Grubhub Taps Devry Boughner Vorwerk as Chief Corporate Affairs Officer

Grubhub Inc., a leading online and mobile food-ordering and delivery marketplace, announced that Devry Boughner Vorwerk will be joining the company as chief corporate affairs officer, effective Jan. 19. Vorwerk will oversee brand, communications, government relations, public policy and sustainability for the company.

In the newly created role, she is responsible for developing a cohesive brand voice and fostering relationships across the industry to help drive growth and promote Grubhub's continued commitment to supporting restaurants, drivers and diners. Vorwerk will lead the company's communications and...

Nathan’s Famous Expands Through Third Party Delivery to Canada

Nathan’s Famous, Inc., announces the expansion of their menu offerings to Victoria, Canada. The menu is available to consumers through Uber Eats, DoorDash and SkipTheDishes third-party delivery only. Nathan’s Famous is offering its classic hot dog and fries as well as its expanded menu featuring premium burgers, hand-dipped chicken favorites and more.

“We are excited to bring the Nathan’s Famous menu to Victoria, Canada for the first time in the brand’s history,” said James Walker, SVP, Restaurants. “We expect the brand to resonate well with...

Albertsons Companies Debuts Automated Grocery PickUp Kiosk in Chicago 

Albertsons Companies announced that it is the first American grocer to pilot an automated and contactless grocery PickUp kiosk. The kiosk, located at one of its Jewel-Osco stores in Chicago, demonstrates continued expansion of the company’s eCommerce business and deep commitment to providing easy service through its websites and apps.

The automated, temperature-controlled kiosk, created by Cleveron, provides a contactless pickup experience. Customers who select the “Kiosk PickUp” option will be offered 2-hr time slots during which to pick up their groceries.

When customers arrive at the kiosk, they scan a code on their phone and their groceries are...

Britain’s Drive Thru Spend Up 45% September to November 2020

The trend for ordering food and drinks from our cars at Britain’s growing number of drive-thru restaurants soared from September to November 2020 according to global information company The NPD Group. There were 121 million visits to Britain’s 2,000 quick service restaurants (QSR) that offer drive-thru in those three months in 2020, a 14% increase on the same period last year. Spend was up 45% to £723m over this time frame, with consumers tending to place larger-than-average orders at the drive-thru window.

According to footfall analysis from NPD’s SnapMyEats data, the growth in drive-thru in these three months was a result of consumers switching from eating in and takeaway options during lockdowns and tiering, rather than...

McDonald's to Launch Three New Chicken Sandwiches Next Month

McDonald's is launching three chicken sandwiches beginning February 24, joining long-time sandwich favorites like the Big Mac, Quarter Pounder, Egg McMuffin, and Filet-O-Fish. The new options include a Crispy Chicken Sandwich, Spicy Chicken Sandwich, and the Deluxe Chicken Sandwich.

McDonald's began testing the Crispy Chicken Sandwich in Houston and Knoxville, Tennessee, last year. The sandwich is made of a fried chicken filet served on a potato roll, topped with butter and pickles. The spicy option comes with a spicy pepper sauce, and the deluxe sandwich comes with shredded lettuce, tomatoes, and mayo.

In November, Joe Erlinger, President of McDonald's USA, said a new crispy chicken sandwich would...

Chipotle Launches Cilantro-Lime Cauliflower Rice for New Lifestyle Bowls 

Chipotle Mexican Grill announced Cilantro-Lime Cauliflower Rice is available at U.S. and Canadian restaurants for a limited time. Chipotle's latest plant-based option is made with freshly grilled, riced cauliflower, finished with hand-chopped cilantro, lime, and salt, and prepared fresh in-restaurant every day.

New Year, New Start

Chipotle fans can start 2021 off with a new rice option that is compliant with Keto, Whole30®, Paleo, Vegan, and Vegetarian diets. Cilantro-Lime Cauliflower Rice has...

Sonic Kicks Off 2021 by Offering Chicken Sliders For a Limited Time 

To start off the new year, Sonic announced the return of its fan-favorite Chicken Slingers for a limited time.

At approximately 350 calories, the Chicken Slinger features a 100% all-white meat chicken fillet topped with mayo and pickles on a brioche bun. The Spicy Chicken Slinger takes it up a notch with Sonic’s new Spicy Ranch.

“The measure of any tasty chicken sandwich is the fillet itself so we took the time to...

Muscle Maker Grill Opens the Doors to Their First Ghost Kitchen Location

Muscle Maker, Inc. the parent company of Muscle Maker Grill, Healthy Joe’s and MMG Burger Bar, a fast-casual concept known for serving “healthier for you” meals, announced the opening of its first ghost kitchen location in the Fairmount neighborhood of the city of Philadelphia. The company will open its second location in the Girard neighborhood.

Both the Fairmount and Girard locations are centrally located near a high density of both student/university eaters as well as a large pool of corporate workers who commonly order...

