How Darden Artfully Built LongHorn into a Steakhouse Juggernaut

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Much of what has taken place at LongHorn Steakhouse in recent years counteracts the casual-dining playbook of old. Simplify and shrink the menu, but improve loyalty and accelerate same-store sales. Historically those results just don’t co-exist in the same battlefield. “It’s the art, not the science,” Darden CEO Gene Lee said during a June 26… read more

Social Media Platforms Demonstrating their Potential in the Foodservice Industry

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The power of social media platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and others to connect friends, family and colleagues is well established. But as the media develop, food and beverage industry executives are learning more about the influence and usefulness of the data being generated. The information being communicated has the potential to alter consumer perceptions… read more

Drayton Martin Joins Dunkin’ Brands, Inc.

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Drayton Martin has joined Dunkin’ Brands, Inc. as vice-president of brand stewardship for Dunkin’ Donuts. In this role, she will lead the development and implementation of Dunkin’s brand messaging across all channels, including advertising, packaging, in-store and digital. Additionally, she will oversee the company’s internal brand marketing team and external creative agency partners. Ms. Martin… read more

Rebecca Miller to senior VP of marketing at On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina

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Rebecca Miller has been promoted to senior vice-president of marketing at On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina. She was most recently vice-president of marketing and digital experience for the company. In her new role, Ms. Miller will oversee all marketing initiatives for On The Border, as well as culinary innovation, guest relations and catering…. read more

Mike Ellis Named Chief Development Officer of FoodFirst Global Restaurants

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Newly formed restaurant company FoodFirst Global Restaurants has tapped another Darden Restaurants Inc. veteran for its executive team. Columbus, Ohio-based FoodFirst, which recently acquired Brio Tuscan Grille and Bravo Cucina Italiana brands, named Mike Ellis as chief development officer. Ellis previously worked at Orlando-based Darden as head of development for the multiconcept operator, whose portfolio… read more

Chas Hermann Named Chief Brand Officer of Noodles & Co.

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Chas Hermann has been named chief brand officer of Noodles & Co., a fast-casual restaurant chain that specializes in globally inspired, pasta-based dishes. In his new role, Mr. Hermann will develop and execute the company’s marketing, menu and culinary strategy. Mr. Hermann was most recently principal at Chas Hermann Consulting, where he partnered with the… read more

Leon to Bring “Naturally Fast Food” to the U.S.

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In the early august, consumers were losing faith in fast food, or at least that’s how John Vincent remembers it. Eric Schlosser had released his book “Fast Food Nation,” a damning look at the quick-service industry. At the same time, consumers were increasingly embracing the Mediterranean diet as a more-healthful alternative to burgers and fries…. read more

Tim Hortons to Upgrade Distribution System, Open New Warehouse

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Tim Hortons will spend $100 million to revamp its distribution system and open two new Canadian warehouses, months after some franchisees were angered when supply deliveries from the company were delayed because of software upgrades. The fast-food giant said Wednesday that the upgrades will include a modernization of their current system, an expansion of an… read more

The Many Definitions of What “Clean Label” Really Means

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Just when product developers thought they had gained an understanding of consumers’ expectations of clean label — simple ingredients, nothing artificial and minimal processing — plant-based foods started becoming more popular. In many instances, plant-based foods defy clean label logic, as they are not minimally processed. Think of converting a solid nut into a liquid… read more