News

Restaurant Leadership Conference returns next month

By Restaurant Business Staff on Nov. 11, 2021

One of the industry’s largest networking events comes back after a pandemic pause, featuring speeches by leaders such as Jose Cil, Robert Earl and Shaquille O’Neal, as well as dozens of educational sessions.

Financing

Dutch Bros sales improve despite 'headwinds,' thanks to loyalty

By Jonathan Maze on Nov. 11, 2021

The company’s new rewards app has already proven popular among customers and it is looking for new capabilities to improve it further.

Premium

Operations

Ghost kitchens unlock big-city real estate for casual dining

By Joe Guszkowski on Nov. 11, 2021

Chains like Cracker Barrel and Chili’s are using small-format kitchens to go places they couldn’t before.

Financing

BurgerFi’s openings take a big hit due to supply and labor shortages

By Heather Lalley on Nov. 11, 2021

The better-burger brand had planned to open up to 30 new restaurants this year. On Thursday, the fast casual revised that estimate to 18 new stores.

Operations

In-N-Out is not moving to Florida

By Jonathan Maze on Nov. 11, 2021

The company acknowledged that its president, Lynsi Snyder-Ellingson, spoke with the state’s governor. But it says it is not expanding into the state.

Financing

Worker shortages are cutting into Pollo Tropical’s earnings

By Heather Lalley on Nov. 11, 2021

The fast casual is recovering from the pandemic but it said its growth is being slowed in cities where it is having a hard time finding employees.

Operations

Pie oh my: Bakers report a shortage of tins

By Heather Lalley on Nov. 11, 2021

With the holidays (and prime pie-eating season) approaching, restaurants are feeling the impact of soaring aluminum prices and shortages on their ability to source pie tins.

Financing