Publisher’s Note: Partners in Innovation

By Randy Hano

What do a fast-casual chain, a virtual restaurant operator, a dealer, a service company and a school district all have in common? Their ingenuity earned all of them recognition on Foodservice Equipment Reports’ 2020 Innovators list, sponsored by Parts Town. In today’s world, innovation is not a luxury, it’s a necessity. Every day brings new…

From the Editor: Ready for Your Close-Up?

By Kelly Killian

On any given day, the editors of FER get hundreds of press releases and emails telling us about the next great product or some person we just have to interview.

Restaurants Face Patio Heater Shortage

By Kelly Killian

Operators are finding heating equipment in short supply as they try to extend outdoor dining into colder months.

TriMark Merges Its E-Commerce Brands

By Kelly Killian

Two sites and sales teams to unite under ChefsToys.com.

NJ Governor Signs Bag Ban Into Law

By FER Edit

The state calls its new law “the strongest bag ban in the nation.” 

Refrigeration Depot Signs On With Polar King Mobile

By FER Edit

With the deal, the maker of small refrigerated trailer expands its reach in the midwest.

New KFC Prototypes Focus on Off-Premise

By FER Edit

The fried chicken giant’s newest restaurant designs amp up drive-thru and delivery while downplaying dine-in.

2020 Innovators: Colorado School District Equips for Healthy Meals

By FER Edit

A centralized culinary center helps Boulder Valley School District produce thousands of scratch-cooked meals a day with room to grow.

Fuzzy’s, Clyde’s and Dine Brands Announce C-Suite Appointees

By FER Edit

Realogy head to lead Applebee’s/IHOP parent; McDonnell and Wescott take on new duties.

October’s Sales Slip a Concern Ahead of Winter

By FER Edit

Monthly restaurant sales declined for the first time since the end of the spring lockdowns, the National Restaurant Association reports.

More Chains Unveil Ghost Kitchens

By FER Edit

Red Lobster is just one chain upping its efforts to evolve off-premise options.

2020 Innovators: Gary’s East Coast Streams Safety Tips

By FER Edit

Gary’s East Coast Service Vice President Angela Petitti created videos for the first time to communicate safely and regularly with the service company’s nearly 20 employees as the pandemic unfolded.