Gamified Loyalty Programs Revive Foursquare‑style Streak Incentives
"Gamification" of loyalty programs seems pretty smart. I'm old enough to remember the old Foursquare when people could become "mayor" of a location; this Chipotle program seems to build on that theme and create incentives for streaks, frequency and spend. 1/ https://t.co/mcmjxSkDUd
European Fast‑Food Trends Accelerating Into U.S. Menus
I've noticed a lot of new and unique innovation on #fastfood menus lately as I've traveled to Europe. Our @Technomic latest data suggests that more of these trends are working their way from Europe to the US than in the...
Give GMs Front‑of‑House Autonomy for Restaurant Success
This makes a lot of sense. One of the underappreciated reasons for Chilis success is the autonomy and "ownership" that the GM is given to run the operation. Putting the GM back in the front of house where he/she can...
Rising Costs and Health Trends Cripple Restaurant Drink Programs
Menu prices are up, which is bad enough for restaurants, but factor in even higher alcohol menu prices, health-conscious consumers, pre-gaming at home, THC/cannabis, & better availability of non-alcohol options, and the drinks programs at many restaurants is really struggling....
Taste Trumps Price: Invest in Menu Innovation
One reason many #restaurants continue to do well in this environment: consumers prioritize food taste and flavor over low price when selecting a restaurant. Trying to skimp on menu investment/innovation to keep prices low will likely backfire for many. https://t.co/IxTEaD2enO
Strong Ops and Takeout Boost Texas Roadhouse Sales
The restaurant operating environment today couldn't be more stark between the high performing operators and those that are struggling to get by. Consumers are paying for value, experience and are embracing the brands they know will deliver.
Burger Wars: McD & BK Grow, Wendy's Stagnates
The burger wars increasingly have only two major combatants, with McDonalds and Burger King showing sales growth. Wendy's is....struggling. They haven't grown same store sales since 4Q 2024 and the market cap number that Brian notes below is shocking.
Disney Parks Thrive as Experience Spending Beats Gas Costs
Disney theme parks showing some strength, perhaps counterintuitively, even as gas prices put a dent in disposable income. People are willing to pay for experiences, and that’s exactly what Disney excels at.
Restaurant Prices Surge Far Faster Than General Inflation
Was doing some quick calculations on #restaurant menu prices. Compared to March 2026, menu prices are up: 🍔35% since 3/2020 🍔39% since 3/2019 🍔51% since 3/2016 All goods (including fuel/food) are +30% since 2019, +39% since 2016. Restaurants have an affordability crisis
Sysco CEO Reveals Surprising Truth About Independent Restaurants
I find this counterintuitive take from the Sysco CEO really interesting. As the largest player in #foodservice distribution, they have a unique perspective on the independent #restaurant, and I want to unpack some of what he says. 1/ https://t.co/hhJ1hqPV6o
Crafted Drinks Eclipse Soda Fountains in Restaurants
One byproduct of the restaurant industries shift toward more specialty “crafted” beverages (and broader off-premise trends) is that the traditional soda fountain is less relevant.
Back-to-Basics Strategy Revives Struggling Hooters Brand
Turning around a struggling restaurant brand is tough in the best of times, but turning Hooters around in this environment will take a small miracle. And yet, there are some signs that the plan is working. Amazing what getting back...
Taco Bell’s Innovation Drives 6.5% YoY Growth
Being "relevant" as a restaurant brand is critical, but it's often hard to define what exactly that means. One chain that has it figured out is @tacobell; they continue to innovate & find ways to stay top of mind (esp...
The Surprising History Behind Eggs Benedict
Interesting history on one of my all-time favorite breakfast foods (although the article says that you shouldn't eat Eggs Benedict until after 10am, which I vehemently disagree with.)
Independent Restaurants Facing Alarming Closure Rates, Data Shows
I've been posting on the plight of the independent restaurant for a while, & our @Technomic data paints a pretty dire picture of challenges facing these operators based on overall closure rates. Thanks to my Informa colleague @livetodineout for including...