Foodservice News
Kangaroo Express Introduces Icee Offering to Gator Nation
Icee and Kangaroo Express team up for college football-themed promotion.
Posted Sep 2, 2010
Restaurants Pursue Growth Through Franchising
New Technomic report helps operators identify the leading franchise companies and understand where franchising opportunities exist.
Posted Sep 2, 2010
Starbucks Launches Naturally Flavored VIA Coffees
Expands presence in $377 million flavored coffee market in the U.S. with new natural flavors.
Posted Aug 31, 2010
No Foodservice Ad Budget? Try Door-to-Door Giveaways
Save-A-Lot stretches media budget by delivering free groceries.
Posted Aug 30, 2010
USDA: Food Prices Increase to the Lowest Levels Since 1992
Minimal price growth comes despite rising prices for commodities.
Posted Aug 30, 2010
7-Eleven Tests Roasted Chicken
7-Eleven wants in on Chicagoans' dinner plans.
Posted Aug 30, 2010
Fast Casual: Niche Restaurant Segment?
Fast casual establishes itself as niche restaurant category, according to Mintel.
Posted Aug 27, 2010
Half of FDA Scientists Had Full Confidence In Egg Safety
The study, conducted before the salmonella recall by the Union of Concerned Scientists, asked FDA officials how confident they were in the agency's ability to protect consumers from food-borne illnesses.
Posted Aug 26, 2010
Pepsi Max Hopes Third Time’s a Charm
In a third bid to establish brand identity in the U.S., Max tries a new position — taking a shot at Coke.
Posted Aug 25, 2010
Hostess Launches New Line of Muffins
New muffins offer convenient breakfast and snack options for families on the go, with a good source of fiber and 150 calories per serving.
Posted Aug 25, 2010
FDA Commissioner Says Agency Needs More Authority
FDA chief Margaret Hamburg urges Congress to pass pending legislation that would provide the agency with enhanced enforcement power.
Posted Aug 25, 2010
Coca-Cola Searches the Globe for Beverage Trends
Specialty group meets twice each month to analyze beverage brands from around the world with one goal: "to never let Coca-Cola be surprised by trends."
Posted Aug 24, 2010
Grocers Discover Ethnic Lure, Regional Malls
The traditional grocery store is changing, with expanding selections and nontraditional retail models.
Posted Aug 24, 2010
Massachusetts to Offer Food Stamp Discount for Produce
Federal program seeks to determine whether providing subsidies for buying produce will encourage food stamp recipients to eat more nutritious foods.
Posted Aug 23, 2010
Fresh Family Foods Opens in Chicago “Food Desert”
The new concept is offering healthy foods in one of Chicago’s “most notorious food deserts.”
Posted Aug 20, 2010
Egg Recall Grows to 380 Million
Salmonella outbreak from Wright County Egg is linked to illnesses in four states.
Posted Aug 20, 2010
Starbucks Betting Consumers Will Pay for Ultra-Premium Blends
Starbucks to launch Reserve line of single-origin coffees in select markets this fall.
Posted Aug 19, 2010
European Beer Prices on the Rise
A weak European barley harvest and a Russian wheat export ban will likely frustrate Chimay and Hoegaarden lovers in the U.S.
Posted Aug 19, 2010
Socializing Lunch
4Food debuts next month in New York City and wants to turn dining out into a social networking game.
Posted Aug 18, 2010
Alcohol Wholesalers Work Quietly to Limit Interstate Sales of Beer and Wine
Opponents of the bill maintain that it restricts competition and would lead to an increase in prices while weakening small microbrewers and winemakers.
Posted Aug 17, 2010
"Where's Your Dollar Ale?" "Next to the Dollar Riesling."
Dollar General to sell beer and wine.
Posted Aug 17, 2010
Happy Meals Without the Toys
San Francisco has proposed a law restricting which children’s meals could have toy accompaniments.
Posted Aug 16, 2010
Chick-fil-A Looks To Urban Markets for Expansion
The chicken sandwich chain will begin building restaurants in three cities, including Los Angeles.
Posted Aug 16, 2010
Coffee Shops Unplug Wi-Fi
Some coffeehouses are finding that getting rid of the service boosts sales and a friendlier atmosphere.
