Hudson Riehle, Long-Time Leader of Association Research and Knowledge Group, to Retire

Today, the National Restaurant Association announced that Hudson Riehle, senior vice president of the organization's Research and Knowledge Group, will retire in April.

For more than 38 years, Riehle has provided the data and thought leadership that defined the restaurant and foodservice industry. From the Association's forecast of annual sales and employment growth, to showing the impact of economic catastrophes like the 2020 pandemic and the 2008-2009 recession, Riehle has transformed how the economic impact of the industry is understood at the...

7-Eleven, Inc. Offers Free Pizza to Football Fans and Pizza Lovers for the Big Game

The Big Game may be a celebration for some, but for most fans, it's a tough reminder that their team didn't make it to the grand finale of football season. This year, 7-Eleven is stepping up to help viewers eat their feelings by offering a FREE pizza for fans whose teams didn't make the final cut.

Throwing a pity party for your team's loss? Don't bother. 7-Eleven has fans covered by offering a FREE pizza with your...

The Retail Rundown: Arctic Blast Supports Egg Demand While Seafood Leads Ads

Seafood continues to lead the retail protein category for the fourth consecutive week, accounting for 29% of all featured advertisements. Beef comes in second with 25%, while pork and chicken are tied at 20% each.

Arctic air across much of the country and an unusual winter storm in the South have influenced product movement and demand this week. Expana reports that the frigid conditions have boosted egg demand as consumers stock up on essentials.

Wholesale egg prices have ascended to a fresh all-time high, with Expana’s Midwest large quotation at...

Steak n Shake to Use 100% Beef Tallow

Steak n Shake announced today that it is moving forward with the use of 100% all-natural beef tallow in all its restaurants. Steak n Shake has long been famous for its shoestring fries – and it will now fry them in the best way possible.

When fries were created centuries ago, they were made with tallow. "Our fries will now be cooked in an authentic way, 100% beef tallow, in order to achieve the highest quality and best taste," said Chris Ward, chief supply chain officer for Steak n Shake...

Church’s Texas Chicken® Announces Changes and New Additions to its C-Suite

Church’s Texas Chicken®, one of the largest quick-service chicken restaurant chains in the world, today announced two important changes to its executive leadership team. The appointments include a new Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) and Chief Legal Officer (CLO) effective immediately.

Church’s current Executive Vice President and CMO, Natalia Franco, has announced her plans to retire at the end of January. Franco joined Church’s in 2023 and helped revitalize and spearhead the company’s branding, marketing, digital and communication efforts over the past two years with...

Sysco and Teamsters Face Off in Houston: Strike Looms as Contract Deadline Nears

The International Brotherhood of Teamsters (IBT) have threatened strikes across multiple states if their demands are not met with foodservice distribution giant Sysco and other major food distributors and retailers.

The most pressing issue between the two sides is focused in the Houston area as the contract between IBT’s Teamsters Local 988, which represents truck drivers in the city, is preparing to strike if it cannot reach a new contract agreement with Sysco Houston before the current deal expires on January 17...

Start the New Year with Steak Stroganoff: Noodles & Company's Fan-Favorite is Back

Steak Stroganoff is once again Steak StroganON! Noodles & Company (NASDAQ: NDLS), the fast-casual chain known for delivering Uncommon Goodness, is kicking off the New Year with flavor, announcing the highly anticipated return of Steak Stroganoff. Beginning today for a limited time, guests can enjoy Steak Stroganoff at all Noodles locations nationwide, in restaurants, or by placing an order through the Noodles mobile app or third-party delivery.  

Noodles Delivers What Guests Are Craving 
In its celebrated return in 2024, Steak Stroganoff made a remarkable impact, selling...

Panera Bread Announces New Leadership Additions to Marketing and Culinary Teams

Panera Bread, a leader and pioneer in the fast casual restaurant industry, today announced two new leadership appointments in marketing and culinary with the addition of Robin Seward as Senior Vice President, Brand and Integrated Marketing, and Scott Uehlein as Vice President, Culinary. Both leaders joined Panera in early January and report to Chief Marketing Officer Mark Shambura.

