Category Archives: Restaurants

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Casper expands virtual food hall model with Franklin Junction’s Host Kitchen® technology

GHENT, 14-Mar-2023 — /EuropaWire/ — Franklin Junction partners with Casper, a modern day food hall offering 100% virtual orders for takeout and delivery, to expand iconic American restaurant brands to Benelux and France. Franklin Junction founder, Rishi Nigam, and Casper founder, Matthias Laga, presented their expansion plans at the recent International Ghost Kitchen Conference in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

Franklin Junction has been named to Fast Company’s prestigious annual list of the World’s Most Innovative Companies for 2023 as they continue to deliver innovative technology solutions for restaurants in the US and now abroad. Leading the way with their proprietary Host Kitchen® model, Franklin Junction has grown into a full suite of solution services to empower restaurant success in the digital age. In 2022, Franklin Junction introduced its AI-powered digital food hall that allows consumers to order food and earn loyalty from multiple concepts in a single transaction and delivery.

“As industry leaders driving the growth of American restaurant brands in new markets, we have received a tremendous amount of interest to expand to the European market for a few years now,” shares Franklin Junction CEO Rishi Nigam. “After getting to know Matthias and the entire Casper team over the past year, we have full confidence that they are a trusted partner to expand globally with and we’re thrilled to bring iconic American fare to new diners across Europe.”

Casper launched in Ghent, Belgium and raised €5 million for their Series A in 2022 with the objective of creating a hybrid restaurant and food hall model where customers can walk-in to place orders for takeout or order through digital channels for delivery. In just a short time, Casper has expanded to over 10 locations in Belgium, the Netherlands, and France, with an expansion goal of 50 kitchens by 2024.

“We’re very excited to partner with Franklin Junction and begin by introducing Nathan’s Famous’ authentic New York flavors to our European customers in the coming weeks,” states Matthias Laga, Co-founder and CEO of Casper. “Franklin Junction uniquely understands restaurants, multi-concept food halls, and restaurant eCommerce and their proprietary processes are extremely virtuous for all stakeholders.”

SOURCE: EuropaWire

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RCH Group Cements its International Reach

RCH Group’s New German Headquarters for international strategy and market-specific TSE compliance

New German Headquarters for international strategy and market-specific TSE compliance

TREVISO, Italy, 2020-Jul-29 — /EPR Retail News/ — RCH Group SpA, leading provider of retail and restaurant POS solutions, announces the launch of RCH Germany based in Saarbrucken, Saarland Lander. Expanding upon the existing presence of RCH in the international markets, this new base will augment RCH’s operations in the German and Austrian Countries, as well as beyond.

RCH Group designs, manufactures and sells telematic recorders, fiscal printers, and POS (Point of Sale) hardware and software. Their products, all designed in Italy, are recognised in several markets for their advanced technology, intelligent design and ease of use.

As RCH continues to expand, they are committed to being able to provide country-specific support to regions where they are securing increasingly significant market share. Germany constitutes one such market – particularly in light of RCH’s growing provision of solutions which meet the recently implemented TSE fiscal reporting legislation. More than merely serving the German market though, the expansion of RCH in Germany is a step towards strengthening and growing the company’s customer portfolio across the continent.

By opening a new headquarters in Saarbrucken, RCH is able to keep its finger even closer to the pulse of market needs; particularly in the field of catering, restaurants and food and beverage service. RCH’s product offerings in this field help to not only ensure that businesses are TSE compliant, but also offer a host of benefits which can bring genuine competitive advantages to their users; providing levels of data analysis capable of completely revolutionising the entire supply chain process: from menu design and purchase, to stock control, Customer Relationship Management (CRM), full financial/tax compliance, and beyond.

This means that because of the exceptional value offered by RCH products, even small, single unit businesses can benefit from levels of commercial insight previously only available to large scale operations. However, by virtue of its cloud-based approach to information management and third party integrability, RCH systems are also ideal for coordinating the activities of large-scale, multi-outlet restaurants and retail businesses. RCH products are truly capable of catering to the full spectrum of operators.

“This is an exciting time for RCH Group and marks an important milestone for our company as we further expand our presence in the heart of Europe,” says Stefano De Pra, CEO of the company. “The German market is particularly suited to the nature of RCH products, which places a focus not only on technological innovation and intuitive user experience, but also pays heavy attention to solidity, style and aesthetics”.

This expansion has been possible due to the exceptional performance that RCH secured in the period of 2019-2020, seeing the launch of a number of new products across a range of new geographical markets, as well as the formation of a collaboration with Jeunes Restaurateurs d’Europe (JRE) – whose slogan of ‘endless passion’ echoes the mindset of RCH themselves.

This growing demand for RCH products and their increased recognition in the industry, combined with the need for centralized operations to manage all regional distribution and after-sales technical support, led RCH to choose Germany as a complimentary operational and strategic base to its existing offices in Treviso.

More information about RCH Group and RCH Germany is available at http://www.rch-group.com and http://www.rch-europe.de

About RCH Group

The RCH Group of companies offers advanced point of sale systems for the retail, food and beverage, entertainment, hospitality and franchising markets.The Group’s innovative products include cash registers, automatic cash desks and cloud-based back office services.

Founded in 1969, RCH Group has grown into a global organization, comprising of several companies with a presence in 40 countries worldwide. It is renowned for its successful combination of advanced product engineering with distinctive design. Headquartered in Northern Italy, RCH Group has operational offices in Austria, Vietnam, China, and Asia, as well as a vast network of partner resellers.

RCH Contact:

Nicola Cassoli

Director Marketing & Sales Italy

T. +39 0422365255

E. n.cassoli@rch.it

RCH Germany Contact:

info@rch-europe.de

T.+49 0681 9677 8752

Press Contact:

Fiorenza Mella

Xpresso Communications              

T. +31 715238210

E.: fiorenza@xpressocommunications.com

Logo:

RCH logo

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NEW AT FAFGA 2018: ATOS NOW WITH STYLISH AND ROBUST VESA MOUNT AND ARM

NEW AT FAFGA 2018: ATOS NOW WITH STYLISH AND ROBUST VESA MOUNT AND ARM

TREVISO, Italy, 2018-Jul-23 — /EPR Retail News/ — Technology is revolutionising the way in which we live and do business. In the hospitality industry where speed and quality of service is critical, organisations must embrace the latest POS technology if they are to maintain a competitive edge in today’s fast-paced digital world. FAFGA is the leading trade fair for the hotel and catering sector, taking place in Innsbruck, Austria from September 10th to 13th 2018.

Following a very successful show in 2017, RCH Group is returning to FAFGA for a second year to fortify its presence in the region and to demonstrate how its hardware and software smart selling solutions are revolutionising the Point of Sale as we know it. This time though, RCH Group will be represented by RCH Europe, the European operation launched in January 2018 and headquartered in Innsbruck. In Hall B0 on Stand 62A, visitors will see and experience a number of powerful cloud-based solutions, catering specifically to one or more points in the sales cycle. Each RCH product is based on decades of research and development and capable of interoperating with third-party systems.

The opening of RCH Europe in Austria has quickly enabled RCH Group to provide more effective and faster local support to its customers and reseller partners, further enhancing the trustworthy business relationships and high level of customer service that the company is renowned for. The increasing European customer base coupled with the necessity to have centralised operations to handle all regional deployments and after-sales technical support made Austria the ideal location.

“We attended FAFGA for the first time in 2017 and quickly discovered the exceptional opportunity the fair provided in accessing the right people within the hotel and catering business,” said Paolo Biasone, Sales Manager Austria and Germany at RCH Europe. “RCH Group has a long-standing history in providing POS solutions to the global hospitality and food and beverage industries. Given the increase of our European client base, notably in Austria and Germany, it therefore made absolute sense to base our European Headquarters in Innsbruck, close to our local customers. We look forward to meeting with current and new contacts at this year’s show.”

NEW at FAFGA 2018:

ATOS NOW WITH STYLISH AND ROBUST VESA MOUNT AND ARM
In response to end-users increased need for space reduction, RCH Europe will be launching at FAFGA an upgrade to the ATOS product range, which now comes complete with a wall mount and arm in accordance with the VESA Mounting Interface Standard. This thin mounting bracket provides an excellent space-saving solution for all catering facilities, allowing traders to mount the ATOS screen directly on to a wall, thus creating a clutter-free workspace. As like all RCH products, this new VESA mount is a functional, easy to use and aesthetic tool that is beautifully designed with the elegant Italian touch.

Additional Products on display at FAFGA 2018:

ATOS 15 ELEGANT
ATOS 15 Elegant combines pure elegance with high-end technology and comes with a 16:9 fully adjustable monitor that is supported by the stability of a solid chrome-effect base. Efficient hardware coupled with intelligent software makes ATOS 15 Elegant the ideal tool for any Point of Sale. The unit comes with an optional rear customer display that completes its maximum expression of functional elegance. This customer display is available in two different sizes, allowing the merchant to either present the customer with a list of purchased items or alternatively to display its own graphics visualising the consumptions on sale. This back graphic display can be cleverly used as an advertising tool to broadcast the latest news and in-store promotions, giving added value to any POS.

Multiple connections including Ethernet, USB and Micro SD allowing the ATOS 15 Elegant to pair with printers, tablets and scanners are all standard. An NFC reader, an MFC magnetic card and an I-Button are additional options with this innovative and eye-catching POS system.

ABOX 3 2.0
Bringing a smart revolution to the POS, Abox 3 2.0 is an 80-mm all-in-one Android solution that is bursting with potential. The unit comes pre-loaded with RCH’s renowned open-standard based on ATOS Android software allowing it to remotely connect with any compatible Android device, such as a printer, a tablet and so on. The Abox 3 2.0 has been intelligently designed to deliver heightened efficiency while saving a maximum of space at your sales point. The compact unit is integrated with a 10-inch, 16:9 capacitive touch screen which makes the monitor more responsive to gestures with your fingers such as swiping and pinching.

ATOS SOFTWARE: EASY INTEGRATION WITH THIRD PARTY APPLICATIONS 
RCH’s ATOS software-based Android solutions are founded on open standards and can be easily integrated with various third-party applications and systems (scales, payments, kitchen monitors). ATOS software and its extended modules are fully designed in-house by the company’s Research and Development teams, delivering efficient and streamlined technical support to fully communicate with third-party systems. This results in a secure, reliable and modular product for each market requirement.

This year for the first time, RCH Group will have group-member, DATA4, exhibit its innovative payment systems on its stand. DATA4 manufactures advanced self-service and automatic systems for the payment of goods and services in cash or electronically. All of DATA4’s automatic payment solutions are based on open source technology and can be easily integrated with various third-party applications and systems. Each system is designed in-house by the company’s Research and Development teams, delivering efficient and streamlined technical support so that the payment terminals fully communicate with third-party systems. The result is a secure, reliable product for every system requirement.

