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delivery

Operations

Trends shaping the restaurant industry so far in 2019

At the six-month mark, critical forces have clearly emerged. Here’s a sampling.

Financing

Coffee chains dip their toes into delivery

Starbucks and Dunkin’ are both promising more beverage delivery, says RB’s The Bottom Line. Will it work?

Marketing

Red Robin adds Donatos pizza to selected menus

By Peter Romeo on Jun. 21, 2019

The casual chain is testing the Midwestern chain’s pies as a draw for more delivery sales.

Operations

Olive Garden tries new off-premise moves

By Peter Romeo on Jun. 20, 2019

The Darden Restaurants holding is still a no-go on small-order delivery, but its catering program is moving within reach of couples.

Financing

As delivery evolves, so do restaurant chains’ approaches to the service

By Jonathan Maze on Jun. 18, 2019

Profitability concerns and more demand have led to a variety of strategies—and a broad sense that chains have to get this right.

Technology

Domino’s is testing autonomous vehicle delivery in Houston

By Jonathan Maze on Jun. 17, 2019

More chains are testing robots and drones as delivery experiments continue.

Operations

Starbucks is exploring delivery-only stores

By Heather Lalley on Jun. 12, 2019

After testing “virtual” kitchens in China, the Seattle-based coffee giant is looking to bring the model to the U.S.

Financing

Amazon to shut down its restaurant delivery service

By Jonathan Maze on Jun. 11, 2019

The online retailer opts to end Amazon Restaurants as the third-party delivery business continues to consolidate.

Operations

Chili’s adds delivery through exclusive deal with DoorDash

By Peter Romeo on Jun. 11, 2019

The third-party service also becomes the exclusive delivery partner of Maggiano’s.

Financing

More delivery does not mean fewer locations

By Jonathan Maze on May 31, 2019

If anything, growth in takeout could pressure concepts to build more units, says RB’s The Bottom Line.