U.S. Restaurant Chain Customer Transactions Begin to Recover

In mid-March 2020, U.S. governing authorities, to get the COVID-19 global pandemic under control, restricted on-premises dining at roughly 70% of all U.S. restaurants, a historical defining moment for the industry. By the last week of March 2020, customer transactions at major restaurant chains had fallen by -43% compared to year ago and by -77% at full service chains, which were most impacted by the dine-in restrictions.

In March 2021, with the lifting of restrictions and more consumers vaccinated, customer transactions at major restaurant chains were up +32% compared to the steep declines year ago, although still down -6% compared to two years ago, March 2019. Major chain transactions at full service restaurants were up...

March Retail Sales See Strong Rebound Amid Increased Vaccination and Government Stimulus

Retail sales rebounded with huge gains in March as government checks fattened consumers’ bank accounts and more vaccination against COVID-19 made it easier for shoppers to get out of the house and lead the acceleration of the U.S. economy, the National Retail Federation said.

“The dramatic increase of nearly 18 percent in March retail sales over the same period last year confirms that a confident consumer is driving the economic rebound, and that should continue through the remainder of 2021,” NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay said. “American households are clearly feeling the full effect of additional fiscal stimulus, gains in the job market and the reopening of the economy. Although there have been some recent issues related to vaccines, consumer confidence remains...

Kroger Delivery Introduces First Customer Fulfillment Center

Kroger is launching the first Customer Fulfillment Center (CFC), combining vertical integration, machine learning, and robotics with affordable, friendly, and fast delivery service for fresh food.

Located in Monroe, OH – a city north of Cincinnati – and powered by Ocado Group, a world leader in technology for grocery e-commerce, the CFC is the first to open, transforming and supporting the grocer's thriving digital business.

"2020 was a pivotal year for grocery e-commerce, with Kroger's digital business scaling to over $10 billion—and achieving a record digital sales increase of...

Canada: PepsiCo Foods and Maple Leaf Foods Sign Distribution Agreement for Schneiders Meat Snacks

PepsiCo Foods Canada and Maple Leaf Foods announced that the companies have entered into an exclusive alliance for PepsiCo Foods Canada to distribute Schneiders® Pepperettes® snack size premium meat sticks in Canada. As of October 3, 2021, PepsiCo Foods Canada will sell, distribute and merchandise Schneiders® Pepperettes® snack size premium meat sticks in grocery, convenience and gas, and foodservice outlets across Canada. This will broaden the distribution of Schneiders® Pepperettes® premium meat snacks and accelerate the brand's growth.

"We are thrilled about this new partnership with PepsiCo Foods Canada", said Curtis Frank, President and COO, Maple Leaf Foods. "Their extensive Canadian direct-to-store delivery system, strong selling capabilities and...

Walmart Invests in Cruise, an All-Electric Self-Driving Company

The following statement was made by John Furner, President and CEO, Walmart U.S.

Over the years we’ve been doing a lot to learn more about the role autonomous vehicles can play in retail, and we’ve seen enough to know it’s no longer a question of if they’ll be scaled, but when.

We’re taking the next step in our work with autonomous vehicles by making an investment in Cruise, the San Francisco-based company enabling a self-driving future through their all-electric fleet of self-driving cars. The investment will aid our work toward developing a last mile delivery ecosystem that’s...

Atlast Raises $40M to Expand Production of Whole Cut Plant-Based Meat

Atlast Food Co., the mycelium food company growing the future of plant-based meats, announced a $40M Series A round to develop and supply whole cut plant-based meat to partners around the globe, including directly to consumers through its own brand MyEats. Viking Global Investors led the round with participation from 40 North, AiiM Partners, Senator Investment Group, Stray Dog Capital, Footprint Coalition Ventures, and others. Also joining were the leaders and founders of food and CPG companies, including Applegate, Stonyfield, and Whole Foods. This funding will support the further development and scaling of this technology and team.

"This investment will allow us to meet the incredible demand we've felt for our product," said Stephen Lomnes, President of Atlast Food Co. "We are building the largest mycelium production facility in the U.S. to...

Chipotle Releases 2020 Sustainability Report, Achieves 50% Waste Diversion Goal

Chipotle Mexican Grill announced the publication of its 2020 Sustainability Report. The report covers Chipotle's impact, progress and goals across a variety of areas that play a critical role in its mission to Cultivate a Better World.

Chipotle achieved a 51% waste diversion rate through recycling, composting, and waste-to-energy programs, reaching a key goal outlined in its 2018 Sustainability Report. The company continues to expand its innovative methods of diverting waste, including its Glove to Bags program, an initiative that transforms...

Carl's Jr. and Beyond Meat Partner for Plant-based Meat Menu Takeover on Earth Day 

Carl’s Jr. is inspiring fans to Go Beyond this Earth Day by hosting a one-of-a-kind, one day plant-based meat menu takeover at a local restaurant in Los Angeles. The store will Go Beyond for customers to stop by and try a complimentary eco-friendly Beyond Meat® item. Fans of Carl’s Jr. and Beyond Meat who are not able to join the celebration in Los Angeles can enjoy any Beyond Burger for five dollars via an email offer at participating Carl’s Jr. locations throughout the U.S.

“We are excited to give our fans a fun, delicious way to celebrate Earth Day this year with a full plant-based meat experience at Carl’s Jr.,” said Patty Trevino, senior vice president of brand marketing at CKE Restaurants. “With nearly one-third of consumers identifying as flexitarian, we continue to...

Montana Passes Landmark Bill Advancing Hemp as Animal Feed

Governor Greg Gianforte signs HB 396, a bill authorizing hemp food ingredients as commercial animal feed. This bill is a major step forward for the developing U.S. hemp grain industry, opening additional markets for farmers and again establishing Montana as a key leader in production and opportunities for industrial hemp grain. Features of this bill include:

• Clarifying hemp seed food ingredients and substances derived from hemp are included in the definition of commercial feed.
• Providing authority for hemp for use as commercial feed for pets, specialty pets, and horses.
• For other livestock, effectiveness contingent upon...

Urner Barry Releases April Soy & Wheat Protein Report

In February, farmers experienced another consecutive month of increased prices for their soybean and all-wheat crops. Average all wheat prices rose $0.35/bu from January while average soybean prices rose $1.80/bu. April front month futures are mixed, with a reduction for CBOT wheat from February rates. CBOT wheat front month futures reached $6.15/bu in April, a decline of $0.21/bu from March. Meanwhile, CBOT soybeans remained steady from February rates, totaling...

ANALYSIS: Chicken Index Product of Unprecedented Market Influencers

Over the past year, there have been very few stones left unturned as the industry and observers of it have navigated their way through unprecedented times. Presently, the chicken market is experiencing...

Nathan’s Famous Adds to Hand-Dipped Chicken Sandwich Menu

Nathan’s Famous announced new additions to its recently evolved line of chicken sandwiches. The two new additions, the Nashville Hot Fried Chicken Sandwich and Sticky, Spicy Grilled Chicken Sandwich, will feature the more flavorful boneless, skinless chicken thigh, unique to QSR and Fast Casual restaurants, but popular with chefs and foodies across the country.

"We continue to evolve our menu based on customer preference and feedback, and the two new chicken sandwiches are no exception,” states James Walker, Senior Vice President, Restaurants. “After a great deal of research and development, we found that the use of the chicken thigh gave...