Cash Desk K2 Slim 
Retaining all the features of a multi-payment kiosk for the issuance of receipts and/or tickets, Cash Desk K2 Slim is an automatic device specifically destined for electronic payments. Eliminating the task of handling cash transactions results in a product that’s thinner and smoother in the movements. The device boasts a fast and simple user interface, indicating each operation to be carried out step by step with the aid of visual indicators (LEDs). A multi-lingual and interactive menu allows customers to pay for their goods or services in three easy steps.

“RCH was the first European company to introduce an Android interface for use in POS,” said Paolo Biasone, Sales Manager Austria and Germany at RCH Europe. “The Point of Sale is shifting towards a cloud-based environment, allowing merchants to remotely monitor and manage their systems from any device. Our back office enables to monitor in real time the sales of each cash point from any device, such as a tablet, PC or smartphone and it also provides the full management of the system’s programming, including personal registry, operators, customers, system configuration, and so on.”

RCH’s products, characterised by a perfect combination of elegance with the simplicity of functionality, are conceived to be at the centre of the point of sale. Smart on the inside, each product has a distinguished and modern design made in Italy.

More information about RCH Europe and RCH Group is available at http://www.rch-europe.de/ and http://www.rch-europe.com/. Further information about DATA4 and its products is available at http://www.data4.it/?lang=en

SOURCE: EuropaWire

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New augmented reality app to visualize dishes in restaurant menus in 3D format

Harald Xperience logo

HELSINKI, Finland, 2018-Mar-14 — /EPR Retail News/ — Harald Xperience Ltd. is the first company in Finland to introduce an application with AR aimed to enhance the customer experience in restaurants. The application called EatX allows the customer to visualize the various dishes in 3D format by moving a smartphone or tablet on different items on the menu.

According to Jaana Kettunen, producer and CEO of Harald Xperience, EatX brings the restaurant experience to a whole new level. The customer sees the dish together with additional information, which makes it easier to decide what to order. Kettunen reveals that EatX will be launched at the trade fair for the restaurant and catering industry in Helsinki, 14-16 March 2018.

The menu of the restaurant “På Kroken”, created by chef Magnus Ekström, will be used as an example, including a 3D presentation of the dessert served at the prestigious Nobel banquet.

Kai Lindevall, producer and chairman of the board, points out the almost limitless potential of AR technology in the field of consumer goods, events and entertainment: “You can get any product to ‘speak’ and tell its story.”

Lindevall says the next AR application of Harald Xperience will target the hotel industry, helping hotel guests to access useful information in a natural and unique way by using AR. The needs of families with children will also be addressed.

SOURCE: EuropaWire

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SSP America brings Liberty Diner at Newark Liberty International Airport

SSP America brings Liberty Diner at Newark Liberty International Airport

United States, 2018-Mar-09 — /EPR Retail News/ — SSP America, a division of SSP Group, a leading operator of food and beverage brands in travel locations worldwide, has opened an American diner at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR). The units join two previously opened markets opened by SSP America in 2017.

Paul Loupakos, Vice President of Business Development commented, “Liberty Diner and our two markets have been tailored specifically for EWR and will result in quality passenger experience that draws higher throughput and ultimately maximizes revenue. The concept of Liberty Diner is on trend given a current focus on nostalgia and elevated comfort food, but it also is a classic concept with broad appeal.”

As the 16th busiest airport in North America, Newark Liberty International Airport welcomes over 40 million passengers per year, and employs approximately 21,000 people. The airport contributes an estimated $27.2 billion in economic activity to the New York-New Jersey metropolitan region, generating about 188,000 total jobs and $10 billion in annual wages and salaries.

“We’re excited to partner with SSP America to continue enhancing the traveler experience at Newark Liberty Terminal B,” said Iris Messina, Westfield Vice President, Leasing. “A tribute to a classic American diner, Liberty Diner will surely delight customers and put smiles on their faces.”

Brand Details

Gateside Fresh Market (two units—Terminal A):  Gateside Market is the traveler’s grab & go haven for healthy eating. At EWR Gateside Fresh Market delivers on the ever-present ethos of using the freshest foods possible to bring travelers a market laden with hand-picked, nutrition-packed, wholesome nourishment that today’s consumers seek. From artisan sandwiches packed with premium fillings, to whole fruits, top-shelf salads and a wide range of snacks and drinks, multiple grab & go options abound for hungry passengers with no time to waste.

Liberty Diner (Terminal B):  Created specifically for Newark Liberty International Airport, Liberty Diner offers a unique and inviting environment that pays full, glorious tribute to the iconic style of the traditional American diner.  Serving classic American dishes—from breakfast favorites of bacon, eggs, pancakes and waffles available all throughout the day, to double-fisted burgers, chocolate shakes, meatloaf sandwiches and expertly grilled sirloin steaks—Liberty Diner’s ample 3,853 square feet space, will sit proudly and majestically in Terminal B’s international, global showroom attracting all passenger demographics with its inviting atmosphere, abundant seating and guaranteed street pricing.  Liberty Diner serves as a gleaming star attraction—relaxed, receiving and retro— the way American casual dining began.

Source: SSP

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SSP opens new premium restaurant bar concept, called Sip & Stone at Belfast International Airport

SSP opens new premium restaurant bar concept, called Sip & Stone at Belfast International Airport

LONDON, 2018-Mar-09 — /EPR Retail News/ — SSP, a leading operator of food and beverage brands in travel locations worldwide, is set to open a new premium restaurant bar concept, called Sip & Stone at Belfast International Airport.

The new bar, which will open at the beginning of March 2018, will feature a menu that has a focus on local dishes, recipes and ingredients and will offer steaks, burgers, sausages and bacon, all of which will be locally sourced.

The bar will serve international beers, on draft and in bottles, as well as boasting a modern international and eclectic wine list. It will also offer a range of premium spirits.

An in-house bakery will serve a variety of freshly baked cakes and muffins, along with grab and go sandwiches, and freshly ground barista coffee.

Drawing inspiration from Northern Ireland’s Giants Causeway, Sip & Stone highlights the history and heritage of the local area. The modern, contemporary and natural design of the new restaurant creates the perfect “sit back and relax” environment for passengers as they begin their journey at Belfast International Airport, and will be open all day from breakfast to the last flight.

Simon Smith, CEO of SSP UK and Ireland said: “SSP has innovated this space from a traditional food village, to a modern concept, with an environment that is in tune with the needs of the aspirational customer. In the development, we’ve worked closely with the airport to underscore Belfast’s culture and culinary traditions.”

Graham Keddie, managing director at Belfast International Airport, said; “Belfast International Airport is in an exciting phase of growth with over six million passengers expected to travel through the airport in 2018. It is essential to provide facilities that meet the growing needs of our leisure and business customers and we are pleased that SSP has invested in these new facilities.  I’m sure passengers will enjoy sampling some iconic culinary delights that will be on offer at Sip & Stone.”

Source: SSP

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Hudson Pacific and Macerich to transform Westside Pavilion into state-of-the-art creative office space in a Prime Los Angeles Location

  • Hudson Pacific Brings Deep Expertise in Successfully Redeveloping and Repositioning Properties as Creative Offices to Attract Top-Tier Tenants in Technology, Entertainment, and Other High-Growth Industries
  • Redevelopment to Provide Approximately 500,000 Square Feet of Creative Office in a Prime Los Angeles Location Adjacent to Freeways and Public Transportation

LOS ANGELES, 2018-Mar-08 — /EPR Retail News/ — Hudson Pacific Properties, Inc. (NYSE: HPP) and Macerich (NYSE: MAC) today (03/05/18) announced the formation of a joint venture through which Hudson Pacific and Macerich will work together to transform the approximately 600,000 square-foot Westside Pavilion into approximately 500,000 square feet of state-of-the-art creative office space, while retaining the approximately 100,000 square feet of existing entertainment retail space. The joint venture will be held 75% by Hudson Pacific and 25% by Macerich.

The companies estimate total project costs, including the asset value at contribution, in the range of $425-475 million, with each partner contributing their pro rata share. The construction is expected to be completed by mid-2021. Hudson Pacific will serve as the joint venture’s Managing Member and the property’s day-to-day operator and developer.

Victor Coleman, Chairman and CEO of Hudson Pacific, said: “Westside Pavilion is a perfect opportunity for us to reposition a marquee asset in a premier location—this is what we do best. The project is poised to capture the strong demand from tenants for creative office space on the west side of Los Angeles. We look forward to working with Macerich and to making our signature improvements to the property, which we believe will greatly benefit the surrounding community.”

Art Coppola, Chairman and CEO of Macerich, said: “Our joint venture with Hudson Pacific will enable us to maximize the value of this incredibly well-situated real estate with dynamic new uses—something Macerich has always excelled at. Hudson Pacific brings great expertise in the creative office space segment, and we are pleased to partner with them on this exciting, high visibility project.”

Westside Pavilion is located proximate to the I-405 and I-10 freeways and steps from the Expo Line light rail’s Westwood/Rancho Park station. The property is immediately adjacent to the residential enclave of Cheviot Hills, and less than three miles from the business and residential communities of Century City, Westwood, Culver City, Mar Vista and Brentwood. The property’s proximity to these neighborhoods, excellent access to freeways and public transit, and its large footprint and parking areas make it ideal for redeveloping office space.

About Hudson Pacific Properties

Hudson Pacific Properties is a vertically integrated real estate company focused on acquiring, repositioning, developing and operating high quality office and state-of-the-art media and entertainment properties in select West Coast markets. Hudson Pacific invests across the risk-return spectrum, favoring opportunities where it can employ leasing, capital investment and management expertise to create additional value. Founded in 2006 as Hudson Capital, the company went public in 2010, electing to be taxed as a real estate investment trust. Through the years, Hudson Pacific has strategically assembled a portfolio totaling over 17 million square feet including land for development, in high growth, high-barrier-to-entry submarkets throughout Northern and Southern California and the Pacific Northwest. The company is a leading provider of design-forward, next-generation workspaces for a variety of tenants, with a focus on Fortune 500 and leading growth companies, many in the technology, media and entertainment sectors. As a long-term owner, Hudson Pacific prioritizes tenant satisfaction and retention, providing highly customized build-outs and working proactively to accommodate tenants’ growth. Hudson Pacific trades as a component of the Russell 2000® and the Russell 3000® indices. For more information visit HudsonPacificProperties.com.

