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Fast Casual

Operations

Focus Brands is changing its name to GoTo Foods

 By Lisa Jennings on Feb. 20, 2024

The parent of McAlister's Deli, Auntie Anne's, Cinnabon, Carvel, Jamba, Schlotzsky's and Moe's Southwest Grill is evolving into a "platform business."

Emerging Brands

How Sean Brock is spreading joy via Joyland

 By Heather Lalley on Feb. 20, 2024

The famed Southern chef is ready to grow his fast-casual concept, saying it’s “a great privilege for somebody to make something as simple as a burger and fries and see how happy it makes people.”

Operations

Shake Shack stock jumps 26% after better-than-expected year-end report

By Lisa Jennings on Feb. 15, 2024

Traffic for the fast-casual chain was up 1.4% in Q4. And the burger brand is testing combo meals for the first time.

Operations

A view from the fryer at Dave's Hot Chicken

By Lisa Jennings on Feb. 14, 2024

Working in the kitchen at the growing fast-casual chain offers a unique perspective on California's $20 fast-food wage coming in April. It'll be a boon for workers, but some fear a ripple effect through the economy.

Leadership

El Pollo Loco hires Yum Brands vet Liz Williams as CEO

By Heather Lalley on Feb. 13, 2024

Williams, previously president of Taco Bell International, will assume her new role at the fast-casual grilled chicken chain on March 11.

Emerging Brands

How Tacos 1986 is scaling the magic of a Tijuana-style taqueria

By Lisa Jennings on Feb. 12, 2024

It has been a journey that involved pure grit, stretching the truth at times and former first baseman Adrian Gonzalez. But this seven-unit Los Angeles chain is preparing for the next phase of growth.

Operations

Hilton Hotels exec joins Focus Brands' board

By Lisa Jennings on Feb. 12, 2024

Phil Cordell, who has led both the Hampton Inn and Hilton Garden Inn brands, joins the Atlanta-based multi-brand franchise company's board of directors in an expansion.

Workforce

A labor powerhouse launches a fast-food workers' union in California

By Peter Romeo on Feb. 09, 2024

Backed by the deep-pocketed SEIU, the California Fast Food Workers Union aims to organize quick-service workers across brands. It will likely be the source of two members of the state's new wage-setting Fast Food Council.

Operations

How Chipotle will reach a $4 million AUV

By Lisa Jennings on Feb. 07, 2024

It was a strong 2023 for the brand, but how will Chipotle increase average unit sales by another $1 million as it pushes toward 7,000 locations? CEO Brian Niccol says it's all about execution.

Food

Sweetgreen tests a new protein, a first for the chain

By Patricia Cobe on Feb. 06, 2024

The healthy fast casual launches Caramelized Garlic Steak in 22 locations, available in three chef-curated menu items.

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