Foodservice News
Denny’s Launches First Fresh Express Standalone
The family-dining chain previously tested Fresh Express as a grab-and-go counter in traditional locations.
Posted Mar 17, 2010
Restaurants Add More Breakfast Items
Competition heats up for breakfast, especially as consumer remain finicky about discretionary breakfast dollars.
Posted Mar 16, 2010
Food Becomes Focus for RaceTrac
The chain is changing up its foodservice to bring in more customers.
Posted Mar 15, 2010
McDonald's Winning the QSR Battle
Promotions and international sales are wowing McDonald's investors while high unemployment at home keeps shares of Wendy's and Burger King languishing.
Posted Mar 11, 2010
N.Y. Lawmaker Seeks To Ban Salt in Restaurants
Menu-labeling proponent argues that a ban would reduce cases of heart disease, stroke and heart attacks.
Posted Mar 11, 2010
Researchers Suggest Taxing Pizza, Soft Drinks to Curb Obesity
An 18 percent tax could cause American adults to drop 5 pounds a year.
Posted Mar 10, 2010
Quick-Service Restaurants Ditch Fiberglass Look
Fast food chains are looking to inject a bit of atmosphere into their joints.
Posted Mar 10, 2010
HVP Salmonella Taint Leads to Widespread Food Recall
Recall crosses the U.S. border into Canada, as dips, salad dressings, chips, sauces, hot dogs, soups and frozen dinners all come under scrutiny.
Posted Mar 9, 2010
New York Health Officials Ready to Make Push for Soda Tax
Plan to add a penny-per-ounce tax to sugary drinks attracts renewed effort this week by officials who hope to set an example for the rest of the country.
Posted Mar 9, 2010
Tipping Point
These days, you can find a tip jar at nearly every service counter.
Posted Mar 8, 2010
Supersize Me! Starbucks Tests Larger Iced Drinks
Starbucks testing 31-ounce iced teas and iced coffees (“Trentas”) in Phoenix and Tampa.
Posted Mar 5, 2010
FDA Cracks Down On Misleading Food Labeling
Baby food manufacturers in particular are cited for violations that include unauthorized health claims; stricter set of labeling standards expected.
Posted Mar 5, 2010
Dunkin’ Donuts Not Hurt by Coffee Wars
One owner says it’s not McDonald’s that has suffered from the coffee price battles but local convenience stores.
Posted Mar 5, 2010
Tennessee Drive-Thru Store Owners Criticize Moratorium On Beer Permits
Knox County issues a 180-day moratorium on issuing new permits to stores with drive-through windows, a move that has store owners upset.
Posted Mar 4, 2010
Quiznos Eyes Convenience Retailers for Expansion
The sandwich chain has plans to add to its number of smaller restaurants inside gasoline stations and convenience stores.
Posted Mar 3, 2010
Walgreen's Bid To Sell Alcohol Uncorks Hostility
Retail competitors sue, claiming oversaturation; neighbors unhappy, too.
Posted Mar 2, 2010
Commission Restricts Strong Alcohol In Iowa
Restrictions placed on 100-proof and above alcohol; could a registration system be far behind?
Posted Mar 2, 2010
Tim Hortons' Rolls With Motor City Expansion
Canada-based company is take over where Starbucks is leaves off in Detroit.
Posted Feb 26, 2010
Calorie Info Could Come to Columbus (Ohio) Menus
Proposal does not make menu labeling mandatory, though it seeks cooperation from local restaurants to help reduce the city's high rate of diabetes and obesity among residents.
Posted Feb 25, 2010
Tomato Freeze Squeezes Supply
Restaurants and supermarkets are starting to scramble for tomatoes.
Posted Feb 24, 2010
Do Unlimited Refills Jumpstart Food Sales?
Denny’s begins limited promotion offering unlimited free refills of French fries and pancakes.
Posted Feb 23, 2010
Fast-Food Breakfast Sales Decline as Fewer Head to Work
Breakfast sales are down as the recession lingers.
Posted Feb 23, 2010
Pediatricians Call For a Choke-Proof Hot Dog
About one out of every six food-related asphyxiations in children is caused by hot dogs, a statistic that The American Academy of Pediatrics would like to help change.
Posted Feb 23, 2010
Jamba To Sell Branded Products Through Convenience Stores
Jamba and Core-Mark Holdings will offer Jamba-branded products through Core-Mark serviced retail convenience stores.
Posted Feb 22, 2010
Salt Wars
An op-ed addresses why sodium has become the latest baddie in the fight for American health.
Posted Feb 22, 2010
Creating a Healthy, Tasty Meal
Restaurants add more healthful dining options with a yummy taste.
Posted Feb 17, 2010
7-Eleven’s Richer, Fudgier Donuts
Childhood bakeshop inspires 7-Eleven’s new chocolate-covered donuts.
Posted Feb 16, 2010
McDonald’s Adds Smoothies to Menu
Meanwhile, McDonald’s Japan will close 430 restaurants in Japan.
Posted Feb 15, 2010
Pizza Fight: NakedPizza Revs Up In Papa John's Backyard
Louisville part of national roll out for Mark Cuban-backed healthier pizza company.
Posted Feb 11, 2010
Healthy Takeout Blossoms in Houston
The city has sprouted numerous takeout stores serving healthful fare.
Posted Feb 10, 2010
Heinz Ketchup Packets Get a Makeover
H.J. Heinz Co. unveils a major packaging change to its ketchup packets.
Posted Feb 5, 2010
Save the Planet, Drink a Beer
Goose Island launches eco-friendly beer.
Posted Feb 4, 2010
A Coffee Competitor Charts Expansion
Seattle’s Best coffee continues to accelerate growth with new franchisees; company recognized as ranking among the 10 best franchising values by QSR Magazine.
Posted Feb 4, 2010
Delaware Moves to Require Menu Labeling
The measure passes easily in the Delaware Senate; the vote now moves to the House for consideration.
Posted Jan 26, 2010
Burger King to Sell Budweiser, Bud Light
New South Beach Whopper Bar to offer Whopper-beer combo for $7.99, roughly $2 more than the same combo meal with a fountain drink.