Robin Seward joins Panera as Senior Vice President, Brand and Integrated Marketing. A seasoned leader and brand strategist, Seward oversees all strategic marketing planning, including consumer insights, product...

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc. Reports Preliminary Revenue Results for the Fourth Quarter 

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc. ("Red Robin" or the "Company"), a full-service restaurant chain serving an innovative selection of high-quality gourmet burgers and American favorites in a family-friendly atmosphere, today reported preliminary, unaudited revenue results for the fourth quarter ended December 29, 2024.

Preliminary Revenue Results for the Fourth Quarter of Fiscal 2024 as Compared to the Fourth Quarter of Fiscal 2023:

• Total revenue is expected to be approximately $285.2 million, a decrease of $23.8 million, primarily due...

Domino's® Kicks Off the New Year with 50% Off Pizza Deal

Domino's Pizza Inc., the largest pizza company in the world, is celebrating the new year by launching a delicious deal: 50% off all menu-priced pizzas ordered online Jan. 13-19.

"The holidays are over, but to us, the party has just begun," said Frank Garrido, Domino's executive vice president – chief restaurant officer. "Domino's is celebrating the new year by giving customers a deal that'll make their taste buds jump for joy. All pizzas are half off, so customers can enjoy any size pizza...

Shake Shack Names Justin Mennen as Chief Information and Technology Officer

Shake Shack Inc. today announced the appointment of Justin Mennen as Chief Information and Technology Officer, effective January 13, 2025. Mennen will report to Rob Lynch, CEO of Shake Shack, and will oversee all aspects of technology.

“Justin brings a wealth of experience as a technology leader to Shake Shack, along with an impressive track record of driving innovation across industries,” said Lynch. “He’s joining us at a pivotal time in our growth, and we’re confident his expertise will play a key role in...

Firehouse Subs® Sets Sights on Brazil with Ambitious Expansion Plans

Today, the Firehouse Subs® brand announces its entry to Brazil building on its international expansion. The brand plans to open more than 500 restaurants in 10 years across the country. The first restaurant is expected to launch in 2025 and will mark Firehouse Subs debut in South America.

Founded in Jacksonville, Florida, in 1994 by two former firefighter brothers, Firehouse Subs is celebrated for its premium sandwiches, made using a unique cooking method unlocking juicier flavors by steaming the meats and cheeses...

Einstein Bros. Bagels Celebrates National Bagel Day with Free Egg Sandwich

This National Bagel Day, everyone who's ready to give up a New Year's resolution that has them eating cardboard-tasting breakfast cereal can now embrace their cravings. Beginning January 15, Einstein Bros. Bagels Rewards members can 'give it up for Einstein Bros.' with a Free Egg Sandwich with purchase when ordering ahead in the app or online this month.

"Studies show that nearly half of New Year's resolutions are abandoned by the end of January," said Hector Briones, Chief Marketing Officer at Einstein Bros. Bagels. 

The Retail Rundown: Post-Holiday Slowdown Influences January Spending 

January typically marks a slowdown in consumer spending as households transition from the holiday season to their regular routines.

Early in the month, retailers experience a short-lived boost in sales, driven by replenishment efforts after the holiday food rush. As schools reopen and guests leave, families restock essentials for breakfast, lunch, and weeknight meals.

This restocking coincides with New Year’s resolutions, especially those focused on healthier eating. Consequently, shoppers gravitate toward the perimeter of the stores where fresh items, including produce, proteins, and dairy, are featured. Although retail...

Panera Brands Announces Leadership Change, Appoints Paul Carbone as Interim CEO

Panera Brands, one of the world’s largest fast-casual restaurant platforms and the parent company to Panera Bread and Caribou Coffee, has announced a change in leadership.

José Alberto Dueñas, who served as CEO of Panera Bread for just over a year and a half, is stepping down from his role.

During his tenure, Dueñas earned praise from Board Chair Patrick Grismer for his efforts in revitalizing the company’s menu, improving business margins, and strengthening organizational structure. Grismer noted that Dueñas successfully positioned the...

