Emerging Brands

New brands and soon-to-open concepts worth watching

How an emerging chain is rethinking Chinese takeout

Junzi Kitchen, which recently received $5 million in an early funding round, is looking at ghost kitchens and other outside-the-box models to fuel its growth.

Emerging Brands

Mad Greens and Snappy Salads merge

The fast-casual salad concepts will continue to operate under their own brands, with Darden Coors as CEO of the newly formed Salad Collective banner.

Emerging Brands

Why restaurant operators should watch Kroger’s latest supermarket

By Jon Springer on Sep. 30, 2019

The grocery chain, which is expanding its full-service restaurant concept, opened a food hall at a new store in downtown Cincinnati.

Emerging Brands

Wetzel’s Pretzels founder, Blaze Pizza investor has a new growth vehicle

By Heather Lalley on Sep. 26, 2019

Bill Phelps is now the CEO of Dave’s Hot Chicken, a growing fast casual selling spicy chicken tenders and sliders.

Emerging Brands

City Works prepares to bring its craft beer concept to Disney

By Heather Lalley on Sep. 26, 2019

The growing “pour house” brand is finding success with local brews, comprehensive employee training and an expanding events business.

Emerging Brands

Two years after being acquired, what’s next for Tom & Chee?

By Heather Lalley on Sep. 20, 2019

After closing nearly two dozen units, the sandwich and soup concept is reentering growth mode under Gold Star Brands ownership with a smaller prototype and renewed focus.

Emerging Brands