Latest news with #VerdictFoodService
Yahoo
16 hours ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Cousins Maine Lobster plans 100th location by end of 2025
Fast-casual US seafood brand Cousins Maine Lobster (CML) has announced significant growth as it aims to open its 100th location by the end of 2025. The brand, which recently celebrated its 13th anniversary and exceeded $1bn in systemwide sales, is expanding its national presence with new units and development agreements. CML's expansion strategy includes entering new markets and reinforcing its presence in established ones. The recent opening of its 85th unit in Grand Rapids in the US state of Michigan exemplifies this growth, as does its relaunch in Oklahoma City, with operators expanding across Oklahoma, Arkansas and Texas. New trucks in Central Illinois and added units in Pennsylvania and New York are indicative of the brand's momentum. The brand's growth is set to continue with upcoming launches in the cities of Milwaukee in Wisconsin and Minneapolis in Minnesota. The new locations, along with a food truck in Kalamazoo, Michigan, reflect the increasing demand for CML's premium, wild-caught Maine lobster. The brand's expansion is not limited to new units. Development agreements with franchisees in California and Wisconsin signal a commitment to long-term growth. Menu innovation remains a priority for CML, with the introduction of the Garlic Butter Lobster Roll and seasonal offerings such as Pink Lemonade Whoopie Pie. New menu items complement the brand's vision of offering seafood in a fast-casual setting. CML's growth has positioned it as one of the fastest-growing seafood concepts in the US. With plans to open 20 units in 2025, the brand is on track to reach its 100-unit goal. The company's expansion includes both company-led initiatives and partnerships with franchisees, who are integral to delivering quality and driving local marketing efforts. Franchisees are at the heart of CML's growth, with the average franchisee owning six units and driving an average unit volume (AUV) of $1.3m. The brand's business model, which allows for the launch of food trucks within three to six months, offers flexibility and low overheads for operators. CML is seeking new franchise partners, targeting markets with a demand for fast-casual seafood, including San Diego, Reno and Midwest locations. CML co-founder Sabin Lomac stated: "As we approach the 100-unit milestone, our mission remains the same – connecting people through memorable experiences and real Maine lobster." "We're focused on smart growth, innovative menu additions and franchisee support to ensure long-term success. We're proud of how far we've come, and we're thrilled by the opportunities that lie ahead as we look forward to the rest of the year." "Cousins Maine Lobster plans 100th location by end of 2025" was originally created and published by Verdict Food Service, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site.
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Chicken Salad Chick to open ten new restaurants in Minneapolis
US-based fast casual restaurant Chicken Salad Chick is broadening its footprint in the Midwest with ten new restaurants in the Minneapolis area. This is a significant step for the brand as it introduces its dining experience to the Upper Midwest. The Coffey family, with a basketball legacy, is behind the signed agreement that will bring the franchise to the region. Richard Coffey said: "We knew we wanted to go into business with a brand that we could all get behind. "Chicken Salad Chick stood out because of the support and communication we've received from the team. This is more than a business venture, it's a family journey, and we're excited to do it with a brand that feels the same way." The brand's strategic growth plan includes opening the ten locations before 2030, targeting development in Hennepin and Ramsey County. With an open real estate landscape, Chicken Salad Chick sees opportunities for market growth in the Midwest. Franchise development vice-president Mark Verges stated: "We're thrilled to have a passionate and community-driven family join Chicken Salad Chick. "Their deep roots in Minnesota and commitment to giving back make them great partners as we grow our presence in the Midwest." Chicken Salad Chick is leveraging the momentum from 2024, aiming to set new records with franchise deals across the US in 2025. The franchise development team has identified Illinois, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Wisconsin as key areas for growth. The brand has experienced a 13% increase in unit count year-on-year and reports more than $400m in system-wide sales, a 56% increase over 2021, with an average unit volume (AUV) of $1.48m, according to its 2024 franchise disclosure document (FDD). In addition to the Midwest expansion, Chicken Salad Chick recently announced plans to increase its presence in Texas with a new outlet in Temple. "Chicken Salad Chick to open ten new restaurants in Minneapolis" was originally created and published by Verdict Food Service, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
SpotOn launches AI P&L analysis tool for restaurant operators
Software and payment company SpotOn has launched an AI-powered tool designed to facilitate restaurant operators in automating their profit and loss (P&L) analysis. The tool, called SpotOn Profit Assist, is purpose-built for the unique needs of restaurants. It integrates with leading accounting platforms such as QuickBooks Online, Xero and Restaurant 365. Its launch comes as inflation and consumer spending pressures are challenging the foodservice industry, particularly independent restaurant operators, who are tasked with achieving more with fewer resources. The tool provides automated P&L analysis, identifies spending anomalies and offers customised cost-saving recommendations. For multi-unit operators, the tool benchmarks performance across different locations, while independents benefit from financial comparisons with similar establishments, ensuring informed decision-making. Restaurants using SpotOn Profit Assist describe average savings of 4.3% in total costs. In an environment of high food costs, unpredictable labour and variable demand, such savings are significant. The tool's predictive insights enhance the ability to forecast labour and revenue, which