Posted Jan 26, 2010
Restaurant Industry Outlook Brightens in 2010
As the economy improves, so will restaurant sales, the National Restaurant Association 2010 Restaurant Industry Forecast predicts.
Posted Jan 25, 2010
Sales at Starbucks Soars
The coffeehouse chain attributes the increase to holiday business and the debut of Via.
Posted Jan 25, 2010
Taco Bell Survey: Better Drive Thru Means Better Food Choices
Seven meal choices on the drive-thru menu offer consumers healthier fast-food options.
Posted Jan 22, 2010
Walgreen Plans To Offer Fresh Food, Prepared Meals
More than 7,000 stores will soon sell salads, cut fruits and sandwiches to the drugstore chain’s ‘time-starved’ shoppers.
Posted Jan 21, 2010
Hot Stuff Foods Debuts New Chorizo Taco, Burrito
The foodservice company says it is meeting a growing demand for on-the-go food options.
Posted Jan 20, 2010
Fast Food Restaurants Showing Signs of Fatigue
Intense competition and margin pressures have begun to take a toll on the quick-service industry.
Posted Jan 18, 2010
Caribou Coffee Brews New Growth With Oatmeal
As part of its oatmeal launch, Caribou also offers coffee-oatmeal breakfasts starting at $3.49.
Posted Jan 14, 2010
Another Hot Beverage Competitor
Jamba Juice to launch hot beverages; additional baked goods and a new smoothie to accompany hot beverages introduction.
Posted Jan 14, 2010
Seattle’s Best Coffee Introduces Ready-to-Drink Coffees
New iced latte drinks help extend the brand and continue to position Seattle’s Best Coffee for continued growth; products to be available in grocery stores and other retailers.
Posted Jan 14, 2010
Consumers Expand Definition of Fast Food
A new Technomic report finds a merging of traditional fast food and “food fast” has developed.
Posted Jan 13, 2010
Chain Restaurants Count Calories
This year, more restaurants are promoting low-calorie options.
Posted Jan 11, 2010
Will 2010 Bring Consolidation for Convenience Store Sector?
A Foodservice.com columnists predicts that this year convenience stores will contract, while foodservice sales in this market will rise.
Posted Jan 6, 2010
Pilot Travel Centers Launches 'Best Coffee on the Interstate'
New Facebook page offers free coffee for all new ‘fans’; 1,800 customers will win free coffee for a year; tanker trucks spread the word.
Posted Jan 5, 2010
California Trans-Fat Ban Goes Into Effect Friday
The California Restaurant Association says that the deadline does not pose a major compliance issue for restaurants.
Posted Dec 30, 2009
Sweet Tea Finding Favor Outside The South
McDonald's leads the way in introducing the popular southern beverage to consumers nationwide, with competitors following suit.
Posted Dec 29, 2009
Health Experts Propose Labeling Standards for Caffeine
The explosion of caffeinated products on the market has some health experts eyeing labeling standards.
Posted Dec 29, 2009
High Cal Snacks Are Everywhere
Snacks are now sold in 41 percent of stores that do not sell food as their primary merchandise.
Posted Dec 24, 2009
QSRs Feel Slowdown, Despite Popularity of Dollar Menus
McDonald's, Burger King, Hardee's and other chains continue to emphasize value in an effort to draw traffic.
Posted Dec 24, 2009
Study: Calorie Data Decreases Caloric Intake
A new study found that diners consumer fewer calories when menus list calorie information.
Posted Dec 23, 2009
Bakery Cafes Prosper And Post Solid Gains in Weak Economy: Technomic
The bakery-café industry grew 12 percent in 2008 to $4.5 billion in sales.
Posted Dec 22, 2009
Going Bananas: 7-Eleven Expands Del Monte Banana Program
Proprietary film wrap technology expands shelf live, decreases number of deliveries, adding to retailer's bottom-line.
Posted Dec 17, 2009
Graphic Obesity: New York City's Anti-Soda Ad Targets Consumption
‘Are You Pouring on the Pounds?’ campaign relies on viral media to spread its message.
Posted Dec 17, 2009
College Students Crave Comfort Food With a Twist
Sodexo’s 2010 college food trends list reveals locally-grown, everyday favorites from home and abroad.
Posted Dec 16, 2009
FoodChannel.com Releases Top 10 Trends for 2010
Experimentation and food with benefits top the list of trends to keep an eye on next year.
Posted Dec 16, 2009
Qdoba Launches Kids Meal Options
Campaign kicks off with “Kids Eat Free” weekend December 19-20.
Posted Dec 15, 2009
Wegmans Tries Different Restaurant Concept
The grocery chain’s newest dining option opened in Pittsford, N.Y. last week.
Posted Dec 14, 2009
McDonald’s to Debut Breakfast Dollar Menu
The fast-food chain will offer breakfast items for a $1 next month when it launches a national dollar menu.
Posted Dec 14, 2009
Quickservice Restaurants Hold ‘Captive’ Audiences
A growing number of fast-food chains are serving up television along with burgers, fries and milkshakes.
Posted Dec 9, 2009
Denny’s Considers Premium Coffees
The family-dining chain is thinking about adding espressos and cappuccinos to its menu next year.
Posted Dec 7, 2009
Rutter’s Enhances Foodservice Offer With Wings, Sliders
The new foodservice offers are available in 36 Rutter’s stores that offer touch-screen kiosk ordering.
Posted Dec 4, 2009
Mexican Fast-Casual Chains Take Off
New Technomic report reveals that the fastest growing Mexican LSRs are fast-casual chains.
Posted Dec 4, 2009
Consumers Have An Appetite for Unbranded Pizza, Snacks
Unit sales of private label goods increased 5.3 percent for the year ending October 3, with some categories up more than 20 percent.
Posted Dec 1, 2009
Pennsylvania Court Case Centers Around Beer Sales
Sheetz has been battling the hodgepodge of state laws concerning beer sales.
