at a…

The Princess City welcomes Pie Five

December 6, 2016

Pie Five didn't have to be a frog to open its newest location in The Princess City of the Hoosier State, Mishawaka, Indiana today. The unit is owned and…

Mint returns to Nekter Juice Bar

December 5, 2016

The holidays just got more minty. Nekter Juice Bar returned its Mint Chocolate Chip Smoothie to its menu, and it will be available until Dec. 28, according to…

My Delight Cupcakery releases winter flavors

December 5, 2016

Family owned, Ontario-based concept My Delight Cupcakery has released several cupcakes in honor of the holidays, including, Chocolate Cream Pie, Cannoli…

El Pollo Loco debuts mobile ordering app

December 1, 2016

El Pollo Loco's online ordering platform and mobile app, developed in partnership with Olo, has officially launched. According to a press release, it includes…

Wahlburgers brings back 'Tis The Season Burger LTO

December 1, 2016

Christmas is coming, and Wahlburgers has brought back  its ‘Tis the Season Burger, as well as a gift card bonus and some new merchandise promotions in honor of…

Howard Schultz resigning as Starbucks CEO to focus on retail innovation

by Cherryh Cansler — Editor, FastCasual.com

December 1, 2016

Schultz said he personally asked COO Kevin Johnson to fill his shoes because he is a "true servant leader."

Pieology cooks up location in LA

November 30, 2016

The Citadel Outlets in Los Angeles is now home for Pieology Pizzeria's newest location, operated and owned by MR Pie Guys, according to a press release. The…

bd's benefits service members' families through Veterans Day campaign

November 29, 2016

Bd's Mongolian Grill's Veterans Day fundraiser during the first part of this month, raised $24,543 for the Folds of Honor Foundation, which supports spouses…

Villa taps Lauren Liuzzi for digital marketing position

November 29, 2016

Lauren Liuzzi will be Villa Restaurant Group's new communications and digitial marketing strategy manager, according to a press release.  

Brandmuscle publishes 3rd edition of 'The State of Local Marketing Report'

November 29, 2016

The third edition of The State of Local Marketing Report published several surprising findings and gave a blueprint for success to national and global brands…

Giardino Gourmet Salads applies for trademark

November 29, 2016

Giardino Gourmet Salads is registering the phrase, "Nutritional Empowerment," as a trademark. The chain has been prominently displaying it in all of its…

1000 Degree Neapolitan Pizza heats up CO

November 28, 2016

Denver will soon be warmed by 1000 Degrees Neapolitan Pizza's newest location, coming Dec. 1, according to a press release. The locations is the brand's first…