Bojangles Kicks Off New Year With the Return of Chicken Rice Bowls and All-New, Bo-Berry Cobbler

Bojangles – the iconic, Carolina-born fast-food chain known for its bold flavors and crave-worthy recipes – today announced two limited-time products hitting menus this month, including the highly anticipated return of Chicken Rice Bowls and a new iteration of its legendary biscuit-inspired cobbler with a Bo-Berry Cobbler.

The hearty, satisfying Chicken Rice Bowls are back by popular demand, perfect for warming up during the chilly winter months and featuring a...

Jack in the Box Adds Two New Flavors to the Jack Wrap Lineup

Jack in the Box, Inc. is starting 2025 with a wrap-tastic bang by bringing new flavors to its wildly popular Jack Wraps nationwide. After a successful test drive of new flavors in select markets, the wraps are making a bold entrance to menus everywhere, proving once again that Jack in the Box knows exactly how to keep fans coming back for more.

Jack’s expertise and commitment to offering the best in portable, delicious snacks is clear. Unlike other restaurant chains that take years...

Fall in Love with Applebee’s in 2025 with The Really Big Meal Deal and Valentine’s Day Drink Specials

Applebee’s is the place to be in 2025 with its unbeatable Really Big Meal Deal for only $9.99, in addition to the return of its Smoocho Sips cocktails and mocktails! But that’s not all – things are heating up with Applebee’s NEW Sizzlin’ Caramel Apple Pie for $5.99 and NEW Hot Honey Chicken & Bacon Skillet.

Big in size, flavor, and value, Applebee’s is extending its Really Big Meal Deal for only $9.99, which includes...

$5 Bowls with Five Choices: KFC® Debuts Hot New Lineup of Flavorful Bowls

KFC is introducing a hot new lineup of five flavor-packed bowls for a limited time, including KFC icons like the Famous Bowl and saucy twists like the new Nashville Hot Loaded Fries Bowl. For a limited time, the fan-favorite Nashville Hot Sauce is back on KFC menus nationwide, while supplies last. Indulge your cravings with a hearty, warm, comforting bowl this winter for just $5 each, making your post-holiday wallet happy. The five flavor-packed $5 options...

For the Ultimate in Fine Dining on Valentine's Day, Reserve Your Table at White Castle

You can't put a price on love except, perhaps, when it comes to dining out.

This Valentine's Day, White Castle is here to remind people that celebrating romance doesn't have to come with a hefty price tag. Why drop a fortune on a typical dinner when you can enjoy all the flavorful, festive and fun vibes at White Castle — without breaking the bank?
White Castle, home of the iconic Original Slider, is once again hosting...

Chipotle X Strava Partnership Goes Global: Introducing "The City Challenge"

Chipotle Mexican Grill today announced that its partnership with Strava, the app for active people with more than 135 million users in more than 190 countries, is back and bigger than ever in 2025. Chipotle is launching its first-ever international Strava segment challenge for participants to compete to win free Lifestyle Bowls for a year, plus free Chipotle for their city.2 New in 2025, the initiative extends beyond the U.S., connecting and motivating Chipotle's running community across 25... 

Arcos Dorados and McDonald’s Renew Master Franchise Agreement for 20 Years

Arcos Dorados Holdings Inc. (NYSE: ARCO) (“Arcos Dorados” or the “Company”), Latin America’s largest restaurant chain and the world’s largest independent McDonald’s franchisee announced that, on December 30, 2024, it renewed its Master Franchise Agreement (“MFA”) with McDonald’s (NYSE: MCD).

he parties have finalized a new, 20-year MFA, that became effective on January 1, 2025, and replaced the previous MFA. The new MFA also includes a renewal option, at McDonald’s discretion, for a new, 20-year MFA, beginning January 1, 2045...

White Castle's All-Day Breakfast Menu Brings Back French Toast Sliders to Kick Off 2025

White Castle, America's first fast-food restaurant and home of the real all-day breakfast menu, is ready to take taste buds on a delectable journey with the limited time return of the French Toast Slider. Because White Castle isn't afraid to push the boundaries, this sweet treat, like all breakfast menu items, can be enjoyed morning, noon, and even at Night Castle!

