Steak 'n Shake

The week in ideas, August 26, 2011

Normally the industry needs a few days to digest an important notion originating outside its ranks. But restaurant leaders wasted no time in warning that a ground-shaker aired this week will be a crack to the industry’s head.

Burger nation

The burger business is hotter than ever. Half of consumers say they eat a burger at least once a week compared to 38 percent two years ago, notes Technomic...

In its report “The Breakfast Club: An Update on Morning Meal Trends,” Datassential unveils the top five fastest-growing breakfast items as yogurt, frittatas, oatmeal, burritos, and huevos rancheros. These trends, according to the report, reflect widespread sub-trends impacting the industry, especially at QSRs and mid-scale establishments.

Milkshakes and malts—two old-time soda-fountain treats—are seeing big-time action at fast casuals. By differentiating the beverage menu with these indulgences, fast-casual concepts are vying for that between-meal customer who is a regular at the coffee cafe.

Healthy fast casuals—especially chef-led concepts (akin to Chipotle founder Steve Ells’ culinary training)—are rolling out with backing from some high-profile players in the restaurant biz.

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