Emerging Brands

New brands and soon-to-open concepts worth watching

Wing Zone is making a big tech investment to speed its growth

By Heather Lalley on Aug. 24, 2021

Eight months after being acquired by Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop, the fast-casual wing chain is eyeing robotic fry cooks and new equipment to shave cooking times amid a complete brand refresh.

Emerging Brands

How 3 health-focused concepts kept growing despite the pandemic

By Heather Lalley on Aug. 19, 2021

On this special edition of the Buzzworthy Brands podcast, listen as founders of Main Squeeze Juice Company, Clean Eatz and Rush Bowls talk about keeping their eyes on the future even in challenging times.

Emerging Brands

Chili's parent bets on a second virtual concept

By Peter Romeo on Aug. 18, 2021

Maggiano's Italian Classics features Italian standards, with an emphasis on $10 lunch combos.

Emerging Brands

How Roll-Em-Up Taquitos is carving out a new niche

By Heather Lalley on Aug. 10, 2021

The growing taquito concept is hoping a family recipe plus social media savvy will be the secret sauce it needs to grow.

Emerging Brands

Fast casuals Tender Greens and Tocaya merge

By Heather Lalley on Aug. 03, 2021

By joining forces, the two health-focused brands with a combined 45 restaurants will be able to speed their growth in California and the West, the group’s new president said.

Emerging Brands

Mighty Quinn’s is poised to grow its BBQ concept on several fronts

By Heather Lalley on Jul. 30, 2021

Thanks to a new round of investment funding, the fast casual is getting ready to add corporate and franchised stores, as well as expanding its packaged goods line.

Emerging Brands

Drive Shack is betting big on consumer desire to return to food-and-games concepts

By Heather Lalley on Jul. 27, 2021

The latest episode of the “Buzzworthy Brands” podcast features Hana Khouri, CEO and president of Drive Shack, Inc., discussing plans for her company’s new, small-footprint golf-and-food brand.

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Emerging Brands