Posted Nov 25, 2009
IHOP Rolls Out New Flavored Coffees
IHOP’s new International House Roast Flavored Coffees deliver a sweet ‘warm up’ just in time for the holidays.
Posted Nov 25, 2009
Restaurant Menus to Focus on Quality, Not Just Cost, in 2010
Mintel Menu Insights predicts top five trends for next year.
Posted Nov 24, 2009
Caffeinated Alcohol Companies, TTB at Odds with FDA
Beverage makers contend that products are certified with the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB), the agency in charge of compliance for formulas for alcoholic beverages.
Posted Nov 24, 2009
Starbucks Opens Another Non-branded Cafe
Roy Street Coffee & Tea joins 15th Street Coffee & Tea in Seattle as another Starbucks-run coffeehouse without the name.
Posted Nov 23, 2009
NYC McDonald’s Goes Upscale
The QSR brings a European flair to a New York City location, complete with Wi-Fi and flat screens.
Posted Nov 20, 2009
Montgomery County Passes Menu-Labeling Law
The Restaurant Association of Maryland estimates that 640 county restaurants will be affected.
Posted Nov 19, 2009
Drink Coffee Like Its 1765
Colonial Williamsburg opens America’s only 18th-century coffeehouse.
Posted Nov 18, 2009
McDonald's Beverages Set To Exceed Goals
Company's pricey gamble, which includes McCafe drinks, appears to be paying off.
Posted Nov 16, 2009
Subway Breakfast Experience Not Exactly a Wake-up Call
Sandwich chain has uphill climb for morning daypart.
Posted Nov 12, 2009
FDA Issues Updated Food Code
Code updates standards for the retail and foodservice segment of the food industry, standards that have remained virtually unchanged since 2005.
Posted Nov 12, 2009
WSJ Opinion: New York's Calorie Labeling Law is Ineffective
Despite calorie warnings, diners order (gulp!) more calories.
Posted Nov 10, 2009
Dunkin' Donuts Launches Aggressive Windy City Breakfast Campaign
Company launches everyday value menu in Chicago; distributes $40,000 in rechargeable Dunkin' Donuts cards.
Posted Nov 10, 2009
Pushing Fresh Produce Instead of Cookies at the Corner Market
Several cities and states have been paying for new convenience store equipment that stocks fresh fruits and vegetables.
Posted Nov 3, 2009
Pelosi’s Health Care Bill Adds Menu Labeling Provisions
The nearly 2,000-page proposal has general nutritional labeling rules for restaurants and retail chains with 20 or more locations.
Posted Nov 2, 2009
Kroger’s New Technology Enables Place of Origin in Fresh Salads
New line of fresh salads allows customers to learn the origin of the produce through exclusive technology.
Posted Oct 29, 2009
Foodservice Traffic Declines for Fourth Consecutive Quarter
Spending declines for second consecutive quarter, NPD reports.
Posted Oct 29, 2009
Wine-in-Groceries Fight Resumes in Tennessee
Panel to reexamine state's alcohol laws.
Posted Oct 27, 2009
To Cut Global Warming, Swedes Study Their Plates
Food labeling lists the carbon dioxide emissions associated with their production. Consumers say, “Huh?”
Posted Oct 27, 2009
Serving Up Foodservice Recipe for Success
NACS Show workshop makes the case for how to execute a successful foodservice program.
Posted Oct 21, 2009
Ready-to-Drink Tea’s Popularity Grows
More consumers are flocking to tea because of its healthful qualities.
Posted Oct 14, 2009
7-Eleven Tests Plastic Stay-Fresh Wrap on Its Bananas
Wrap extends yellow freshness for up to five days, more than double the two-day shelf life for unwrapped bananas.
Posted Oct 13, 2009
FDA Takes Action Against Ready-to-Eat Sandwich Manufacturer
Rel’s Foods Inc., which sells ready-to-eat sandwiches to convenience stores and other retailers, allegedly failed to correct violations.
Posted Oct 12, 2009
Fast-Food Ban Won’t Cut the Fat
Rand survey concludes that barring new QSRs in South Los Angeles is unlikely to curb obesity.
Posted Oct 8, 2009
Restaurant Performance Dipped in August
While sales and traffic levels softened, operators are more optimistic about sales and the economy.
Posted Oct 5, 2009
Dunkin Celebrates Olympic Bid With Free Coffee
Today, Chicago-area Dunkin’ Donuts locations is giving away free coffee all day on October 5.
Posted Oct 2, 2009
Can a New CEO Bring Back Boston Market?
With a new CEO at the helm, the pioneer of home meal replacement is looking for a comeback.
Posted Oct 2, 2009
Deli Meals, Comfort Foods Drive In-Store Deli Sales
New report details consumer purchasing behavior in the deli and prepared food areas.
Posted Oct 1, 2009
Dunkin' Donuts Announces Five New Restaurants in Cincinnati
Agreement with Gilligan Oil Company will bring new restaurants within the next three years.
Posted Sep 25, 2009
Spending Decrease Likely for Restaurants and Entertainment
A new consumer survey finds that just one-quarter of adults say they are likely to have more money to spend in the next six months.
Posted Sep 24, 2009
Name-Brand Foods Make Gains on Private Labels
Gains over private labels are the first recorded for name brands since late 2006.
Posted Sep 24, 2009
Stevia Sweetener Bites into Sugar-Free Market
Stevia-based sweeteners have captured nearly 10 percent of the U.S. market for sugar substitutes, despite having gained FDA approval only nine months ago.
Posted Sep 24, 2009
Serving All-Day Breakfast
Offering breakfast in other dayparts boosts sales at quick-service restaurants.
Posted Sep 23, 2009
Starbucks Boosts Prices on Some Beverages, Cuts Prices on Others
Price hikes range up to 30 cents with cuts as low as 15 cents; changes to roll-out nationwide within the coming months.
Posted Sep 22, 2009
Subway Set to Overtake McDonald’s in Store Count
By year’s end, worldwide store count to beat McDonald’s; beating its sales is unlikely.
Posted Sep 22, 2009
Restaurant Outlook Still Grim
Technomic data predicts that the industry will not recover until 2011.
