Heather Lalley

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Help is on the way, but well-loved indies keep closing

Despite recent hints of optimism in the industry, restaurants are still struggling. Well-loved independent restaurants continue closing due to the pressures of the pandemic.

Operations

Operators prepare for a much different St. Patrick’s Day

St. Patrick's Day 2020 marked the beginning of a year of pandemic shutdowns. But, this year, restaurants are cautiously optimistic they can return to safely celebrating the event. It's a holiday many operators say is the year's biggest business day.

Operations

Potbelly expects two ‘very different’ halves to 2021

Potbelly Sandwich Shop said it expects to see "two very different halves" to 2021, with pandemic pressures likely easing in the second portion of the year.

Financing

The Simple Greek to be acquired by the parent company of Saladworks

The Simple Greek fast-casual chain is being acquired by multi-concept operator WOWorks, which also owns Saladworks and Garbanzo Mediterranean Fresh.

Operations

For the 1st time in a brutal year, operators feel a strange new emotion: Hope

Independent restaurant operators say they are starting to feel hope that the pandemic is easing, given a new federal relief package and increased vaccine distribution.

Emerging Brands

Veggie Grill debuts a plant-based burger concept

Veggie Grill is rebranding three of its current locations as plant-based Stand-Up Burgers restaurants, with plans to grow the concept further next year.

Financing

By Chloe to get a new owner but loses its name

Vegan chain By Chloe has named its stalking horse bidder to acquire it out of bankruptcy, but it lost its name in a trademark dispute.

Food

Chipotle’s long-awaited quesadilla is finally set to launch

Chipotle Mexican Grill’s long-rumored quesadilla is finally hitting stores this week, the chain’s first new build-your-own entree to join the menu since it introduced salads nearly two decades ago.

Emerging Brands