Fast_Casual

Why this up-and-coming salad chain says it’s ready to go head-to-head with Sweetgreen

By Heather Lalley on Apr. 15, 2022

Crisp & Green, founded in 2016 by former fitness chain executive Steele Smiley, said it has been profitable every quarter and that it is seeing $2.5 million average unit volumes.

Technology

Panera Bread to test AI to help keep coffee fresh

By Joe Guszkowski on Apr. 12, 2022

The fast-casual chain is using software from the maker of Flippy to monitor the coffee station so workers don’t have to.

Premium

Topics

As lines blur, the term ‘fast casual’ has become obsolete

By Jonathan Maze on Apr. 06, 2022

The Bottom Line: As more chains like Chipotle and Shake Shack add drive-thrus and focus on takeout, they look more like the fast-food restaurants from which they tried to differentiate themselves.

Marketing

Chipotle takes another trip to the metaverse with its new Burrito Builder

By Heather Lalley on Apr. 05, 2022

For the first time, players can earn virtual currency that can be converted into real burritos and bowls from the fast-casual chain.

Food

Southern flavors drive menu R&D at Big Chicken, Shaquille O'Neal's fast casual

By Patricia Cobe on Apr. 01, 2022

Two top Las Vegas chefs transform the NBA legend's family favorites into brand signatures and add menu stars of their own.

Technology

Chipotle tests a high-tech inventory tracking system

By Heather Lalley on Mar. 31, 2022

The burrito chain, which faced widespread foodborne illness outbreaks in 2015, said the radio-frequency identification system will help it better respond to food safety and quality worries.

Premium

Marketing

How Teriyaki Madness turned a major marketing oops into a win

By Heather Lalley on Mar. 31, 2022

When the Asian bowl chain accidentally sent (and had to take back) an email offering a free year of food to 8,300 loyalty club members, it crafted a sweet result out of a potentially sour situation.

Operations