Special Spotlight to Take Place on Future-Proofing the Supply Chain, April 26-30th

Available on the COMTELL Platform and brought to you by Urner Barry Insights

If you’re in the food business, you’re probably wondering about future-proofing the supply chain. Given what we’ve seen over the last year—and what we’re still contending with—the task of managing supply chains has become more challenging than ever (and it was no picnic before, we know!). That’s why Urner Barry is bringing together exclusive Insights through original reports, interviews, videos and podcasts in a special April Spotlight dedicated to the biggest supply chain issues the industry is currently facing.

This Spotlight, Future-Proofing the Supply Chain, will take place April 26-30^th, 2021, and can be accessed through...

Global Consumer Confidence Hits Record High

Global consumer confidence soared to record heights in the first quarter of 2021, according to The Conference Board® Global Consumer Confidence Survey, as vaccination campaigns broadened, travel restrictions loosened, and governments and central banks continued to provide economic stimulus.

The survey found that overall global consumer confidence shot up from 98 in the fourth quarter of 2020 to 108 in the first quarter of 2021. That figure exceeded the reading of 106 registered in pre-pandemic 2020 Q1 (a figure above 100 is considered positive) and is the highest recorded since...

Consumers Take Grilling and Outdoor Cooking to the Next Level

Eager for a change of pace during the pandemic, cooking outside has become a go-to activity for many consumers, and it extends beyond traditional grilling, or even the traditional grilling season. Consumers spent more than $4.9 billion on grills, smokers, camping stoves, accessories, and fuel in 2020, according to new Enhanced Retail Tracking Service information on the home improvement industry from The NPD Group, which blends retailer point-of-sale data with insight from NPD’s receipt-based Checkout information and additional data assets combined with advanced modeling.

“The need to cook more meals at home combined with the desire to experiment with new ways to create those meals helped fuel growth for almost all types of grills,” said Joe Derochowski, home industry advisor at NPD. “Layer on our cravings to be less...

ANALYSIS: Turkey Production: Changing With the Times

The turkey industry has become accustomed to not getting too comfortable in their own shoes, at least for very long. Counting on external change to...

Taco Bell to Continue New York City Expansion this Month 

Taco Bell is making its presence known with a new Cantina in the heart of Times Square. Built with the energy and on-the-go vibrance of New York City in mind, the newest restaurant embraces technology in a whole new way to serve the demands of New Yorkers.

The Cantina opens its doors to New Yorkers on April 14. Below are the unique elements of both the restaurant itself and its new neighborhood...

SpartanNash Announces New Supply Chain Officer

SpartanNash announced that David Petko has joined the company as Senior Vice President and Chief Supply Chain Officer, effective April 12, 2021. Mr. Petko has 25 years of supply chain and distribution logistics experience in roles of increasing leadership responsibility, including serving as Senior Vice President of Supply Chain for C&S Wholesale Grocers from 2019 to 2021.

As SVP and Chief Supply Chain Officer, Mr. Petko will have full responsibility of all aspects of SpartanNash’s supply chain management, including warehousing, forecasting, planning, sourcing, procurement, inventory control, transportation, logistics, engineering, budgets and business plans. He will work with the SpartanNash executive leadership team in...

US Foods Releases 2020 Corporate Social Responsibility Report

US Foods Holding Corp. announced the launch of the company’s 2020 Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Report. The report highlights progress against the company’s ongoing commitment to caring for people, protecting the environment, and providing responsibly sourced and sustainable products.

“I am proud of how our associates worked together to serve customers, communities and each other during the many challenges of 2020,” said Chairman and CEO Pietro Satriano. “Despite the unprecedented year, we were able to make meaningful progress against...

Applebee's Announces Return of Irresist-A-Bowls

Applebee’s Irresist-A-Bowls are making their return. Now and for a limited time, guests can enjoy their favorite bowls available for Dine-In, To Go or Delivery.

Each of Applebee’s Irresist-A-Bowls come with abundant toppings and are served up in different flavor combinations. Consumers can try the new Grilled Chicken & Spinach Alfredo Bowl or celebrate the return of our Crispy Orange Chicken Bowl.

The menu includes...

Domino's and Nuro Launch Autonomous Pizza Delivery with On-Road Robot

Domino's and Nuro are launching autonomous pizza delivery in Houston. Beginning this week, select customers who place a prepaid order on dominos.com on certain days and times from Domino's in Woodland Heights, located at 3209 Houston Ave., can choose to have their pizza delivered by Nuro's R2 robot. Nuro's R2 is the first completely autonomous, occupantless on-road delivery vehicle with a regulatory approval by the U.S. Department of Transportation.

This collaboration between Domino's and Nuro will introduce an entirely new delivery experience to pizza lovers. Here's how it works: select customers who place a prepaid website order from the participating Domino's store can opt to...

Nathan’s Famous Launches Value Menu Featuring Old Favorites and New Items

Nathan’s Famous announced the launch of its new value menu, featuring items from the current menu, as well as new recipes, all between $4 and $7. The launch of the Nathan’s Famous value menu provides expanded premium menu options for value conscious customers, making Nathan’s Famous more accessible for any occasion and any budget.

"For more than 100 years, Nathan’s Famous has been one of America’s top destinations for great food fast, and our goal with this new value menu launch is to make it accessible too,” states James Walker, Senior Vice President, Restaurants. “We’ve spent the past two years evolving the menu to focus on premium offerings that are memorable, craveable and Instagrammable. These new value menu items offer that same level of appeal, but...

Red Gold Adresses Reports of a Ketchup Shortage 

Red Gold, the second largest manufacturer of tomato products in the United States, sets the record straight on reports of a pandemic-related ketchup shortage. Red Gold wants to make it clear; there is no shortage of ketchup.

Over the last ten months, the increased demand for ketchup in single-serve packets used for restaurant take-out and delivery exceeded inventory capacity for some suppliers.

As Red Gold prepared for the surge, the company developed two new pre-portioned ketchup items on other manufacturing lines, while continuing to keep the ketchup packet lines running at...

Impossible Foods Hires Steve Turner In the All-new Role of Chief Experience Officer

Impossible Foods announced today the hiring of former Apple creative leader Steve Turner as Chief Experience Officer.

In this newly created role, Turner will be in charge of building brand awareness and accelerating the global consumer movement to a sustainable food system. He’s a key member of the company’s senior executive team and reports directly to CEO and Founder Dr. Pat Brown.

In 2017, Steve founded Sublime, a strategic creative consulting firm that advises CEOs, CMOs and other executives. Before that, he spent 11 years at Apple, where he rose to global Executive Creative Director for Apple’s Media Arts Lab. He worked with...

FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Raw Ground Turkey Products Linked to Salmonella Hadar Illness

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert for approximately 211,406 pounds of raw ground turkey products, produced by Plainville Brands, LLC, a Pennsylvania establishment, due to concerns the products may have caused Salmonella Hadar illness. A recall was not requested because it is believed that the products are no longer available for consumers to purchase.

FSIS is concerned that some product may be frozen and in consumers’ freezers. Consumers who have purchased these products are urged not to consume them. These products should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase. Retail locations that may...