About Macerich

Macerich, an S&P 500 company, is a fully integrated self-managed and self-administered real estate investment trust, which focuses on the acquisition, leasing, management, development and redevelopment of regional malls throughout the United States. Macerich currently owns 53 million square feet of real estate consisting primarily of interests in 48 regional shopping centers. Macerich specializes in successful retail properties in many of the country’s most attractive, densely populated markets with significant presence in the Pacific Rim, Arizona, Chicago and the Metro New York to Washington, DC corridor. A recognized leader in sustainability, Macerich has earned NAREIT’s prestigious “Leader in the Light” award every year from 2014-2017. For the third straight year in 2017 Macerich achieved the #1 GRESB ranking in the North American Retail Sector, among many other environmental accomplishments. Additional information about Macerich can be obtained from the company’s website at www.macerich.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. Forward-looking statements relate to expectations, beliefs, projections, future plans and strategies, anticipated events or trends and similar expressions concerning matters that are not historical facts. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “predicts,” or “potential” or the negative of these words and phrases or similar words or phrases that are predictions of or indicate future events, or trends and that do not relate solely to historical matters. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and contingencies, many of which are beyond the company’s control that may cause actual results to differ significantly from those expressed in any forward-looking statement. All forward-looking statements reflect the company’s good faith beliefs, assumptions and expectations, but they are not guarantees of future performance. Furthermore, the company disclaims any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement to reflect changes in underlying assumptions or factors, new information, data or methods, future events or other changes. For a further discussion of these and other factors that could cause the company’s future results to differ materially from any forward-looking statements, see the section entitled “Risk Factors” in the company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, or SEC, on February 16, 2018, and other risks described in documents subsequently filed by the company from time to time with the SEC.

Contacts:

Investor/Media Contacts:
Hudson Pacific Properties
Laura Campbell
Vice President, Head of Investor Relations
310.622.1702
lcampbell@hudsonppi.com

Macerich
Karen Maurer
602.953.6471
karen.maurer@macerich.com

Source: Macerich

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Chick-fil-A® introduces its newest seasonal menu item, Frosted Sunrise

Chick-fil-A® introduces its newest seasonal menu item, Frosted Sunrise

ATLANTA, 2018-Mar-08 — /EPR Retail News/ — Today (March 5, 2018) Chick-fil-A® introduces its newest seasonal menu item, Frosted Sunrise, which is available at restaurants nationwide through June 2. The creamy and tart treat is a combination of Chick-fil-A’s signature vanilla Icedream® and Simply Orange® Juice. The treat launches in all restaurants following a successful test in Jacksonville, Fla. last fall.

Frosted Sunrise follows Chick-fil-A’s first frosted beverage, Frosted Lemonade, which was added to the menu in 2015 and was so popular that Chick-fil-A added Frosted Coffee, made with cold-brewed iced specialty coffee and Icedream, to the menu in 2016. Last year’s seasonal menu item, Frosted Strawberry Lemonade, a hand-spun combination of Chick-fil-A’s fresh squeezed Lemonade (or Diet Lemonade), Icedream and strawberry purée, was on the menu for a limited time as a seasonal offering. Icedream, inspired by founder Truett Cathy’s original recipe, is a delicious, dairy treat with an old-fashioned vanilla taste.

“Spring is the perfect time of year to introduce a new seasonal Frosted beverage. Our seasonal Icedream offerings have become customer favorites over the last few years,” said Amanda Norris, senior director of menu development for Chick-fil-A. “Frosted Sunrise combines simple but flavorful ingredients into a tasty treat that customers can enjoy throughout the day.”

Frosted Sunrise is available in small (14-ounce) and large (20-ounce) servings with prices starting at $2.85. A small is 320 calories and a large is 390 calories – both sweet treats have fewer calories than a milkshake.

For more information about Chick-fil-A and stories about the company’s food, people and customers across the country, visit thechickenwire.chick–fil-a.com.

About Chick-fil-A, Inc. 

Atlanta-based Chick-fil-A, Inc. is a family owned and privately held restaurant company founded in 1967 by S. Truett Cathy. Devoted to serving the local communities in which its franchised restaurants operate, and known for its original chicken sandwich, Chick-fil-A serves freshly prepared food in more than 2,200 restaurants in 47 states and Washington, D.C.

Chick-fil-A reported over $9 billion in revenue in 2017, which marks 50 consecutive years of sales growth. A leader in customer service satisfaction, Chick-fil-A earned the Chicken Restaurant Brand of the Year honors for the fourth consecutive year in the 2017 Harris Poll EquiTrend Study. Chick-fil-A also received the top score among fast food brands and one of the top 10 scores overall for customer experience in the 2017 Temkin Experience Ratings survey, and was named one of the top 100 best places to work by Glassdoor. Continuing its founder’s legacy of generosity and service, in 2017 the company’s philanthropic Chick-fil-A Foundation awarded $1.23 million to 23 not-for-profit organizations across 13 states through the True Inspiration Awards and almost $9 million in scholarships to restaurant team members nationwide. More information on Chick-fil-A is available at www.chick-fil-a.com.

Media Hotline:

(800) 404-7196
Email: cfapressroom@chick-fil-a.com
Twitter: @ChickfilANews

Source: Chick-fil-A, Inc.

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SONIC introduces guilt-free SONIC Signature Slingers cheeseburger

SONIC introduces guilt-free SONIC Signature Slingers cheeseburger

America’s Drive-In® introduces the first QSR mushroom-blended burger starting under 350 calories

OKLAHOMA CITY, 2018-Mar-07 — /EPR Retail News/ — SONIC® Drive-In (NASDAQ: SONC) revamped the traditional American cheeseburger with its new SONIC Signature Slingers, a first of its kind in fast food. The perfect-sized cheeseburger patty is made with three simple ingredients: 100-percent pure beef blended with savory mushrooms and seasonings to create a juicy, flavorful patty that is almost too good to be true. Starting under 350 calories, the SONIC Signature Slingers lets you get away with all the flavor of a cheeseburger with none of the guilt starting at $1.99*.

“The Signature Slingers is a first-of-its-kind fast food cheeseburger, which delivers the juicy savory deliciousness you expect from a burger in a way that makes you feel like you’re getting away with something,” said Scott Uehlein, vice president of product innovation and development for SONIC. “Adding mushrooms right into the burger patty amps up the incredible flavors of the 100-percent pure beef and seasonings you get in each bite. This burger truly raises the bar for every other restaurant.”

Beginning Monday, March 5, guests can enjoy two Signature Slingers cheeseburger options to satisfy their guilt-less burger cravings. The Classic SONIC Signature Slinger is topped with fresh lettuce and tomato, diced onions, crinkle-cut dill pickles, mayo and melted American cheese served on a bakery-quality brioche bun. The Bacon Melt SONIC Signature Slinger is made with crispy bacon, layered with melted cheese and mayo served on a bakery-quality brioche bun.

“We are excited to be a partner on the new Signature Slingers, which brings together the craveability of pure beef with the juiciness of mushrooms, creating a great tasting cheeseburger that guests will only be able to get at SONIC,” said Bart Minor, president of the Mushroom Council, which provides marketing and education on behalf of the nation’s mushroom growers and importers. “The trend of blending mushrooms into a burger patty has been atop a number of food trend lists this year and we can’t wait for guests to experience SONIC’s uniquely delicious creation.”

Guests can pair the new SONIC Signature Slingers with a SONIC Fruit Fizz™ for the ultimate lunch, dinner or snack, but only for a limited time.

* Tax not included. Classic SONIC Signature Slinger contains approximately 340 calories. See menu for details.

About SONIC®, America’s Drive-In®

SONIC, America’s Drive-In is the nation’s largest drive-in restaurant chain serving approximately 3 million customers every day. Nearly 94 percent of SONIC’s 3,500 drive-in locations are owned and operated by local business men and women. For 65 years, SONIC has delighted guests with signature menu items, 1.3 million drink combinations and friendly service by iconic Carhops. Since the 2009 launch of SONIC’s Limeades for Learning philanthropic campaign in partnership with DonorsChoose.org, SONIC has donated $9.5 million to public school teachers nationwide to fund essential learning materials and innovative teaching resources to inspire creativity and learning in their students. To learn more about Sonic Corp. (NASDAQ/NM: SONC), please visit sonicdrivein.com and please visit or follow us on Facebook and Twitter. To learn more about SONIC’s Limeades for Learning initiative, please visit LimeadesforLearning.com.

Contact:
Rebeka Mora
512-542-2804
Rebeka.mora@cohnwolfe.com

Source: SONIC Drive-In

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Wendy’s announces $1 Double Stack deal offer

Wendy’s announces $1 Double Stack deal offer

 

DUBLIN, Ohio, 2018-Mar-01 — /EPR Retail News/ — If you’ve got a dollar, Wendy’s®   has a deal for you. Fresh beef fanatics can now snag a delicious Double Stack™, with more than a ¼ lb.1 of beef, for only $1 – a deal so good you may start seeing double.

“Run, don’t walk to Wendy’s for a Double Stack. With a quarter pound of fresh beef for a dollar, there’s no reason to go anywhere else,” said Kurt Kane, chief concept and marketing officer for Wendy’s. “Fair warning, though, you better get it before it’s gone because a deal this good won’t last long.”

Made with fresh, never-frozen beef,2 Wendy’s signature Double Stack is served on a warm bun and topped with a slice of American cheese, crunchy crinkle-cut dill pickles, fresh white onions, ketchup and mustard.

While Wendy’s quality is here to stay, this deal won’t last forever. The $1 Double Stack is available for a limited time at participating Wendy’slocations.3

1Approximate weight before cooking.
2Fresh beef available in the contiguous U.S., Alaska and Canada.
3Price and participation may vary. Offer not valid in Alaska and Hawaii.

About The Wendy’s Company
The Wendy’s Company (NASDAQ: WEN) is the world’s third-largest quick-service hamburger company. The Wendy’s system includes approximately 6,600 franchise and Company-operated restaurants in the United States and 30 countries and U.S. territories worldwide. For more information, visit www.aboutwendys.com.

CONTACTS:
Frank Vamos
614-764-8477
Frank.Vamos@wendys.com

Amy Baker
214-259-3408
Amy.Baker@Ketchum.com

SOURCE: The Wendy’s Company

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Przemek Lesniak named new CEO in Pacific region at Lagardère Travel Retail

Tasmania, Australia, 2018-Feb-21 — /EPR Retail News/ — Lagardère Travel Retail has appointed Przemek Lesniak as the new CEO of Pacific region replacing Matthie Mercier, who is returning to Paris to take up the role of COO Travel Essentials and Food Service at Lagardère Travel Retail France.

