labor

If you have just a few units, you can dig up plenty of free information. For hourly workers and managers, start with data from Salary.com and Payscale.com, much of it targeted to your city or zip code. Look to proxy statements of small public companies for figures on executive pay.

Unlike back-of-house equipment, refrigerated display cases are on the front lines, seen day in and day out. Not only do they need to perform efficiently, they have to look attractive.

Moms and dads have always been core customers for restaurants. But today, say market researchers, their roles are changing. A quiet demographic revolution is reshaping the American family, with big implications for marketing.