Posted Aug 11, 2010
U.S. Tea Sales Hot
Retailers are adding tea rooms and opening more tea shops to accommodate the increased interest.
Posted Aug 9, 2010
The Pantry Overhauls to Provide More Fresh Foods
The North Carolina-based retailer is “following a national trend” where convenience stores are becoming more like restaurants that sell gas.
Posted Aug 6, 2010
Landshire Announces Deal With ExxonMobil
The foodservice company will be the primary packaged sandwich company for ExxonMobil convenience stores.
Posted Aug 6, 2010
Delta Airlines To Launch New Food/Beverage Concepts
The airline hopes to “reinvent the customer dining experience” at LaGuardia Airport with new food and beverage concepts.
Posted Aug 6, 2010
Starbucks Instant Coffee Brews Up Instant Sales
Starbucks VIA Ready Brew records $100 million in sales in just 10 months since its release.
Posted Aug 5, 2010
J.M. Smucker Raises Coffee Prices By 9%
Increase comes after wholesale coffee costs reach a 12-year high.
Posted Aug 5, 2010
Beverage Sales Soar With Coke’s Freestyle Machine
Restaurants testing the new fountain dispensers say the high-tech machine brings results.
Posted Aug 4, 2010
Drive-Thru Birthplace Kicks Ones to the Curb
The town of the first In N Out Burger has banned the construction of any new drive-thru restaurants.
Posted Aug 4, 2010
Subway Breakfast Menu Exceeds Expectations
The sandwich chain says sales have increased system wide since the debut of its morning menu four months ago.
Posted Aug 4, 2010
Traditional Grocers Losing Private Label Battle
A new Packaged Facts report reveals specialty food retailers have experienced the largest gains in private label food and beverage sales, far outpacing traditional supermarkets and discounters.
Posted Aug 2, 2010
Pizza Hut Reduces Menu Prices Nationwide
Three-topping mediums now sell for $8, with their large counterparts priced at $10.
Posted Aug 2, 2010
Game On! Ultra Strength Beer Race Revived With 120-Proof Dutch Concoction
The Refrigerated Ship, at 60-percent alcohol by volume, is now the world's strongest beer, with a six-pack setting you back roughly $276.
Posted Aug 2, 2010
St. Louis Supermarkets Beef Up Beer Selections
Grocery stores in A-B's hometown are making room for craft beers.
Posted Aug 2, 2010
Making A Case for Take-And-Bake
Pizza is big business among American consumers, with companies like Papa Murphy’s reaping the benefits of feeding the take-and-bake trend.
Posted Jul 30, 2010
Hot New Trend: Frozen Yogurt?
What’s giving frozen yogurt shops a surge in Miami? Here’s a hint: self-serve.
Posted Jul 30, 2010
NY Restaurants Scramble to Make the Grade
A, B, C letter grade system has some restaurateurs concerned about their survival.
Posted Jul 29, 2010
Americans Cool to Quick-Service Chains
Public perception of the three biggest burger chains — Burger King, McDonald’s and Wendy’s — has fallen in the wake of recent attacks by consumer and activist groups.
Posted Jul 28, 2010
Hostess Launches Line of Breakfast Classics
On-the-go breakfast items available exclusively in convenience stores nationwide.
Posted Jul 27, 2010
Chunky Coke? Coca-Cola Taps New Drink Textures
Company executives say they are trying to identify the next huge brand and are experimenting with new beverage formulations that may move beyond liquids.
Posted Jul 27, 2010
Restaurants Offer More Healthful Choices
The number of menu items marked as “healthy” soared 65 percent from last year, a new study shows.
Posted Jul 26, 2010
The Rise of the Pickle
The crunchy snack is seeing a resurgence among consumers and chefs.
Posted Jul 26, 2010
Wisconsin Officials Eye “No Cheeseburgers and Fries” Zones
So think some Wisconsin health officials: that fast-food-free zones would help reduce obesity among residents.
Posted Jul 23, 2010
Burger King to Launch Nutritional Breakfast Kids Meal
New BK Kids Breakfast Muffin Sandwich Meal joins brand’s roster of meals that meet stringent nutrition criteria.
