October 27, 2016
Time Savers: Get Projects Done Faster
Time is money, schedules are tighter than ever, and a lot of sleep is lost trying to figure out how to shave days off of every step of the design and build process — or at least how to avoid the myriad snags that routinely derail project schedules. Even those who’ve been in the trenches for decades say sticking to timelines is a major challenge, in part because of the highly complex and interdependent nature of restaurant projects. And even those who’ve gotten really good at it say they’re constantly looking for ways to be able to get it all done even faster.
U.S. Independent Restaurant Count Declines, NPD Reports
The total U.S. restaurant count stood at 624,301 units in spring 2016, a one percent decrease from spring 2015, based on a restaurant census conducted by The NPD Group.
Meet Alto-Shaam’s Small Space Solution
The CT Express™ oven does more with less. It may be compact, but it’s a full combi oven that steams, poaches, braises, roasts, bakes, sears and broils. This oven fits your space, and your budget too. |
bite-sized buzz
A round up of interesting bits of news that came across the editor’s desk, including acquisition and franchise news.
Fresh To Order Continues Expansion
The former franchisee of several McAlister’s Deli locations announced plans to bring 10 new restaurants to Indianapolis, making the city only the second location in the Midwest for the fast-food company focused on healthier menu items. The first location is expected to open in early 2017.
Development + Design Professional Moves
Hiring and promotional news from across the restaurant development and design community includes new hires at //3877, CBX, CraftWorks Restaurants & Breweries, Jack in the Box, Rave Restaurant Group, Smashburger, SONNY+ASH and Toppers Pizza.
Pei Wei Opens First Asia Location
Pei Wei Asian Diner opened its first Asia location in South Korea at Starfield Hanam, the country’s largest shopping mall. The chain partnered with ELX Food & Beverage, led by Chef Justin Choi, who will supervise the brand in the market.
Two Restaurant Chains File for Bankruptcy
Soup and sandwich chain Cosi Inc. and Don Pablo’s Mexican Kitchen have both filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. These filings follow a number of casual-dining restaurants, including Champps Kitchen and Quaker Steak & Lube, that have filed for bankruptcy in the past year.
California Pizza Kitchen Opens its Largest Restaurant in Australia
California Pizza Kitchen opened its first restaurant in Australia at the landmark Hillarys Boat Harbour in Perth. Operated by franchisee California Pizza Kitchen Australia, the 370-seat, 9,500-square-foot restaurant is the world’s largest CPK and the first of three restaurant openings planned for the area following recent openings in Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, Dubai and Mexico. |
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