USDA Approves Maine to Accept SNAP Benefits Online

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue announced approval of a request from Maine to provide online purchasing of food to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) households. This approval will allow Maine to expedite the implementation of online purchasing with currently authorized SNAP online retailers with a target start date to be announced at a later time.

Maine’s SNAP participation is more than 144,000 individuals, more than 78,000 households, and totals $204 million annually in federal benefits. This announcement further demonstrates...

The Catering Sector in France Adapts and Absorbs the Shock from COVID-19 Lockdowns

According to the latest data from The NPD Group, the share of “take-out” visits in France has doubled in catering, comprising 35% of total visits between March and October 2020, versus 17% over the same time period last year.

Restaurant owners have been able to adapt in order to develop their offerings toward take-out. They have reviewed the composition of the menus, developed the product mix, worked on the packaging and found new ways of communicating with...

COVID-19 Fuels a 50% Increase in Omnichannel Shopping Across the U.S. 

The COVID-19 pandemic has democratized e-commerce for all types of consumers, and over 18 million CPG buyers (and counting) in the U.S. have flooded the online space since March. Online shoppers have been mirroring their purchasing within the channel to their constantly shifting, pandemic-related needs and are becoming further entrenched in their shopping behaviors.

But not all online engagement leads to an online purchase. For many, online channels are a key means to compare prices, research new products and find physical stores, giving way to...

Technomic Reports on the Current State of the Evolving Foodservice Technology Channel

Technomic recently released The State of Foodservice Technology 2020 covering operator survey results that explore the current landscape of technology use, identify priorities for future investment and provide insights into emerging trends.

“The report uncovers the current landscape of technology use in restaurants, identifies operator plans and priorities for future investment, and provides more clarity on the factors that are accelerating or, in some cases, hindering deeper integration of technology into restaurant operations,” explains Melissa Wilson, principal at Technomic...

Restaurants and Third-Party Delivery Companies Agree to Public Policy Principles

The National Restaurant Association released Public Policy Principles for Third-Party Delivery (Principles) that define best practices for third-party delivery to guide lawmakers in developing public policy. The release of the Principles culminates a year-long effort by the Association to develop national guidelines based on the experiences of restaurant operators of all sizes. The Principles represent the first time the restaurant industry and third-party delivery companies have come together and agreed on a framework for their relationship.

Delivery represents one of the most important segments of growth for the restaurant industry. In a National Restaurant Association online survey of 1,000 adults conducted Dec. 7-9, 2020, 70% of adults say...

Pizza Hut to Offer Holiday Meal Box 

With the holiday season in full swing, Pizza Hut is crossing cooking off the to-do list by delivering the ultimate gift: the Triple Treat Box.

Arriving just in time for the holidays, each Triple Treat Box features a three-in-one meal, packed with two medium one-topping pizzas, five breadsticks and 10 Cinnabon Mini Rolls. Pizzas are available on...

Subway Goes All In on Online Catering

ezCater is making it easier to get Subway restaurant Footlongs for corporate meetings and gatherings. ezCater announced the launch of Subway's new online catering platform as part of the sandwich chain's overall focus to create even greater digital convenience for guests.

The new Subway catering platform will allow guests, particularly businesses, to make large orders for any occasion from participating Subway restaurants...

Grubhub Releases Annual "Year in Food" Report Detailing the Top Trends of 2020

As the nation looks forward to 2021, Grubhub is taking time to look back at how Americans ate their way through a turbulent year. Grubhub, a leading online and mobile food-ordering and delivery marketplace, released findings from its annual "Year in Food" report, analyzing orders from over 30 million diners to see what rose in popularity throughout an unpredictable year. In addition, diners will receive their personalized "Taste of 2020" recap to get a glimpse of their favorite cuisines, menu items, and order habits throughout the year.

While past years have seen a growth in vegan and vegetarian options, 2020 was a year where...

Boston Market Announces December Holiday Meal Offerings

Boston Market is offering countless festive meal options this December. Whether looking to bring home a pre-cooked feast, have one shipped directly to any doorstep or add a few a la carte staples to round out your holiday menu, Boston Market offers a variety of meal solutions.

"This year more than ever, the holidays should be a time to enjoy precious moments with loved ones, whether that be around a table or on a computer screen," said Boston Market President Randy Miller. "We pride ourselves on serving up hassle-free meal solutions that allow our guests more time to...

NRF Chief Economist Says Pandemic Made this Year's Holiday Forecast the Most Challenging Ever

With the coronavirus pandemic presenting unique circumstances for the nation’s economy, forecasting retail holiday sales this year was more challenging than ever before, National Retail Federation Chief Economist Jack Kleinhenz said today.

“There is no doubt this is the most unusual economic environment in our lifetimes,” Kleinhenz said. “I cannot think of a period with so many simultaneous factors hitting the economy at once when formulating this forecast.”

NRF usually releases its annual holiday forecast in early October but...

Smashburger Introduces New Pulled Pork Tailgater Burger Nationwide

Smashburger has announced its newest premium burger creation that is big enough for game day. Now through January 17, 2021, guests are invited to indulge in the Pulled Pork Tailgater Burger available at Smashburger locations nationwide along with a $2 beer special.