Posted Jul 22, 2010
U.S. Restaurant Count Down by 5,204 From Last Year
The NPD Group reports that independent units decline by -2 percent while chain units remain flat.
Posted Jul 21, 2010
Seattle Residents Embrace Sidewalk Cafes
The city more known for rain than sunshine eased restrictions on having sidewalk tables and now dozens of restaurants and cafes have set up small tables curbside.
Posted Jul 21, 2010
Floating Food
A restaurant boat makes waves in the Allegheny River.
Posted Jul 21, 2010
QSRs Trim the (Trans) Fat
McDonald's, Burger King and Wendy's using far less unhealthy fats, study shows.
Posted Jul 20, 2010
Mexican Coca-Cola Takes Off
Consumers respond enthusiastically to glass bottles and cane sugar recipe.
Posted Jul 20, 2010
Carl’s Jr., Hardee’s Test Foot-long Cheeseburgers
The fast-food chains are selling a sandwich with three burgers and cheese slices on a 12-inch bun.
Posted Jul 19, 2010
China Promises Upgraded Food Safety
Government tries to reassure uneasy citizens in the wake of the seizure of more than 60 tons of contaminated milk powder.
Posted Jul 15, 2010
Michigan OKs Law Allowing Residents to Make Food at Home, Sell to Public
“This is a great way of eluding some bureaucracy and fostering some great, great entrepreneurs in the agricultural field,” explains Michigan governor.
Posted Jul 15, 2010
SC Allows Sampling, Purchasing at State Microbreweries
New law also allows specialty beer-and-wine retail stores to offer up to 24 samplings per quarter.
Posted Jul 15, 2010
Former McDonald’s Execs to Start Fast-Casual Chain
The pair is developing a better-for-you concept with an environmentally friendly atmosphere.
Posted Jul 14, 2010
McDonald's Unleashes Summer Sales Weapon: Beverages
Even before its nationwide advertising campaign begins, McDonald’s frappes and smoothies are taking off with consumers.
Posted Jul 13, 2010
Peapod Expands to More Than 40 Northeast Communities
Online grocer responds to customer demand by expanding coverage.
Posted Jul 13, 2010
Publix to Launch $3.99 Kids Meals
Five prepackaged kid’s meals to launch July 29 at Publix supermarkets.
Posted Jul 13, 2010
Taco Bell to Embrace Breakfast
The fast-food chain has plans to introduce a permanent morning menu late next year.
Posted Jul 12, 2010
A Fishy Trend
Fish tacos are showing up on more menus across the country.
Posted Jul 12, 2010
FDA Seeking Input on Nationwide Menu Labeling
The FDA is accepting public comments on implementation of the nationwide menu labeling law.
Posted Jul 9, 2010
Massachusetts Law Eases Sunday Morning Liquor Restrictions
The Restaurant Rejuvenation Act lets restaurants sell alcohol starting at 10 a.m. on Sundays.
Posted Jul 9, 2010
Sugary-Drink Ban Affects San Francisco Sites
Coca-Cola is out, and soy milk is now part of San Francisco's official city policy.
Posted Jul 8, 2010
Mail Order Meat
Watch out, Tesco: Amazon.co.uk launches online Grocery Store, offering 22,000 food and beverage items that ship free to UK residents.
Posted Jul 8, 2010
McDonald’s Halts Smoothie Promotions Before Official Launch
The fast-food chain wants to wait until its national campaign begins to aggressively advertise the frozen drinks.
Posted Jul 6, 2010
Coffee War Brewing in China
Beijing-controlled firm takes aim for java supremacy across China.
Posted Jul 1, 2010
Convenience Stores Closing Gap With Quick-Service Restaurants
Technomic research shows that convenience stores are increasing the quality and quantity of their prepared foods.
Posted Jun 30, 2010
CDC Says We Eat Too Much Salt
Nine in 10 adults consume too much sodium, with the majority coming from the most ‘commonly eaten foods.’
Posted Jun 25, 2010
BK Unveils Healthier Chicken Sandwich
Burger King restaurants nationwide introduce grilled chicken sandwich on whole grain ciabatta.
Posted Jun 24, 2010
Mintel: Plan Now For Coming Menu Transparency
Restaurants subject to new federal menu labeling requirements must begin preparing an overall strategy in order to maximize benefits.