The French Toast Slider is a Slider sized Cinnamon Swirl French Toast sandwich layered with a fresh cracked egg, American cheese...

Restaurants and Grocers Gear Up for 2025: A Focus on Tech, Value, and Wellness

Against the backdrop of a turbulent economic landscape, 2024 saw the food industry grappling with rising inflation, geopolitical uncertainties, and the US presidential election's impact on key global commodity markets. For consumers, tighter budgets drove a heightened focus on value, with many turning to private-label brands, budget-friendly meal solutions, and bulk purchasing. Simultaneously, the demand for transparency, sustainability, and innovation continued to shape purchasing decisions, even as affordability took center stage. 

As we look ahead to 2025, value remains...

Darden Restaurants Report Strong Q2 Results with 6.0% Sales Growth

Darden Restaurants reported a 6.0% increase in total sales for Q2 which ended November 24, reaching $2.9 billion, with same-restaurant sales up 2.4%.

Olive Garden generated $1.292 billion in sales, LongHorn Steakhouse brought in $710.1 million, and the company’s Fine Dining segment earned $306 million.

In addition, Darden’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $1.40 per share on the company’s outstanding common stock.

"We had a strong quarter and I am pleased that our four largest brands...

Teamsters at Sysco Houston Authorize Strike

Over 430 drivers, warehouse workers, and mechanics represented by Teamsters Local 988 have voted overwhelmingly to authorize a strike after Sysco failed to present an acceptable contract offer.

"Nothing our members are demanding is unreasonable," said Robert Mele, President of Local 988. "These workers want what everyone in this country deserves: fair wages, quality health care, and a secure retirement. If Sysco refuses to get serious at the bargaining table, we are ready to hold them accountable for their greed."

The Teamsters represent more than 10,000 workers at Sysco...

Ark Restaurants Announces Financial Results for the Fourth Quarter and Fiscal Year Ended 2024

Ark Restaurants Corp. today reported financial results for the fourth quarter and fiscal year ended September 28, 2024.

The Company’s fiscal year ends on the Saturday nearest September 30. The fiscal years ended September 28, 2024 and September 30, 2023 both included 52 weeks and the quarters ended September 28, 2024 and September 30, 2023 both included 13 weeks.

Financial Results

Total revenues for the 13 weeks ended September 28, 2024 were $43,406,000 versus $44,400,000 for the 13 weeks ended...

Taco Bell Reimagines Chicken Nugget Experience with Tortilla Chip-Breaded Crispy Nuggets

In a world where chicken nugget loyalty runs deep, Taco Bell is daring to push the boundaries of innovation yet again with the introduction of Crispy Chicken Nuggets and a lineup of irresistible dipping sauces that's sure to challenge people's devotion to their typical favorites, available starting December 19, for a limited time and while supplies last. Entirely distinct, yet universally familiar, the tender all-white meat chicken bites are marinated in zesty jalapeño buttermilk flavor and breaded with a blend of breadcrumbs and crunchy tortilla chips to...

TD Bank Survey: Restaurant Industry Anticipates Bright 2025 with Tech and M&A at the Forefront

A survey conducted by TD Bank at the 2024 Restaurant Finance and Development Conference indicated that optimism has returned to the restaurant franchise industry after years of challenges.

The TD Bank poll collected insights from 175 restaurant operators and finance professionals as they look ahead to 2025. Alongside the optimistic outlook, TD Bank noted that the adoption of digital and mobile ordering, menu creativity and higher expectations around AI were also key findings from the survey...

Wendy's Offers 12 Days of Sweet & Spicy Holiday BOGO Deals Exclusively In-App

WHAT:
'Tis the season to celebrate twelve days of Wendy's® BOGO deals – it's officially "Bow-GO" season! Beginning today, December 11, fans can "unwrap" Wendy's in-app gifts to discover twelve days of delicious deals for more than $50 in savings. Save on the most beloved Wendy's menu items of 2024 every single day, exclusively in the Wendy's app* through Sunday, December 22. Want to know what's under the Wendy's tree? In-app deals will include buy-one-get-one...

