News

Operations

Famous Dave’s posts a traffic jump

But sales at franchised locations continue to slump as the barbecue chain seeks to boost its off-premise operations.

Financing

Sales challenges take root at Freshii

The healthy fast-casual chain’s stock has lost 80% of its value since its 2017 IPO, says RB’s The Bottom Line.

Marketing

Chipotle doubles down on its Lifestyle Bowls

By Jonathan Maze on Mar. 04, 2019

The chain has added a vegan and a vegetarian bowl to its line of diet-friendly options.

Emerging Brands

How Dick’s Last Resort is bringing back bawdy in 2019

By Heather Lalley on Mar. 04, 2019

After more than three decades, the casual-dining concept is getting smarter—but doubling down on its saucy roots.

Leadership

Stoner’s Pizza Joint taps an exec as it prepares to grow

By Heather Lalley on Mar. 04, 2019

Glenn Cybulski will serve as president and chief culinary officer for the quick-service chain.

Financing

Why are chains suddenly ‘fortressing?’

By Jonathan Maze on Mar. 01, 2019

Domino’s and Wingstop are both planning to put more stores in strong markets. RB’s The Bottom Line takes a look at the strategy and its risks.

Financing

Buffalo Wild Wings’ turnaround is underway, franchisee says

By Peter Romeo on Mar. 01, 2019

Sixty-four-unit operator Diversified Restaurant Holdings said the chain’s rejuvenation efforts delivered his company’s first positive comps in three years.

Operations

Los Angeles bans self-service plastic straw dispensers

By Peter Romeo on Mar. 01, 2019

The new legislation also extends the "don’t ask, don’t get" requirement of state law to quick-service places, and puts restrictions on the inclusion of straws in off-premise orders.

Emerging Brands