Restaurant Daily

As the cost of labor rises, automation seems to make more sense. Restaurant brands are going big into development. And Pizza Hut gives free pizza to delivery drivers.

McDonald’s reveals plans for CosMc’s, a drive-thru beverage concept. Nearly two-thirds of consumers plan on dining out for the holidays. And Carrabba's Italian Grill launches Carrabba’s Sandwich Bistro. 

Popeyes wants to make its restaurants more efficient. Restaurant franchises are focused a lot more on smaller franchisees. And DoorDash said it will raise its delivery fees.

Domino’s is helping plow streets. Wendy’s could get an activist investor. And Taco Bell is helping college students get through final exams.

Panera Brands is getting closer to its planned IPO.  Maggiano’s Little Italy has a new president. And restaurant chains are promoting Christmas specials

Modern Market Eatery has opened its first drive-thru unit. Subway’s footlong cookie is becoming a permanent menu offering. And McDonald’s launches a new adult happy meal.

A look at what restaurants are most concentrated in California. Shake Shack is marketing a value message. And  Chipotle launches a new line of merch.

Jack in the Box gets a warm welcome in new markets. Crumbl Cookies is pulling a Dunkin. And Kitchen United closes its Kroger locations.

Restaurants are gearing up for the holiday party season. IHOP launched a Willy Wonka themed menu. Jack in the Box is expecting some problems from California.

Retailers are buckling up for a tougher economy. But restaurants have a lot to be thankful for this year. Plus, a look at some notable new openings.

Brian Wheeler has launched Big Taco in Florida. McDonald’s is buying back a big chunk of its China business. And some lenders and financiers expect an M&A comeback in 2024.

Wage inflation remains the industry’s No. 1 challenge. Hybrid work could be the new normal. And what consumers are doing for Thanksgiving this year.

A look at the most craveable tacos. Taco Bell debuts Breakfast Tater Tots as an LTO. And consumers are concerned about fast food prices.

A Wendy’s franchisee declares bankruptcy. Consumers are getting tired of tipping. And the big theme at this week’s Restaurant Finance and Development Conference? Uncertainty.

Fast-food prices keep rising. Patrick Doyle thinks Burger King struggled because it had too much risk.  And McDonald’s teams up with Crocs on its latest merchandise line.

Joe & the Juice has a new owner. Hotel breakfast is perking up. And Bartaco’s CEO will pull double duty at another Mexican chain.

Noodles CEO is out. A pair of new mobile apps are taking on Yelp. And a look at the biggest winners and losers from restaurants’ third quarter.

Peppermint is taking over beverage menus. Krispy Kreme and McDonald’s may expand their partnership. And stronger sales do wonders for franchisees margins.

Another Burger King operator goes bankrupt. Steak and Ale will be back by April. And Mellow Mushroom gets a new look.

Which restaurant chain sells the most tequila? Many restaurant chains report declining traffic. And a Wingstop franchise group has won a growth investment.

Restaurants’ labor pains appear to be easing. Starbucks workers are getting a raise. And a look at the tech making an impact at restaurants.

Sweetgreen wants to open at least seven more automated restaurants next year.  Larry Roberts is stepping down as president and CEO of El Pollo Loco. And Wendy’s is convincing franchisees to build new units.

Today on RB Daily, it’s an earnings bonanza, with results from Starbucks, Papa Johns, Portillo’s and more. Also, Panera laid off some corporate staff. And marketing departments turn to the holidays.

Consumers apparently crave Wingstop’s chicken sandwiches in tough economic times. Chicken also performed well for Chili’s in its first fiscal quarter.  And Savory Fund is getting into hot chicken.

TGI Fridays has its second new CEO in as many months. A small Florida chain files for bankruptcy. And why ratings agencies aren’t exactly thrilled with Raising Cane’s.