Domino's Pizza® to Transfer Stock Exchange Listing to Nasdaq

Domino's Pizza, Inc., the largest pizza company in the world, today announced that it will voluntarily transfer its stock exchange listing to the Nasdaq Global Select Market from the New York Stock Exchange, effective December 31, 2024, after market close. Domino's common stock is expected to begin trading as a Nasdaq-listed security on January 2, 2025. The Company will retain its current ticker symbol "DPZ."

About Domino's Pizza®

Founded in 1960, Domino's Pizza is the largest pizza company in the world, with...

CHI-CHI’S Restaurants Set for Comeback After Two Decades

Nearly 20 years after closing the last CHI-CHI’S™ restaurant location, the popular Mexican restaurant chain is set to make a comeback thanks to a new agreement with Hormel Foods, owner of CHI-CHI’S™ trademarks. The deal grants Michael McDermott, son of CHI-CHI’S™ founder, use of the CHI-CHI’S™ name on physical restaurant locations which are expected to open in 2025.

Michael McDermott is determined to honor his family’s legacy by combining the classic CHI-CHI’S™ restaurant experience with modern influence...

ASEAN Customers Study U.S. Pork and Beef in Trend-Setting Korea

To expand the range of U.S. pork and beef cuts in the ASEAN, USMEF led retail and foodservice teams to Korea to study how U.S. red meat is utilized.

Characterized by the growth of single-person households and growing demand for quality and convenience, the Korean food industry has invested heavily in new product development and has become an innovator in its uses of U.S. pork and beef. USMEF recently brought teams of retail and foodservice customers from the ASEAN region to Korea to study new products...

Subway Announces CEO Transition

Subway, one of the world's largest restaurant brands, today announced that John Chidsey, Global Chief Executive Officer (CEO), will retire from the company at the end of 2024, after five years of exceptional leadership in the role. Carrie Walsh, Subway's current President of Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) and former Global Chief Marketing Officer (CMO), will assume the role of Interim CEO, while a search is conducted to identify John's permanent successor.

"I am honored to step into the role of Interim CEO, continuing to drive key initiatives to help...

McDonald’s Gets Saucy This Holiday Season to Celebrate the Return of the McRib® Sandwich

The wait is finally over. Starting Dec. 3, for a limited time, your favorite saucy sandwich – the McRib – returns to participating restaurants just in time to satisfy your holiday cravings. After all, ‘tis the season…McRib SZN, that is.

The Sauciest Time of the Year

For the first time ever, we’re giving fans a chance to savor the McRib’s signature flavor. Introducing: A Whole Lotta McRib Sauce, a half-gallon jug of the iconic McRib sauce – perfect for...

Chipotle Reaches 1,000th Chipotlane Milestone 

Chipotle Mexican Grill  announced today the opening of its 1,000th Chipotlane restaurant on Thursday, November 21. Located in the Kansas City metro area, the milestone restaurant will feature the company's signature digital order drive thru pick-up lane. Of the company's more than 3,600 restaurants in its real estate portfolio, nearly 30% feature a Chipotlane.

"Chipotlanes are a critical piece of our long-term growth goal of reaching 7,000 restaurants in North America," said Chris Brandt, Chief Brand Officer. "This restaurant format

is the fastest way for fans to...

Panera Brands Announces New Independent Board Appointments

Panera Brands Inc., which includes the iconic fast-casual concept Panera Bread as well as the Caribou Coffee and Einstein Bros. brands, today announced appointments to its Board of Directors to bolster its restaurant industry experience as the company prepares for its next phase of growth. Patrick Grismer, previously Chief Financial Officer of Starbucks and Lead Independent Director of Panera, has been named Board Chair. Additionally, industry veteran David Deno has joined the Board and will assume the role of Audit Committee Chair, effective immediately...