Featuring slow-smoked pulled pork, caramelized onions, Swiss and Certified Angus Beef® piled up on a pretzel bun with spicy mustard, the new Pulled Pork Tailgater is made to...

Uber Completes Acquisition of Postmates

Uber Technologies, Inc. announced that it has completed the acquisition of Postmates Inc. in an all-stock transaction, and that the two companies have begun the process of integrating U.S. operations.

As previously announced, the transaction brings together Uber’s global Mobility and Delivery platform with Postmates’ beloved business in the U.S. to strengthen the delivery of food, groceries, essentials, and other goods. The consumer-facing Postmates and Uber Eats apps will continue to run separately, supported by...

Chipotle Tests Smoked Brisket in Select Markets

Chipotle Mexican Grill announced it is testing Smoked Brisket at 64 restaurants throughout Cincinnati and part of Sacramento, California. Chipotle's latest protein features smoked beef brisket that is seasoned with a special spice blend, seared on the grill every day, and finished with a sauce made with Mexican peppers.

"We're thrilled to offer a new, responsibly-sourced brisket that tastes terrific and meets our industry leading Food with Integrity standards," said Chris Brandt, Chief Marketing Officer. "The richness of...

UK Restaurants Look Set to Recover as Consumers Still Prefer to Dine Out

The NPD Group says amid the severe and unprecedented COVID-19 business pressures affecting Britain’s out-of-home (OOH) foodservice industry, the delivery channel has been a welcome success story. Comparing the January-to-October period this year with the same period in 2019, delivery is up 14% in visit terms to 804 million and has seen a 40% increase in spend to £5.7 billion. However, although delivery has met a need during this unprecedented period of enforced home living, working and entertaining, NPD’s research shows... 

Nielsen: Thanksgiving Highlights COVID-19 Divide 

In a year unlike any other, even Thanksgiving is not immune to polarization in the U.S.

As we confront ever-rising COVID-19 cases and physical and financial restraints, this year’s Thanksgiving festivities will look and feel drastically different, depending on location, generation and the financial impact of the pandemic. Yet from online shopping to price hikes, consumers share commonalities in confronting a Thanksgiving unlike any other.

Americans are almost perfectly split on whether they’re planning to...

Denny's Brings Back Thanksgiving Dinner Pack 

Denny's is bringing back its family-style Turkey & Dressing Dinner Pack, offering guests a stress-free spread of traditional holiday favorites, perfect for celebrating at home. Turkey & Dressing Dinner Packs are available for pickup until Wednesday, November 25 at 6 p.m. EST by ordering on Dennys.com or the Denny's app.

Portioned for four people, the Turkey & Dressing Dinner Pack is prepared ready to heat and serve, and features...

Postmates Reveals Unprecedented Ordering Trends of 2020

Postmates revealed the unprecedented ordering trends of 2020 and it's clear 2020 was a year like no other.

The year started on a predictable note, with popular New Year's Eve hydration hangover remedies like Gatorade spiking 197% (WoW) on New Year's Day. Customers fell in love with heart-shaped pizzas this year (+1,800% YoY) on Valentine's Day where there was also a 4,462% (WoW) increase in orders for flowers - not too surprising. But in early March, as the global pandemic was declared and shelter-in-place orders began...

Subway Launches Contactless Curbside Nationwide

Subway is introducing Contactless Curbside pick-up available nationwide at participating Subway restaurants,  so guests have a safe and easy option to get their favorite Footlong sandwiches when and how they want them. Since summer, Subway has brought curbside delivery to more than 11,000 restaurants. Curbside orders are even sealed with a tamper proof sticker and delivered on a tray, ensuring a safe and completely contactless experience.

Requesting Contactless Curbside can be done through placing an order on the Subway App or website. From there, one of Subway's Sandwich Artists makes the order fresh. When the guest arrives...

Nathan’s Famous Expands Through Third Party Delivery to Canada

Nathan’s Famous announced the expansion of their menu offerings to Vancouver, Canada. The menu will be available to consumers through Uber Eats third-party delivery only now, and then in approximately two weeks SkinTheDishes and then DoorDash. Nathan’s Famous will offer its classic hot dog and fries as well as its expanded menu featuring premium burgers, hand-dipped chicken favorites and more.

“We are excited to bring the Nathan’s Famous menu to Vancouver, British Columbia for the first time in the brand’s history,” said James Walker, SVP, Restaurants. “We are confident that the brand will...

Chipotle to Open Its First Digital-Only Restaurant

Chipotle Mexican Grill announced its first-ever Chipotle digital-only restaurant called the Chipotle Digital Kitchen. Located just outside of the gates to the military academy in Highland Falls, NY, the restaurant will open this Saturday for pick-up and delivery only. The new prototype will allow Chipotle to enter more urban areas that wouldn't support a full-size restaurant and allows for flexibility with future locations.