Posted Jun 22, 2010
Lawson Focuses on Fresh Food
The Japanese convenience store chain soon will add in-store, made-to-order food.
Posted Jun 21, 2010
Denny’s Bets on Older Consumers
Once the place for 20-somethings to hang out late at night, the family dining chain is going after the AARP crowd to boost sales.
Posted Jun 21, 2010
McDonald’s Coffee Sales Drop While Frappes Sales Soar
The quick-service chain has seen sales of hot coffee beverages drop by close to half, while its new cold frappes are selling at a fast clip.
Posted Jun 16, 2010
Arby’s Considers Selling Products in Supermarkets
The fast-food chain previously licensed its sauces for retail locations.
Posted Jun 16, 2010
Organic Coffee Market Tops $1.4 Billion in North America
A new survey shows that organic coffee is growing faster than the conventional coffee sector.
Posted Jun 16, 2010
Grocers Expand Ready-to-Eat Menus
Kroger is planning to upgrade and renovate its prepared foods area.
Posted Jun 15, 2010
Consumers Flocking to Family-Style Restaurants
New research from Technomic finds that family-style restaurants meet the needs of a budget-conscious consumer.
Posted Jun 15, 2010
Walmart's Low Prices on Food Will Continue to Pressure Supermarkets
A “hyper-competitive” environment among food retailers will likely elicit lower prices from food companies, with all parties experiencing diminished profitability.
Posted Jun 11, 2010
More Gasoline Stations Serve Up Food and Fuel
In Southern California, service stations are adding more prepared food to increase profits.
Posted Jun 11, 2010
New Frappes Whip Up Sales for McDonald’s
May sales rise 4.8% on new beverages, including frappes.
Posted Jun 10, 2010
Three American Chains Prepare for British Invasion
Chipotle Mexican Grill, Ruby Tuesday and Taco Bell are expanding into the United Kingdom.
Posted Jun 9, 2010
Grocers Blur Lines for Ready-to-Eat Food
With places like Wegmans opening restaurants inside stores, supermarkets are offering more prepared foods all around.
Posted Jun 8, 2010
High Fructose Corn Syrup Sales Souring
Sales of HFC dropped 11 percent between 2003 and 2008, while sugar sales rose seven percent during the same period.
Posted Jun 7, 2010
GetGo Launches foodperks! In Time for Holiday Weekend
The foodperks! program will run concurrently with the company's fuelperks! customer loyalty program.
Posted May 28, 2010
D.C. Council Approves Soda Tax
Before it becomes final, the measure must go through a final city council vote, mayor approval and approval by the U.S. Congress.
Posted May 28, 2010
Texas Digital Helps QSRs Comply With Menu-Labeling Requirements
The digital signage solution allows restaurants to control a series of digital menu boards either on-site or from a regional or corporate location.
Posted May 28, 2010
Supervalu’s Save-A-Lot to Expand in ‘Urban Food Desert’ Areas
The retailer is doubling the number of its Save-A-Lot locations in the next five years.
Posted May 27, 2010
What Are You Doing for National Donut Day?
Dunkin' Donuts to celebrate National Donut Day with nationwide free donut offer.
Posted May 27, 2010
N.J. Lawmakers Consider Bills Expanding Alcohol Sale Rules
State lawmakers are considering a slew of alcohol-related bills that would expand the number of supermarkets that can sell liquor, allow towns to sell unused licenses to other municipalities, and let BYOB restaurants buy a license to sell beer and wine.
Posted May 25, 2010
Thirst for Cash Brings Push To Tax Sweet Drinks
Cities and states continue to look for revenue sources, and the District of Columbia is considering extending the city’s 6 percent sales tax to sugary beverages.
Posted May 25, 2010
Restaurant Stop ‘Free’ Lunches
The industry has begun to eliminate the deep discounts and other high-dollar deals that were used to lure customers.
Posted May 24, 2010
Where’s the Chicken?
High ground beef prices have QSRs pushing customers toward new menu items as well as chicken and salads.
Posted May 21, 2010
Sandwiches, Burgers Show Growth
U.S. consumers devour more than 22 billion sandwiches, burgers and wraps in 2009, according to NPD Group.