Kingswood Capital Management Acquires Branding Iron Holdings, a Leading Protein Provider

Kingswood Capital Management, LP (together with its affiliates, “Kingswood”) announced today that it has acquired Branding Iron Holdings (“Branding Iron” or “the Company”), an industry-leading provider of branded and private label protein products, including beef and pork, with a core focus on frozen and refrigerated ground meats. This represents the latest investment for Kingswood in the food and beverage industry.

“It was important to us to identify a long-term partner who will help us grow and support customers across...

McDonald’s USA, Syngenta and Lopez Foods Collaborate to Help Produce Beef More Sustainably in the US

McDonald’s USA, one of the largest fast food restaurant chains, Lopez Foods, a multi-protein producer and long-term supplier to McDonald’s, and Syngenta North America, a leader in agricultural technology, today announced a collaboration that aims to increase feed efficiency and help reduce the amount of greenhouse gas emissions released per pound of meat produced, as part of efforts to improve the sustainability of beef production.

Enogen® corn is an in-seed innovation available exclusively from Syngenta, that...

7-Eleven, Inc. Unwraps Delicious Holiday Hot Food Deals to Satisfy Seasonal Cravings

Tis the season for sweet savings! 7-Eleven, Inc. is ringing in the holidays with irresistible deals that will delight taste buds and make celebrations merry and bright. From savings on pizza that the whole family can enjoy to mini chicken quesadillas and tacos that are perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, customers can savor 7-Eleven's latest mouthwatering new items and discounts at participating 7-Eleven®, Speedway® and Stripes® stores, including...

Red Lobster Unveils New Menu; CEO Makes Stop on TODAY Show

Red Lobster’s new CEO, Damola Adamolekun, appeared on TODAY earlier this week to promote the seafood chain’s new menu and discuss its future as Red Lobster moves past its bankruptcy.

“Relevant, compelling and exciting is what we want Red Lobster to be for the future, and so we’re working on that now,” Adamolekun told TODAY’s Savannah Sellers.

In hopes of achieving that goal, Red Lobster debuted a new TV spot highlighting the new menu, which features seven new menu options, including...

Subway Unveils New Global Restaurant Design

Subway®, one of the world's largest restaurant brands, is introducing "Fresh Forward 2.0." Rolling out globally in 2025, the next iteration of its global restaurant image is designed to further enhance the guest experience, improve convenience and help drive franchisee profitability.

Since the launch of the initial Fresh Forward design in 2017, over 20,000 restaurants worldwide have remodeled or built new locations in Subway's modern image, helping reset brand perceptions, grow sales, and reenergize franchisees and their teams. Fresh Forward 2.0, builds on that...

Thanks a Million, America! Burger King® Gives Away One Million Whopper® Sandwiches for Just $1

To say thank you to everyone who submitted their dream Whopper creation in the Million Dollar Whopper Contest, Burger King is serving up one million original Whopper sandwiches for just $1 starting Nov. 12 – while supplies last;

Starting Nov. 14, after much anticipation, Burger King Guests can enjoy the three finalist Million Dollar Whopper Contest builds and help crown the winner of the $1 million grand prize

Earlier this year, Burger King introduced...

Applebee’s Introduces NEW Really BIG Meal Deal

Enjoy the NEW Big Cluckin’ Chicken Sandwich or BIG Classic Bacon Cheeseburger, served with Classic Fries and a fountain drink for just $9.99; Available for both dine-in and To Go

Applebee’s is going BIG with the debut of its NEW Really BIG Meal Deal featuring the NEW Big Cluckin’ Chicken Sandwich and BIG Classic Bacon Cheeseburger served with Classic Fries and a fountain drink for only $9.99!* Big Taste, Big Flavor and Big Value, the Applebee’s NEW Really BIG Meal Deal is available now for...

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc. Reports Results for the Fiscal Third Quarter Ended October 6, 2024

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc., a full-service restaurant chain serving an innovative selection of high-quality gourmet burgers in a family-friendly atmosphere, today reported financial results for the fiscal third quarter ended October 6, 2024.

Highlights for the Third Quarter of Fiscal 2024, Compared to the Third Quarter of Fiscal 2023:

• Total revenues are $274.6 million, a decrease of $2.9 million.
• Comparable restaurant revenue(1) increased 0.6%.
• Net loss is $18.9 million, compared to...