Digital Kitchen Restaurant Design

The Digital Kitchen concept is focused on accelerating the digital business in non-traditional locations. It is unique because it does not include a dining room or front service line and...

Retailers Prepare for Thanksgiving and Unprecedented Holiday Shopping Season 

As consumers prepare for smaller gatherings at Thanksgiving and an unusual holiday season, retailers are providing increased safety and convenience measures to offer an ideal shopping experience. 

For example, Meijer is encouraging customers to shop in whatever way fits their lives, offering delivery services and free pickup on orders over $50 online. The retailer is also adding more available time slots for pickup. Stores will be rolling out new hand sanitizer stations over the course of the holiday season and will install eight stations near high-traffic travel paths including entrances, pharmacies, produce areas, and check lanes. Meijer announced it will be extending...

BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse Brings Tailgating Home with Brewhouse Homegating Packs 

Fall is here and that means football season is officially in full swing. Sports buffs know that game day isn't complete without the cherished tradition of tailgating. That's why BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse is bringing the tailgating experience from the stadium to the living room this season with the introduction of the new Brewhouse Homegating Pack.

The Brewhouse Homegating Pack allow fans to recreate the excitement of a tailgate from the comfort of their own home by indulging in gameday favorites such as wings, pizza, award winning BJ's Handcrafted Signature Beers, and more. The crowd-pleasing package includes...

Consumers Likely to Continue Increased Usage of Takeout and Delivery

With indoor dining restaurant traffic significantly curtailed due to COVID-19 restrictions and concerns, the availability of takeout and delivery options became more important for consumers and restaurants. Many foodservice operators began offering these options recently, and consumers have increased their usage of takeout and delivery.

According to the National Restaurant Association, the uptick in takeout and delivery frequency was visible across each of the three major dayparts in recent months. The Association reported that 66% of consumers said they ordered takeout or delivery for dinner last week. That is up from 58% during the last week of February.

The trend was similar for lunch. About 47% of consumers ordered takeout or delivery for lunch last week, a level that has...

Rabobank: The Rise of Food Delivery Platforms 

The fast rise of food delivery has created a new powerful middle man in the form of delivery platforms, which are increasingly becoming a force to be reckoned with. Even though the sector has expanded very quickly, most platforms have been losing money for years.

“The business model of delivery platforms has sparked discussion and criticism. Many delivery aggregators are struggling to make profits, with most of them losing money every year,” according to Marjolein Hanssen, Analyst – Consumer Foods.

“On the one hand, investors push them to start making these profits, while on the other hand, food delivery platforms are pressured to...

Technomic's Take: What’s to Come in 2021

It’s not easy to forecast the future when the ground keeps shifting underneath. The foodservice industry has had to be more nimble than ever this past year, and everyone is eager to bounce back and embrace a clear sense of normalcy. Yet several big questions loom large: Is a COVID-19 vaccine on the horizon soon? Which areas of the country will recover quickest? And when will consumers feel comfortable about dining indoors again?

Despite the many ambiguities that exist, Technomic's outlook for the industry remains optimistic. Up-to-the-minute strategies are positioning foodservice segments to kick off a wider resurgence through 2021. Optimizing the menu, directly...

BJ’s Wholesale Club Expands Buy Online, Pick Up In-Club Service to Include Fresh and Frozen Items

BJ’s Wholesale Club announced the expansion of its buy online, pick up in-club service to include fresh and frozen grocery items. BJ’s members can now order their weekly groceries on BJs.com or with the BJ’s app for curbside pickup or pick up in-club at any one of the company’s 219 locations.

“We’re committed to helping our members save time and money on essentials, which is why we’re offering more convenient ways to help them get exactly what they need,” said Jeff Desroches, executive vice president, Club Operations Officer. “With the expansion of our buy online, pick up in-club service, BJ’s members can do their weekly grocery shopping – and...

Boston Market Introduces Holiday Meal Options 

Boston Market is aiming to bring families together both near and far with countless affordable holiday meal options for every type of celebration, no matter how different it may look this year. Whether gathering with family in-person around the table or across the country over the internet, Boston Market has you and your loved ones covered this holiday season with complete meal solutions starting at just $10.99 per person.

"With all that has happened this past year, connecting with friends and loved ones over a delicious meal to celebrate the things that matter most has never been more important," said Boston Market President, Randy Miller. "That's why we're serving up decadent, hassle-free meals in a variety of ways that allow families to...

The COVID-19 Pandemic Causes Eating Patterns in America to Take a Sharp Turn

Annually, The NPD Group collects a year’s worth of data from its daily tracking of how U.S. consumers eat away from and in home and compiles the topline trend into a report that’s been called "Eating Patterns in America" for the last 35 years. This year’s recently released Eating Patterns in America captures how in mid-March, the daily rhythms of consumers’ lives, including their eating patterns, were suddenly disrupted by the COVID-19 outbreak.

“With mandated shelter-at-home and restaurant dine-in restrictions across most of the country during the pandemic, we have had few options other than to prepare most of our meals at home,” says David Portalatin, NPD food industry advisor and author of Eating Patterns in America. “Working from home, schooling at home, and preparing...

