Fast Casual Executive Summit: Tough times bring operators together

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

The most successful brands are opening up to one another as the industry awaits signs of recovery.

Burgerville pilots nutritional-information program

September 3, 2009

As menu-labeling legislation continues to be pushed nationwide, Burgerville is testing a system that will put personalized nutritional information on each…

Western Expo: Top trends in foodservice

Industry professionals at the recent hospitality trade show provide insight into opportunities for restaurant operators.  

Fast Casual Alliance gives Western Foodservice Expo presentation

August 31, 2009

Members of the Fast Casual Alliance (FCA) spoke to an audience of Western Foodservice & Hospitality Expo attendees Aug. 31 about the trends shaping the…

NRA's industry outlook posts slight gain

August 30, 2009

The outlook for the restaurant industry improved somewhat in July, as the National Restaurant Association's comprehensive index of restaurant activity…

Technomic finds growth opportunities for restaurants in consumer catering

August 16, 2009

The recession has taken its toll on the restaurant industry, including brands that have grown their catering services by focusing on box lunches or party trays…

Consumer concern over sodium intake impacts product development

August 11, 2009

Americans love sodium, but many consumers are starting to pay more attention to their intake, according to new research from consumer, product and market…

To Focus Group, Or Not To Focus Group?

In an age of information databases, network connectivity, interactive media, and the Internet, quick access to consumer information has become the norm. Though…

Public Sector Use Of Internet Surveys And Panels

Marketing research is easily adaptable to the Internet, and the medium has opened the door to many would-be marketing research suppliers. We believe, however…

Online Ordering: Seven Tips for a Successful Implementation

If you manage any restaurant operation, chances are that you have heard of, are considering, or already employ an online ordering system. This is because these…

Friendly's opens fast casual concept

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

Friendly's Express will offer core menu items, shorter wait times and smaller check averages.

Study: Moms view fast casuals as not kid-friendly

August 4, 2009

A new study by foodservice consultant Technomic and kid-focused brand marketing agency C3 has found that nearly nine out of 10 kids surveyed say that fresh…

Beverage trends all about health and variety

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

More flavors and healthier options are in store as restaurants and beverage providers try to quench consumers' thirst for choice. 

Research reveals produce in foodservice opportunities

Restaurant operators want to use more fresh produce but need help incorporating those items onto the menu.

Fast casuals, overpopulation to blame for casual dining downfall

July 27, 2009

An article in the Orlando Sentinel has identified several reasons behind the decline of casual-dining restaurants.   In addition to the popularity of fast…

Fast Casual Summit to tackle industry challenges

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

The Fast Casual Executive Summit speakers include Au Bon Pain CEO Sue Morelli and the CEO of Red Mango.

Fast Casual launches State of the Industry survey

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

The editor of fastcasual.com talks about this year's State of the Industry survey.

NRA Show exhibitors donate 66,000 lbs. of food

July 9, 2009

CHICAGO — The National Restaurant Association has announced that exhibiting companies at its 2009 Restaurant, Hotel-Motel Show, held May 16-19 at McCormick…

Fast casual food trends: 2009 and beyond

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

From probiotics to family meals, restaurant brands tackle healthful menu items and value offerings.

Twitter looks to Starbucks, other retailers, for revenue stream

June 24, 2009

Bloomberg News: Twitter Inc. plans to generate its first revenue in 2009 from companies such as Dell Inc., Whole Foods Market Inc. and Starbucks Corp., which…