Meijer Reveals Unique Shopping Trends One Year into Pandemic Living

As the one-year mark into pandemic living has officially passed, Grand Rapids, Mich.-based retailer Meijer reveals some of the most surprising shopping trends from the height of the shutdown to the ongoing changes in home and work lifestyles across the Midwest.

While home delivery and pickup services doubled at Meijer stores over the last 12 months, customers used the retailer's Shop & Scan technology more than 100 million times as they shopped and bagged while practicing social distancing to shorten time spent in the store. Additionally, customers also ate more...

Latest 7-Eleven Evolution Store Opens in Texas

7-Eleven, Inc. is changing the world of convenience with yet another Evolution Store featuring tacos on handmade tortillas, frozen margaritas on tap, a stocked Wine Cellar and Beer Cooler, fresh-baked croissants and cookies, customized espresso drinks, artisan craft sodas, premium cigars in a cedar-lined humidor and more. Each new generation of 7-Eleven® Evolution Stores set a new benchmark for convenience retailing. The newest location has opened in Prosper, Texas.

7-Eleven and Laredo Taco Company®, the convenience retailer's taqueria, are heading north to Collin County – the first North Texas-area Evolution Store outside of Dallas County. This is 7-Eleven's...

BJ’s Wholesale Club Announces the Unexpected Passing of President and CEO Lee Delaney

BJ’s Wholesale Club announced that Lee Delaney, the Company’s President and Chief Executive Officer, passed away unexpectedly yesterday due to presumed natural causes.

Christopher J. Baldwin, Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors, issued the following statement on behalf of the Board: “We are shocked and profoundly saddened by the passing of Lee Delaney. Lee was a brilliant and humble leader who cared deeply for his colleagues, his family and his community. We extend our most heartfelt condolences and sympathy to his family, especially...

Tyson Foods Invests $425 Million in New Tennessee Poultry Complex

Tyson Foods along with local, state and federal officials met Thursday to officially open the company’s new poultry complex in Humboldt, Tennessee. The $425 million project, which includes a processing plant, feed mill and hatchery, represents Tyson’s biggest investment in Tennessee and the single largest corporate investment ever in Gibson County.

“We’re pleased to add to the growth in Gibson County with the opening of our new 370,000 square foot processing facility,” said Dean Banks, President and CEO, Tyson Foods. “We appreciate the support of all those who played a role in making this facility possible—the local community, county, state and...

ANALYSIS: Chicken Wings Head into Overtime

It isn’t often that chicken wings continue to command the limelight in Q2. But despite the conclusion of March Madness, and in the absence of any wing-centric holidays on the immediate horizon, the market...

Global Food Prices Rise for 10th Month In a Row

Global food commodity prices rose in March, marking their tenth consecutive monthly increase, with quotations for vegetable oils and dairy products leading the rise, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) reported.

The FAO Food Price Index, which tracks monthly changes in the international prices of commonly-traded food commodities, averaged 118.5 points in March, 2.1 percent higher than in February and reaching its highest level since June 2014.

Trends varied by commodity types. The March increase was led by the FAO Vegetable Oil Price Index, which rose 8.0 percent from the previous month to hit a nearly 10-year high, with...

Retail Import Surge Expected Through Summer

The unprecedented surge of imports at retail container ports that began last summer is expected to continue at least through the end of this summer as retailers work to meet increased consumer demand, according to the monthly Global Port Tracker report released today by the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates.

“We’ve never seen imports at this high a level for such an extended period of time,” NRF Vice President for Supply Chain and Customs Policy Jonathan Gold said. “Records have been broken multiple times and near-record numbers are happening almost every month. Between federal stimulus checks and money saved by staying home for the better part of a year, consumers have money in their pockets and...

Study Finds Consumers are Hopeful About Agriculture’s Ability to Positively Impact Climate Change

When it comes to climate change, consumers view agriculture as a part of the solution rather than the problem. Among participants in Cargill’s recent global Feed4Thought survey, those who indicated climate change as important to them also rated livestock and agriculture lowest in negative impact compared with other industries generally regarded as significant contributors. More than one-third of respondents expressed confidence in the industry’s ability to limit its contributions to climate change.

“Farmers are critical to feeding the world sustainably and responsibly,” said Ruth Kimmelshue, who leads Cargill’s animal nutrition & health business. “With a growing population and rising consumer interest in climate change, they are also part of the solution to address...

Canada: Dine-In Restaurant Visit Declines Soften in February when Restrictions were Eased
The pent-up demand for indoor dining was evident in February after dine-in restrictions were eased in Canada’s largest provinces. Dine-in restaurant visits increased by 4 percentage points in February compared to January, an increase of 10.5 million visits versus prior month. The downside of this news is the still deep traffic declines in on-premises dining. Dine-in visits declined by -79% in February compared to same month last year and were down -85% in January compared to last year, according to NPD, which continually tracks consumers’ use of Canadian restaurants and other foodservice outlets.

Off-premises dining, like carry-out, delivery, and drive-thru, has been the beneficiary of the indoor dining restrictions. In January off-premises visits, digital or physical, were up...

ANALYSIS: Turkey Thigh Meats Get a Leg Up

With springtime now in full swing, seasonal outreach is beginning to develop...

Urner Barry Releases April Pulse Protein Report 

On March 31, the USDA reported an average $28.00/cwt for U.S. #1 garbanzo beans compared to $21.50/cwt in early February. This represents a month-over-month increase of $6.50/cwt. North American green peas also experienced price increases from February rates. U.S. whole green peas averaged $10.25/cwt as of the end of March, a slight increase of $0.75/cwt from February rates. Purchases of North American yellow peas for animal feed in China have contributed to another consecutive month of increased yellow pea prices. The USDA reported an increase of...

UNFI Launches Innovative E-commerce Solution to Expand Distribution Options for Emerging Suppliers

United Natural Foods announced the launch of Community Marketplace by UNFI, a business-to-business digital e-commerce solution for emerging brands looking to expand distribution with UNFI customers. Community Marketplace modernizes the way brands interact with grocery wholesalers by allowing thousands of emerging products not currently available at UNFI distribution centers to be ordered on UNFI’s Easy Options website and shipped directly to retail customers across the United States.

Through this virtual marketplace, suppliers gain immediate access to UNFI’s digital infrastructure to promote and sell their products to UNFI’s broad customer base. Approved suppliers keep complete control of their inventory, order management, pricing, and shipping charges while attaining trial for...

Jimmy Dean Launches New Breakfast Nuggets and Skillets 

Jimmy Dean is helping keep breakfast exciting with new Breakfast Nuggets and Skillets varieties.

"We know it's important to people to have a variety of breakfast options in order to keep mornings delicious and fun," said Scott Glenn, senior director of marketing, Jimmy Dean brand. "We believe breakfast helps people have a great start to their day, whether on-the-go with our bite-sized Breakfast Nuggets, or...

Tyson Foods' Ball Park Introduces Fully Loaded Nacho Cheese Franks

The weather is warming, sounds of the ballpark are back in swing, and there’s a new frank on the team. Introducing the new Ball Park® Fully Loaded Nacho Cheese Franks, a summer flavor mashup in one frank that fans can enjoy at home.

A recent survey found hot dogs are the most-loved foods at stadiums and arenas, with nearly half of American adults indicating that hot dogs are among their favorite foods to eat when visiting a large sports or event space. The next-most popular foods at stadiums and arenas include nachos and popcorn.