Przemek Lesniak is based in Sydney and will report into Emmanuel de Place in Singapore.

Having worked for Lagardère Travel Retail for over 17 years in various roles in Poland, France and Australia, Lesniak moved to Sydney when he joined the Pacific region in July 2016 as General Manager of Travel Essentials. He has quickly developed a great understanding of the business in this region. He has worked on a variety of commercial initiatives and key development projects and has been instrumental in developing and strengthening both the Travel Essentials and more recently the Duty-Free businesses in the region during this time.

A graduate of Warsaw School of Economics, he brings to the role sound financial acumen, strong retail expertise, operational leadership and an extensive knowledge of Lagardère Travel Retails business.

“We are delighted to have someone of Przemek’s calibre and experience to move seamlessly into this role” said Emmanuel de Place, COO of Lagardère Travel Retail. “He is very qualified and I’m confident that he’ll continue to strengthen and grow the business in the Pacific region.

I would also like to thank Matthieu Mercier for his leadership, enthusiasm and contribution he has made to our Pacific business over the past six years, which has included significant development in strengthening the presence of the group’s activities in the region”.

Przemek Lesniak said of his appointment “Having been in the Pacific for 18 months now, I’m thrilled with this opportunity as it’s an exciting region to be working in. I’m looking forward to leading the adaptable and fast learning passionate teams, and using my experience to drive the strategic vision and growth strategy to grow the business even further in the region”.

ABOUT LAGARDERE TRAVEL RETAIL:
One of the four divisions of Lagardère Group, Lagardère Travel Retail is a pioneering global leader in the travel retail industry. Operating 4,300 stores across Travel Essentials, Duty Free and Foodservice in airports, railway stations and other concessions in 33 countries worldwide, Lagardère Travel Retail generates a €4 bn sales (managed 100%).

Lagardere Travel Retail has a unique holistic approach aimed at exceeding traveller’s expectations throughout their journey, and optimising landlords’ assets and partners’ brands.

In Asia Pacific, Lagardère Travel Retail operates over 300 outlets in 16 airports, supported by professional local teams in Australia, New Zealand, New Caledonia, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, China and India.

PRESS CONTACT:
Janette Doolan
Communications Manager
j.doolan@lagardere-traspac.com
www.lagardere-traspac.com

Source: Lagardere Travel Retail

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Wendy’s introduces the new Smoky Mushroom Bacon Cheeseburger

Wendy’s introduces the new Smoky Mushroom Bacon Cheeseburger

 

DUBLIN, Ohio, 2018-Feb-20 — /EPR Retail News/ — Can’t get enough of Wendy’s fresh beef? Say no more! Wendy’s is introducing what could be the most craveable cheeseburger to hit fast food menus. The new Smoky Mushroom Bacon Cheeseburger and Baked Potato takes deliciously different to a whole new level.

Wendy’s never-ending passion to serve the best hamburgers in the business extends beyond fresh beef1. The Smoky Mushroom Bacon Cheeseburger has every flavor you could crave on one bun, featuring smoky, sautéed portabella mushrooms, melted asiago cheese, crispy Applewood smoked bacon and crunchy fried onions atop of juicy, fresh never frozen beef (#duh). For those craving the same great taste sans beef, Wendy’s Smoky Mushroom Bacon Potato is loaded with sautéed portabella mushrooms, cheddar cheese sauce and crispy Applewood smoked bacon.

Check out Wendy’s The Square Deal Blog for the inside scoop on what inspired this delectably craveable sandwich.

Guests can purchase the Smoky Mushroom Bacon Cheeseburger for $4.992 and the Smoky Mushroom Bacon Potato for $2.992. Both menu additions will be available for a limited time, so savor it while you can!

1 Fresh beef available in the contiguous U.S., Canada, and Alaska.
2 At participating locations. Prices may vary.

About The Wendy’s Company
The Wendy’s Company (NASDAQ: WEN) is the world’s third-largest quick-service hamburger company. The Wendy’s system includes approximately 6,600 franchise and Company-operated restaurants in the United States and 30 countries and U.S. territories worldwide. For more information, visit www.aboutwendys.com

CONTACTS:
Bry Roth
614-764-3138
Bry.Roth@wendys.com

Amy Baker
214-259-3408
Amy.Baker@Ketchum.com

SOURCE: The Wendy’s Company

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Krispy Kreme Doughnuts introduces Hershey’s Gold Doughnut, available for a limited-time only

Krispy Kreme Doughnuts introduces Hershey’s Gold Doughnut, available for a limited-time only

 

Iconic Original Glazed® Doughnut is topped with HERSHEY’S GOLD Bar, the fourth flavor in the history of the brand, and will be available for a limited-time

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C., 2018-Feb-20 — /EPR Retail News/ — Krispy Kreme Doughnuts and The Hershey Company are at it again, announcing a delicious creation that is as good as gold – the Hershey’s Gold Doughnut, which will be available for a limited-time beginning today (February 19, 2018) at participating Krispy Kreme shops in the U.S.

The Hershey’s Gold Doughnut is a delicious pairing of Krispy Kreme’s iconic Original Glazed Doughnut, topped with pieces of the new Hershey’s Gold bar and a salted caramel icing. This salty sweet doughnut flavor will surprise taste buds with every bite.

The recently introduced Hershey’s Gold bar – only the fourth bar flavor in the brand’s 117-year history – has a caramelized creme base, including salty peanuts and pretzel bits to give consumers a sweet, buttery smooth taste, topped off with a crunchy finish.

Last year, Krispy Kreme Doughnuts and The Hershey Company partnered to introduce the wildly popular Krispy Kreme Reese’s Peanut Butter Doughnut.

“One of the ways we bring joy to our customers is by innovating to create unique doughnuts that only Krispy Kreme Doughnuts can deliver. We’ve created the perfect balance between smooth and crunchy by including actual pieces of the salty sweet Hershey’s Gold bar on our Original Glazed Doughnut,” said Jackie Woodward, Chief Marketing Officer of Krispy Kreme Doughnuts.

Go to krispykreme.com/hersheysgold to find a participating Krispy Kreme shop near you. Share your ultimate Hershey’s Gold Doughnut experience on social by tagging @krispykreme and using the hashtag #HersheysGold.

About Krispy Kreme Doughnut Corporation

Krispy Kreme Doughnut Corporation is a global retailer of premium-quality sweet treats, including its signature Original Glazed doughnut. Headquartered in Winston-Salem, N.C., the Company has offered the highest-quality doughnuts and great-tasting coffee since it was founded in 1937. Krispy Kreme Doughnuts is proud of its Fundraising program, which for decades has helped non-profit organizations raise millions of dollars in needed funds. Krispy Kreme doughnuts can be found in approximately 12,000 grocery, convenience and mass merchant stores in the U.S. The Company has more than 1,300 retail shops in 31 countries. Connect with Krispy Kreme Doughnuts at www.KrispyKreme.com, or on one of its many social media channels, including www.Facebook.com/KrispyKreme, and www.Twitter.com/KrispyKreme.

Contact:
Krispy Kreme Doughnut Corporation
Cassie Williams
336-733-3793
Manager of Integrated Communications
cwilliams@krispykreme.com

Source: Krispy Kreme Doughnut Corporation

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CBL Properties to deliver fresh new eateries at Volusia Mall in Daytona Beach, FL, and Northgate Mall in Chattanooga, TN

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn., 2018-Feb-20 — /EPR Retail News/ — CBL Properties (NYSE: CBL) today (2/19/2018) announced plans to add new dining options as part of the redevelopment of two former Sears Auto Centers. The redevelopments will deliver fresh new eateries at both Volusia Mall in Daytona Beach, Florida, and Northgate Mall in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Construction on both projects will begin in March with an expected opening this fall.

“CBL is committed to diversifying the uses at our properties to include more dining and other lifestyle options. We are thrilled to move forward with our plans to redevelop the two Sears Auto Centers we acquired last year,” said Stephen Lebovitz, president & CEO, CBL Properties. “This is one of many announcements we look forward to sharing in 2018 detailing the transformation of CBL properties through our redevelopment program.”

Bonefish Grill, Metro Diner, and The Casual Pint will join the mix at Volusia Mall. Additional tenants planned as part of the project will be announced as leases are executed.

Northgate Mall will welcome Tennessee-based Aubrey’s as well as Panda Express as part of the redevelopment.

About CBL Properties

Headquartered in Chattanooga, TN, CBL Properties owns and manages a national portfolio of market-dominant properties located in dynamic and growing communities. CBL’s portfolio is comprised of 119 properties totaling 74.4 million square feet across 27 states, including 76 high-quality enclosed, outlet and open-air retail centers and 12 properties managed for third parties. CBL continuously strengthens its company and portfolio through active management, aggressive leasing and profitable reinvestment in its properties. For more information visit cblproperties.com.

Investor Contact:
Katie Reinsmidt
423-490-8301
Executive Vice President & Chief Investment Officer
Katie.Reinsmidt@cblproperties.com

Media Contact:
Stacey Keating
423-490-8361
Director of Public Relations & Corporate Communications
Stacey.Keating@cblproperties.com

Source: CBL Properties

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McDonald’s to improve its Happy Meal menu by 2022 as part of its commitment with Healthier Generation

Company expands commitment with Alliance for a Healthier Generation by setting bold goals in 120 markets around the world to evolve the Happy Meal menu

OAK BROOK, Ill., 2018-Feb-19 — /EPR Retail News/ — Today (February 15, 2018), McDonald’s (NYSE:MCD) announced an expanded commitment to families, supporting the company’s long-term global growth plan by leveraging its reach to impact children’s meals, access to reading, and keeping families together through Ronald McDonald House Charities.  By 2022, McDonald’s will make improvements to the Happy Meal menu across 120 markets to offer more balanced meals, simplify ingredients, continue to be transparent with Happy Meal nutrition information, reinforce responsible marketing to children, and leverage innovative marketing to help impact the purchase of foods and beverages that contain recommended food groups in Happy Meals.

“We recognise the opportunity that we have to support families as one of the most visited restaurants in the world, and remain committed to elevating our food, celebrating the joy of reading, and helping those in need through Ronald McDonald House Charities,” said Steve Easterbrook, McDonald’s President and CEO.  “Given our scale and reach, we hope these actions will bring more choices to consumers and uniquely benefit millions of families, which are important steps as we build a better McDonald’s.”

In 2013, McDonald’s began working with the not-for-profit Alliance for Healthier Generation (Healthier Generation) to develop a comprehensive plan for 20 major markets* to increase customers’ access to fruit, vegetables, low-fat dairy and water; and many of those markets are ahead of schedule in their progress on those prior commitments.

