News

Olive Garden, Applebee’s cut through TV ad clutter

By Peter Romeo on Jan. 24, 2020

The two casual-dining giants accounted for eight of last week’s 10 most effective ads for full-service brands. On the QSR side, chicken and pizza spots dominated.

Operations

NYC set to ban cashless restaurants

By Peter Romeo on Jan. 23, 2020

The city will join New Jersey, Massachusetts, Philadelphia, San Francisco and other jurisdictions in requiring restaurants to accept cash payments.

Financing

Chopt acquires Dos Toros to form new holding company

By Peter Romeo on Jan. 23, 2020

L Catterton will back the venture, which intends to gather growth concepts that are still influenced by their founders.

Emerging Brands

How a former Raising Cane’s exec came out of semi-retirement to get a hot dog chain on track

By Heather Lalley on Jan. 23, 2020

Dat Dog CEO Paul Tuennerman is using his next act to prepare the emerging brand for nationwide growth.

Workforce

Colo. expands eligibility for overtime pay

By Peter Romeo on Jan. 23, 2020

As of 2021, salaried employees earning less than $45,500 will be entitled to time and a half for hours exceeding 12 per day or 40 per week.

Food

Taco Bell is merging Buffalo chicken with Nacho Fries

By Jonathan Maze on Jan. 23, 2020

The Mexican fast-food chain is reintroducing the popular fries next week.

Operations

Environmentalists urge restaurants to accept all-electric kitchens

By Peter Romeo on Jan. 23, 2020

An alliance is asking the California Restaurant Association to drop its opposition to a ban on gas-fired equipment and collaborate on an all-electric future.

Financing

Why struggling chains turn to franchising

By Jonathan Maze on Jan. 22, 2020

As chains such as Steak ‘n Shake and Krystal faced mounting financial problems, they looked to refranchising as a solution, says RB’s The Bottom Line.

Financing