Posted Sep 21, 2009
H1N1 Preparedness Guide for Small Businesses Announced
DHS, SBA announce a preparedness guide to assist small businesses in planning for the H1N1 flu.
Posted Sep 21, 2009
Fast-Food Chains Serving More Gourmet Burgers
From McDonald’s to Burger King, premium hamburgers are on the menu.
Posted Sep 21, 2009
Gourmet Teas Posts Strong Sales
Despite the overall dampening appetite for high-end products, gourmet teas has continued to grow.
Posted Sep 21, 2009
How to Prepare Your Restaurant For a Swine Flu Outbreak
NRA, CDC and Ecolab offer recommended steps for foodservice operators.
Posted Sep 15, 2009
Online Grocer Expands to Big Apple Vending Convenience
FreshDirect launches gourmet meals in vending machines across NYC.
Posted Sep 15, 2009
Restrictive Restaurant Diets Likely to Continue
Survey shows foodservice customers likely to continue penny-pinching ways even as economy improves.
Posted Sep 10, 2009
Restaurant Industry Assails Fast-Food Ban Idea
The industry criticizes a recent suggestion that restricting the locations of quick-service restaurants will check obesity.
Posted Sep 8, 2009
BP’s ampm Expands Breakfast Menu
The new menu is designed to boost on-the-go options for morning customers.
Posted Sep 4, 2009
I Can’t Believe It’s Private Label!
Consumer Reports: Taste tests find store-brand foods as good as, and sometimes even better than, big name brands.
Posted Sep 3, 2009
Soup’s On! (Oden, Actually.)
The heat is on as Japan’s convenience stores aim to lure customers with steaming oden.
Posted Sep 3, 2009
Tea Prices Brewing Up To Beat Record
Depleting global inventories are sending tea to all-time high prices.
Posted Sep 3, 2009
Dining Out Looking Up (For Some)
Restaurant outlooks improve slightly in July.
Posted Sep 3, 2009
Snacking on the Rise
A new NPD study finds that Americans will be consuming more snacks at home.
Posted Sep 2, 2009
Starbucks Instant Coffee Available Nationwide Sept. 29
The coffeehouse chain will start selling VIA at all U.S. and Canadian locations at the end of the month.
Posted Sep 2, 2009
Recall: Frozen Culinary Circle Fettuccini Alfredo with Chicken Recalled
Listeria contamination uncovered during routine product sampling.
Posted Sep 1, 2009
Sugar Guidelines Could Hurt Soft Drink Firms
AHA singles out soft drinks as the primary source of discretionary sugar calories.
Posted Aug 27, 2009
Burgerville Tests Nutrition Data On Receipts
Receipts provide nutritional data for each order and suggestions for trimming fat and calories.
Posted Aug 26, 2009
Announcing Perky Jerky, the Peppy Peppered Product
Caffeinated beef jerky combines a meat snack with the energy boost equivalent of two cans of energy drink.
Posted Aug 26, 2009
Fewer Consumers Can Afford Healthy Food Options
Because of the recession, more Americans are not eating as healthful.
Posted Aug 25, 2009
Starbucks Raises and Lowers Prices
The coffeehouse chain increased prices on some of its specialty beverages but decreased prices on a few basic drinks.
Posted Aug 24, 2009
Sugar Rush! Price Increases Put Foodmakers On Alert
However, domestic sugar producers say there's ample supply, and that raising quotas could drive them out of business.
Posted Aug 18, 2009
Beer, Wine Join Quick-Serve Food
QSRs look to beer and wine to boost their image and attract value-conscious diners.
Posted Aug 11, 2009
Children Know Healthy Foods
A new study finds that kids are well aware which foods are good for them.
Posted Aug 10, 2009
Can the Food Sector Serve Up Profits?
Private label demand has some food manufacturers and retailers feeling the squeeze, though analysts are bullish on their recoveries.
Posted Aug 6, 2009
Consumers Want a Healthy Choice of Beverages
Coca-Cola and McDonald’s are among the companies exploring how to invigorate consumers’ taste for healthy and varied liquid refreshment.
Posted Aug 5, 2009
Food Shoppers Trading Down On Expensive Items
Private label sales increase; some retailers seek creative ways to attract shoppers, including one supermarket that offers its own variation of Happy Hour.
Posted Aug 4, 2009
Candy Or Food? Confusion Grows As New Tax Looms
New tax on candy contains subtle classification exceptions that promise headaches for retailers.
Posted Aug 4, 2009
BP’s ampm Stores Spice up Summer
This month, ampm premieres six new burritos.
Posted Aug 3, 2009
House Considers Food-Safety Bill
The legislation will give the FDA expanded authority in food-safety regulations.
Posted Jul 29, 2009
Home Entertainment
A new study finds that consumers are entertaining at home more.
Posted Jul 28, 2009
Food Safety Best Practices
Maintaining and following good food-safety rules can help to prevent dangerous contaminations.
Posted Jul 28, 2009
McCafe Sales Drives McDonald’s Profits
The debut of the premium coffee line helped to fuel the quick-service restaurant chain’s second-quarter earnings.
Posted Jul 27, 2009
CSPI Sues Denny’s Over Salt Levels
The group filed a lawsuit against the restaurant chain because of its allegedly excessive sodium content in meals.
Posted Jul 27, 2009
Restaurants Press Congress for Broader Menu-Labeling Provisions
Twenty-one QSRs and full-service restaurants recommend that the bill include more convenience stores.
Posted Jul 23, 2009
Coca-Cola Reveals Fountain of the Future
San Diego will test Coca-Cola Freestyle, a new touch-screen fountain dispenser.
Posted Jul 23, 2009
NPD Reports U.S. Restaurant Traffic Decline Steepest in 28 Years
High unemployment, tight reins on spending, and cut backs by households with children contribute to decline.
Posted Jul 21, 2009
Free Food Pays
Quick-service operators are discovering that free food promos provide a big payoff.
