Spicy Pickle opens in Houston

April 20, 2009

HOUSTON — Spicy Pickle has announced the opening of its first location in Houston on April 19, marking the fourth location in the state. The other locations…

Schlotzsky's hosts 27th annual Bun Run

April 20, 2009

AUSTIN, Texas — For the 27th year in a row, Austin, Texas, residents willl participate in the annual Schlotzsky's Bun Run, the city's longest-running 5K that…

Identity stolen from McAlister's employment application

April 13, 2009

News 3 (Memphis, Tenn.): Shelby County Sheriff's Deputies said Ashley Johnson, 24, has opened up as many as 100 credit card accounts since December using…

Judge rules Quiznos abused discovery process

April 13, 2009

Blue MauMau: A federal judge ruled April 1 that Quiznos had abused the discovery process in a case that involves more than 36 franchise owners. It was found…

Schlotzsky's changes service model

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

In an effort to enhance the brand experience, the sandwich chain is beefing up service and operational procedures.

Fast casual execs adopt QSR approach

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

How lessons learned from the quick-service segment have shaped fast casual operations.

Sellers Markets opens third San Francisco location

April 1, 2009

SAN FRANCISCO — Sellers Markets, a popular San Francisco fast casual restaurant, has opened its third location at 721 Market St., just steps from Union Square.

Cosi to remain independent

March 31, 2009

Crain's Chicago Business: Cosi Inc. said Tuesday it has completed a review of strategic alternatives and will remain an independent company. The Deerfield…

Newsletters, intranet keep franchisees up to speed

How a variety of communication tools can connect brands to their outposts.

Restaurant Report Card rates restaurants' healthy options

March 29, 2009

Men's Health: The authors of the book "Eat This, Not That! For Kids," David Zinczenko and Matt Goulding, have released a Restaurant Report Card for a variety…

Q&A with John Offerdahl

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

March 26, 2009

Florida's former bagel king catches grilling fever.

ASK THE EXPERTS: Where can an operator find capital in a tough economy?

March 26, 2009

Tightening credit markets have forced restaurant operators from all segments of the industry to put expansion or renovation plans on hold as sources of…

Brand profile: Pita Pit

Joining the green movement reaps savings, recognition and franchises.

Fast casuals target urban markets

Higher household incomes and increased foot trafffic make downtowns a viable choice.

HR Practices

Find, hire and retain the best employees you'll ever have.

Quiznos introduces $4 Toasty Torpedo sandwiches

March 22, 2009

DENVER — Quiznos has announced the launch of new Toasty Torpedoes, inspired by the famous slim Italian and French baguette sandwiches served in Europe. Priced…

2007 Fast Casual Restaurant Top 100 Movers & Shakers

Chipotle stays ahead of the pack.

Presented by FastCasual.com

Real estate redo

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

Economic troubles send franchisees and landlords back to the bargaining table.

McAlister's unveils 2009 initiatives

March 15, 2009

RIDGELAND, Miss. — McAlister's Deli is debuting a number of innovative additions for 2009 while celebrating its 20th year of operation.   The most recognizable…

Schlotzsky's launches Big League Clubz sandwiches

March 9, 2009

AUSTIN, Texas — Between now and May 31, participating Schlotzsky's restaurants are introducing the newly formed, highly stacked Big League Clubz line-up.   On…