Yum China Reports Third Quarter 2020 Results

Yum China Holdings, Inc. reported unaudited results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2020.

Impact of COVID-19 Outbreak and Mitigation Efforts

Third quarter operations improved, although still impacted by reduced traffic at transportation and tourist locations, the delayed and shortened school holiday and the other lingering effects of the COVID-19 outbreak. Dine-in volume has been recovering, while delivery and takeaway remained popular options. The Company's primary focus continues to be safety, efficiency and driving traffic. We launched attractive digital and membership campaigns with...

Chipotle Launches Real Foodprint, Introduces Sustainability Impact Trackers for Digital Orders

Chipotle announced the debut of Real Foodprint, a sustainability impact tracker that compares average values for each of Chipotle's 53 real ingredients to their conventional counterparts against five key metrics:

• Less Carbon in the Atmosphere - Measured in grams
• Gallons of Water Saved 
• Improved Soil Health - Measured in sq feet
• Organic...

Applebee's Announces Halloween Wings Deal

Halloween is almost here, and Applebee’s is putting a new spin on trick-or-treating for guests around the country. For one day only on October 31, wing lovers can celebrate at participating locations with Halloween Wings – a free order of Boneless Wings with any purchase of $30 or more for To Go or delivery through Applebees.com.

Each order of Applebee’s Boneless Wings is served with ranch dressing and celery on the side and is tossed in sauce like Classic Hot Buffalo, Sweet Asian Chili or Honey BBQ. Guests can visit Applebees.com or the Applebee’s mobile app to order and...

Instacart and ALDI Announce New Pilot For EBT SNAP Online Payment

Instacart announced its Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT SNAP) integration in partnership with ALDI. For the first time, EBT SNAP participants will be able to access fresh food and pantry staples from ALDI via Instacart's same-day delivery and pickup services. The multi-phased launch will begin in Georgia in the coming weeks across more than 60 ALDI stores, with anticipated plans to expand to more than 570 stores across Illinois, California, Florida and Pennsylvania in the coming months.

The introduction of Instacart's EBT SNAP payments comes at a time when food insecurity in the U.S. has compounded as the nation continues to be impacted by COVID-19. According to Feeding America, due to the effects of the pandemic, more than 54 million people may experience...

Survey: COVID Led to Surge in Off-Premise Dining, Other Operational Changes for Franchisees

The 2020 Restaurant Franchise Pulse survey, conducted by TD Bank, found that coronavirus lockdowns and unwillingness to eat out at restaurants led restaurant franchisees to pivot to a pick-up and delivery model.

Just shy of 75% of survey respondents prioritized off-premise dining with enhanced delivery and online or mobile ordering methods due to COVID-19. This led to a 19% jump in the percentage of sales linked to off-premise orders.

An interesting note was that although 86% of respondents had delivery...

Instacart Appoints Two New Executives To Leadership Team

Instacart, the North American leader in online grocery delivery, today announced the addition of two new executives to its leadership team. Experienced human resources executive and people leader Christina Hall has joined Instacart as the company's first Chief Human Resources Officer. Additionally, as part of the company's continued investment in product development, Instacart has named Ariel Bardin as Senior Vice President of Product. These new leadership hires come as Instacart continues to build out its teams and scale to meet the increased consumer demand for its online grocery delivery and pickup services...

Albertsons Companies Unveils PickUp Lockers as Newest Addition to e-Commerce Lineup

Albertsons Companies (NYSE: ACI) today announced that it is piloting PickUp lockers in select Chicago Jewel-Osco and Bay Area Safeway stores as the newest easy fulfillment option for e-Commerce orders made through the company’s websites and apps.

The company already offers in-house Delivery and Drive Up & Go options through its innovative websites and apps, and has partnerships with third-party operators to provide fast delivery options. Albertsons Cos., which reported a 276% increase in digital sales in its first fiscal quarter and continues to add Drive Up & Go stores throughout the country, is looking at all of the ways that it can make customers’ lives – and their grocery shopping – easier and more exciting...

DoorDash And Taco Bell Announce Nationwide Partnership

DoorDash and Taco Bell announced their new partnership across over 5,500 locations nationwide. In celebration of the partnership, starting October 15, registered DoorDash users can get 50 percent off Taco Bell’s biggest nachos box ever, the Nachos Party Pack, with a $0 delivery fee when they spend $15 or more. The deal is exclusively available on DoorDash beginning October 15 through October 24.

“We’re excited to team up with DoorDash to give our fans the ability to satisfy their cravings for Taco Bell more easily,” said Nikki Lawson, Taco Bell’s Chief Global Brand Officer. “Growing delivery has always been a priority for the brand and through this partnership...

COVID-19 has Flipped the Value Proposition of Omnichannel Shopping for Constrained Consumers 

With few alternatives available during the widespread lockdowns earlier this year, e-commerce quickly became a go-to means-to-an-end for shop-needy consumers around the globe. Six months later, that early reliance on e-commerce has expanded into a fundamental dependence on still-evolving omnichannel shopping experiences.