Posted May 20, 2010
San Antonio City Manager Wages War On Sugar
Sugar-free drinks and water are the only beverages for sale in San Antonio city vending machines.
Posted May 20, 2010
J.M. Smucker Raises Coffee Prices
Prices on coffee products to increase on average 4 percent on the majority of Folgers, Dunkin' and Millstone products.
Posted May 20, 2010
Starbucks Loyalists Aren't Drinking Enough
Even the most die-hard Starbucks fans consume only 3 of every 10 cups at the chain. And the coffee giant intends to change that.
Posted May 20, 2010
McDonald’s Bets on New Cold Beverages
The fast-food chain seems to be shedding its image as only a place to get a burger and fries.
Posted May 19, 2010
California Pizza Opens First QSR-Type Outlet
Casual dining restaurant chain launches its first travel plaza outlet in Philadelphia.
Posted May 18, 2010
Hot Stuff Launches New Breakfast Offer
Retailer support includes lower food costs, new products and purchasing incentives.
Posted May 18, 2010
Taco Bell's New $2 Meal Deals Set New Combo Meal Standard
Run-for-the-border chain breaks the $2 combo meal barrier.
Posted May 18, 2010
Food Companies Sign Up For the War on Salt
Health experts: Efforts to reduce Americans' sodium intake are long overdue. The quest for the perfect salt substitute is underway.
Posted May 18, 2010
Selling ‘Small’ Food
The mini-burger trend is catching the imaginations of foodservice operators.
Posted May 17, 2010
Rye Bread, Extra Pickles, Hold the Onions
New Technomic report suggests that consumers want more variety in sandwich choices, and that customization is key to satisfying hungry patrons.
Posted May 14, 2010
Seattle's Best Coffee Outlines New Branding Strategy
The company announced a new brand identity, expansion from 3,000 to 30,000 distribution points and national agreement with AMC Theatres.
Posted May 13, 2010
Another Strong Sales Month for McDonald's
U.S. sales rose in April, with McCafé offerings providing a strong boost.
Posted May 11, 2010
Frito-Lay Expects Sales to Tip toward More Healthful Lines
Company plans to revise 60 percent of its brands before next fall, making them healthier than its traditional lines.
Posted May 10, 2010
Papa John’s Boosts Sales With Online Capabilities
Sales at papajohns.com now account for more than 25 percent of business.
Posted May 6, 2010
Small Chicken Chains Register Strong Growth
Bojangles, Chick-fil-A, Church’s, Popeyes and Zaxby’s are eating away at KFC’s market share.
Posted May 4, 2010
QSRs Consider Overseas Expansion
More fast-food chains are looking to other countries for growth opportunities.
Posted May 3, 2010
Dollar Beverage Bargains Blossoming
Burger King plans $1 slushy deal to counter McDonald's promo.
Posted Apr 29, 2010
Organic Food Sales Grow 5 Percent, Top $24 Billion in 2009
The mass-market channel generated the majority of organic food sales last year, with 54 percent sold through mainstream grocers, club stores and retailers.
Posted Apr 29, 2010
Santa Clara County Could Ban Happy Meal Toys
The proposal would prohibit kids’ meals that have lots of sugar, salt or certain fats from giving a free toy with the food.
Posted Apr 28, 2010
Food Companies Pledge to Reduce Sodium
Heinz, Kraft and Starbucks are among those pledging their commitment to the voluntary National Salt Reduction Initiative.
Posted Apr 27, 2010
Mimosas and Whoppers
Burger King is testing some new brunch items that include a virgin mimosa and ciabatta sandwiches.
Posted Apr 26, 2010
Louisiana Officials Shelve Energy Drinks Ban
Louisiana lawmakers have nixed a proposed ban on the sale of energy to kids.
Posted Apr 23, 2010
Foodmakers Weigh Sugar Vs. Corn Syrup
Perception prompts some companies to reformulate with refined cane sugar.
Posted Apr 22, 2010
FDA to Limit Salt in Processed Foods
The agency’s efforts are part of a larger plan to lower the amount of salt Americans consume daily.
Posted Apr 21, 2010
Mobile Restaurants Hit Baltimore Streets
More restaurateurs are branching out with food trucks offering burritos, Caesar salads, Caribbean tacos and crème brúlée.
