Fast casual restaurant

IFMA Releases Industry and Segment Forecast for Food-Away-From-Home

Retrieved on: 
Monday, February 26, 2024

Buoyed by a stable, growing economy and low unemployment, IFMA projects that the FAFH industry will grow 0.9 percent, on a real basis, in 2024.

Key Points: 
  • Buoyed by a stable, growing economy and low unemployment, IFMA projects that the FAFH industry will grow 0.9 percent, on a real basis, in 2024.
  • The forecast models were created in conjunction with Datassential, a leading foodservice research firm, and validated by operators from the IFMA Foodservice Leadership Councils.
  • "It's important that decision-makers across our industry keep up-to-date on projected growth rates and segment data," said IFMA President & CEO Phil Kafarakis.
  • IFMA will update this forecast in early August 2024, in conjunction with its Virtual Marketing & Sales Conference.

Naf Naf Middle Eastern Grill announces Gift A Meal Partnership to Help Heal Hunger with a Snap!

Retrieved on: 
Wednesday, January 10, 2024

CHICAGO, Jan. 10, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Naf Naf Middle Eastern Grill, the Fast Casual Restaurant destination for their authentic Middle Eastern cuisine, announces a new collaboration with Gift A Meal, an innovative cause-marketing platform committed to addressing local hunger in the local communities where Naf Naf restaurants operate.

Key Points: 
  • The initiative is designed to provide a meal to those in need, aligning with Naf Naf Grill's commitment to bring people together and share a meal beyond the dining table.
  • We are excited to watch the Naf Naf customers help heal hunger across 12 states - spice it up and share a photo!"
  • - Gift A Meal's Alison Van Bergen
    The program will be available across all Naf Naf Grill 39 locations nationwide, until the end of February.
  • To learn more about Naf Naf Middle Eastern Grill, visit nafnafgrill.com

Enlightened Hospitality Investments (EHI) Partners with Qu to Accelerate Innovation for the Restaurant Industry

Retrieved on: 
Wednesday, November 15, 2023

EHI focuses on investing in high-growth, category-leading companies, with an emphasis on technologies that fuel improved guest and employee experiences.

Key Points: 
  • EHI focuses on investing in high-growth, category-leading companies, with an emphasis on technologies that fuel improved guest and employee experiences.
  • “Qu’s technology embodies the essence of Enlightened Hospitality, enriching both the guest and employee journey,” said Danny Meyer.
  • “By unifying the fractured digital and in-store ordering ecosystem, Qu creates a smoother, more efficient environment for valued restaurant team members, empowering them to deliver extraordinary guest experiences.
  • The new investments will further accelerate Qu’s innovation and growth as it continues on its journey to become the partner of choice for large QSR and Fast Casual brands.

Shawarma Press® Continues Expansion With Opening of Flagship Location in Georgia

Retrieved on: 
Thursday, November 16, 2023

JOHNS CREEK, Ga., Nov. 16, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Shawarma Press, the first authentic Shawarma franchise in the U.S., announced plans for continued expansion with the opening of its flagship restaurant in Georgia. Located in the thriving Atlanta suburb of Johns Creek at 11035 Medlock Bridge Road, the popular Mediterranean spot is the first of several franchise units planned throughout the state. The expansion to The Peach State follows seven well-established Texas locations in Irving, Plano, Georgetown, Arlington, Frisco, San Antonio, and a recently opened flagship restaurant in the Dallas Arts District. CEO and co-founder Sawsan Abublan said expansion in Georgia is significant because it is the first of several states earmarked for Shawarma Press locations in 2024.

Key Points: 
  • JOHNS CREEK, Ga., Nov. 16, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Shawarma Press , the first authentic Shawarma franchise in the U.S., announced plans for continued expansion with the opening of its flagship restaurant in Georgia.
  • CEO and co-founder Sawsan Abublan said expansion in Georgia is significant because it is the first of several states earmarked for Shawarma Press locations in 2024.
  • "Currently we are planning two more locations in Georgia as well as another franchise unit in Kansas.
  • "But now we are excited about introducing authentic Shawarma and Mediterranean flavors to Georgia, as the Johns Creek area has a diverse customer base with sophisticated palates."

Freddy's features French Onion Steakburger and OREO® Cookie Peppermint Shake for a limited time

Retrieved on: 
Tuesday, October 31, 2023

Freddy's French Onion Steakburger and OREO Cookie Peppermint Shake are available for a limited time starting Nov. 1, 2023.

Key Points: 
  • Freddy's French Onion Steakburger and OREO Cookie Peppermint Shake are available for a limited time starting Nov. 1, 2023.
  • The cooked-to-order French Onion Steakburger is prepared with two sizzling, premium, lean 100% ground beef steakburger patties topped with Swiss cheese, caramelized grilled onions, crispy onions, Applewood bacon and creamy French Onion sauce.
  • "The French Onion Steakburger exemplifies our classic premium Freddy's steakburger, but with a combination of the warm and comforting flavors of the holiday season."
  • Freddy's OREO® Cookie Peppermint Shake is made by blending rich and creamy chocolate and vanilla frozen custard with peppermint syrup, OREO® cookie pieces and peppermint candy pieces.

