News

By Jonathan Maze on Dec. 16, 2021

The Bottom Line: The labor force participation rate remains stubbornly low. The continued pandemic is likely to keep it that way for a while.

Leadership

McDonald’s settles lawsuit against former CEO Steve Easterbrook

By Jonathan Maze on Dec. 16, 2021

He has returned $105 million in cash and equity awards and apologized to the company for “failing to uphold McDonald’s values.”

Food

Massachusetts restaurants are barreling toward an egg shortage

By Peter Romeo on Dec. 16, 2021

Supplies of whole eggs could drop by as much as 90%, the poultry industry warns.

Beverage

Chicago proposes a new limit on kids meals

By Peter Romeo on Dec. 16, 2021

A proposal currently before the City Council would prevent restaurants from including sugary beverages in kids meals unless parents specifically request them.

Premium

Operations

Why this COVID surge may bring fewer restaurant restrictions than last time

By Peter Romeo on Dec. 16, 2021

Elsewhere in the world, service limits are being imposed on restaurants again. But in the U.S., officials are relying on vaccination and mask mandates to avoid caps on seating and hours of operation. At least until now.

Operations

Diners can’t enter this new Chipotle location

By Heather Lalley on Dec. 16, 2021

Later this month, the fast casual plans to open its first Chipotlane Digital Kitchen with an order-ahead drive-thru and walk-up window but no indoor access for customers.

Consumer Trends