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Cheesetique Makes a Move

New location brings brand vision into sharper focus.

Images courtesy of Square Feet Studio

What’s it like to open an independent restaurant at the start of a pandemic?

The novel Coronavirus has led to nearly 60% of consumers being concerned about dining out, with one in five “definitely” avoiding doing so, according to Datassential’s Coronavirus research report, fielded March 10 with 1,000 U.S. consumers. Fears are highest among parents (26%), urban dwellers (25%) and high earners (26%, those with household incomes over $100k/year).

A&W’s latest opening — in the small historic Wild West town of Tonopah, Nevada, inside the Mizpah Club Casino — is part of the brand’s plan to expand into smaller markets around the country.

Expectations for growth are fading in restaurant and other foodservice industries due to an increasingly challenging environment, according to a new study from global management consulting firm L.E.K. Consulting.

Restaurant industry sales are projected to reach a record $899 billion in 2020, with the moderate 4% growth rate mirroring general economic conditions, according to the National Restaurant Association’s 2020 State of the Restaurant Industry Report.

Building on its growth in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and Florida, Greek from Greece (GFG) Bakery-Café plans to open its first Pennsylvania location in Kennett Square.

Better burger fast-casual franchise MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes unveiled its updated prototype in Hoover, Ala.