US Foods Reports Third Quarter Fiscal Year 2024 Earnings

US Foods Holding Corp., one of the largest foodservice distributors in the United States, today announced results for the third quarter fiscal year 2024.

Third Quarter Fiscal Year 2024 Highlights

• Net sales increased 6.8% to $9.7 billion
• Total case volume increased 3.8%; independent restaurant case volume increased 4.1%
• Gross profit increased 8.1% to $1.7 billion
• Net income was $148 million
• Adjusted EBITDA increased 13.2% to $455 million
• Diluted EPS increased 60.5% to $0.61; Adjusted Diluted EPS increased 21.4% to $0.85...

Foodservice and Retail Merge as Boundaries Blur in a Transforming Market, Reports Circana

Circana, a leading advisor on the complexity of consumer behaviour, reports key shifts in the foodservice industry, revealing that traditional boundaries between foodservice and retail are becoming increasingly blurred.

The research, based on Circana’s comprehensive CREST data, reveals that European consumers spent €888 billion on food and beverages in the past year, with 37% of that dedicated to ‘immediate consumption’ options across both retail and foodservice channels.

The immediate consumption category includes food and drinks purchased for immediate use...

Red Lobster Appoints Larry Konecny as Chief Operating Officer

Red Lobster® today announced the appointment of Larry Konecny as Chief Operating Officer (COO). In this role, Konecny will lead the operational strategy for Red Lobster's 545 restaurants across the United States and Canada. Reporting directly to CEO Damola Adamolekun, he will drive initiatives to deliver elevated food quality, customer service, and operational efficiency, while fostering a culture rooted in teamwork and excellence.

"Larry brings an exceptional combination of operational expertise, a passion for developing high-performing teams, and a genuine understanding of what it... 

FAT Brands Inc. Reports Third Quarter 2024 Financial Results

FAT (Fresh. Authentic. Tasty.) Brands Inc. (“FAT Brands” or the “Company”) today reported financial results for the fiscal third quarter ended September 29, 2024.

Andy Wiederhorn, Chairman of FAT Brands, said, “Over the last three years, we have expanded our brand portfolio to include 18 distinct concepts while our footprint has increased tenfold, now encompassing over 2,300 locations across more than 40 countries and 49 U.S. states or territories. We opened 22 new units during the third quarter, bringing our year-to-date openings to 71 new...

QDOBA Announces Appointment of Former Applebee's COO, Kevin Carroll, as Chief Operating Officer

America's rapidly growing #2 restaurant brand in the Mexican fast-casual category, today announced Kevin Carroll has joined the company as Chief Operating Officer. Carroll brings extensive restaurant leadership experience and is responsible for all aspects of QDOBA's operations strategy and execution across approximately 800 restaurants in the U.S., Puerto Rico and Canada. This appointment comes on the heels of the brand posting a 7.7% increase in comp sales for its fiscal year ending September 2024, on top of last year's 6.3% comp sales growth...

Bob Baker Named CFO of Red Lobster Amid Company’s Turnaround Efforts

Red Lobster has appointed Bob Baker as the company’s new Chief Financial Officer (CFO), a veteran C-suite executive in the foodservice industry. Baker will report to CEO Damola Adamolekun as part of the company's executive leadership team.

"Bob brings not only deep financial expertise but also a passion for restaurant operations," said Adamolekun. "His wealth of experience gained across the restaurant industry, combined with his hands-on approach, will be invaluable as we continue to position Red Lobster for long-term growth...

Starbucks Announces Increase in Quarterly Cash Dividend

Starbucks Corporation (NASDAQ: SBUX) today announced that its Board of Directors approved an increase in the company’s quarterly cash dividend from $0.57 to $0.61 per share of outstanding Common Stock. This increase will be effective with the dividend payable on November 29, 2024, to shareholders of record on November 15, 2024, and raises the company’s annual dividend rate to $2.44 per share.

Starbucks initiated its dividend in 2010 at $0.05 per share of outstanding Common Stock, and increased its dividend consecutively each year over the past 14 years...