The premise of omnichannel shopping certainly wasn’t borne out of the COVID-19 pandemic, but the global health crisis has dramatically elevated consumers’ use of both on- and offline channels in tandem, whether for click-and-collect, contactless delivery or an array of other fulfillment options. And across consumer groups, online channels have become the most critical shopping resources for...

Little Caesars and DoorDash Announce Marketplace Partnership

Little Caesars and DoorDash announced a major expansion of their exclusive partnership, extending the availability of Little Caesars delivery to the DoorDash app and website. Little Caesars delivery, already available directly through the Little Caesars app and website in the US and Canada, will now also be available on DoorDash's third-party delivery marketplace for the first time.

"Little Caesars is committed to providing quality, convenience and value to our customers, which is why earlier this year, we partnered with DoorDash to make fast and affordable Little Caesars delivery possible through the Little Caesars app and website," said Ed Gleich, senior vice president of innovation at Little Caesars. "Today, we're excited to expand our product availability to the DoorDash app so pizza lovers can have even more options for...

Instacart Raises $200 Million in New Funding as Grocery Delivery, Pickup Booms During Pandemic

Grocery delivery service Instacart announced it has raised $200 million in funding led by existing investors Valiant Peregrine Fund and D1 Capital Partners.

2020 has been a strong year for the company, which has seen its valuation more than double since the year began as consumers have pivoted to online grocery shopping during the coronavirus pandemic.

According to CNBC, the company’s valuation jumped to $17.7 billion following the funding round, up from $7.9 billion when 2020 began. Instacart is now...

Kroger Testing Ghost Kitchens in Pair of Midwest Stores

Through a partnership with ghost kitchen start-up ClusterTruck, top U.S. retailer Kroger will debut a pair of delivery and pickup-only kitchens in two of its Kroger stores in Indianapolis, Indiana and Columbus, Ohio.

Kroger said it the kitchens will provide a variety of freshly prepared meals on-demand with no service or delivery fees.

The decision to create the on-site kitchens stems from a pilot launched in December of 2019 in Carmel, Indiana and the aforementioned cities. Still, the pilot was an off-premises concept, the new kitchens will be about 1,000 square feet of culinary space...

More Than 60% of Americans Have Dined In a Restaurant in the Past Month, Despite COVID-19 Concerns

A survey of 501 people in the U.S. found that 63% of Americans ate at a restaurant at least once in July, with 22% dining in a restaurant five or more times. At the same time, 58% of Americans said they would feel uncomfortable or very uncomfortable eating in a restaurant because of the coronavirus. The study was conducted by B2B research firm The Manifest.

The contradiction between people's discomfort about in-restaurant dining and their actions is likely a result of access to outside dining options during the summer months.

With as many as 75% of restaurants at risk of going out of business, local restaurants and small business restaurant owners must prepare for...

Research and Markets: Consumer Spending in QSRs and Growing Online Food Delivery

According to Research and Markets, the U.S. foodservice market is projected to witness a CAGR of 3.7% during the forecast period, 2020-2025.

Increased digitalization of food service is among the primary factors driving the market, as consumers find it comfortable to book prior and make payments online.

Fast food restaurants focusing on organic produce and healthy food are expected to be the focus of the market in the future. In the United States, the demand for organic food is rapidly rising. However, factors, like...

New York City Partners with Mercato to Equip Independent Grocers with Online Ordering & Delivery

Mercato has been selected by the City of New York to become the eCommerce marketplace that will connect underserved NYC communities to local grocery stores. Through this partnership, select stores in all five boroughs will begin offering their inventory online and via local delivery - a functionality these stores weren't previously equipped with.

"As a native New Yorker and the son of an independent grocer in Brooklyn, I am excited to work with the City to support these neighborhood grocers and to announce Mercato's commitment to improving access to quality food for residents of areas that were impacted by the COVID crisis while also providing these local retailers with a new sales channel..."

Sweet Earth Foods Launches Plant-Based Bacon Cheeseburger in Foodservice 

Sweet Earth Foods, a Nestlé brand and award-winning plant-based food innovator, announced the launch of their Plant-Based Triple Play, a fully plant-based bac'n cheezeburger to debut in foodservice.

The launch will debut at The University of Massachusetts Dining Program, which is the largest collegiate dining program in America and a recognized leader in campus food quality, nutrition, and innovation.

To celebrate National Cheeseburger Day (September 18th), they'll feature the Sweet Earth Plant-Based Triple Play in their Amherst location's dining halls, take-away, through...

Dunkin' Delivery with DoorDash Now Available at 3,500 Restaurants Nationwide

Dunkin' and DoorDash have teamed up to make delivery available at approximately 3,500 Dunkin' restaurants across the country, with further expansion planned over the coming months. To officially kick off the relationship, DoorDash is treating guests with a special offer. Starting September 15 through September 21, consumers that spend $10 or more on Dunkin' through DoorDash will be eligible for a free 25-count box of Munchkins and a $0 delivery fee.