Today, the company is furthering its efforts with Healthier Generation to set five new Global Happy Meal Goals through 2022.

1. Offer Balanced Meals

Using rigorous nutrition criteria grounded in science and nutrition policy, by the end of 2022, at least 50 percent or more of the Happy Meals listed on menus (restaurant menu boards, primary ordering screen of kiosks and owned mobile ordering applications) in each market will meet McDonald’s new Global Happy Meal Nutrition Criteria of less than or equal to 600 calories; 10 percent of calories from saturated fat; 650mg sodium; and 10 percent of calories from added sugar.

Currently, 28 percent of Happy Meal combinations offered on menu boards in 20 major markets meet these new nutrition criteria. To reach the goal of 50 percent or more, markets will add new menu offerings, reformulate or remove menu offerings from the Happy Meal section of the menu board. For example, last month McDonald’s Italy introduced a new Happy Meal entrée called the “Junior Chicken,” a lean protein sandwich (grilled chicken).  McDonald’s Australia is currently exploring new vegetable and lean protein options and McDonald’s France is looking at new vegetable offerings.

2. Simplify Ingredients

As consumers’ tastes and preferences continue to evolve, markets will prioritize Happy Meals and simplify ingredients by removing artificial flavors, added colors from artificial sources, and reducing artificial preservatives where feasible.  In 2016, McDonald’s USA removed artificial preservatives from Chicken McNuggets, which also have no artificial flavors and colors, and the Chicken McNuggets from McDonald’s France and Canada have no artificial flavors, colors or preservatives.

3. Be Transparent with Happy Meal Nutrition Information

The company has made a continuous effort to meet consumers’ desire for easy access to nutrition information for menu items it serves with a goal of ensuring that nutrition information for Happy Meals is available and accessible through all McDonald’s owned websites and mobile apps used for ordering where they exist.

4. Market Responsibly

Under the new goals, all Happy Meal bundles advertised to children will meet McDonald’s new global nutrition criteria, and will continue to meet any existing local/regional advertising pledges with respect to marketing to children.

5. Leverage innovative marketing to help increase purchase of foods and beverages that contain recommended food groups in Happy Meals

McDonald’s recognizes the opportunity it has to make a positive impact using its size and scale to leverage innovative marketing, including packaging and promotions and use of new technologies, such as kiosks and mobile apps, to help serve more fruit, vegetables, low-fat dairy, whole grains, lean protein and water in Happy Meals. This goal takes these actions one step further to include a measurement component and externally sharing best practices and results in a transparent manner.

McDonald’s USA Happy Meal Changes

Customers in the U.S. will see accelerated changes to the Happy Meal menu this year.  In June 2018, 100 percent of the meal combinations offered on Happy Meal menu boards in the U.S. will be 600 calories or fewer, and 100 percent of those meal combinations will be compliant with the new nutrition criteria for added sugar, saturated fat, and 78 percent compliant with the new sodium criteria.

  • Listing only the following entrée choices: Hamburger, 4-piece and 6-piece Chicken McNuggets. The Cheeseburger will only be available at a customer’s request.
  • Replacing the small French fries with kids-sized fries in the 6-piece Chicken McNugget meal, which decreases the calories and sodium in the fries serving by half.
  • Reformulating chocolate milk to reduce the amount of added sugar. During this period, chocolate milk will no longer be listed on the Happy Meal menu, but will be available at a customer’s request.
  • Later this year, bottled water will be added as a featured beverage choice on Happy Meal menu boards.
  • In December 2017, McDonald’s USA completed the transition to Honest Kids Appley Ever After organic juice drink, which has 45 less calories and half the total sugar than the prior 100 percent apple juice served in the U.S.

With these planned menu updates, there will be average reductions of 20 percent in calories, 50 percent in added sugars,13 percent in saturated fat and/or 17 percent in sodium, depending on the customer’s specific meal selection. These reductions reflect the average nutrition data of U.S. Happy Meal offerings on the menu last year compared to those planned for later this year.  Already, several of the Happy Meal combinations available on U.S. menu boards today meet the new nutrition criteria and will not be changing.

McDonald’s USA last announced changes of this magnitude in 2013 as part of its commitment with Healthier Generation, when removing soda from the Happy Meal section of its menu boards, which has resulted in a 14 percentage point increase in the number of Happy Meals ordered that include water, milk or juice as their beverage choice.  In December 2013, customers chose water, milk or juice as their beverage choice in 38 percent of Happy Meals and that number increased to 52 percent in December 2017. During that same period, the number of Happy Meals that included soda and other beverages decreased from 62 percent to 48 percent. For the first time, more than half of Happy Meals ordered in the U.S. have included water, milk or juice as their beverage of choice.

“From day one, Healthier Generation knew our work with McDonald’s could influence broad scale improvements to meal options for kids everywhere,” said Dr. Howell Wechsler, Chief Executive Officer of Alliance for a Healthier Generation. “Today’s announcement represents meaningful progress to impact kids’ calories, saturated fat, sodium and added sugar in Happy Meal bundles as offered on menu boards – and to promote more water. This sets a high bar, and we hope other industry leaders will follow suit.”

 “As a nutritionist and a mom, this is a pivotal moment as we unveil new, ambitious goals in collaboration with Healthier Generation that we hope will positively impact families around the world,”  said Julia Braun, MPH, Registered Dietitian and Head of Global Nutrition at McDonald’s. “Our efforts have led to big changes and real progress and as part of our continued food journey, we’re committed to making it easier for families to choose balanced options that will make measurable differences.”

These commitments apply to all markets globally with measurement and reporting of progress among 20 major markets, representing nearly 85 percent of the company’s global sales. The company will work with Healthier Generation and an independent, third-party to measure and publicly report progress every two years.

“Happy Meal Readers” Book Program

The company is also using its scale for good to inspire a passion for reading and will continue to spread the joy of reading to more families.  Since 2001, the company and its franchisees have distributed more than 370 million books in Happy Meals. “Happy Meal Readers” continues to expand, and by 2019 children in more than 100 markets will be able to choose a book or toy year-round in their Happy Meals.

Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC)

When it comes to supporting families, the company has played an important role for more than 40 years in keeping families near the care they need when their children are sick. McDonald’s was a founding mission partner of the Charity and remains committed to leveraging the size and scale of McDonald’s restaurants to promote and raise money to support the growth of the Charity.  RMHC keeps families together, close to the care they need through more than 364 Ronald McDonald Houses, 227 Ronald McDonald Family Rooms, and 49 Ronald McDonald Care Mobiles in 64 countries and regions around the world.  Last year alone, RMHC provided care and resources to more than five and a half million children and families.  Last year, McDonald’s restaurants supported the work of RMHC by providing approximately 2.4 million overnight stays in neighborhoods and in communities around the world.

About McDonald’s

McDonald’s is the world’s leading global foodservice retailer with over 37,000 locations in over 100 countries. Approximately 90% of McDonald’s restaurants worldwide are owned and operated by independent local business men and women.

About Healthier Generation

The Alliance for a Healthier Generation empowers kids to develop lifelong healthy habits by ensuring the environments that surround them provide and promote good health. More than 25 million children have been helped by Healthier Generation’s work with schools, communities and businesses across the country. Make a difference at HealthierGeneration.org and join us on Facebook and Twitter.

*20 major markets: U.S., Canada, Brazil, Argentina, U.K., France, Germany, Austria, Spain, Netherlands, Italy, Poland, Sweden, Switzerland, Russia, Hong Kong, China, Japan, Taiwan and Australia.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Becca Hary 
McDonald’s
becca.hary@us.mcd.com		 Kate Siskel
Alliance for a Healthier Generation 
kate.siskel@healthiergeneration.org

This announcement is distributed by Nasdaq Corporate Solutions on behalf of Nasdaq Corporate Solutions clients.
The issuer of this announcement warrants that they are solely responsible for the content, accuracy and originality of the information contained therein.
Source: McDonald’s Corporation / Globenewswire

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Chick-fil-A to open new restaurant in Midtown Manhattan on March 1

Chick-fil-A to open new restaurant in Midtown Manhattan on March 1

NEW YORK, 2018-Feb-14 — /EPR Retail News/ — Next month, the third locally-owned and operated Chick-fil-A restaurant will open in Midtown Manhattan. The restaurant, located across from Grand Central Station at the corner of East 42nd Street and Madison Avenue, will open on Thursday, March 1 and will employ more than 200 team members under the leadership of local franchise owner Ellie Kim. Kim will celebrate the opening by hosting Chick-fil-A’s signature First 100 campout in the Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park.

Locally Owned and Operated
Kim is a first-generation Korean immigrant who moved to the city with her family at age 16. She graduated from New York University and Rutgers Law School, and later practiced as a law clerk in Manhattan for several years before owning a dry-cleaning business in the Theatre District. She spent the past 11 years in Washington, D.C., where she owned a Chick-fil-A franchise, and recently relocated back to NYC with her family to open Chick-fil-A Grand Central.

Quick, Easy and Efficient Service
Kim’s Midtown restaurant is expected to be one of the busiest Chick-fil-A locations in the country given its proximity to Grand Central Station, which serves more than 750,000 commuters each day. To meet demand, Chick-fil-A designed the restaurant to handle extreme volume. Utilizing the company’s proprietary “upstream ordering” technology, team members will take orders on tablets as soon as guests walk through the doors – ensuring a shorter queue time.

In addition to efficiency, the 6,263-square foot restaurant is also designed for comfort. More than 100 guests can dine on the second level with views of Grand Central Station and One Vanderbilt, a 1.7 million-square-foot skyscraper in development that, once completed, will bring thousands more people to the area each day.

This will be the company’s third location in Manhattan and will be followed by the opening of Chick-fil-A Fulton Street, a five-story restaurant with a rooftop terrace located next to Fulton Center Station in the Financial District.

The Chick-fil-A First 100 Celebration
Chick-fil-A Grand Central will officially open for business at 6:30 a.m. on Thursday, March 1 following its signature First 100 campout and celebration, taking place for the first time in the Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park. The First 100 celebration will transform the Winter Village into a 12-hour indoor campout where participants will be awarded a year’s worth of free Chick-fil-A (52 No. 1 meals total). To be eligible, participants must be 18 years or older, U.S. residents with a valid government-issued photo ID, and reside in eligible zip codes. Participants must arrive at Bryant Park to register no earlier than 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 28. If more than 100 people are on-site when the campout officially begins at 6 p.m., a drawing will be held to select the First 100. Those chosen will be required to stay for the duration of the 12-hour campout until the Grand Central restaurant opens at 6:30 a.m. on March 1 in order to receive the prize.

