Nation's Restaurant News — page 17

Dutch Bros updated its annual revenue and earnings outlook after reporting a 31% revenue surge and strong transaction growth in the first quarter.

Industry expert Rafael LaRue discusses how AI, robotics, and algorithmic personalization are shifting restaurant operations to meet the expectations of younger consumer generations.

Chipotle has appointed industry veteran Fernando Machado as chief brand officer to lead the company's global marketing strategy and expansion toward 7,000 locations.

Bloomin’ Brands shares rose significantly following earnings that beat analyst expectations, driven by positive momentum at Bonefish Grill and resilience at Outback Steakhouse.

BJ’s Restaurants achieved its seventh consecutive quarter of same-store sales and traffic growth, significantly outpacing the casual-dining category average.

First Watch sees sales growth through menu redesigns and digital marketing, while Portillo’s leverages value deals to stabilize traffic in the latest quarter.

Sweetgreen has launched wrap sandwiches at all locations nationwide following successful tests in New York, Los Angeles, and the Midwest to attract a broader customer base.

Marco’s Pizza brings one of America’s most beloved pizzas to its menu with the launch of its NEW NY Style Pizza, now available for a limited time at a starting…

Marketing efforts for the reconfigured Whopper helped drive a 5.8% sales increase at Burger King, contrasting sharply with a record 6.5% sales drop at sister brand Popeyes.

Portillo’s saw a slight transaction increase in the first quarter, though a decrease in average check size resulted in a marginal decline in same-store sales.

The restaurant industry saw a wave of leadership changes in April, including new chief executives at Denny’s, Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams, and Bagels & Co.

Caribou Coffee has introduced a new value menu featuring breakfast sandwiches and coffee staples priced between $2 and $4 to attract price-sensitive consumers.

First Watch reported a 2.8% increase in same-store sales following its first major core menu overhaul in nearly a decade, boosting average check sizes.

Whataburger CEO Debbie Stroud discusses maintaining the brand’s deep-seated Texas heritage and family-focused culture while managing its multi-state expansion strategy.

The Adalina brand's expansion in Chicago highlights how independent multi-location restaurant groups are navigating persistent inflationary pressures on beef and energy costs.

Papa Johns is launching a global marketing campaign featuring themed personal pizzas and merchandise to celebrate the 30th anniversary and upcoming release of Toy Story 5.

Technomic data shows sales growth in the chicken category slowed to 5.3% in 2025 as the market faces increasing saturation and cooling performance from major players.

The fried chicken chain is expanding its value strategy by offering different $10 bucket deals every day of the workweek.

Juice It Up outperformed larger competitors with a 9% sales increase in 2024, expanding its footprint despite a crowded beverage market dominated by massive national chains.

The 115-unit bar and grill chain has elevated Chief Operating Officer Joel Chick to the chief executive role following the departure of former CEO Brett Patterson.

The chicken giant is capitalizing on Met Gala buzz by partnering with The Mark Hotel to provide luxury chicken and caviar drops for high-profile attendees.

Technomic report data shows the chicken category experienced a significant sales slowdown in 2025, falling to single-digit growth after a half-decade of double-digit gains.

Industry analysts review recent earnings reports, noting slight positive gains for Chipotle, significant turnaround growth for Starbucks, and performance challenges for Wingstop.

Fast-casual chicken chain Huey Magoo’s has introduced a new freestanding drive-thru prototype designed to reduce development costs by 40% and increase site flexibility for franchisees.