The Latest News
Potbelly Plans Sale to Major C-Store Operator RaceTrac
Atlanta-based RaceTrac has an agreement to buy 445-unit Potbelly for approximately $566 million in a move that would take the sandwich franchise private. Potbelly CEO Bob Wright said RaceTrac is “attracted to our growth potential.”
Starbucks Brings AI-Powered Inventory Counting to Coffeehouses
With a quick scan on a handheld tablet, baristas can instantly see what’s in stock. The system will be live in all company-operated stores by the end of September.
Loman AI Can Answer Your Phone Like Tony Soprano
It can create a custom voice for your restaurant and take more than 50 orders at a time.
Waffle House Rolls Out Nationwide Delivery
Waffle House has tapped DoorDash to offer nationwide delivery, including 24/7 service in select cities.
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.
Coco Delivery Bots Update Tech and Expand to Chicago
After a few years under the radar, fine-tuning its tech, the robotic delivery company has launched in the Windy City.
The First Speedy Eats Is Up and Running. Is Natchez Embracing It?
Tance Hughes is figuring out what works (and what doesn’t) at his new 24/7 automated, unmanned drive-thru.
Local Restaurants Rally to Support LA After Devastating Fires
Restaurants and the World Central Kitchen are providing free meals to first responders and fire evacuees. Here’s how you can help.
The Catering Journey Part 2: Framework, Commitment, Offering
In part two of the series, Jim Rand covers the key steps to building a successful catering program, from aligning your brand vision to securing leadership commitment and offering a standout menu.
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.
Key Trends Shaping the Restaurant Industry in 2025
From closures to automation, AI advancements, and ongoing investment in off-premises we explore predictions for the year ahead.
Outstanding Operators
Food On Demand Outstanding Operators features restaurant brands with innovative operations that are taking creative paths to success with delivery and all things off-premises.
Food On Demand Topics
Finance
Food Rocket Lands $25M Investment, Circle K Partnership
Food Rocket announced a $25 million Series A investment that will be used to expand the service in Chicago and other cities throughout the U.S.
Research
Testing Third-Party Convenience Stores
By Tom Kaiser and Nicholas Upton There’s nothing more convenient than doing nothing. One tiny step below that is opening a delivery app to plug in a convenience store order, now that so many third-party delivery services have added C-store delivery to their...
The Deliverers
Grubhub To Provide Delivery for Starbucks
Grubhub follows its Amazon announcement with another blockbuster.
Best Practices
What are your peers doing in delivery? Get some of the best practices out there.
OLHSO Launches an Automated Mobile Restaurant
Residents in Foster City are getting a first look at something truly original.