earnings

Financing

Why Texas Roadhouse could soon be the country’s biggest casual-dining chain

The brand now believes it can have 900 restaurants in the U.S. That footprint combined with robust sales put it on pace to pass its competitors.

Operations

Chipotle is losing guests to McDonald’s. Will the burrito chain discount to bring them back?

It’s a conversation that came up during the Great Recession, said Chipotle CFO Jack Hartung.

Delivery sales increased during the company’s third quarter even as more people returned to its dining rooms. “The customer has a habit,” CEO Dave Deno said.

Camp McDonald’s helped propel digital sales at the burger giant, though the strong dollar caused some headaches. The company also warned of a potential recession in the U.S. and Europe.

The chain will acquire the restaurants early next year as its corporate locations continue to outperform franchisees.

Domestic same-store sales were up 6.9%, mostly on increased transactions, and the fast-casual chain sees room for growth with new sandwiches and expansion of delivery.

But higher-income diners remain undeterred by price increases and third-quarter results remain strong.

The casual-dining chain, owned by Fat Brands, has seen strong sales this year. And its sales are up in Florida.

Changes such as new chicken wings and more efficient scheduling are expected to add 200 basis points to its margins.

The pizza chain sold the locations for $41.1 million. It also said its same-store sales improved in the U.S. last quarter.

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