With the new Fully Loaded Nacho Cheese Franks, consumers don’t have to choose between their favorites. Available starting this month, the franks are made with...

Beyond Meat Opens Manufacturing Facility in China 

Beyond Meat announced the grand opening of its new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in the Jiaxing Economic & Technological Development Zone (JXEDZ) near Shanghai. As Beyond Meat’s first end-to-end manufacturing facility outside the U.S., the cutting-edge plant in Jiaxing is expected to significantly increase the speed and scale in which the company can produce and distribute its products within the region while also improving Beyond Meat’s cost structure and sustainability of operations.

Designed to serve China’s growing plant-based meat market, the facility will produce Beyond Meat’s innovative range of plant-based pork, beef and poultry products, including Beyond Pork™, the company’s first innovation created specifically for the Chinese market. By producing closer to the consumer and...

Taco Bell Plans for Major Hiring Push in April

Taco Bell is preparing for continued restaurant growth and reopenings by launching its fourth annual Hiring Parties event on Wednesday, April 21. Converting parking lots into job fairs, these one-day events with on-the-spot interview opportunities will take place at almost 2,000 participating company and franchise-owned locations across the U.S. The goal is to hire at least 5,000 new team members from this year’s Hiring Parties.

Adhering to COVID-19 safety precautions, this year’s Hiring Parties will be held outside, in creative locations like patio areas—some candidates may even be able to participate in...

Instacart Reveals How the Pandemic has Transformed Consumer Grocery Habits

Instacart released "Beyond the Cart: A Year of Essential Insights," a new report highlighting how the pandemic has transformed 100 years of grocery habits through the lens of trends from the past year that are shaping the future of online grocery shopping. The report combines an in-depth look at data from Instacart along with insights from a new Instacart survey of 2,038 U.S. adults conducted recently online by The Harris Poll.

"More than a year of pandemic living has dramatically reshaped how American households shop for groceries and other household essentials," said Laurentia Romaniuk, Instacart's Trends Expert and Senior Product Manager. "As we analyzed twelve months of data from Instacart, we discovered that...

Plant-Based Food Sales Surpass $7 Billion, Sales Up 27% in 2020

According to the Plant Based Foods Association (PBFA), U.S. retail sales of plant-based foods continued to increase by double digits in 2020, growing 27% and bringing the total market value to $7 billion. This sales growth was consistent across the country, with more than 25% growth in every U.S. census region.

In the past two years, plant-based food sales have grown 43%, which is nine times faster than total food sales. In 2020, about 57% of all U.S. households purchased plant-based foods, up from 53% in 2019 totaling 71 million households.

PBFA also found that the value of plant-based meat, while the second-largest plant-based category, hit $1.4 billion in 2020. That represents sales growth of 45% from 2019. The plant-based meat category grew twice as fast as...

Ruby Tuesday Brings Back FreshMex Menu

Ruby Tuesday is offering diners a new lineup of their Southwestern favorites with the introduction of Ruby’s FreshMex spring feature menu.

Now for a limited time, guests can try Ruby’s FreshMex entrees starting at $8.99, including Chicken, Shrimp or Veggie Fajitas, Southwest Fried Chicken Bowl, Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowl, Chicken Queso Burrito and Chicken & Queso Tacos.

“Ruby Tuesday is committed to making eating out affordable, delicious and truly comfortable for our guests. We are excited to re-introduce Ruby’s FreshMex entrees that proved to be...

NRF: One Year Later, Economy 'Has Come a Long Way'

With more vaccines in arms, federal stimulus putting money into pockets and consumers shopping again, the U.S. economy has made dramatic progress since the coronavirus pandemic brought activity to a near-standstill this time last year, National Retail Federation Chief Economist Jack Kleinhenz said.

“The economy has come a long way compared with a year ago,” Kleinhenz said. “Both monetary policy set by the Federal Reserve and fiscal policy set by Congress and the White House have responded with swift and overwhelming force to support the economy. NRF is optimistic that the recovery is...

Blue Apron Partners with Chef Roy Yamaguchi to Create a Hawaii-Inspired Menu

Blue Apron is partnering with James Beard award-winning Chef Roy Yamaguchi to bring his culinary expertise to kitchens around the country. Available to order starting today, the Blue Apron x Chef Roy Yamaguchi menu features Hawaii-inspired recipes, representing a blend of French and Japanese cooking traditions using fresh ingredients typically found in Hawaii cuisine.

"I am thrilled to partner with Blue Apron to shine a spotlight on Hawaii-inspired cuisine and its roots," said Chef Roy Yamaguchi. "In collaboration with their culinary team, we created recipes that highlight...

Technomic Reports Top 500 Chain Restaurant Sales Fell by More than 8% in 2020
Technomic just released one of the most highly anticipated reports, the 2021 Top 500 Chain Restaurant Report, which includes expert findings and insights into the sales performance of U.S. chain restaurants from 2020. The report is built using decades of historical data with detailed analysis into the foodservice industry and overarching trends, including the impact of COVID-19 and performance rankings, as well as annual sales and unit counts by chain and segment.

“Disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Top 500 chain restaurants saw sales fall by $27 billion in 2020, decreasing by more than 8% compared to 2019,” explains Kevin Schimpf, senior research manager at Technomic. “As many small chains and independent restaurants struggled to...

Checkers & Rally's Joins the Chicken Sandwich Wars with the Candied Bacon Mother Cruncher

Checkers & Rally's is taking the QSR chicken sandwich wars to the next level. From April 5 through May 16, 2021, the brand is serving up a new version of their Mother Cruncher Chicken Sandwich, now topped with candied bacon.

Checkers & Rally's Classic Mother Cruncher chicken sandwich made its debut last summer and quickly became one of the brand's best-selling sandwiches. The Mother Cruncher's "mega crunch" breading and creamy, signature Squawk Sauce raised the bar in the QSR space.

Now, the Candied Bacon Mother Cruncher takes the Mother Cruncher's extra-crispy, all-white-meat fried chicken breast and tops it with...

Walmart is Now Offering COVID-19 Vaccines in 48 States, Puerto Rico and Washington, D.C.

As the COVID-19 vaccine rollout ramps up and vaccine eligibility widens, Walmart is administering vaccines in more than 3,800 stores and clubs across 48 states, Puerto Rico and Washington, D.C. Walmart has worked to administer COVID-19 vaccines into the arms of residents in rural and vulnerable areas across the country. More than 80% of shots administered through our pharmacies and 60+ dedicated community events were in what HRSA designates as the most medically underserved areas of the country. For example, in Jackson, Mississippi, we partnered with the Jackson Housing Authority to set up in a community center for a low-income senior housing unit where we administered nearly 2,000 vaccinations to vulnerable seniors.

We remain focused on reaching communities with access issues and vaccine hesitancy, especially those located in medically underserved areas where Walmart has a presence. That continued focus will...

Wendy's Bacon Double Stack is Back in the Biggie Bag

Wendy's is giving consumers a chance to #SecureTheBag with the return of the Bacon Double Stack in one of its best deals - the $5 Biggie Bag. The Bacon Double Stack – featuring two beef patties, Applewood smoked bacon, cheese, ketchup, mustard, pickle and onion – is back in this ultimate meal deal. With the Bacon Double Stack, customers will get 4-piece chicken nuggets (Spicy or Crispy), small fries and a small drink for just $5.