Posted Jul 20, 2009
Ice Cream Companies Get Healthier
Breyers, Klondike and Popsickle are debuting better-for-you desserts in time for National Ice Cream Day.
Posted Jul 15, 2009
Hot Stuff Foods Rolls Out New Big Stuff Trio
The three new pizzas, while smaller than the original Big Stuff Pizza, provide an equal amount of food.
Posted Jul 15, 2009
Energy Shots Stimulate Power Drink Sales
Beverage makers have taken note and are launching their own energy shots.
Posted Jul 14, 2009
Tim Hortons Hits the Big Apple
Restaurant chain opens 12 coffee and baked goods locations in NYC; 3,500-store chain ranks as fourth largest in North America by market cap.
Posted Jul 14, 2009
Organic Vs. Natural: Source of Confusion in Food Labeling
Distinguishing between the two products is a growing source of confusion, critics say.
Posted Jul 14, 2009
Economy Drives Diners to Grocery Stores
People are eating out less, buying more prepared food.
Posted Jul 14, 2009
Major League Winer
Fresh & Easy takes home 29 awards for its exclusive wines, most retailing for under $10.
Posted Jul 9, 2009
Two Energy Drink Brands Recalled For Tampering
Knife blades found in Hardcore Energize, New Whey beverages, FDA warns.
Posted Jul 7, 2009
Utah Liquor Law Changes
No longer will the state require bars and restaurants to sell memberships to serve alcohol.
Posted Jul 6, 2009
Peet’s Debuts Ready-To-Drink Tea
The bottled iced teas come in six varieties.
Posted Jul 6, 2009
Starbucks Rolls Out New Menu Items
The coffeehouse chain pushes its revamped menu items with a newspaper ad campaign.
Posted Jul 1, 2009
Mobile Foods — Literally
A term like ‘grease truck’ doesn’t apply to many of today’s gourmet food vendors.
Posted Jun 26, 2009
Green Mountain Coffee Launches Single-Cup Vending Solution
Tully's Coffee- and Caribou Coffee-branded machines will launch later this year.
Posted Jun 24, 2009
Nestlé Recall Leaves A Mystery in Its Wake
Officials probe E. coli link to cookie dough.
Posted Jun 23, 2009
Tainted Toll House?
Nestle voluntarily recalls Toll House cookie dough products because of possible E. coli illnesses.
Posted Jun 22, 2009
BP’s ampm Tempts Customers With Dessert Promotion
The convenience store chain offers two classic Hispanic desserts for just under a dollar.
Posted Jun 17, 2009
Health Experts Applaud Soda Tax Idea
While it’s unlikely that Congress will approve such a tax to fund healthcare reform, health advocates say this type of tax can reduce soft drink consumption.
Posted Jun 16, 2009
N.J. Restaurants Rally Against Liquor Tax Increase
The New Jersey Restaurant Association is opposing a 25 percent hike in the wine and liquor excise tax.
Posted Jun 15, 2009
McDonald’s Grabs Starbucks Customers
A new report finds that the fast-food chain is gaining customers from the coffeehouse chain.
Posted Jun 15, 2009
Buy a Donut, Save on Gas
Dunkin’ Donuts adds 1,400 locations to New England’s Override fuel rewards program.
Posted Jun 11, 2009
Customizing Soda
Coca-Cola’s Freestyle beverage dispenser uses RFID to give customers more than 100 drink choices.
Posted Jun 10, 2009
Coke, Illy Issimo Focus on RTD Coffee Segment
The companies plan to ease Illy Issimo into additional markets.
Posted Jun 9, 2009
Five Brands Bucking the Beverage Downtrend
Upstarts have amassed loyal consumers with clever marketing approaches that include targeting yoga studios.
Posted Jun 9, 2009
Crossover Appeal
Restaurants color outside the lines to bring in business.
Posted Jun 8, 2009
Quick-Service Coffee Competition Heats Up
More QSRs are looking to perk up sales with coffee programs.
Posted Jun 3, 2009
A Free Strategy
Some restaurants are finding that offering free food does not necessarily translate into goodwill.
Posted Jun 1, 2009
Lunching for Under $10
Restaurants continue to slash lunch prices to capture customers.
Posted Jun 1, 2009
McDonald’s Says McCafe Off To Good Start
Frappes and smoothies could reach U.S. stores at the end of 2010; McCafe concept now spreading to 1,100 European stores.
Posted May 29, 2009
Start the Day With Bread
Quickservice restaurants turn their attention to breakfast breads as a way to bring in customers.
Posted May 26, 2009
McDonald’s Explores Cage-Free Eggs
The fast-food giant looks into studying housing alternatives for hens.
Posted May 26, 2009
Give Value in the Extras
Consumers need to justify ordering appetizers, soups and salads during harder economic climates.
Posted May 26, 2009
Taco Bell Launches New Volcano Menu
Volcano Taco and Burrito add flavor and spice to Taco Bell’s menu.
Posted May 21, 2009
McDonald's Winning More Than Value Wars
While building its Dollar Menu, McDonald’s also boosted ad spending on full-priced items.
Posted May 15, 2009
Study Finds Why Fries Win Out Over Salad
Consumer meal choices are influenced by the nutritional variety of choices available.
Posted May 11, 2009
Reports Outline Restaurant Traffic Decline, Potential Failure
Two reports shed light on restaurant dining trends and economic challenges facing chains.
Posted May 8, 2009
Get Ready for the McCafe Marketing Blitz
Are you ready? McCafe readies its $100 million ad campaign.
Posted May 7, 2009
Will Artificial Food Coloring Be Banned?
The dyes have been banned in some parts of Europe; similar efforts have been unsuccessful in the United States.
Posted May 6, 2009
Tim Hortons to Add $30m Coffee Roasting Facility
Roasting facility is the company’s second and will allow it to internally satisfy 75 percent of its coffee requirements.
Posted May 5, 2009
Starbucks Drops Prices
Coffeehouse chain slashes the cost of some items starting this week.
Posted May 4, 2009
Fast Food Giveaways
Many quickservice chains are offering free or less-than-$1 menu items to boost sales.
