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Fast Casual

Financing

Cosi closes more locations and puts itself up for sale

 By Jonathan Maze on Jan. 10, 2020

The long-struggling fast-casual chain has been closing locations throughout New England in recent weeks.

Technology

Zume shuts down its robot-powered pizza business

 By Heather Lalley on Jan. 10, 2020

The company, once said to be valued at $4 billion, is laying off half its staff and pivoting its focus as it joins other struggling robot-enabled restaurant startups.

Leadership

Wingstop names a new COO

By Heather Lalley on Jan. 08, 2020

Mahesh Sadarangani, formerly of CEC, replaces Larry Kruguer, who resigned last month.

Leadership

Rave appoints a finance head

By Heather Lalley on Jan. 08, 2020

Clint Fendley will oversee finances for the parent company of Pizza Inn and Pie Five.

Emerging Brands

Struggling Muscle Maker Grill debuts a new concept

By Heather Lalley on Jan. 06, 2020

Healthy Joe’s, a fast casual serving food cooked in a 500-degree conveyer oven, opened in New York City.

Operations

Applebee's tries a fast-casual venture

By Peter Romeo on Jan. 03, 2020

The first Applebee's Express emphasizes takeout and delivery, with fewer seats in a smaller format.

Leadership

Wingstop’s chief operating officer to depart

By Jonathan Maze on Jan. 02, 2020

Lawrence Kruguer will leave in March, making him the fourth executive to leave the company in the past year.

Financing

In Burgerim, another fast-growth story is too good to be true

By Jonathan Maze on Dec. 20, 2019

The burger brand is the latest example of a franchise chain that grew quickly, only to run into problems, says RB’s The Bottom Line.

Marketing

Value pitches cut through casual dining’s holiday ad clutter

By Peter Romeo on Dec. 20, 2019

A weekly ranking of restaurant chains’ top TV commercials by effectiveness shows consumers responding to value-oriented pitches from casual brands. But limited-service brands fared better with spots promising an experience.

Financing

Fast-growing Burgerim is apparently considering bankruptcy

By Jonathan Maze on Dec. 19, 2019

The burger chain, which rapidly signed up hundreds of franchisees, told operators this week that it has hired a restructuring officer and a bankruptcy attorney.

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