News

For foreign restaurant chains, the U.S. remains a brutal market

By Jonathan Maze on May 28, 2020

Le Pain Quotidien and Vapiano were both struggling here before the pandemic, proving again the difficulty foreign chains have in establishing a beachhead, says RB’s The Bottom Line.

Financing

Papa John’s sales continue to soar

By Jonathan Maze on May 27, 2020

Same-store sales rose 33.5% in May, even as states started reopening restaurants for dine-in service.

Financing

Le Pain Quotidien, struggling pre-pandemic, files for bankruptcy protection

By Heather Lalley on May 27, 2020

The fast-casual chain hopes a sale to multi-concept operator Aurify Brands can save some of its restaurants.

Workforce

Marriott warns of ‘significant’ further cutbacks

By Peter Romeo on May 27, 2020

The 115,000 employees currently furloughed will remain out of work until the fall, according to the innkeeper. It’s now offering U.S. employees an exit deal.

Financing

How Zaxby’s adapted to the pandemic and thrived

By Jonathan Maze on May 27, 2020

Cofounder and CEO Zach McLeroy joins the RB podcast A Deeper Dive to discuss the chain’s response to the pandemic, as well as its future.

Leadership

Panera hires Eduardo Luz as chief brand and concept officer

By Heather Lalley on May 27, 2020

Luz, a former Kraft Heinz executive, will oversee marketing, culinary, digital, and strategy/insights for the fast-casual chain.

Financing

Subway franchisees again push back on a $5 Footlong promotion

By Jonathan Maze on May 27, 2020

The company is offering vendor rebates to get operators on board, but the franchisee association is recommending its members opt out of the campaign.

Operations

Is Boston Market ready for its next act?

By Heather Lalley on May 26, 2020

With a new owner and a new president, the once-thriving fast casual is working on improving its food with an eye toward future unit growth after decades of shrinkage.

Leadership