Franchise Times Names Capriotti's Sandwich Shop One of America's Top Franchises

Retrieved on: 
Thursday, October 12, 2023

LAS VEGAS, Oct. 12, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Capriotti's Sandwich Shop (Capriotti's), the award-winning fast-casual sandwich franchise, was recognized as one of the top 400 franchises in the Franchise Times Top 400 list, the most comprehensive ranking of the largest franchise systems in the United States. Since last year, Capriotti's climbed 25 spots to come in at No. 303 on this year's list.

Key Points: 
  • 303 on Franchise Times Top 400 List
    LAS VEGAS, Oct. 12, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Capriotti's Sandwich Shop (Capriotti's), the award-winning fast-casual sandwich franchise, was recognized as one of the top 400 franchises in the Franchise Times Top 400 list, the most comprehensive ranking of the largest franchise systems in the United States.
  • The Franchise Times Top 400 is an annual ranking of the largest franchise systems in the United States by global systemwide sales, based on the previous year's performance.
  • The project is the result of a five-month research and reporting effort that leads to the most credible and objective franchise ranking available.
  • "We're honored to be recognized among the elite brands featured on the Franchise Times Top 400 list," said David Bloom, Chief Development and Operating Officer for Capriotti's and Wing Zone.

Freddy's Hits Milestone with 500th Location Opening in Burleson, Texas

Retrieved on: 
Tuesday, October 3, 2023

WICHITA, Kan., Oct. 3, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Fast-casual restaurant concept Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers® announced today the opening of its 500th restaurant, located at 608 SW Wilshire Blvd in Burleson, Texas.

Key Points: 
  • WICHITA, Kan., Oct. 3, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Fast-casual restaurant concept Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers® announced today the opening of its 500th restaurant, located at 608 SW Wilshire Blvd in Burleson, Texas.
  • This significant milestone underscores Freddy's accelerated growth since its inception in 2002 and emphasizes how strongly the concept has resonated in each of the markets it serves.
  • "As we celebrate this milestone, I am filled with an overwhelming sense of pride and gratitude.
  • For more information about development opportunities, contact Mary Coots, Vice President of Franchise Development, at [email protected] or 316-719-7854; or contact Gregg Most and Jim Werschler at [email protected] for Canadian inquiries.

Crave Hot Dogs & BBQ Celebrates a Banner Year of Success and Recognition in 2023

Retrieved on: 
Thursday, September 21, 2023

NEW YORK, Sept. 21, 2023 /PRNewswire/ --Crave Hot Dogs & BBQ, a beloved fast-casual dining concept founded in 2018 is thrilled to announce that it is having a remarkable 2023.

Key Points: 
  • NEW YORK, Sept. 21, 2023 /PRNewswire/ --Crave Hot Dogs & BBQ, a beloved fast-casual dining concept founded in 2018 is thrilled to announce that it is having a remarkable 2023.
  • Crave is known for its innovative menu, specialty hot dogs, BBQ dishes, and more.
  • The exceptional success of Crave Hot Dogs & BBQ in 2023 is highlighted by several prestigious awards and recognitions.
  • Crave Hot Dogs & BBQ is a woman and veteran-owned business, demonstrating its commitment to diversity and inclusion.

SVN® Forges Ahead In New Growth Phase With Global Hospitality Leader, Nicolas Boudet, Joining Board of Directors

Retrieved on: 
Wednesday, August 16, 2023

Boudet brings an unparalleled wealth of experience in the restaurant and hospitality sector.

Key Points: 
  • Boudet brings an unparalleled wealth of experience in the restaurant and hospitality sector.
  • Nicolas previously served as Taco Bell® Corp’s Chief Development Officer and Franchising for the U.S. business, a subsidiary of Yum!
  • Boudet expressed his enthusiasm to join SVN’s Board of Directors during the company’s new growth phase, stating, “I couldn’t be more thrilled to be appointed as a member to the SVN Board of Directors.
  • His arrival also complements the recent addition of Brian Pallas to the SVN Board of Directors, emphasizing SVN’s focus on digital innovation and entrepreneurial growth.

Capriotti's Sandwich Shops Named One of America's Fastest-Growing Companies by Inc. Magazine

Retrieved on: 
Tuesday, August 15, 2023

LAS VEGAS, Aug. 15, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Capriotti's Sandwich Shop (Capriotti's), the award-winning fast-casual sandwich franchise, announced today that it has been recognized for the second consecutive year on Inc. Magazine's annual Inc. 5000 list, the most respected ranking of the nation's fastest-growing private companies. Since landing on the list for the first-time last year, Capriotti's climbed nearly 300 spots to come in at No. 4,367 on this year's list.

Key Points: 
  • Since landing on the list for the first-time last year, Capriotti's climbed nearly 300 spots to come in at No.
  • Earlier this year the International Franchise Association (IFA) named Brenda Torres, franchisee of Capriotti's in Santa Clarita, California, as Franchisee of the Year for 2023.
  • Capriotti's AUV remains impressive with the top performing locations coming in at $1.8M while Wing Zone's top performing shops boast an impressive $1.9M.
  • This includes The Bobbie, the shop's acclaimed best-seller, made with homemade turkey, cranberry sauce, stuffing, and mayo on a soft roll.