One of the unique values of the National Restaurant Association’s annual forecast are its state-by-state and regional forecasts of restaurant sales growth. This year, NRA forecasts the strongest growth on the West Coast, the Mountain states and the South Atlantic.Above average employment and disposable income growth are the key drivers. In the five Pacific states,…

The number of sushi restaurants in the U.S. has grown by approximately 10% during the past few years, according to a new analysis by CHD Expert, the Chicago-based foodservice database and analytics firm. There are currently more the 6,000 restaurants featuring a sushi menu, a rise from fewer than 5,500 in January 2013, CHD data…

After more than three years of exchanging legal motions, the debate over whether a parent company, or franchisor, is responsible for its franchisees’ alleged labor law violations landed in a New York courtroom last week. The case filed against McDonald’s Corp. could carry far-reaching implications for the structure of the foodservice industry and the rights…

When will menu labeling be fully and officially in effect? Although many chains already have implemented nutritional and calorie information on their menus and signs, the official rollout hit another hiccup last week when the Food and Drug Administration formally announced it will delay enforcement until one year after it issues its final guidelines on “Food…

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) will be hosting a series of public workshops to discuss ways to reduce air pollution from refrigeration units used to transport temperature- sensitive products, such as food and pharmaceuticals. The California Restaurant Association is encouraging owners of Transportation Refrigeration Units (TRUs) and facilities in California where TRUs operate (e.g.…

The consensus forecasts of economic growth in the U.S. righted themselves in early March, according to the latest Blue Chip Economic Indicators. The rebound of equities markets and an upward revision of growth of gross domestic product in the fourth quarter were among the factors that led the 50 economic forecasting groups polled by Blue…

The Ali Group announced March 14 that Filippo Berti has been promoted to the office of Chief Executive Officer, effective September 1. As Ali Group CEO, Berti will have responsibility for all of the Milan, Italy, firm’s 77 brands and operating companies worldwide. Ali Group Founder Luciano Berti will continue in his role as Chairman…

Prime Advantage, the Chicago-based manufacturer buying group, has made some changes in its executive team. Dan Grant has been promoted to President, and now oversees the company’s day-to-day operations. Grant’s past roles include regional account manager, v.p.-supplier development, and v.p.-sales. He joined Prime Advantage in 2000, as did Mike McDonald, who has been elevated to…

HX: The Hotel Experience, November 13-15 at the Jacob Javits Center, New York, is accepting applications for the 2016 Foodservice Pioneering Concept Awards. Submissions must include plans for a revenue-generating foodservice concept that can open and operate in an under-used, nontraditional location in a public area or in a host (client) venue, such as lobbies,…

A strong 2015, when it added 26 outlets and 19 franchisees across the country, has led to bigger plans at Mooyah Burgers, Fries & Shakes. The fast-casual Dallas chain has set its sights to ramp up development by adding 30 locations in 2016 and crossing the 100-unit Rubicon. Mooyah currently has more than 90 restaurants,…