The Latest News

Outstanding Operator: Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers
The brand’s blend of new-tech innovations and old-school customer service is paying off with rapid growth and close to a billion dollars in annual systemwide sales.

Outstanding Operator: Big Chicken
Big Chicken’s operational strategies, from menu tweaks to tech partnerships, fuel its rapid growth and adaptability in a shifting market.

Yum Brands Launches AI-Powered Platform to Centralize All Tech
This will help brands like Taco Bell, KFC, and Pizza Hut streamline operations by consolidating all tech into a one-stop shop management platform.

Outstanding Operator: Potbelly
Potbelly rolled out tech innovations and off-premises strategies that are paying off big.

Wings Etc. Tackles the Super Bowl and Targets Off-Premises Growth
How did the brand prepare for the one-day sales explosion that was the Super Bowl? Carefully. And with the help of technology.

Chili’s Is the Talk of the Industry. Its Off-Premises Choices May Explain Why
Not trying to be everything to everyone and focusing on what it excels at seems to have raised its ceiling. That and becoming a TikTok sensation.

How Restaurants Can Win the Super Bowl
Patrick Mahomes isn’t the only one looking to be a big winner on Sunday.

Profitability at Last? Global Delivery Platforms Path to Financial Sustainability
The long-awaited path to profitability for global delivery platforms may finally be emerging, as industry giants shift their focus from aggressive expansion to sustainable operations.

Announcing the 2025 Outstanding Operator Winners
After combing through a wealth of nominations, our editorial team has selected 20 brands that are excelling in areas like off-premises operations and digital guest engagement.

Franchisors Lean On Loyalty to Leverage Customer Data and Drive Sales
Brands like Dunkin’, GoTo Foods, and Cilantro Taco Grill are using loyalty apps to boost customer engagement, personalize offers, and drive traffic—while giving consumers value in return.

California Pizza Kitchen Asks, ‘Do You Want Fries With That?’
Its collaboration with virtual brand Man Vs. Fries is an unexpected zig from a brand known for its pizza zag. And it’s not done taking chances.

Starship and Topanga Launch Reusable Packaging for Robo-Deliveries at College
Through the ReusePass program, students can choose reusable containers for their food orders via the Starship app.
Food On Demand Topics
Finance
Pizza Delivery Giants Push Sales as Marco’s Embraces ‘Challenger’ Status
Delivery-and carryout-focused pizza franchises vied for market share in 2023 as consumers continued to spread their spending around.
Research
Starship Technologies Has Data That Shows Students Love Robots
Many students consider them their besties.
The Deliverers
DoorDash Delivers Grant To Organic Soup Kitchen in Santa Barbara
The third-party delivery provider crosses the 6 million free meals delivered mark.
Best Practices
What are your peers doing in delivery? Get some of the best practices out there.
ClearCOGS Deploys AI for Clear Forecasting
The vendor serves up a multitude of data points for operators, resulting in savings in food waste and staff sanity.