Due to limited space and the indoor nature of the campout, tents are not permitted and personal items should be limited to one item such as a backpack or purse. Chairs and blankets will be provided to all campers.

This event is open to guests residing in specific zip codes surrounding the Grand Central restaurant, inclusive of all zip codes in the five boroughs of NYC. A complete listing of eligible zip codes, Official Rules and other important details can be found at www.chick-fil-a.com/Locations/Openings in the Grand Central section.

200 New Jobs for New Yorkers
Chick-fil-A is known for hiring, developing and retaining top talent, providing a great work environment for people of all ages and backgrounds. Each NYC Chick-fil-A restaurant offers flexible hours, competitive pay and benefits, opportunities for leadership growth, college scholarships, and hands-on training and mentoring by the restaurant owner. Chick-fil-A Grand Central will employ more than 200 team members, with wages starting above New York City’s minimum wage. Whether candidates are seeking their first job or are seasoned industry professionals, all interested are invited to apply at jobs.NYCCFA.com.

Premium Ingredients and Fresh, Handmade Food
Nearly everything on the Chick-fil-A menu is made from scratch daily, including salads made from fresh vegetables and fruit that is hand-chopped throughout the day. The lemonade is fresh-squeezed and is made from three simple ingredients: lemon juice, sugar and water. Like all Chick-fil-A restaurants, the chicken served in this restaurant will be 100 percent whole breast meat, without any fillers, hormones or additives. Each chicken breast is hand-breaded to order and pressure cooked in 100 percent refined peanut oil, which is naturally trans-fat- and cholesterol-free. By the end of 2019, every Chick-fil-A restaurant will serve chicken raised without antibiotics.

Community Citizen
Chick-fil-A is an active contributor to the community and is committed to giving back in New York City. Like the other NYC Chick-fil-A locations, Chick-fil-A Grand Central will partner with New York Common Pantry to provide meals to those in-need. To date, the Chick-fil-A restaurants in New York have donated more than 9,000 pounds of food to the organization, which serves the city’s homeless population. The restaurant will also partner with Feeding Children Everywhere, a social charity that mobilizes groups to assemble healthy meals for children in need. First 100 participants will have the opportunity to help assemble meals to be distributed locally.

Commitment to Customer Service
With a longstanding tradition in the restaurant industry for setting the highest standards in customer service, Chick-fil-A recently earned a top spot in the 2016 Customer Service Hall of Fame for the third year in a row and is the only quick service restaurant to make the top five of the Customer Service Hall of Fame. The company has also earned recognition as one of America’s “Most Inspiring Companies” by Forbes Magazine, one of America’s “Top 20 Most Admired Brands” by The Harris Poll and “Top Fast Food Chicken Chain” by Consumer Reports, among other honors.

Chick-fil-A Grand Central will be located at 50 East 42nd Street and will be open from 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., Monday through Saturday, beginning March 1. For more information about Chick-fil-A and stories about the company’s food, people and customers across the country, visit chick-fil-a.com. For the latest news and updates at Chick-fil-A, visit the Chick-fil-A Grand Central Facebook page.

About Chick-fil-A, Inc. 

Atlanta-based Chick-fil-A, Inc. is a family owned and privately held restaurant company founded in 1967 by S. Truett Cathy. Devoted to serving the local communities in which its franchised restaurants operate, and known for its original chicken sandwich, Chick-fil-A serves freshly prepared food in more than 2,200 restaurants in 47 states and Washington, D.C.

Chick-fil-A reported over $9 billion in revenue in 2017, which marks 50 consecutive years of sales growth. A leader in customer service satisfaction, Chick-fil-A earned the Chicken Restaurant Brand of the Year honors for the fourth consecutive year in the 2017 Harris Poll EquiTrend Study. Chick-fil-A also received the top score among fast food brands and one of the top 10 scores overall for customer experience in the 2017 Temkin Experience Ratings survey, and was named one of the top 100 best places to work by Glassdoor. Continuing its founder’s legacy of generosity and service, in 2017 the company’s philanthropic Chick-fil-A Foundation awarded $1.23 million to 23 not-for-profit organizations across 13 states through the True Inspiration Awards and almost $9 million in scholarships to restaurant team members nationwide. More information on Chick-fil-A is available at www.chick-fil-a.com.

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Media Hotline: (800) 404-7196
Email: cfapressroom@chick-fil-a.com
Twitter: @ChickfilANews

SOURCE: Chick-fil-A

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Chipotle announces enhancements to its employee benefits

More than 71,000 hourly and salaried employees will receive a new suite of benefits as a result of changes in U.S. tax law
DENVER, 2018-Feb-09 — /EPR Retail News/ — In celebration of its dedicated employees, Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE: CMG) announced enhancements to benefits that will reach all of its 71,000 employees. These enhancements, which include special cash and stock bonuses and enhanced paid parental leave, are part of the company’s ongoing commitment to advancing both the professional and personal lives of its employees. Resulting from savings due to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, the new benefits have already begun rolling out to Chipotle employees.

“We have always been proud of our ability to attract and retain top talent who share our passion for cooking delicious food by hand and creating an extraordinary guest experience,” said Steve Ells, founder, chairman and CEO at Chipotle. “We’re giving back to these committed, motivated, and hardworking team members who have made Chipotle what it is today.”

Chipotle will reinvest more than one-third of its anticipated savings from tax law changes into its employees. The remainder of the reinvestment will be dedicated to improvement of restaurant facilities and operations. New employee benefits include:

  • Accelerated Training Programs. More training programs for employees, including a formalized classroom program with a dedicated faculty that will focus on a range of topics related to operational excellence and leadership.
  • Cash & Stock Bonuses. Qualified hourly and salaried restaurant employees will receive a special one-time cash bonus of up to $1,000. Qualified staff employees will receive a one-time stock grant.
  • Maternity/Paternity Coverage. Additional paid parental leave coverage for everyone from hourly managers to salaried employees.
  • Life Insurance and Short-Term Disability. The company has added life insurance and short-term disability insurance coverage for hourly restaurant managers.

These new offerings are in addition to a unique set of benefits the company already offers to employees, including both hourly and salaried workers. Chipotle currently provides twice annual merit increases for hourly employees, paid vacation and sick time, and stock awards to the restaurant manager level. Additionally, the company has made a significant investment in educational benefits for employees. Chipotle offers up to $5,250 in tuition reimbursement, and through a partnership with Guild Education, the company offers reduced-cost courses and degree programs at a number of colleges and universities. The educational program includes more than 10,000 class and program options and since the inception of the program, nearly 6,000 Chipotle employees have taken advantage of the program.

“We have always been committed to making Chipotle a great place to work with excellent compensation and benefits,” said Ells. “With these expanded offerings, we’re thanking our employees for their hard work and dedication to our company.”

ABOUT CHIPOTLE
Steve Ells, our founder, chairman and CEO, started Chipotle with the idea that food served fast did not have to be a typical fast food experience. Today, Chipotle continues to offer a focused menu of burritos, tacos, burrito bowls, and salads made from fresh, high-quality ingredients, prepared using classic cooking methods and served in an interactive style allowing people to get exactly what they want. Chipotle seeks out extraordinary ingredients that are not only fresh, but that are raised responsibly, with respect for the animals, the land, and the people who produce them. Chipotle prepares its food using real, wholesome ingredients and without the use of added colors, flavors or other additives typically found in fast food. Chipotle opened with a single restaurant in Denver in 1993 and operates more than 2,400 restaurants. For more information, visit Chipotle.com.

SOURCE Chipotle Mexican Grill

Chris Arnold, carnold@chipotle.com

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Paradies Lagardère to treat lucky customers with a free meal during Random Acts of Kindness Week 2018

Paradies Lagardère to treat lucky customers with a free meal during Random Acts of Kindness Week 2018

 

Passengers dining at participating restaurants may be treated to a free meal

ATLANTA, 2018-Feb-08 — /EPR Retail News/ — Paradies Lagardère, the North American travel retail and restaurateur leader, today (February 06, 2018) announced a special thank you to our customers during Random Acts of Kindness Week 2018.

For a third year in a row, airport passengers visiting our restaurants Sunday, February 11, through Saturday, February 17, may have a chance to feel the love with a meal on us. Paradies Lagardère restaurant staff will randomly choose a table each day and treat them to a free meal! Customers may be asked to pose for a picture while holding a sign of their choice, which will be posted on social media.

Additional details:

The Random Acts of Kindness Foundation seeks to make the world a better place, one act of kindness at a time. Visit www.randomactsofkindness.org to learn more.

High-end restaurants, quick-serve restaurants, bars and coffee shops are all a part of Paradies Lagardère’s Food and Beverage concepts. Brands have been tailored to entice travelers with the same familiar quality, variety, taste, and atmosphere as their favorite “at home” dining spots, while maintaining the highest levels of quality and service.

Paradies Lagardère was recently recognized for excellence in Food and Beverage. The USA Today 10 Best Awards recognized Long Beach Airport, where Paradies Lagardère manages the full restaurant program, as its Best Airport for Dining two years in a row. Bar Symon, at Pittsburgh International Airport, also earned a spot in the top five for the USA Today 10 Best awards for Best Airport Bar and Best Airport Bar Waitstaff.

Contact:

Nicole V. Linton
Marketing Communications Manager
P: 404 494 3419
M: 470 455 1843
mail to:nicole.linton@paradies-na.com

Source: Paradies Lagardère

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Dunkin’ Donuts to eliminate all polystyrene foam cups in its global supply chain beginning in spring 2018

Dunkin’ Donuts to eliminate all polystyrene foam cups in its global supply chain beginning in spring 2018

 

New double-walled paper cups to phase into U.S. restaurants beginning spring 2018

CANTON, MA, 2018-Feb-08 — /EPR Retail News/ — As part of its commitment to serve both people and the planet responsibly, Dunkin’ Donuts, a leading retailer of hot, brewed coffee, today (February 7, 2018) announced plans to eliminate all polystyrene foam cups in its global supply chain beginning in spring 2018, with a targeted completion date of 2020. In U.S. restaurants, Dunkin’ Donuts will replace the foam cup with a new, double-walled paper cup. The majority of Dunkin’ Donuts’ international markets are currently using paper cups, and the brand will work with its franchisees to eliminate foam cups from the remaining international markets by the 2020 goal.

The move complements Dunkin’ Donuts’ earlier commitments in the U.S. to have 80% of fiber-based consumer-facing packaging certified to the Sustainable Forestry Initiative Standard by the end of this year; eliminate artificial dyes from its menu; build new, more energy-efficient restaurants; and partner with the Rainforest Alliance to source certified coffee.