According to Brandy Blackwell, Director of New Business, Delivery & Catering, for Dunkin' U.S., "Dunkin' guests know they can count on us to offer the most convenient ways to enjoy their favorite coffee and...

Postmates Becomes Official On-Demand Food Delivery Partner of The NFL

The National Football League and Postmates, have entered into a multi-year sponsorship agreement making Postmates the first official on-demand food delivery partner of the NFL. Postmates is also an official sponsor of NFL premier events including the Super Bowl, Pro Bowl and Draft, to name a few.

"People across the country aren't just ready to order their favorite gameday foods, they are eagerly awaiting the return of football. While most fans won't be able to physically go to the game, this partnership with the NFL allows us to bring the gameday experience, and...

Kentucky Fried Chicken Announces Partnership with DoorDash

Kentucky Fried Chicken announced that its world-famous fried chicken is now available for order and on-demand delivery through DoorDash. To celebrate the new partnership, KFC and DoorDash are offering fried chicken fans across the U.S. an irresistible deal: Beginning September 8, through Thursday, September 17, customers will receive 12 free chicken tenders with the purchase of select KFC bucket meals on orders placed through the DoorDash website or app with promo code KFC12.

To sweeten the deal, customers will also receive $0 delivery fees alongside their select bucket meal purchase, available from more than 3,000 KFC restaurant locations through September 17.

Since 1952, KFC has helped families enjoy a bucket of fried chicken practically anywhere, traveling easily while staying fresh and ready-to-eat. Some might even say...

Del Taco and Beyond Meat Team Up with DoorDash to Offer Free Delivery this Labor Day Weekend 

Del Taco Restaurants announced a new way to relax and enjoy a plant-based meal at home this Labor Day weekend, thanks to the brand’s partnership with Beyond Meat and DoorDash. Starting this Friday, September 4, through Monday, September 7, fans can use the DoorDash app to receive free delivery on all orders that include any Epic Burrito with Beyond Meat.

Del Taco’s foil-wrapped Epic Burritos deliver fast-casual quality with fast food convenience and value. Each burrito weighs about one pound, and are loaded with premium, fresh ingredients, and offered in combinations including...

Instacart Adds 7-Eleven as First National Convenience Store Partner

Instacart and 7-Eleven announced a new collaboration that brings same-day delivery to customers, often in as fast as 30 minutes. Together, Instacart and 7-Eleven now offer delivery of thousands of convenience, alcohol, and grocery items from the store to customers' doors in participating pilot markets. The multi-phased launch is live in more than 750 stores in Dallas, Miami, Baltimore, Washington D.C. and the surrounding areas, with plans to expand nationally to more than 7,000 7-Eleven stores across the U.S.

"We're excited to introduce 7-Eleven as Instacart's first national convenience store partner. 7-Eleven is a beloved, generational brand with a deep legacy. Most of us grew up with a 7-Eleven in our neighborhood and probably remember...

Retailer Introduces ‘Dark Store’ Focusing Solely on Online Grocery Shopping

Whole Foods is launching its first ‘dark store’ a facility that will solely operate to fulfill the Amazon-owned grocer’s online orders.

The store will not be open to the public, so customers cannot stroll in like a traditional grocery store. This new experiment follows the COVID-19 pandemic where online grocery ordering witnessed a significant uptick as customers were unwilling to risk a trip to pick up food.

According to USA TODAY, the new concept was in the works pre-COVID...

Demand for Foodservice Single-Use Products Boosted by Surging Off-Premise Dining

The COVID-19 pandemic is causing severe disruption in the nearly $4 trillion global foodservice market:

• As outlets across all industry segments face steep declines in sales volumes due to restrictions on aspects of foodservice, such as dine-in capacity, that have been implemented to contain the virus, many establishments, particularly in the full-service sector, face permanent closure.
• These shuttered businesses are expected to be replaced with new ones as the pandemic recedes and economic activities, including...

Church's Chicken Introduces New "Go Box"

Originally established as Church's Fried Chicken To Go, Church's Chicken was built on the idea of convenience and accessibility for quality, value, and Texas-inspired flavor – which has become an even more pronounced focus for the brand today.

With COVID-19 significantly shifting consumer habits and increasing demand for off-premise dining, Church's is reconnecting with its to-go roots by offering a signature carrier option for guests to grab and go. Church's new "Go Box" provides...

Incogmeato Launches Partnership with Postmates to Bring a One-Bite Challenge to Plant-Based Skeptics

To celebrate National Burger Day on Aug. 27, Incogmeato by MorningStar Farms is issuing a simple challenge to flexitarian eaters in Dallas and Denver, and Twitter users nationwide – give Incogmeato's plant-based burger just one bite.

Sixty percent of Americans want to eat more plant-based but hesitate due to fears it won't taste as good as meat. Incogmeato is attempting to reassure flexitarians that its line of plant-based burgers, brats, sausage and chik'n nuggets look, cook and taste just like the real thing. To make overcoming first bite fears easy, Incogmeato is...