Posted May 4, 2009
Fresh & Easy Family-Sized Meals a Hit
After debuting last month, these larger meals are now the top six selling lines of freshly prepared products.
Posted May 4, 2009
7-Eleven Launches Terminator Promotion
7-Eleven blasts into Terminator Salvation movie as movie characters hit the Slurpee® machine.
Posted May 1, 2009
Consumers Reveal Fried Foods Preferences
Technomic report makes suggestions for capitalizing on opportunities and maximizing ROI by understanding fried food trends.
Posted Apr 30, 2009
Pork is Safe to Eat, U.S. Suppliers Say
U.S. pork producers say that the swine flu is unrelated to pork consumption.
Posted Apr 28, 2009
KFC Goes on Offensive With Chicken Wars
KFC offers Southern California customers free samples of Kentucky Grilled Chicken on April 27.
Posted Apr 24, 2009
McDonald’s to Rollout Angus Burger
QSR plans to add a one-third-pound Angus burger to its permanent menu by late summer.
Posted Apr 24, 2009
Consumers Choosing Low-Cal Beverages
Analysis of government data confirms Americans are taking advantage of wide variety of lower-calorie beverage options.
Posted Apr 23, 2009
Restaurants ‘Tweet’ for Diners
Looking for ways to tempt diners, restaurateurs turn to new technology.
Posted Apr 22, 2009
Snacks Sell
Convenience stores are growing snacks sales, reports QSR Magazine.
Posted Apr 22, 2009
Burger King to Increase U.S. Ad Spend; Wells Fargo Offers McDonald’s Franchisee Loan Program
BK to promote new broilers and offerings; Wells Fargo seeks to facilitate franchising opportunities.
Posted Apr 21, 2009
Burger King Snacks Nominated for Award
Licensed BK line estimated to top $50 million in global sales annually.
Posted Apr 17, 2009
Ben & Jerry's Launches Fair Trade Flavor
New flavor is complemented by global flavor-naming contest.
Posted Apr 16, 2009
Frozen Breakfast Sales Climb; Frozen Beverage Sales Melt
Consumers seeking at-home meal preparation and convenience are driving frozen food sales.
Posted Apr 16, 2009
Getting Children to Eat Healthy (and Like It)
Persistence and creativity are the keys to expanding your child’s food preferences.
Posted Apr 14, 2009
Food Safety Efforts Stalled
Report cites increase in the number of infection incidences from foodborne pathogens.
Posted Apr 14, 2009
Report: McDonald’s Golden Arches Still #1
Report details trends and demographic preferences for QSRs.
Posted Apr 14, 2009
Colorado Restaurants Reach Out
The association launched a campaign urging residents to "Fork the Recession."
Posted Apr 13, 2009
Restaurant Seats Begin Filling Up
New research indicates that consumers plan on going out to eat again.
Posted Apr 13, 2009
Burger King Expands Menu
New broilers provide greater preparation flexibility, allowing a range of new product offerings.
Posted Apr 10, 2009
Setting the Standard for Menu Labeling
The National Restaurant Association, among others, supports a federal standard when it comes to menu labels.
Posted Apr 9, 2009
Hunt Brothers Debuts Specialty Pizza
New Buffalo Chicken Pizza will be available beginning April 13.
Posted Apr 9, 2009
Texas Legislature Considers Trans Fat Ban
Measures would require restaurants to take trans fats off menu.
Posted Apr 8, 2009
Restaurant Association Closes Two Offices
Trade group prepares for continued hard times for restaurant industry.
Posted Apr 7, 2009
Healthiest Fast-Food Fries
Nutritional expert rates the best and worst fast-food fries.
Posted Apr 7, 2009
Healthy Choice Reinvents Brand
The brand has a new look and a new campaign that features actress Julia Louis-Dreyfus.
Posted Apr 6, 2009
Restaurants Turn to Freebies
More dining establishments are giving food away to bring in customers.
Posted Apr 3, 2009
Nut Recall Expands
Nationwide alert made concerning potentially tainted shelled pistachios.
Posted Apr 3, 2009
FDA Issues Alert on Contaminated Pistachios
FDA and California health officials are investigating salmonella contamination in pistachio products.
Posted Apr 2, 2009
Church’s Chicken Unveils Modular Restaurant
New design shaves up to 30 percent off the cost of a franchise.
Posted Apr 2, 2009
Chain Restaurant Growth Rates Slow
Technomic Top 500 Annual Report details challenges facing restaurant operators.
Posted Mar 31, 2009
QSRs Compete Over Breakfast
Latest fast-food breakfast items carry small price tags but large calorie counts.
Posted Mar 31, 2009
Pizza Vending: Will It Catch On?
Let’s Pizza vending machine bakes fresh pizza in minutes.
Posted Mar 30, 2009
McDonald's McCafé Exceeding Expectations
Premium coffee line continues steady rollout across the United States.
Posted Mar 27, 2009
10 Heart-Healthiest Foods
Making smart food choices can yield the greatest cardiac benefits.
Posted Mar 26, 2009
McDonald’s Experiments With Wrapped Big Mac
The fast-food chain is testing the Snack Wrap Mac in several markets.
Posted Mar 25, 2009
Coffee Still Part of Everyday Life
Coffee consumption at home rises even as daily coffee consumption among consumers remains consistent.
Posted Mar 25, 2009
Restaurant Industry Embraces Food Safety Proposals
Industry welcomes legislative efforts to strengthen U.S. food safety laws.
Posted Mar 24, 2009
Study Shows Nutritional Info Not Sought in Fast Food
Consumers do not seek out nutritional information at quickservice restaurants.
Posted Mar 23, 2009
Kellogg Co. Calls For Food-Safety Overhaul
Kellogg CEO testifies that food companies should have written safety plans.
Posted Mar 20, 2009
Mansfield Oil Selects Hot Stuff Foods
Strategic partnership will help convenience stores gain better access to premium foodservice.
Posted Mar 19, 2009
Companies Drop Dairy With rbST
Dairies and retailers are cutting the synthetic hormone from dairy products.