The $5 Biggie Bag is available now at participating Wendy's restaurants nationwide. Wendy's is always customer-first when it comes to value. From introducing...

ANALYSIS: WOGS--How Quickly We Forget

It’s no secret that the vast majority of key lines within the chicken complex have performed quite admirably throughout Q1...

US Foodservice: Expect an Even Bigger Lift From the Third Stimulus

Checks under the USD 1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan, the third and largest stimulus package since the pandemic outbreak, began rolling out mid-March. The US government expects nearly 85% of all US residents – adults, children, seniors – to receive direct payments of up to USD 1,400 based on household income. The ongoing stimulus is substantially higher than the last two in April and December 2020, which included direct payments of USD 1,200 (plus USD 500 per child) and USD 600 (plus USD 600 per child), respectively.

Recipients Spent 10% to 15% More in Restaurants Following the Last Two Rounds of Stimulus

Credit/debit card transaction data from Earnest Research, a data analytics firm that tracks the US consumer economy through foot traffic, credit/debit card spend, retail pricing, and healthcare data, shows...

Sweet Earth Foods Announces Three New Plant-Based Mindful Chik'n Flavors

Plant-based foods innovator Sweet Earth Foods is announcing the expansion of its best-selling Mindful Chik'n™ Strips line with the release of three new ready-to-eat seasoned offerings available this spring and summer. The new products feature flavorful, globally inspired marinades, providing hungry consumers with a quick plant-based protein option for snacking or adding to a variety of recipes.

New varieties will be available on-shelves starting in early April at stores across the country, including Whole Foods, Meijer, HEB, Ahold, Sprouts and a variety of other grocers. The products are all vegan, made using wholesome ingredients and nutrient dense; each serving includes at least 13 grams of protein and four grams of dietary fiber. New flavors include...

The Consumer Confidence Index Surged in March

The Conference Board Consumer Confidence Index surged in March to its highest reading in a year, after a modest increase in February. The Index now stands at 109.7 (1985=100), up from 90.4 in February. The Present Situation Index—based on consumers’ assessment of current business and labor market conditions—climbed from 89.6 to 110.0. The Expectations Index—based on consumers’ short-term outlook for income, business, and labor market conditions—also improved, from 90.9 last month to 109.6 in March.

The monthly Consumer Confidence Survey, based on a probability-design random sample, is conducted for The Conference Board by Nielsen, a leading global provider of information and analytics around what consumers buy and watch. The cutoff date for the preliminary results was March 19.

“Consumer Confidence increased to its highest level since the onset of the pandemic in March 2020,” said Lynn Franco, Senior Director of Economic Indicators at The Conference Board. “Consumers’ assessment of current conditions and their short-term outlook...

CME Grain Markets Surge Following Friendly USDA Reports

Grain markets on the CME surged Wednesday following a wave of bullish USDA data in the latest Prospective Plantings and Grain Stocks reports. 

The annual Prospective Plantings report estimated corn planted area for all purposes in 2021 at 91.1 million acres, up less than 1 percent from 2020 and below the average of analysts’ expectations. Meanwhile, soybean planted area for 2021 was estimated at 87.6 million acres, up 5% from last year but below the average trade estimate at around 90.1 million acres. 

The quarterly Grain Stocks Report showed corn stocks at 7.70 billion bushels, down 3% from last year. Soybeans stored in all positions on March 1, 2021 totaled 1.56 billion bushels...

Carl’s Jr. and Hardee’s Introduce Godzilla vs. Kong-Inspired Limited Time Offers Globally

CKE Restaurants announced today its partnership with Warner Bros. and Legendary Entertainment to promote the premiere of the highly-anticipated cinematic actioner Godzilla vs. Kong timed to the film’s release, with special edition menu offerings at Carl’s Jr. and Hardee’s restaurants around the world. Godzilla vs. Kong is in theaters internationally and, as of today, March 31, in U.S. theaters and on HBO Max for 31 days from theatrical release.

Carl’s Jr. and Hardee’s will now offer a special edition Godzilla Burger, Kong Burger and Kong Chicken Sandwich, each inspired by the epic battle for the ages between the two Titans, in more than 20 countries and regions around the globe, including Mexico, Canada, Latin America, Asia, Australia, Europe and the Middle East...

Giant Food Announces all 152 Pharmacy Locations Now Offering COVID-19 Vaccine

Giant Food today announces that all 152 of its in-store pharmacies throughout Washington, D.C., Maryland, Virginia, and Delaware are offering the COVID-19 vaccine to eligible residents. Since late 2020 Giant has been administering vaccinations and is continuing to work closely with local and federal authorities to receive additional doses on an ongoing basis. Giant's pharmacies are currently utilizing the Moderna, Pfizer, and Johnson & Johnson vaccines, dependent on specific location.

20 States Support Meat Institute’s Challenge to the Constitutionality of California’s Proposition 12

Twenty states filed an amicus curiae brief with the U.S. Supreme Court supporting the petition filed by the North American Meat Institute (Meat Institute) challenging the constitutionality of California’s Proposition 12 (Prop 12).

“The governments of nearly half the states agree,” said Meat Institute President and CEO, Julie Anna Potts, “if California is allowed to apply its laws to conduct in other states, a single state will dictate policies in all others, encouraging a patchwork of regulations and threatening the free flow of interstate commerce...

Albertsons Companies and Google Partner to Reinvent the Future of Grocery Shopping

Albertsons Companies and Google announced a multi-year partnership to make shopping easier and more convenient for millions of customers nationwide. The partnership brings together the power of Albertsons Cos.’ broad reach across 2,253 neighborhoods with Google’s capabilities in customer-centric innovation, creating a formidable nexus of retail savvy and trend-setting technology on a massive, omnichannel scale.

Google and Albertsons Cos. have been collaborating behind the scenes for the past year and, as part of the partnership announcement, are debuting several new enhancements that will make the shopping experience easier and more exciting. Albertsons Cos. has engaged with numerous teams at Google, covering a wide range of technologies and...

Pizza Hut Launches a Digital Carryout Option

After becoming the first national pizza brand to offer Contactless Curbside Pickup, Pizza Hut is doubling down on safety and convenience and launching The Hut Lane™, a dedicated digital order pick-up window available at over 1,500 locations across the country with more to come.

As customer preferences shifted during the early months of the pandemic, Pizza Hut adapted to offer a way for customers to place digital orders without ever having to leave their vehicles. The Hut Lane represents the next evolution of this breakthrough experience, offering safety, convenience and speed without customers ever having to park their cars.

"We are giving our customers a variety of options to optimize their pizza-eating experience as we build on our business momentum," said Nicolas Burquier, Chief Customer & Operations Officer, Pizza Hut. "Not only do we offer industry-leading, innovative menu items that are only...

USDA Announces Oscar Gonzales as Assistant Secretary for Administration

Oscar Gonzales was appointed by President Biden to serve as Assistant Secretary for Administration at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

Previously, Gonzales served in the Obama Administration in several senior positions with USDA, including as Deputy Assistant Secretary for Administration as well as Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations and Senior Advisor on Immigration Reform to Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. He also served as the California State Executive Director for USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA), where he oversaw FSA programs across 58 counties in the nation's largest agricultural producing state. His government background includes working for top California leaders, including...

