Digital Technologies Reshaping Restaurant Operations

Operators are increasingly using digital devices to improve service, help manage labor challenges and gather insightful analytics.

Chipotle, Rally’s, Noodles & Company execs talk increasing drive-thru experience

by Mandy Wolf Detwiler — Editor, Connect Media

Drive-thru innovation and the customer experience was the focus of a panel discussion at the Restaurant Franchising and Innovation Summit held this month in…

The Loyalty Iceberg: Creating Human Centered Experiences

For a long time, customer loyalty has focused on two things: signups and discounts. Now we know that when it comes to creating enduring customer relationships…

Ghost Kitchens Give Restaurants New Life

To take advantage of the growing delivery segment while at the same time maximizing kitchen space, many restaurants have begun operating virtual brands, also…

Coal-fired ovens, strong customer focus drive Grimaldi's franchise strategy

by Mandy Wolf Detwiler — Editor, Connect Media

Grimaldi's is capitalizing on a century-old baking style utilizing coal-fired ovens and now, with operations all in place, the company is embracing franchising.

Examining alternatives to raising menu prices

by Mandy Wolf Detwiler — Editor, Connect Media

In the second part of a two-part series on raising prices, we examine how much is too much and potential alternatives to increasing prices.

Leveraging Market Disruptions to Enhance Your Brand Experience

Restaurants have faced an onslaught of crises and shifting consumer expectations. Within this environment of constant change, how do you ensure that all of…

Presented by FastCasual.com

How to determine when it's time to boost menu prices

by Mandy Wolf Detwiler — Editor, Connect Media

In part one of a two-part series, we take a look at making the decision to raise prices and how to do so without losing the customer base.

Automating the Future of Food via Pizza

Kitchen operators are increasingly turning to technology to thrive. Once again, pizzerias are leading the way.

There's nothing to hide at this North Carolina pizzeria

by Mandy Wolf Detwiler — Editor, Connect Media

This pizzeria has no freezers or walls, and everything is made in-house. See how Aliño Pizzeria is thriving with a simple concept that still wows.

Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Italian Kitchen's experience, craftsmanship make it stand out

by Mandy Wolf Detwiler — Editor, Connect Media

Russo's New York Pizzeria and Italian Kitchen has 54 units backed by a long history of experience and craftsmanship. After a rebrand, the company is poised for…

Pincho, Hattie B’s tapping Thanx hidden menu capability

March 18, 2022

Florida-based burger and kebab concept Pincho and Nashville-based Hattie B's Hot Chicken are deploying hidden menus to diners by tapping Thanx Loyalty 3.…

Five Ways to Drive Sales and Generate Engagement through Digital Signage

To stay competitive, businesses need the ability to effectively inform and engage both customers and staff without draining valuable resources. Learn to drive…

Presented by FastCasual.com

Smokin’ Oak Wood Fired Pizza & Taproom pairs 2 perennial favorites

by Mandy Wolf Detwiler — Editor, Connect Media

What goes better with pizza than beer? At Smokin' Oak Wood-Fired Pizza and Taproom, guests can enjoy both with a self-serve taproom designed to give guests a…

How To Build A Self-Service Experience You’re Proud Of

Self-service, or “unattended” environments, are the new expectation, and 2022 will officially be the watershed moment for self-checkout technology, adoption…

Romeo's Pizza operating system, pillars make it unique in industry

by Mandy Wolf Detwiler — Editor, Connect Media

Romeo's Pizza is on a hot streak right now. With sales up 26%, and a rewards program that boasts a 300% growth last year, the Ohio-based brand is ready for the…

Mobile orders on rise, long pickup wait times lead to frustration

February 24, 2022

Mobile orders continue to rise and customers generally approve of restaurants' apps but longer wait times for mobile pickups and orders not ready at pickup are…

Marco's big growth strategy not just about pizza

by Mandy Wolf Detwiler — Editor, Connect Media

Marco's Pizza has more than 1,000 units with plans to grow to 1,500 by 2023. Its strategy isn't just about great pizza.

Putting a face to faceless transactions: Four ways to maintain invaluable connections with customers

The famous theme song from “Cheers” perfectly put words to the ultimate rapport restaurants want with their customers. These days, though, building a…

Presented by FastCasual.com

Mici Italian has big plans for 2022

by Mandy Wolf Detwiler — Editor, Connect Media

Mici Italian has seven units in the Denver area. The company is poised for growth and has plans to double its size in 2022.