Panera Accelerates Digital Commerce and Off Premise Offerings

Panera is making it easier to order food through Google Search, Google Maps and Google Assistant. As more people search for and order food online, the integration with Google's platforms expands Panera's off-premise capabilities and accessibility to meet the customer where they are. Available at participating bakery-cafes across the country, guests can easily order their Panera favorites through Google for contactless Curbside Pick-Up or Delivery with the touch of a button. For a limited time, guests who order Panera through Google will receive 20% off their first Delivery or Curbside Pick-Up order of $20 or more.

The ability to order directly on Google will allow Panera to further embrace the growing trend of mobile food ordering, where guests can easily place an order directly from their local bakery-cafe. Seamlessly integrated with contactless payments including...

BJ’s Wholesale Club Adds Contactless Shopping Option with Launch of Curbside Pickup

BJ’s Wholesale Club announced the availability of contactless, curbside pickup at all BJ’s Wholesale Club locations to make it even more convenient for members to shop.

“It’s more important than ever to provide our members with a variety of convenient options to shop the club,” said Jeff Desroches, executive vice president, Club Operations Officer. “Our new, contactless curbside pickup service is another example...

White Castle Teams Up with Postmates 

Postmates has partnered with White Castle, America's first fast-food hamburger chain and the home of The Original Slider to offer customers on-demand delivery.

"White Castle has been serving its customers for almost 100 years, and we are proud to be a part of their...

Taco Bell Announces Plans for New Restaurant Concept

Taco Bell, a brand that prides itself in evolving to deliver on changing consumer behavior, is at it again. As seen in its recent menu evolution and digital rehaul, the brand has continued to redefine itself across all consumer touchpoints.

Now, Taco Bell is merging technological advancements, innovative operations and a people-first approach into its most modern Taco Bell expression yet: Taco Bell Go Mobile. The new restaurant concept allows Taco Bell, an industry leader in traditional drive-thru service, to push...

Over a Fifth of Canadians Have Bought More Groceries Online Due to COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated Canadian usage of e-commerce with online grocery being one of the main benefactors. The latest research from Mintel reveals that by mid-April, almost four in 10 (37%) Canadians were shopping more online, with 22% of Canadians specifically noting they were buying more groceries online due to COVID-19, including 10% of seniors (those aged 65+).

Physical grocery stores have a big challenge to encourage consumers to come back into stores and spend time inside. Mintel's research shows that as of mid-April, 70% of Canadian shoppers were...

Postmates And Panera Partner to Bring Panera Favorites Straight to Doorsteps

Postmates and Panera are teaming up to conveniently bring freshly prepared, wholesome soups, salads and sandwiches to customers at participating Panera locations nationwide. Whether customers are craving freshly baked bread, their morning coffee and pastry or a comforting bowl of mac and cheese, Postmates and Panera have them covered with contactless delivery. To celebrate this exciting partnership, Postmates and Panera have launched the "Food Mood" promotion featuring Postmates' first ever virtual "Food Mood" ring which will determine a surprise offer.

"At Panera, our goal is to make high quality, delicious food accessible for all. We are excited to partner with Postmates to provide a new level of convenience for customers and reach...

Consumers Are Eager to Dine Out and Support Local

Fatigued by cooking at home, consumers are anxious to dine at their favorite restaurants according to a new Oracle Food and Beverage study. The survey found that 59% of US and 47% of UK consumers plan to dine-out as soon as they are able. In fact, as soon as it's deemed safe to reopen, 26% of US respondents and 14% of the UK said they plan to return in the first week.

Diners are looking for reassurance on cleaning procedures and technology to reduce contact with servers. Forty percent of those surveyed in the US and 39% in the UK said they would feel safer if they could view the menu from their mobile device, while...

Kroger Ship to Integrate a Marketplace this Fall

The Kroger Co. announced Kroger Ship will expand to offer an extended ship-to-home assortment through a marketplace offering of third-party sellers powered by Mirakl, the leading software platform enabling B2C and B2B digital marketplaces.

"Our customers are increasingly turning to our e-commerce solutions provided at Kroger.com for their grocery and household essential needs. To better serve our customers, we're continuing to invest in technology that enables us to expand our digital services to deliver anything, anytime, anywhere," said Jody Kalmbach, Kroger's group vice president of product experience. "Leveraging Mirakl's best-in-class marketplace solution, we are...

Uber Sees Doubling in UberEats Operations as Ride Hailing Business Stays Low

On August 6, Uber Technologies Incorporated (San Francisco, CA) announced its quarterly earnings results. The company's UberEats unit remains the bright spot for the company, seeing revenue doubled to $1.2 billion as Americans continue to stay at home despite changes in restaurant operation across various states since April. This is in contrast to the ongoing sharp declines in the company's flagship ride-hailing unit as fewer riders and drivers in the US returned to the platform despite improvements in other countries where coronavirus effects are currently more muted...