Kroger Outlines Strategy to Deliver Strong and Sustainable Total Shareholder Return Through Digital

The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) will host a virtual 2021 Investor Day today to provide an update on the company's strategic initiatives and plans to deliver strong and sustainable total shareholder return of 8% – 11%.

"Kroger continues to deliver for customers through our seamless ecosystem and relentless focus on freshness, value and convenience," said Rodney McMullen, Kroger's chairman and CEO. "Building upon the foundation established by our Restock Kroger transformation, and leveraging key learnings from operating during the pandemic, our strategy of Leading With Fresh and Accelerating With Digital is designed to convert our industry's near-term tailwinds into long-term competitive advantages...

NPD Group: Flexible Routines Help to Boost Visits to Restaurants During Late Afternoon

Although total U.S. restaurant traffic has been down across dayparts for most of last year and through February 2021, late afternoon and after dinner snack visits — what the restaurant industry calls the p.m. snack daypart — have increased, reports The NPD Group. Consumer visits to restaurants during the p.m. snack period, which ranges from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. and 9 p.m. to 5 a.m., increased by +1% compared to year ago in February, which was a rough month for the industry with the continuing pandemic...

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc. Appoints Darla Morse as Executive VP and Chief Information Officer

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc. (NASDAQ:RRGB) ("Red Robin" or the "Company"), a full-service restaurant chain serving an innovative selection of high-quality gourmet burgers in a family-friendly atmosphere, today announced the appointment of Darla Morse as Executive Vice President and Chief Information Officer, effective April 12, 2021. In her new role, she will lead the company’s enterprise technology strategy and implementation at Red Robin, including digital platforms, corporate and restaurant systems, data management, security and infrastructure.

Paul J.B. Murphy III, Red Robin's President and Chief Executive Officer, said...

Shake Shack Announces Tara Comonte Stepping Down as President and CFO

Shake Shack Inc. (“Shake Shack” or the “Company”) (NYSE: SHAK) today announced that Tara Comonte, President and Chief Financial Officer for the last four years, will depart the Company to become CEO of a private company outside of the restaurant industry.

Comonte, who joined Shake Shack in 2017, will remain in her current role through May 7, 2021 to oversee the Company's fiscal first quarter 2021 reporting period and ensure a thorough transition of her responsibilities...

Poultry Quarterly Q2 2021: The Bumpy Road to Recovery

The outlook for the global poultry industry is gradually improving, but big differences remain between countries, and global poultry trade is still very competitive. The industry is facing major challenges due to Covid-19-related market disruption, very high and volatile feed prices, avian influenza (AI) in the northern hemisphere, and volatility coming from a bumpy recovery in countries affected by African swine fever (ASF). Key for producers will be to have a very disciplined supply growth, a focus on cost reduction via procurement, production efficiency, and feed formulation, as well as being prepared for big swings in demand driven by Covid-19-related government decisions.

As countries reopen foodservice, and while their control of Covid-19 improves, the poultry industry will start to recover. On average, 35% of global poultry consumption is via foodservice. “In countries where several of these disruptive factors come together, broiler prices have risen to high levels. Some governments have started to...

A Look at the Role of Automation and A.I. in Protein Processing

A recent report from Boston Consulting Group (BCG) highlights why agribusiness companies should implement automation and artificial intelligence (AI) into their businesses as COVID-19, labor costs and other challenges impact the sector.

Authors from BCG, Decker Walker, head of agribusiness at Boston Consulting Group, Jonathan Van Wyck, member of the Industrial Goods practice at Boston Consulting Group, Helena Nannes, Project Leader and David Pérez, Stockholm make the case for an increase in digital operations.

The report notes labor costs, labor turnover, food loss and waste and workplace safety as reasons to implement more automation in agriculture..

Dunkin’ Celebrates 1,000th Next Generation Restaurant Opening

Back in 2018, Dunkin' opened its first Next Generation restaurant in Quincy, MA, featuring a new design with a modern atmosphere and innovative features. Now, just three years later, Dunkin' is celebrating the opening of its 1,000th Next Gen restaurant in Woodstock, GA.

For the official ribbon-cutting, franchisee Andy Awale of the Awale Network was joined by Scott Murphy, Head of Inspire Brands Beverage-Snack Category and President of Dunkin’, and Mathias Piercy, Regional Vice President at Dunkin’. Other festivities included merch and free coffee giveaways, a presentation of a $1,000 grant to the Northside Hospital Cherokee NICU – Miracle Babies Fund from the Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation, and a donation of 1,000 pounds of Dunkin’ packaged coffee to the Never Alone food pantry.

The Next Generation store concept includes...

U.S. Top Chicken and Turkey Exporter to China

The U.S. was the top exporter of chicken and turkey to China in the first two months of the new year, according to newly released data from the General Administration of Customs China (GACC).

In January, the U.S. surpassed Brazil for the third consecutive month as the leader for broiler imports by China with a total of 56,214 tons, compared to 51,290 tons by...

10% of All U.S. Restaurants have Closed Permanently Since the Pandemic Began

Datassential revealed that 10.2 percent of U.S. food establishments have closed permanently since the pandemic began, citing new data from the company's proprietary Firefly database released.

Of the 778,807 food establishments in operation since the onset of COVID-19, 79,438 have closed for good as of Monday, according to the report from Datassential. The figure does include restaurants that have opened during the pandemic.

That includes restaurants at all levels of service: QSR (fast-food), fast-casual, midscale, casual and fine dining as well as food trucks. Food trucks have been affected the most of any segment, with...

LIVEKINDLY Collective Raises $335 Million in Latest Funding Round 

LIVEKINDLY Collective, a collection of heritage and start-up brands on track to become one of the world’s largest plant-based food companies, announced a successful capital raise led by The Rise Fund, the global impact investing platform managed by TPG. This round was joined by existing investor Rabo Corporate Investments, the investment arm of Rabobank, S2G Ventures, and other existing and additional mission-aligned investors.

This investment closes a growth funding round of $335 million, including $135 million converted from a prior round, bringing the total funds raised by LIVEKINDLY Collective in its first year to $535 million. With this latest investment, LIVEKINDLY Collective has become one of the top three...

Canada’s Sofina Foods Buys Eight Fifty Food Group, Owner of Young’s Seafood

Eight Fifty Food Group, the owner of Young’s Seafood, is being sold to Sofina Foods, a leading Canadian multi-protein producer. The sale has been agreed upon by CapVest partners, an international private equity firm. The amount of the sale has not been disclosed.

CapVest acquired leading UK pork processor Karro Food Group in 2017. Two years later CapVest acquired the UK’s iconic seafood business, Young’s Seafood, creating Eight Fifty Food Group. Eight Fifty Food Group later consolidated five other protein businesses from across Europe to become a...

Retailers Urge Bipartisan Approach to Modernize U.S. Transportation Infrastructure

The National Retail Federation issued the following statement from Senior Vice President of Government Relations David French in response to a House committee hearing on transportation infrastructure. U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg provided testimony on behalf of the Biden Administration.

“The retail industry relies on our nation’s transportation infrastructure to move billions of dollars’ worth of merchandise every day to warehouses, distribution centers and stores and ultimately to consumers’ front doors. A healthy and efficient infrastructure system supports economic development and growth in...

