Fast Casual

Chipotle is putting more workers on the front line to speed service

By Lisa Jennings on Jul. 26, 2023

The fast-casual burrito chain is working to find the right balance between its customer-facing and digital makelines as it works to improve throughput in the restaurants.

Food

Shake Shack plans a picnic to wrap up July

By Patricia Cobe on Jul. 25, 2023

The fast-casual is packing up a plant-based meal-to-go featuring its new Veggie Shack burger and non-dairy chocolate frozen custard.

Operations

Potbelly founder to build shops in Maryland as franchisee

By Lisa Jennings on Jul. 19, 2023

Bryant Keil, who built a Chicago antique store into a chain of sandwich shops, has signed a 27-unit agreement to operate locations with his son Hampden.

Financing

Indiana tells I Heart Mac & Cheese to stop selling franchises in the state

By Jonathan Maze on Jul. 18, 2023

The Florida-based fast-casual mac-and-cheese concept's franchise registration was canceled after being cited for several violations in its franchise disclosure document.

Operations

Chipotle takes on first-ever international franchise partner

By Lisa Jennings on Jul. 18, 2023

Alshaya Group plans to bring the fast-casual brand to Dubai and Kuwait, starting in 2024, with more growth planned for the Middle East.

Technology

Vebu Labs steals spotlight with Chipotle's avocado-peeling 'Autocado'

By Lisa Jennings on Jul. 14, 2023

The startup shares a founder with Miso Robotics and is positioning to collaborate with restaurant brands that want to bring "smaller-risk" automation that is specific to their needs.

Technology

Donatos Pizza to launch pizza vending machine

By Joe Guszkowski on Jul. 13, 2023

The chain and its sister companies Agape Automation and the Grote Co. are co-developing the automated pizzeria with robotics firm Appetronix.

Operations

Chipotle tests avocado-peeling robot as potential guac game changer

By Lisa Jennings on Jul. 12, 2023

Guacamole will still be made by hand, but the "Autocado" could speed the process and free up workers. Chipotle has also invested in the robotic company behind it.

Marketing