Kay (@_thehotmessexpress_) uploaded a viral TikTok video where she shares her reaction to this discovery, racking up over 400,000 views in the process. It turns out that folks in the comments section of her video said that they, too, have learned after the fact the meals that they ordered online were actually prepared in a… read more
Posts Tagged: Industry Spotlight
Chipotle shuts down ghost kitchen brand Farmesa
US-based fast-casual restaurant chain Chipotle has announced the closure of its ghost kitchen concept, Farmesa, just over one year after its launch. The concept was introduced in February 2023 and operated out of its partner Kitchen United’s Santa Monica location in California. It ceased operations following the location’s shutdown in February 2024. Kitchen United, which… read more
After Closing Dozens of Restaurants, Red Lobster Seeks Bankruptcy Protection
The seafood chain said the bankruptcy proceedings would enable it to simplify operations, close restaurants and pursue a sale. Red Lobster, the casual dining chain that won fans with inventions like popcorn shrimp and “endless” seafood deals, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. The 56-year-old chain made the filing late Sunday, days after shuttering… read more
‘Super Size Me’ filmmaker Morgan Spurlock dies at age 53
The documentary recounted his 30-day regimen of eating nothing but McDonald’s food. It became an anthem of sorts for critics who faulted fast-food chains for their contribution to America’s obesity epidemic. Morgan Spurlock, who documented his 30-day regimen of eating nothing but McDonald’s food in the celebrated 2004 film “Super Size Me,” died Thursday at… read more
Global Foodservice News – May 15th, 2024
Foodservice Equipment and Supplies Carpigiani adds a Chief Commercial Officer Anna Pata was appointed to the newly created role of chief commercial officer for Carpigiani North America, a Welbilt company that makes gelato equipment. In her new role, Pata will develop and lead Carpigiani’s sales and marketing activities. Pata has more than 20 years… read more
Turning up the heat – The Surprising Force Stalling Climate Progress: California Restaurants
As climate journalists, it’s pretty common for us to see oil companies or other large polluters fight back against climate proposals, sometimes stopping these rules dead in their tracks. One of the biggest climate setbacks in recent memory, however, wasn’t delivered by fossil-fuel giants or heavy industry, but, rather, a restaurant group in California. I… read more
McDonald’s, looking to boost traffic, considers a $5 value meal
The fast-food giant, which has shifted its focus to value, is working to convince franchisees to go along with a bundled meal featuring a McChicken or a McDouble. The plan is expected to pass. McDonald’s is considering a $5 value bundle in a bid to bring inflation-weary consumers back into its restaurants. The fast-food burger… read more
As it is sold, Clean Juice struggles with supply issues
Operators have closed or rebranded nearly half of the chain’s locations over the past year and a half. And then as the chain was sold last week, franchisees were told the company lost its distribution contract. Operators of the Clean Juice franchise heard last week that the company was being sold to Friendly’s owner Brix… read more
Burgerville takes on new investors with an eye on reigniting regional growth
Former Dutch Bros CEO Joth Ricci is among the investors and joins the company as executive chair. CEO Ed Casey will remain at the helm. The fast-casual Burgerville chain has been acquired by a group of local investors that have plans to reignite growth. The Vancouver, Washington-based chain said late Friday that new investors have… read more
Operators Respond as Consumers Reach a Tipping Point
Learn how companies are using virtual brands and digital channels to drive growth. A tech titan tries his hands at running a restaurant. Again. Plus, there’s some cool news from Easy Ice and Polar Leasing. These stories and more This Week in Foodservice. Have consumers finally reached their breaking point? Perhaps. The Conference Board reported… read more
