coronavirus_chains

Financing

Starbucks is taking a break on Happy Hour promotions

By Jonathan Maze on Dec. 15, 2020

The coffee giant decided to pause the promotion out of concern for the safety of its workers.

Financing

Vegan chain By Chloe declares bankruptcy

By Heather Lalley on Dec. 14, 2020

The fast casual, once a rising star of emerging concepts, blamed the pandemic for its troubles and is seeking a buyer.

Operations

Dave & Buster’s plots major ops changes amid continued pandemic challenges

By Heather Lalley on Dec. 11, 2020

The eatertainment chain has massively trimmed its menu, added third-party delivery and is eyeing virtual brands.

Emerging Brands

Emerging chains see opportunity amid the pandemic

By Heather Lalley on Dec. 10, 2020

Leaders of BurgerFi and Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux are optimistic about their continued growth and said operational changes made during this crisis will become table stakes going forward.

Food

How one fast casual is re-thinking its menu for the COVID era

By Heather Lalley on Dec. 04, 2020

Is customization still king for fast casuals? Some chains are moving toward more chef-curated items to speed ordering.

Operations

Fast-casual pizza races to keep up during the pandemic

By Heather Lalley on Dec. 04, 2020

These chains, which had largely relied on dine-in business before the crisis, are playing catch-up with quick-service brands.

Operations

Fast casuals re-imagine their futures

By Heather Lalley on Dec. 04, 2020

Operators are mulling new designs and revamped real estate strategies as the COVID crisis drags on.

Operations

Fast casuals try to solve the drive-thru riddle

By Heather Lalley on Nov. 24, 2020

Many in the segment are experimenting with tech-enabled options to keep their elevated fast-casual positioning while creating safe, convenient pickup methods.

Marketing