The new, double-walled paper cup is already in use at Dunkin’ Donuts’ next generation concept store, which opened in mid-January in the company’s birthplace of Quincy, Mass. It will be introduced at all Dunkin’ Donuts restaurants in New York City and California in spring 2018, and will be phased in across the U.S. as supplier manufacturing capabilities ramp up.

The double-walled paper cup is made with paperboard certified to the Sustainable Forestry Initiative Standard and will feature the current re-closable lid that Dunkin’ customers know and love. Like Dunkin’ Donuts’ current hot beverage offerings, the new double-walled paper cup will come in four sizes — small, medium, large and extra-large — and will be used for all of the brand’s hot beverages, including coffee, lattes, macchiatos, tea and hot chocolate. With heat retention properties equal to the company’s foam cup, the new double-walled paper cup will keep beverages hot while keeping hands cool, without the need for a sleeve.

According to Karen Raskopf, Chief Communications and Sustainability Officer, Dunkin’ Brands, “With more than 9,000 Dunkin’ Donuts restaurants in the U.S. alone, our decision to eliminate foam cups is significant for both our brand and our industry. We have a responsibility to improve our packaging, making it better for the planet while still meeting the needs of our guests. Transitioning away from foam has been a critical goal for Dunkin’ Donuts U.S., and with the double-walled cup, we will be able to offer a replacement that meets the needs and expectations of both our customers and the communities we serve.”

In 2011, Dunkin’ Donuts announced that its number one sustainability goal was to find an environmentally friendlier coffee cup. Over the past several years, the brand has worked extensively to find a suitable replacement for the foam cup that met criteria for performance, environmental impact and cost.  Dunkin’ Donuts’ transition to paper cups will remove nearly 1 billion foam cups from the waste stream annually.

Dunkin’ Donuts remains committed to sustainable packaging and will continue to explore additional opportunities to increase recycled or certified content for other consumer-facing packaging. Since 2005, the brand has made a number of important packaging improvements in the U.S., including:

  • 2005: Began sourcing a four-cup carrier made of recycled newsprint.
  • 2009: Transitioned to napkins made with 100% recycled paper and added recycled content to espresso sleeves, cup carriers and Box O’ Joe®.
  • 2014: Transitioned to bagel bags made with 100% recycled paper, saving an estimated 20 million pounds of virgin paper per year.
  • 2015: Began transition of the lids for cold beverage cups from PET to recyclable #5 polypropylene, a change that will take 500,000 pounds of material out of the waste stream per year once completed in summer 2018.
  • 2016: Issued a new Sustainable Pulp and Paper Sourcing policy with a goal to source paperboard certified to the SFI Standard for 80% of its consumer-facing fiber-based packaging by the end of 2018.

Dunkin’ Brands, the parent company of Dunkin’ Donuts and Baskin-Robbins, continues to make important progress towards its corporate social responsibility goals, including:

·         Sustainable Building: In 2014, Dunkin’ Donuts launched DD Green™ Achievement, a program designed to help franchisees build sustainable, energy-efficient restaurants in the U.S. There are now approximately 186 DD Green Achievement restaurants around the country. Dunkin’ Brands has set a target to open 500 DD Green Achievement restaurants in the U.S. by the end of 2020. Additionally, the new next generation concept store now being introduced into the system is approximately 25% more energy-efficient than the previous restaurant model.

·         Sustainable Coffee: In 2017, Dunkin’ Donuts expanded its current work with the Rainforest Alliance to have all espresso beverages served at Dunkin’ Donuts U.S. restaurants and in approximately 16 international markets made with 100% Rainforest Alliance Certified™ beans. By the end of 2018, Dunkin’ Donuts Dark Roast Coffee will also be made with 100% Rainforest Alliance Certified™ beans. In European markets, Dunkin’ Donuts restaurants also serve Fair Trade certified espresso.

·         Sustainable Sourcing: As a member of the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO), Dunkin’ Brands continues to participate in multi-stakeholder efforts to advance sustainable palm oil sourcing and reissued its global Sustainable Palm Oil Guidelines in December 2017. In the U.S., Dunkin’ Brands has also committed to sourcing 100% of the eggs for its menu from cage-free sources by 2025 and 100% gestation crate-free pork by 2022. By the end of 2018, any chicken menu offerings in U.S. Dunkin’ Donuts restaurants will have been raised antibiotic-free.

·         Cleaner Labels: As part of the brand’s ongoing efforts to offer cleaner menu labels, Dunkin’ Donuts U.S. introduced donuts without artificial dyes in January. The brand is committed to eliminating artificial dyes from its national food and beverage menu in the U.S. by the end of 2018.

·         Menu Labeling: Dunkin’ Brands partnered with industry peers and consumer advocates in supporting a menu labeling mandate in the U.S. that provides guests with clear and consistent nutritional information when ordering.

About Dunkin’ Donuts

Founded in 1950, Dunkin’ Donuts is America’s favorite all-day, everyday stop for coffee and baked goods. Dunkin’ Donuts is a market leader in the hot regular/decaf/flavored coffee, iced coffee, donut, bagel and muffin categories. Dunkin’ Donuts has earned a No. 1 ranking for customer loyalty in the coffee category by Brand Keys for 12 years running. The company has more than 12,500 restaurants in 46 countries worldwide. Based in Canton, Mass., Dunkin’ Donuts is part of the Dunkin’ Brands Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: DNKN) family of companies. For more information, visit www.DunkinDonuts.com.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Michelle King
Phone: 781-737-5200
Email: press@dunkinbrands.com

Source: Dunkin’ Donuts

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Sonic promotes Claudia S. San Pedro to president and Corey R. Horsch to chief financial officer

Sonic promotes Claudia S. San Pedro to president and Corey R. Horsch to chief financial officer

 

Treasurer elected to chief financial officer and hotel veteran elected to board of directors

OKLAHOMA CITY, 2018-Feb-06 — /EPR Retail News/ — Sonic Corp. (NASDAQ: SONC), the nation’s largest chain of drive-in restaurants, today (Feb 2, 2018) announced promotions of Claudia S. San Pedro to president and Corey R. Horsch to chief financial officer. Shareholders also elected S. Kirk Kinsell to the board of directors.

Ms. San Pedro most recently served the company as executive vice president and chief financial officer. A twelve-year veteran of Sonic, Ms. San Pedro joined the company as treasurer and was subsequently promoted to vice president of investor relations. Appointed chief financial officer in 2015, she led all financial strategies for the company and planning practices, as well as the brand’s relationship with lending institutions, shareholders, and the financial community. In her new role, Ms. San Pedro’s responsibilities include franchisee relations, supply chain, franchise sales and development, and business planning. She will provide oversight of the finance function as well.

Filling Ms. San Pedro’s vacated role of chief financial officer is Corey Horsch. Mr. Horsch joined Sonic as vice president of investor relations and treasurer in 2015. In his new role, he is responsible for all financial planning, internal audit, accounting and tax, while maintaining leadership for the investor relations and treasury functions.

Newly elected to the board is Kirk Kinsell for a three-year term. Mr. Kinsell is a seasoned hospitality executive with more than 30 years of operational, franchising and management experience in the hotel sector who currently serves as principal partner of Panther Ridge Partners, LLC, an investment and advisory company focused on the hospitality sector. He previously served as president and CEO of Loews Hotels and Resorts.

“I am delighted to promote Claudia to president and Corey to chief financial officer,” said Cliff Hudson, Sonic Corp. CEO. “Claudia’s focus on building relationships, business acumen and strategic mindset position the company well for future growth. Claudia is a highly skilled leader with an eye for developing talent, as evidenced by our ability to seamlessly transition Corey into the CFO role. Her readiness for this new role has been evidenced by the leadership she has shown to date, and I welcome her executive partnership.

“Additionally, we are excited to welcome Kirk as a new independent director to our board. His executive experience in the hospitality industry nicely complements the breadth of experience on our board.”

Existing directors re-elected to the Sonic Corp. board are Steven A. Davis and Kate S. Lavelle. Continuing director Jeffrey H. Schutz was elected by his peers to serve as lead independent director. Other continuing board members are Tony D. Bartel, R. Neal Black, Lauren R. Hobart, Federico R. Peña, Susan E. Thronson, Kathryn L. Taylorand Cliff Hudson. Retiring from the board are long-standing directors J. Larry Nichols, who served on the board for 11 years, and Frank E. Richardson, who served on the board since 1991.

“We greatly appreciate Larry’s and Frank’s many years of service to Sonic as stewards of our shareholders’ interests,” continued Mr. Hudson. “They both provided outstanding leadership during their tenures as Board members and especially during their tenures as lead independent directors.”

About SONIC, America’s Drive-In

SONIC, America’s Drive-In is the nation’s largest drive-in restaurant chain serving approximately 3 million customers every day. Nearly 94 percent of SONIC’s 3,500 drive-in locations are owned and operated by local business men and women. For 65 years, SONIC has delighted guests with signature menu items, 1.3 million drink combinations and friendly service by iconic Carhops. Since the 2009 launch of SONIC’s Limeades for Learning philanthropic campaign in partnership with DonorsChoose.org, SONIC has donated $9.5 million to public school teachers nationwide to fund essential learning materials and innovative teaching resources to inspire creativity and learning in their students. To learn more about Sonic Corp. (NASDAQ/NM: SONC), please visit sonicdrivein.com and please visit or follow us on Facebook and Twitter. To learn more about SONIC’s Limeades for Learning initiative, please visit LimeadesforLearning.com.

Contact:
Christi Woodworth 4
405-225-5600
Vice President of Public Relations

Source: Sonic Corp.

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SSP France opens ‘Terroirs de Lorraine’ restaurant in Gare de Metz station with renowned chef Michel Roth

SSP France opens ‘Terroirs de Lorraine’ restaurant in Gare de Metz station with renowned chef Michel Roth

 

LONDON, 2018-Feb-06 — /EPR Retail News/ — SSP France, a subsidiary of SSP Group PLC, a leading operator of food and beverage outlets in travel locations worldwide, has opened a new restaurant called ‘Terroirs de Lorraine’ in Gare de Metz station with renowned chef Michel Roth. The restaurant was created in partnership with SSP France and SNCF Stations & Connections.

At the restaurant, guests can enjoy meals from a bistro lunch to a gourmet evening meal. The menu, created by Roth, will be served by chef Xavier Pauly and his team of eight. Highlights include perch fish and chips, Lorraine stew, classic mehlknepfle egg, and Rossini beef fillet.