NRF Says Extension of Paycheck Protection Program Vital to Small Businesses

The National Retail Federation issued the following statement from President and CEO Matthew Shay following the Senate’s approval to extend the Paycheck Protection Program.

“Throughout the past year, countless small businesses have been devastated by the pandemic. The Paycheck Protection Program has served as a lifeline for many retailers and other businesses across the country, ensuring they can continue to pay their employees and keep their doors open. As our economy begins to recover, extending the Paycheck Protection Program will give additional small businesses access to...

Pilgrim’s Becomes First Global Meat and Poultry Company to Offer Sustainability-Linked Bond

Pilgrim’s Pride Corporation announced it is offering a $1 billion sustainability-linked bond tied to efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emission intensity across its global operations. The bond is the first of its kind to be issued by a global meat and poultry company, and aligns with Pilgrim’s vision to be the best and most respected company in its industry.

“Since the release of our inaugural corporate responsibility report nearly a decade ago, Pilgrim’s has set ambitious environmental improvement targets and publicly reported our progress to the market,” said Fabio Sandri, Pilgrim’s global chief executive officer. “Earlier this week, we announced our commitment to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040 and today we offer our first sustainability-linked bond. These actions reinforce our company’s long-standing commitment to...

Cargill Initiative Aims to Conserve Canadian Prairies through Collaboration with Ranchers

Beef farmers and ranchers play an important role in providing quality food, but few people know they also play an essential role in protecting Canada’s land, water and wildlife. With the urgency of unprecedented environmental challenges, like climate change, Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) has teamed up with McDonald’s Canada and Cargill to support rancher-led work through a $5-million CAD Forage Program. The program will work to return 125,000 acres (50,585 hectares) of cropland to grass and pasture by 2025.

In response to growing climate concerns, returning less productive annual cropland to perennial grass helps remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Collectively, the impact of this program is comparable to removing...

ANALYSIS: Chicken Rearing to Go

For the second month this year, broiler type pullet placements have advanced considerably above 2020 levels...

Aramark Welcomes Fans Back to Sporting Events

As pro sports teams begin to welcome fans back, having fans in the stands for this season’s MLB Opening Day will take on added meaning for America’s Pastime. Whether it’s a ballpark, stadium or arena, Aramark, the leading food and beverage partner of major league sports teams, is meeting and exceeding the safety and hygiene standards required in today’s environment, while also improving the overall gameday dining experience, with new and proven solutions.

Innovative Solutions for Frictionless & Contactless Service

To create a safe, efficient and frictionless service experience for fans, Aramark’s continuous pipeline of testing and development of fan-friendly technology and innovative self-service concepts is proving to be a benefit for operating in today’s world and has paved the way for...

Del Taco Enters the Chicken Wars with New Menu Items 

Del Taco Restaurants continues to innovate with crispy chicken with the sweet, tangy smokiness of Honey Chipotle BBQ sauce. While some quick service brands have introduced a single sandwich during the crispy chicken wars, Del Taco’s new Honey Chipotle BBQ Taco and Epic Burrito bring the total to 11 unique and new crispy chicken items introduced since July 2020.

For a limited time, the new sauce flavor will be available on the following items...

Chekout, a New Foodservice Delivery Platform, Launches in NYC

Chekout, a new service company specializing in superior food delivery, has officially launched in the New York City area. Through their app, Chekout provides the effective and properly priced delivery service for both the restaurant and consumer. Restaurants benefit from Chekout's promise to never cut into any of their profits, and therefore it is 100% free to use. For diners, the platform guarantees that menu prices will never be inflated, and consumers will never pay more than $2.50 for delivery no matter their distance from the restaurant or their order total. This new service was created to disrupt the third-party food delivery industry, that has been known for increasingly high pricing, and bring a new approach to the way consumers order food.

"Our business model is based on treating our customers and restaurant partners as fairly and with as much respect as possible," says Christopher Bruno, Founder & CEO of Chekout. "We are creating an app/platform that will eliminate the fees customers and restaurants have been paying...

Average Easter Spending Expected to be Highest on Record

Consumers plan to spend an average of $179.70 this Easter, the highest figure on record, according to results of the annual survey released by the National Retail Federation and Prosper Insights & Analytics. A total of 79 percent of Americans will celebrate the holiday and spend a collective $21.6 billion, down slightly from last year's pre-pandemic forecast of $21.7 billion.

“With new stimulus funds from the President’s American Rescue Plan, positive trends in vaccinations and growing consumer confidence, there is a lot of momentum heading into the Spring and holiday events like Easter,” said NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay. “Many have figured out how to...

General Mills Reports Fiscal 2021 Third-Quarter Results

General Mills reported results for the third quarter ended February 28, 2021.

“We continued to execute well and delivered profitable growth in the third quarter,” said General Mills Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Jeff Harmening. “We’ve made good progress on our fiscal 2021 priorities, including competing effectively, fueling investment in our brands and capabilities, and reducing our leverage. With our balance sheet in a strong position, we have resumed share repurchase activity in the fourth quarter. We’re continuing to advance our Accelerate strategy, including yesterday’s announcement of our proposed divestiture of our European Yoplait business. Looking ahead, we remain focused on strengthening our momentum and emerging from the pandemic a stronger company, even better positioned to drive long-term shareholder value.”

General Mills is executing its Accelerate strategy to drive sustainable, profitable growth and top-tier shareholder returns over the long term. The strategy focuses on four pillars to create...

ANALYSIS: Turkey Cold Storage: Lending Credence to the Strong Market Climate

The latest release of February’s Cold Storage Report further validates the strong seasonal performance that most key lines within the turkey complex have exhibited...

Get to Know Players in the Plant Protein Market: PURIS

As part of a new monthly series of Urner Barry plant protein reports an end of the month company profile will be released to showcase players in the plant protein market. Profiles may represent suppliers, consumer food product brands, or firms involved at other levels of the plant protein supply chain.

To date, we have covered several brands powering ahead within the ingredient and consumer product realm but have yet to dig to the roots, almost literally, and mention a firm dedicated to improving quality plant protein sources from field to plate. PURIS, a vertically integrated breeder and provider of premium seeds and further processed plant protein ingredients seeks to...

Popeyes Announces Agreement to Open Restaurants Across India, Bangladesh, Nepal and Bhutan

Popeyes® and Jubilant Foodworks Limited ("JFL") announced exciting new plans to develop and open hundreds of Popeyes® restaurants across India, Bangladesh, Nepal and Bhutan in the coming years.

"We're excited to introduce our iconic Louisiana-style chicken to a new population in the world that already celebrates and loves bold and delicious flavours," said David Shear, President RBI International, parent company of Popeyes®. "At Popeyes®, we believe that the best food takes time, we marinate our chicken for 12 hours in bold Louisiana seasonings, then hand batter and slowly cook it to make it the juiciest and crispiest chicken that I think our guests will ever have."

Founded in New Orleans in 1972, Popeyes® has more than 45 years of history and culinary tradition. Popeyes® distinguishes itself with a unique New Orleans style menu featuring...

Meat Purchases and Confidence at Record Highs

Americans are buying more beef, pork, poultry, and lamb than ever as increased time at home during the pandemic sent meat grocery sales soaring by 20% (IRI) from 2019 to 2020.