Posted Mar 18, 2009
7-Eleven Launches Meal Deal
The retailer also adds more than 100 new, private-label products to its shelves.
Posted Mar 18, 2009
Obama Targets Food Safety
President announces new FDA leader and working group to upgrade food-safety laws.
Posted Mar 17, 2009
Farmers to Cut Back on Production
Commodity prices are down, but farmers are cutting back.
Posted Mar 16, 2009
Peanut Butter Sales Still Sticky
Consumer fears jar peanut butter sales.
Posted Mar 13, 2009
Safeway Capitalizes on Home Dining
The grocer’s new private label frozen meals offer restaurant-quality foods.
Posted Mar 12, 2009
BK Launches Whopper Bar
The new restaurant concept takes burger customization to the next level.
Posted Mar 12, 2009
FDA Seeks Speedier Salmonella Testing
New methods would enable FDA to respond more efficiently.
Posted Mar 12, 2009
Congress Introduces LEAN Act
The legislation would set federal menu-labeling standards.
Posted Mar 11, 2009
Salmonella Outbreak Creates Heavy Losses for Businesses
Peanut growers, food producers, candy companies and food stores suffer big losses from PCA’s peanut recall.
Posted Mar 10, 2009
Urbanites With Independent Grocers Consume More Veggies, Fruit
A new study discovers that a neighborhood’s food environment contributes greatly to how many fruits and vegetables its inhabitants eat.
Posted Mar 9, 2009
Aramark Introduces New Campus Convenience Store
Foodservice provider targets students with its fresh, market offerings on college campuses.
Posted Mar 6, 2009
Top 10 Healthiest QSRs
Out of 100 of the largest quickservice chains, Health magazine reveals its top 10 in terms of healthy fare.
Posted Mar 4, 2009
QT Kitchens Creates Jobs for Clayton
QuikTrip’s new QT Kitchens site will bring in 227 jobs to Clayton County, Georgia.
Posted Mar 3, 2009
Lawmakers Propose Food Safety Reforms
U.S. representatives seek to give FDA access to food manufacturers’ internal food testing results.
Posted Feb 27, 2009
Use Of Coupons, Private Label Purchasing Increases
Tight finances prompt a spike in coupon use and inexpensive private label purchases.
Posted Feb 27, 2009
Pennsylvania Governor Forms Food Safety Council
Protecting public health and food supply underlying council goals; will facilitate and coordinate federal, regional, state and local efforts.
Posted Feb 27, 2009
Cheap Eats on the Rise
Sales of inexpensive food products such as frozen pizza have been soaring.
Posted Feb 25, 2009
McLane Announces Candy Multi-Vendor End Cap
McLane says its candy MVE program can increase impulse sales by up to 20 percent in convenience stores.
Posted Feb 25, 2009
Holding Onto Breakfast
Portable breakfast items are driving the growth in the morning mealtime.
Posted Feb 23, 2009
Growing by the Cup
Nespresso coffee products posted a 30 percent increase in 2008.
Posted Feb 23, 2009
Coke to Launch 120-Drink Fountain Dispenser
Coke president will showcase the dispenser prototype later today in Boca Raton.
Posted Feb 20, 2009
Study Reveals Premium Coffee Drinker Insights
A new Mindset Media study reveals that $4 latte lovers fit a distinct consumer profile.
Posted Feb 20, 2009
Food Manufacturers Cut SKUs
With an eye toward production efficiencies and maximizing their bottom lines, food manufacturers are reducing their brand selections.
Posted Feb 19, 2009
PepsiCo Worldwide Sales Rise
PepsiCo’s worldwide sales increased for both snacks and beverages in its fourth quarter.
Posted Feb 19, 2009
Kentucky Looks Into Calorie Posting
The bill would require quickservice restaurants to post calorie counts on inside and drive-thru menus.
Posted Feb 18, 2009
Tubers for You
Innovative toppings spice up an old stand-by, the baked potato, which is making a comeback at restaurants.
Posted Feb 18, 2009
Peanut Corporation of America Files for Bankruptcy
The company at the heart of a salmonella outbreak investigation files for bankruptcy protection.
Posted Feb 17, 2009
Fast-Casuals Capture More Dining Dollars
Traffic to restaurants like Panera Bread, Chipotle Mexican Grill and Noodles & Company increased 9 percent.
Posted Feb 16, 2009
Peanut President Refused to Testify
Peanut Corporation of America executive took the Fifth Amendment after being subpoenaed to appear before the House Energy and Commerce Committee.
Posted Feb 13, 2009
Georgia Lawmakers Consider New Food Safety Rules
A proposed bill would mandate disclosure of internal tests that document food contamination.
Posted Feb 12, 2009
School Revenue Unaffected by Healthier Vending Machine Choices
Schools that switched their vending machine inventory to healthier choices show no loss in revenue.
Posted Feb 12, 2009
Kosher Food Interest Soars
Quality and a healthy image are behind the increase in the kosher food market.
Posted Feb 11, 2009
PCA Disputes Inadequate Inspection Claims
As PCA works to clear its name, retailers and manufactures continue to alert the public about the recent peanut product recall.
Posted Feb 6, 2009
Menu Calorie Counts Influence Consumer Behavior
A new Technomic survey found that mandated calorie information on New York City menus is a factor that diners take into consideration.
Posted Feb 6, 2009
Starbucks Plans Value Meals
Amid declining sales and strong competition, the coffee chain is planning to launch breakfast value meals.
Posted Feb 6, 2009
Children’s Menus Go Upscale
Independent restaurant operators are leading an emerging “kid-adult” fusion trend by promoting adult-style offerings to kids in greater numbers.
Posted Feb 4, 2009
Massachusetts Considers Hiking Meal Tax
Restaurateurs are not happy about the governor’s proposal to increase the meals tax to 6 percent.
Posted Feb 2, 2009
FDA Updates Peanut Butter Recall List
US Nutrition, assures retailers and consumers that its peanut butter products are safe; Detour bars are added to the FDA’s recall list; Clif Bar expands voluntary recall.
