Publisher’s Note: Join Us for MUFES 2022

By Randy Hano

MUFES 2022, set for Jan. 17-19, 2022 in Tucson, Ariz., features 200- and 300-level sessions on best practices for commercial and noncommercial operators.

From the Editor: Your Guide to Spec’ing

By Allison Rezendes

You may notice our features section looks a little different this month.

Quarterly Highlights: Starbucks Sets Sales Record, Yum Brands Pushes for Growth Record and More

By FER Edit

Despite COVID-related difficulties, increased costs, supply chain issues and operating challenges, many brands are posting strong systemwide sales for the last quarter. Here’s a look at highlights from four brands’ earnings calls that took place this week.

Bargreen Ellingson Acquires Bintz Restaurant Supply Co.

By FER Edit

Bargreen Ellingson has acquired the Salt Lake City-based foodservice E&S business Bintz Supply Co., which was founded in 1893 by W.H Bintz as a distributor of GE appliances and Pillsbury baking supplies.

Expansion Roundup International Edition: Brands Head Overseas

By FER Edit

From Popeyes heading into Eastern Europe and Wayback Burgers entering the Asian market, brands aren’t limiting themselves to the U.S. In this week’s Expansion Roundup International Edition, FER is taking a look at recently announced global expansion plans for four brands.

Noodles & Co. Phases Out Plastic Straws

By FER Edit

It’s out with the plastic and in with the paper for Noodles & Co. The brand released its first impact report, highlighting key sustainability initiatives, and a change in straws was among them.

Drones Are Delivering for C3

By FER Edit

Those ordering delivery from within two miles of select C3 virtual kitchens are getting their meals brought to them by drones.

Smart Care Continues Its Acquisition Streak With Two More

By FER Edit

The provider of commercial kitchen equipment repair and maintenance services announced two more specialty equipment-focused acquisitions—PureMist Corp. and VP Coffee—bringing its total number of acquisitions to 11.

McDonald’s Partners With IBM To Fast Track Its Automated Drive-Thrus

By FER Edit

After testing automated, AI-powered drive-thru technology at select restaurants this past spring, McDonald’s now is looking to ramp up the tech.

Starbucks Works To Smooth Operations With New Equipment, Floor Design

By FER Edit

Starbucks announced investments in new equipment, better floor design and continued work at the Tryer Center that, combined, aim to reduce complexity in the stores, make shifts easier for employees and improve the customer experience.

Clipper Corp. Taps Industry Veteran as New Senior Vice President

By FER Edit

The supplier of professional kitchen accessories and restaurant supplies has named Stuart Sharp senior vice president of the foodservice division.

Fuzzy’s Taco Shop’s Parent Company Forms Group To Acquire More Brands

By FER Edit

NRD Capital, the parent company to Fuzzy’s Taco Shop, has formed a new platform company that’s looking to acquire more concepts in the food and beverage space.