The national analysis released shows that three out of every four Americans agree meat belongs in healthy, balanced diets (up by nearly 20% since 2020), and 94% say they buy meat because it provides high-quality protein.

Meat Institute President and CEO Julie Anna Potts commented...

Chipotle Invests in Leading Autonomous Delivery Company, Nuro

Chipotle Mexican Grill announced that it has invested in Nuro, a leader in autonomous delivery, as part of their Series C funding round. Nuro uses robotics in their fleet of on-road, occupantless and autonomous vehicles to deliver everyday consumer goods. This is the first significant investment in a third-party technology company the organization has made since Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Brian Niccol took the helm in 2018.

Expanding access and convenience through Chipotle's digital ecosystem is a strategic priority for the company. Chipotle's digital business grew over 174% year over year in 2020, with about half of the digital sales coming from...

JBS Makes Global Commitment to Achieve Net-Zero Greenhouse Gas Emissions by 2040

JBS announced a commitment to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2040. The commitment spans the company’s global operations, including Pilgrim’s Pride Corporation, as well as its diverse value chain of agricultural producer partners, suppliers and customers in their efforts to reduce emissions across the value chain.

JBS is the first major company in its sector to set a net-zero target. The ambition reflects the company’s goal to meet the health and nutritional needs of the growing global population in a sustainable manner that preserves the planet’s resources for future generations. As part of its commitment, the company has signed...

Regulatory and Policy Update: What the Change in Administration Could Mean for the Meat Industry

With the change in administration, participants in the meat industry are closely eyeing what new leadership at USDA and other regulatory bodies could mean for areas including food safety, worker safety, and animal welfare. 

In the virtual 2021 Annual Meat Conference, a panel of leading experts in regulatory and policy issues discussed updates on these factors and what industry participants at all levels might need to be prepared for in 2021. 

Panelists included Casey Gallimore, Director and Scientific Affairs, North American Meat Institue; and Andrew Harig, Vice President, Tax, Trade, Sustainability & Policy Development, FMI.  

Harig kicked off the panel by noting how Washington in March 2021 is drastically different from Washington in March 2020...

Chipotle to Accelerate Expansion into Canada

Chipotle Mexican Grill announced it will continue its expansion into Canada with a new location in Surrey, BC that is scheduled to open on March 30. The restaurant will be Chipotle's first new Canadian location since its Markham, Ontario restaurant opened its doors in October 2018.

Chipotle also has plans to unveil its first Canadian Chipotlane at a new restaurant opening in Port Coquitlam, BC this summer. Chipotlane, the brand's drive-thru digital order pickup lane, increases access and convenience by providing a speedy and seamless guest experience in under a minute.

In addition to the Surrey and Port Coquitlam locations, Chipotle plans to open six additional restaurants in British Columbia and Ontario over the next 12 months. There are currently...

Taco Bell is Redefining the Restaurant of The Future with Ambitious Growth Pipeline

Taco Bell® is looking long-term as it reinvents what it means to be a restaurant of the future. On track to have 10,000 restaurants open globally this decade, the brand is leveraging a multitude of design formats to enhance and redefine both the customer and team member QSR experience in a constantly shifting world.

In collaboration with its franchisees, Taco Bell has continued to evolve its restaurants on an ongoing basis. Back in 2015, the brand saw that customers were eager for urban locations without drive-thrus; so, they developed Cantinas. In navigating COVID-19, Taco Bell again adapted with improvements to digital and...

OZO Debuts New Line of Frozen Plant-Based Proteins Available Nationwide at Kroger

After making its debut in the refrigerated aisle last June with the launch of OZO™, Colorado-based Planterra Foods is adding to their portfolio by making it even more convenient for families to have delicious plant-based meals at home with the launch of their frozen line offerings. Available now, consumers can add the OZO™ Smokehouse Burgers (four-3 oz patties) and Original Breakfast Sausage (six-1.67 oz sausages) to their freezer, with more frozen products coming this summer, including plant-based meatballs and plant-based chicken nuggets and patties.

The pandemic has forced people to get creative in the kitchen, and these innovative offerings are the perfect addition to weekday meals or weekend grill outs, with the option to heat and eat or freeze for later. This year, as grilling season approaches and more families come together for...

How COVID-19 has Changed Eating Out Over the Last 12 Months In the UK

It’s 12 months since the UK’s first COVID-19 lockdown, and one of the sectors that has been most heavily impacted is hospitality. Here, The NPD Group picks out eight eating out/eating in trends from the pandemic’s first year (March 2020 to February 2021) and suggests how they will unfold as lockdown eases. From a surge in home deliveries to the growth of collection, the rise of eating on a deal, the surge of drive-thru, treating to beat boredom, a doubling of choosing vegan and veggie options, the rise of al fresco dining and a laser-like focus on delivering the best customer service, here’s how COVID-19 has changed the way we eat out (and in).

Delivery: In the 12 months of COVID, delivery’s share of out of home eating has more than doubled

Ordering takeaway main meals for home delivery has been a big part of locked down life and, according to The NPD Group’s consumer data, spend increased...

Aramark Launches Process to Refinance 2024 Debt Maturity

Aramark, a global leader in food, facilities management and uniforms, announced the launch of a process to refinance the Company’s 2024 Term Loan B credit facility of $833 million that would proactively extend the maturity to 2028. The transaction is intended to be net leverage neutral, while maintaining comparable fixed-to-floating debt levels.

Concurrently, Aramark initiated a process for a 3-year extension of both its Revolving Credit Facility and Term Loan A to 2026, further strengthening the Company’s financial flexibility. These transactions are anticipated to be...

USDA Increases SNAP Benefits Up to $100 Per Household with Funding from American Rescue Plan

The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced today a 15 percent increase in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits through September 2021, providing an estimated $3.5 billion to households experiencing food insecurity during the COVID-19 pandemic. The funding is made possible by President Biden’s American Rescue Plan, which invests federal resources to reduce hunger across the country, strengthen the food supply chain, invest in rural America, and provide long awaited support to underserved, socially disadvantaged communities.

The 15 percent increase in SNAP benefits will provide about $28 more per person, per month, or more than $100 more per month for a household of...

Hormel Foods Appoints Jacinth Smiley Group Vice President of Corporate Strategy

Hormel Foods Corporation, a global branded food company, announced the appointment of Jacinth Smiley as group vice president of corporate strategy. Smiley will report to Jim Snee, chairman of the board, president and chief executive officer of Hormel Foods.

In this role, Smiley will be responsible for leading the development and execution of the company's growth and investment strategies, enabling its acceleration as a global branded food company. Smiley replaces Jim Splinter, former group vice president of corporate strategy, who retired last year.

"Jacinth is an accomplished business executive with senior global leadership experience at top Fortune 500 companies," Snee said. "She has an exceptional finance background with...

National Restaurant Association Survey Breaks Down How Consumers Used Restaurants During Pandemic

In the early days of the coronavirus pandemic, the National Restaurant Association began a weekly survey of 1,000 adults to see how they were utilizing restaurants.

Starting in February 2020, the survey “tracks the extent to which U.S. adults participated in restaurant and foodservice on a week-to-week basis.”

The survey is broken down into six periods over the past 12 months and focuses on patronage during breakfast, lunch, afternoon snack/beverage and dinner and both on-premise and off-premise dining...