Posted Feb 2, 2009
All Peanut Products Recalled From Georgia Plant
The FDA recalls every peanut product made in the past two years from PCA’s Georgia plant.
Posted Jan 30, 2009
McLane Launches Fresh on the Go
McLane’s Fresh on the Go targets fresh produce, incremental sales.
Posted Jan 30, 2009
Krispy Kreme for Lovers
Krispy Kreme’s Share the Love promotion: Purchase 12 Krispy Kreme Valentine’s donuts now through February 14 and receive 12 Valentine’s Day cards — each containing a free coupon.
Posted Jan 30, 2009
Coca-Cola Revamps Cokesolutions.com for Foodservice Operators
The newly designed Web site provides sustainability resources, specialized tools, content and merchandise.
Posted Jan 30, 2009
Mercury Warning in High Fructose Corn Syrup
A new study says that foods made with high fructose corn syrup may contain mercury.
Posted Jan 29, 2009
America’s 20 “Worst” Foods Revealed
Authors of a new book reveal their picks for some unhealthy food favorites in America.
Posted Jan 29, 2009
Quickservice Chain Tries Outsourcing
Jack in the Box has been using a call center for order taking at a few North Carolina locations.
Posted Jan 28, 2009
Lance Sandwich Crackers Safe From Peanut Butter Recall
The company’s sandwich crackers are not involved in the salmonella investigation. Supreme Protein voluntarily recalls its Peanut Butter Crunch Bars and Caramel Nut bars.
Posted Jan 27, 2009
New England McDonald’s Give Away Free Lattes
In an effort to promote its new McDafe drinks, McDonald’s is giving out free specialty coffees in Maine and eastern New Hampshire.
Posted Jan 27, 2009
More Stores Pull Peanut Butter Products
KwikTrip joins the lengthy list of retailers that are yanking peanut butter products because of the salmonella outbreak.
Posted Jan 26, 2009
‘Natural’ Foods Outsell ‘Organic’
Americans increasingly turn to foods and beverages with healthful attributes, and a new report finds that “natural” trumps “organic” in sales.
Posted Jan 26, 2009
Girl Scout Cookies as Tasty (and Safe) as Ever
Girl Scout cookies are not under FDA investigation for salmonella poisoning
Posted Jan 23, 2009
Truvia Turning Taste Buds
The new sweetener is beginning to make its mark.
Posted Jan 22, 2009
Restaurant-Goers’ Protein Preferences Surface
New reports detail protein trends for diners, and how restaurants are responding.
Posted Jan 22, 2009
Quick Chek Boosts Coffee, Hot Breakfast Sales
The convenience retailer announced same-store sales growth in both categories, proving that c-stores are responding to consumer demand for an affordable breakfast alternative.
Posted Jan 21, 2009
Restaurants Capitalize on Inauguration
From B’amatinis to suckling pig inaugural luaus, restaurant operators are tapping into the excitement surrounding the presidential inauguration with special menu items, promotions and pricing.
Posted Jan 21, 2009
Specialty Foods Predict Growth
The National Association for the Specialty Food Trade expects a 4 percent drop for the industry overall, but forecasts sales growth in subcategories such as specialty drinks, snacks and premium chocolate.
Posted Jan 21, 2009
Fake Food More Prevalent
Foods pretending to be something else have become big news lately, and you might be surprised at what could be fake on your shelf.
Posted Jan 21, 2009
Little Debbie Joins Recall List; Hershey, ConAgra Products Safe
Some Little Debbie products have been recalled, citing a possible link to the salmonella outbreak. Hershey, ConAgra unaffected.
Posted Jan 20, 2009
Consumers Put the Breaks on Pricey Coffee
A new study suggests that consumers are skipping Starbucks in favor of less expensive coffee brands, such as convenience stores and McDonald’s.
Posted Jan 20, 2009
Ten Nutrition Trends to Watch in 2009
Consumers trying to balance healthcare concerns while facing economic realities will produce 10 noteworthy nutrition trends in 2009.
Posted Jan 20, 2009
Kellogg Pulls Peanut Butter Sandwich Crackers Over Salmonella Concerns
The company has placed a precautionary “hold” over Austin and Keebler-Branded Peanut Butter Sandwich Crackers because of salmonella concerns.
Posted Jan 16, 2009
Beer Gets At-Home Boost
During tough economic times, beer sales are heating up.
Posted Jan 16, 2009
Food Safety and Obama’s Challenge
With food safety functions split between two agencies, Congress is turning to the incoming Obama administration to unify functions.
Posted Jan 15, 2009
Mars Tackles Super Bowl
Mars Snackfood US releases two new treats and launches a Super Bowl promotion.
Posted Jan 15, 2009
Thanasi Foods Introduces BIGS Sunflower Seeds
The snacks, jumbo-size sunflower seeds in a re-sealable bag, come in such flavors as original salted and roasted, Frank’s RedHot buffalo wing, and zesty ranch.
Posted Jan 12, 2009
Beverage Association Objects to Obesity Tax
The American Beverage Association denounces New York Gov. David Paterson’s proposed “obesity tax,” which would place an additional 18 percent sales tax on non-diet soft drinks and fruit drinks with less than 70 percent natural fruit juice. Paterson estimates that the tax would lower consumption of those beverages by 5 percent.
Posted Jan 12, 2009
Consumers Crave More Sandwich Variety
New research finds that customers want more options in sandwiches.
Posted May 22, 2008
Nestea Touts Newly Repackaged Teas
The ready-to-drink tea brand sees growth in its products.
Posted May 21, 2008
Rutter’s Rolls Out New Foodservice Program
The convenience store chain’s offerings will include custom stir-fry and freshly baked bread.
Posted May 19, 2008
Coca-Cola Wants More Opportunities to Expand Business
The company looks to other bottled beverages to increase profits.
Posted May 14, 2008
Tesco’s Fresh & Easy Adds More Private-Label Products
The retail chain will expand its private-label offerings with an additional 250 items.
Posted May 14, 2008
New Slurpee Flavor Rocks With Guitar Hero
Posted May 5, 2008