is vital for navigating economic uncertainty and can be pivotal in determining whether a restaurant merely survives or truly thrives. Unlike other restaurant tech platforms that focus solely on sales or food costs, the Profit Assist tool offers a comprehensive P&L analysis within its ecosystem, empowering operators with the knowledge to make informed decisions across all aspects of their business. In addition to providing a complete, AI-analysed P&L overview, Profit Assist also helps uncover cost-saving opportunities by examining monthly anomalies and delivering precise recommendations. This enables restaurant owners to take firmer control of their margins and make confident, data-driven choices. SpotOn chief product officer Bryan Solar stated: "Restaurants are and always have been a tight margin business, so understanding and actively managing costs is an industry-wide need." "Finding the free time to analyse each cost in a mountain of data is a real challenge. Profit Assist pulls together the numbers that matter — not just the dollars coming in, but the dollars going out — and turns them into clear, actionable insights so they can make smarter decisions with confidence." Following the earlier introduction of SpotOn Marketing Assist, the first AI-driven marketing tool for restaurants, Profit Assist represents another step in SpotOn's strategy to integrate AI across its product range. "SpotOn launches AI P&L analysis tool for restaurant operators" was originally created and published by Verdict Food Service, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
21-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Pokeworks announces ten-unit deal in San Antonio, Texas
Fast-casual poke brand Pokeworks has announced a ten-unit franchise deal in the city of San Antonio, Texas, and the sell-out of available franchise territories in Houston. Poke is a traditional dish from Hawaii made with diced raw fish, typically tuna, marinated in a sauce and served in a bowl. It is often served over rice or with other toppings. Agustin Guzman, an experienced entrepreneur and former Olympic swimmer, is set to develop the greater San Antonio market and the Rio Grande Valley. Guzman operates Pokeworks' McAllen location, is opening a second in Mission, Texas, and is committed to opening ten stores within two years. His extensive experience across various industries and belief in Pokeworks' performance and potential fuel this planned expansion. "I've experienced success across varying industries, but what sets Pokeworks apart is their momentum - it's a high-performing brand that's constantly improving, innovating and growing," stated Guzman. "The brand's alignment with my values, alongside their strong unit economics and continued expansion, makes the decision to expand into San Antonio a clear one." The brand's strategic growth is also evident in Houston, where all available franchise territories have been claimed. The city's strong market performance and franchisees' continued investment underscore the brand's ability to succeed in competitive environments. Pokeworks co-founder and chief development officer Peter Yang expressed pride in the brand's Texas achievements. "Texas has always remained a key market for our growth plans, and selling out its largest city while locking in a major development deal in San Antonio is an incredible accomplishment," he said. "This is a true testament to our incredible franchisees, and a reflection of our continued commitment to support those in our franchise network and help them continue to grow and build within the brand. Seeing our recent performance, we look forward to seeing mirrored growth in other key Texas markets and across the nation." The restaurant chain achieved 11% same-store sales growth in March 2025. Founded in 2015, Pokeworks offers a range of flavours of Hawaiian poke. With a focus on customisable and healthy options, including vegan and gluten-free, the brand caters to diverse dietary needs and offers convenience for guests on the move. Pokeworks operates 72 locations across 20 US states, Taiwan and Canada. "Pokeworks announces ten-unit deal in San Antonio, Texas" was originally created and published by Verdict Food Service, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Scala introduces AI-driven restaurant automation solution
Scala has launched an AI-driven restaurant automation solution designed to revolutionise the quick service restaurant (QSR) sector. The solution, known as Scala Quintet, aims to enhance speed of service, order accuracy, back-of-house operations and sales conversion through an integrated platform of digital solutions. The Quintet platform is the result of Scala's expertise in visual display, AI optimisation and user experience design. It offers restaurant operators and managers complete control over digital menu boards, allowing for the creation, scheduling and real-time updates of content. This includes the management of product descriptions, category tags and limited-time offers to improve the customer experience and drive sales. The Scala Quintet solution comprises five key components that work together to automate and streamline restaurant operations. Street-facing digital displays are designed to capture the attention of passers-by and encourage restaurant visits with dynamic content that can be updated through the Quintet system. Indoor and outdoor digital menu boards at ordering counters and drive-throughs features clear, engaging content that can be updated in real time. Self-order kiosks integrate with Quintet's kitchen system and update orders in real time for customers and staff. Orders pop up on kitchen screens instantly, and progress is shown on menu boards. Kitchen displays give staff control over preparation steps, enabling efficient task distribution with designated zones. Digital displays for customer order pick-up enhance accuracy and service speed. Scala chairman Chris Riegel added: "Scala Quintet pairs the Scala heritage of using visual displays to convert sales for our customers with our ordering workflow and self-service capabilities to automate and enhance the efficiency of restaurant operations and drive greater profitability.' "Scala introduces AI-driven restaurant automation solution" was originally created and published by Verdict Food Service, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
