OPINIONConsumer Trends

What'll it be for a COVID-wisened industry, experience or convenience?

Sweet & Sour: Nancy Kruse and Peter Romeo look at the oft-voiced theory that the pandemic has shifted the focus of restaurant customers and operators to the convenience of takeout and delivery. Neither one is buying it.

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Financing

Struggling I Heart Mac and Cheese franchisees push back against their franchisor

Operators say most of them aren't making money and want a break on their royalties. But they also complain about receiving expired cheese from closed stores. "Don't send us moldy product."

Financing

In California, jobs are up, but traffic is down

The Bottom Line: Limited-service restaurants have not cut jobs in California, despite the $20 fast-food wage. But that doesn't mean it hasn't had an impact.

Technology

First-party catering emerges as a new frontier for restaurant tech

Tech Check: As catering booms, more tech companies are offering restaurants the tools to do it themselves.