Posted Apr 21, 2010
Flavored Malt Beverage Sales Plunge in Utah
Sales have dropped more than 90% since 2008.
Posted Apr 20, 2010
Fast Food Treats Are Shrinking
Fast-food restaurants are now targeting the nibbler, with smaller, snack-sized portions.
Posted Apr 20, 2010
SoCo McDonald’s Add Frappes to McCafé Menu
The iced-blended specialty coffees are the newest addition to the McCafé beverage offer in Southern California McDonald’s locations.
Posted Apr 16, 2010
Bob Evans Gets Moving With Retail
The restaurant chain’s Taste of the Farm retail and carryout concept could be rolling out at additional locations this summer.
Posted Apr 16, 2010
Who’s Eating Pizza, and Why?
Cravings, convenience and value drive consumers to buy pizza, according to Technomic research.
Posted Apr 15, 2010
Grocery Salad Bars Wilt
Stores are replacing them with convenience foods and expanding selections in the produce department.
Posted Apr 13, 2010
FreshDirect Expansion Tests Appetite for Online Grocers
FreshDirect is seeking up to $100 million to open in a new (but yet unnamed) market.
Posted Apr 13, 2010
Proposal to Ban Caffeine In Beer Opposed
Beer aficionados concerned that proposal could affect artisanal brews.
Posted Apr 8, 2010
Dunkin’ Donuts Launches 99-Cent Value Menu
The menu is available in some of its Indiana locations.
Posted Apr 7, 2010
Some Supermarkets Play It Safe and Toss Instead of Donate
Fear of liability causes many grocers to throw away leftover food rather than give it to hunger-relief programs.
Posted Apr 7, 2010
Tapping Into Wine
Restaurants and bars hail wine on tap as greener, fresher and less expensive than bottles.
Posted Apr 5, 2010
Lawson Store Gets Fresh With Foodservice
Japanese convenience store will grow its own vegetables for its fresh foodservice.
Posted Apr 2, 2010
Study: Higher Taxes on Soft Drinks Could Curb Childhood Obesity
RAND Corp. research suggests that a small tax on soft drinks is an ineffective way to reduce childhood obesity and consumption, but that a higher tax, perhaps an excise tax, could make an impact.
Posted Apr 2, 2010
Denny’s Dives Into Dollar(s) Menu Competition
The family-dining chain will debut its value menu tomorrow with prices more in line with QSR offers.
Posted Apr 2, 2010
Jimmy John's Opens 1,000th Sandwich Shop
Sandwich chain credits tenacious franchisees and cult-like following to its aggressive growth.
Posted Apr 1, 2010
Watch Out, McDonald’s: BK Beefs Up Breakfast Battle
Burger King adds $1 BK Breakfast Muffin, $2.79 BK Breakfast Bowl to morning lineup.
Posted Mar 30, 2010
U.S. Soft Drink Sales Decline Eases
All but two of the top 10 beverage brands suffered sales declines.
Posted Mar 29, 2010
No Price Discounts, No Problem: Darden Restaurants Experience Sales Growth
Darden Restaurants, whose portfolio includes Olive Garden, Red Lobster, and LongHorn Steakhouses, is one of the first casual dining restaurant chains in the U.S. experiencing sales growth, with the rest of the category down 4 percent.
Posted Mar 29, 2010
Kentucky Kroger Stores Test Health Program
NuVal nutrition rating will prominently display healthful ratings for food items.
Posted Mar 25, 2010
IRI Ranks Top Product Launches
Campbell's Select Harvest, Bud Light Lime, Quilted Northern Ultra Plush and Tide Total Care are last year's most successful product launches.
Posted Mar 25, 2010
Health Care Legislation Creates Standard Menu Labeling
The National Restaurant Association applauds the provision as a win for consumers and the industry.
Posted Mar 24, 2010
Subway to Launch Breakfast Items
The sandwich chain joins other fast-food restaurants trying to capture morning sales.
Posted Mar 24, 2010
‘Average’ American Diner Evolves
There is no typical U.S. consumer anymore.
Posted Mar 23, 2010
Foodmakers Support More Control of School Food
Four major food and beverage manufacturers support legislation to control school snacks.
Posted Mar 22, 2010
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