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retail

Financing

Tommy Bahama's restaurants are thriving, on and off the beach

 By Joe Guszkowski on May 27, 2026

The clothing company has carved out a unique niche in casual dining with its combination of retail stores and restaurants that offer customers a sense of escape.

Operations

U.K.-based Indian concept Gymkhana brings its CPG line to the U.S.

 By Lisa Jennings on May 01, 2026

Indian cuisine is having a moment. In addition to bringing its Michelin-starred restaurants stateside, JKS Restaurants is also launching a well-funded retail line of sauces, marinades and chutneys in Whole Foods Markets.

Food

Pilot Travel Centers launch robust new foodservice program

By Heather Lalley on Mar. 03, 2026

In addition to expanding its prepared foods and grab-and-go offerings, the country's largest travel center operator will also keep its franchisee-run fast-food restaurants open 24/7.

Operations

RaceTrac: Don't expect a Potbelly in every convenience store

By Hannah Hammond on Feb. 19, 2026

The c-store chain said it acquired the fast-casual sandwich brand to diversify its business and that it plans to continue to grow the restaurant concept through a variety of channels.

Consumer Trends

Can Chipotle get its higher-income diners to stick around?

By Heather Lalley on Feb. 13, 2026

Retail watch: The fast-casual burrito chain can take some lessons from discount retailers that have also seen an influx of wealthier consumers.

Financing

How convenience stores and supermarkets are gunning for restaurants

By Jonathan Maze on Feb. 04, 2026

A Deeper Dive: This week’s episode of the restaurant finance podcast looks at the retail sector and its push into prepared food. Also, what restaurants can learn from the closure of some of Amazon’s retail shops.

Technology

Amazon’s grocery retreat is a warning to restaurants chasing full automation

By Heather Lalley on Jan. 29, 2026

Retail Watch: The retail giant is closing all of its Amazon Fresh grocery stores and Amazon Go convenience stores. It’s a lesson that technology can’t replace human interaction.

Consumer Trends

Why private-label’s grocery glow up should make restaurants nervous

By Heather Lalley on Jan. 22, 2026

Retail Watch: Store brands continue to set records. Their rise should give restaurants some clues about what diners want right now.

Beverage

Chicago City Council approves hemp-THC ban. But beverages are saved

By Heather Lalley on Jan. 22, 2026

The city's restaurants, bars and retailers will be able to sell beverages with no more than 10 milligrams of THC per 12 ounces, but edibles, flower and vapes will be prohibited.

Operations

Here’s why you should be paying attention to hemp-THC

By Heather Lalley on Jan. 15, 2026

Retail Watch: Plus, grocery stores are trying to eat your lunch business.

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