Fast casuals leverage the power of Twitter

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

How brands are finding value in real-time communication via the microblogging site.

How can restaurant operators leverage online ordering?

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

Keith Franklin, national sales manager for OrderUp.com, discusses online ordering and the next generation of consumers.

Chipotle founder to sit on NRA Show keynote panel

Steve Ells will participate in the interactive keynote panel, the first of its kind for NRA Show organizers, attendees.

Fast Casual Alliance launches Web site, adds board members

Board members include Rubio's, Au Bon Pain and Forklift Brands executives.

Newsletters, intranet keep franchisees up to speed

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

The year ahead

Seven take-to-the-bank predictions for 2009. 

NRA releases forecast for 2009

Restaurant industry sales expected to reach $566 billion in 2009.

QSRs want slice of fast casual pie

Quick-serve restaurants move to upscale décor, menu to attract customers.

Fast casual board gets cooking at CEO Summit

Attendee, sponsor growth spark talk of regional meetings

Fla. Restaurant Show highlights future trends

Despite Tropical Storm Hanna, about 15,000 attendees gathered for 2008 show.

Western Expo: Tech solutions on tap

POS systems, marketing companies offer Web-based solutions.

Spicing up the holidays

Operators look to holiday flavors that border on the bold and exotic.

Organic on the menu

Fast casuals weigh cost vs. benefit of organic items.

Fast Casual gears up for Summit '08

Second annual gathering to spotlight economic woes, branding opportunities.

Retailers take bite out of fast casual profits

by Christopher Hall — writer, self

Pre-prepared meals pose probable threat to fast casual operations.

Summertime sippers

Fruit-based drinks can create hot profits during the steamy summer months.

Sustainability ‘hot topic' at 2008 NRA Show

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

Chipotle CEO spoke of sustainable, ethical food products.

From the field to the kitchen

by Julie Sturgeon — independent journalist, CEOEditor, Inc.

Are famous owners the best move in the game of chain survival?

Vegetarian friendly

Fast casuals step up offerings for herbivores.

College bound

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

University dining-card programs can be costly, but not participating could cost even more.