The restaurant has over 130 covers, with additional seating on a terrace which can be used in the summer. The décor, which features warm saffron golds and sumptuous cobalt blues, combines period features of the historic building with contemporary flair. The Gare de Metz, which has been a classified historic building since 1975, was granted the title of the most beautiful station in France in 2017.

Born in Sarreguemines in 1959, Michel Roth began cooking at the age of 15 and has worked in some of the most iconic restaurants and hotels across France. In 1991, he was named Meilleur Ouvrier de France as well as winner of the Bocuse d’Or, and to this day is the only chef in the world to have received both of these prestigious accolades. The reputation of national star Michel Roth, will contribute to the renewal and restoration proposed in this unique station.

Michel Roth said: “Terroirs de Lorraine is born of my passion for the region, and my roots are in Lorraine where my culinary career began at my family restaurant. The Gare de Metz is, for me, a symbol of homecoming, and I look forward to welcoming customers to enjoy authentic cuisine in a place that for me is full of history and memories. With my team, we have developed a simple and refined menu that fuses regional dishes emblematic of Lorraine and French gastronomy.With the opening of the Terroirs de Lorraine restaurant, I hope the Gare de Metz will be established as destination in its own right, as well as a gateway to the city.”

The new development is part of a wider programme to refresh the food offerings at stations across France, in partnership with star chefs whose craft is founded in regional gastronomy. The partnership formed by SNCF Gares & Connexions (a branch of SNCF which manages 3,000 French railway stations) SSP (specialists in the operation of food and beverage in travel locations) and chef Michel Roth, was founded with the aim to revitalise food and beverage at stations at Gare de Metz

Patrick Ropert, Managing Director of SNCF Gares & Connexions said; “It is essential to rethink station food and beverage by creating a real sense of place and by working with leading chefs from the region who will be able to draw on their culinary heritage, while adapting their food and service to the station envirnonement and its customers.”

Gerard d’Onofrio, MD of SSP France and Benelulx said; “We are particularly proud to be working in conjunction with Michel in this outstanding venture. It underscores our commitment to innovation and high culinary standards that can be seen across our offer to the travelling consumer.”

If you are a journalist and have a press enquiry, please contact Templemere Public Relations on +44 (0) 1306 735574 or press.office@ssp-intl.com

Source: SSP

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Paradies Lagardère’s Remembrance Day initiative raised more than $16,000 CAD for the Royal Canadian Legion’s Poppy Trust Fund

ATLANTA, 2018-Jan-29 — /EPR Retail News/ — Paradies Lagardère, the travel retail and restaurateur leader in North America, donated a portion of the sales from the stores in its 13 airports throughout Canada to honor veterans for Remembrance Day, November 11. The company raised more than $16,000 CAD ($13,000 USD) from November 10 through November 11, which will go to the Royal Canadian Legion’s Poppy Trust Fund.

Paradies Lagardère’s customers overwhelmingly supported the initiative; there was a 10 percent increase in transactions during the two-day program over last year during the same time frame.

Quote:

“Paradies Lagardère is thrilled with the results for the Remembrance Day initiative,” said Gregg Paradies, president and CEO, Paradies Lagardère. “It’s not only important to us to give back to the community, but we always seek ways to say thank you to service men and women and veterans throughout North America for their sacrifice. We’re proud of this program, along with our Treat Our Troops initiatives in the U.S.”

Additional details:

The Royal Canadian Legion is Canada’s largest veteran support and community service organization. More than 300,000 members in 1,400 branches across Canada make a difference in the lives of veterans and their families, provide essential services within our communities, and remember the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Through donations to the Poppy Trust Fund, the Royal Canadian Legion provides financial assistance and support to veterans, including Canadian Armed Forces and RCMP, and their families. The Poppy Trust Fund supports food and heating costs, clothing, prescription medication, medical appliances and equipment, essential home repairs, and emergency shelter. Learn more by visiting http://www.legion.ca.

Paradies Lagardère specializes in three key airport concessions areas: Food and Beverage, Travel Essentials and Specialty Retail. Within Travel Essentials and Specialty Retail, we offer a diverse mix of categories including fashion, luxury, electronics, convenience, sports, luggage, jewelry, and souvenirs. We also deliver high-end restaurants, quick-serve and casual restaurants, and quality bars, including local, national and international brands that provide travelers delicious dining options. Paradies Lagardère was recently recognized for excellence in specialty retail, earning ARN Awards for Best Specialty Retail Brand Operator for its Brooks Brothers concept, and Best Airport Retail Store Design for Dylan’s Candy Bar at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport.

Paradies Lagardère delivers the very best solutions – a favorite local concept or a highly-desirable international brand – that exceeds expectations for our airport partners and travelers.

Contact:

Nicole V. Linton

Marketing Communications Manager
P: 404 494 3419
M: 470 455 1843
mail to:nicole.linton@paradies-na.com

Source: Paradies Lagardère

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Alshaya restaurants wins 18 awards at Kuwait’s leading food and beverage competition HORECA Awards

Alshaya restaurants wins 18 awards at Kuwait’s leading food and beverage competition HORECA Awards

 

Kuwait, 2018-Jan-26 — /EPR Retail News/ — Restaurants operated by M.H. Alshaya Co. – including Asha’s, Dean & Deluca, IHOP and Bouchon Bakery – helped themselves to 18 awards at Kuwait’s leading food and beverage competition, Hotel, Restaurant and Catering Awards (HORECA), last week.

Asha’s signature flair won them one gold, two silver and five bronze medals in the Asian and Mystery Basket categories, while first-time entrants IHOP won a gold medal in fresh pasta category. Dean & Deluca collected silver in the traditional Kuwaiti dish category, along with four bronze medals. Presenting an array of freshly baked goods, first-time participants Bouchon Bakery won four bronze medals in various categories, including bread creation, morning goods, best eclairs and themed celebration cake.

In all, more than 300 chefs from some of Kuwait’s best-known restaurants participated across 17 categories. They were judged by a jury comprising 12 international cooking experts, including Head of the World Association of Chef Societies (WACS) Chef Thomas Gugler, former Le Notre’s head chef Samaan Hilal (the head of the largest culinary and restaurants advisory company in the region), TV cooking show presenter Chef Maroun Chedid, and the ambassador of the French Academy in the Middle East, Chef Charles Azar.

“The awards are a testimony to our teams’ passion and commitment to culinary excellence, and their dedication to providing a memorable dining experience to our guests,” said Ian Toal, President of Alshaya’s Food Division. “Awards like these are also testimony to our commitment to promoting the advancement of the culinary arts and the development of culinary professionals in the industry.”

If you are a journalist and want some information about Alshaya or one of our brands, please contact our Corporate Communications team:

+965 2224 2475
+965 2224 3626
communications@alshaya.com

Source: Alshaya Co.

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Darden Restaurants appoints Dave George as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer

ORLANDO, Fla., 2018-Jan-24 — /EPR Retail News/ — Darden Restaurants, Inc. (DRI) today (January 22, 2018) announced the appointment of Dave George as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer (COO), a new position within Darden. As COO, George will maintain his oversight of Olive Garden, Bahama Breeze, Seasons 52 and International Franchising while adding Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen to his leadership portfolio. He will continue to report to Gene Lee, President and CEO of Darden.

“Dave is a seasoned and trusted leader who consistently delivers strong results. As we continue to simplify our operations across all brands, he is uniquely qualified to drive strategic prioritization and accountability, with a laser-focus on operational excellence,” said Lee.

George was named President, Olive Garden in 2013 and Executive Vice President, Darden Restaurants in 2016. He joined Darden in 2007 as President, LongHorn Steakhouse where he had served since 2003. Prior to that, George served as Senior Vice President, Operations for LongHorn Steakhouse (2001 – 2003) and Vice President, Operations for The Capital Grille (2000 – 2001).

The Company also announced that Dan Kiernan has been named President, Olive Garden, effective immediately. Kiernan joined Olive Garden as a Manager-in-Training in 1992 and worked his way through the operations system – moving from General Manager to Director of Operations to Senior Vice President, Operations. He was named Executive Vice President, Operations in 2011 and has played an integral role in Olive Garden’s transformation by focusing on flawless execution in order to deliver memorable guest experiences.

“Dan is a great restaurant operator. His ability to make the complex simple, motivate more than 90,000 team members and lead teams dedicated to delivering memorable guest experiences makes him the perfect leader for Olive Garden,” said George.

“I am excited that Dave has accepted this new challenge that will broaden his influence across the organization and ensure a smooth and effective transition at Olive Garden. I am confident that under Dave and Dan’s leadership, Olive Garden will continue to deliver outstanding food and service to our guests,” said Lee.

About Darden

Darden is a restaurant company featuring a portfolio of differentiated brands that include Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen, Yard House, The Capital Grille, Seasons 52, Bahama Breeze and Eddie V’s. Our people equal our success, and we are proud to employ more than 175,000 team members in nearly 1,700 restaurants. Together, we create memorable experiences for 380 million guests each year in communities across North America. For more information, please visit www.darden.com.

Contact:

(Analysts)
Kevin Kalicak
(407) 245-5870

(Media)
Rich Jeffers
(407) 245-4189

SOURCE: Darden Restaurants, Inc.: General

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Dunkin’ Donuts launches its next generation concept store in Quincy, Massachusetts

Dunkin’ Donuts launches its next generation concept store in Quincy, Massachusetts

Restaurant Includes Beverage Bar Tap System with Nitro Coffee and New Double Drive-Thru with First-Ever On-the-Go Lane

CANTON, MA, 2018-Jan-18 — /EPR Retail News/ — Today (January 16, 2018), in the city where it opened its very first location 68 years ago, Dunkin’ Donuts unveiled its next generation concept store. The new Dunkin’ Donuts restaurant at 588 Washington Street in Quincy, Massachusetts offers the first look at the brand’s U.S. store of the future experience, with a modern atmosphere and new and innovative technologies and design elements — including the first drive-thru exclusively for mobile ordering — to make running on Dunkin’ faster and more convenient than ever before.

Exciting elements of Dunkin’ Donuts’ new restaurant experience include:

  • Modern Design: The special interior design uses lighter colored materials, an open layout and natural light to create an approachable, positive and energetic environment.
  • Faster than Ever Drive-Thru Experience: An exclusive On-the-Go drive-thru lane lets DD Perks® members who order ahead via Dunkin’s Mobile App bypass the ordering lane and merge straight into the line for the pickup window. Dunkin’ Donuts is the first national restaurant brand to offer this type of drive-thru innovation and convenience.
  • Premium Pours: Dunkin’ Donuts’ signature cold beverages are now served through an innovative tap system serving eight consistently cold beverages such as coffees, iced teas, cold brew coffee and nitro infused cold brew coffee. Crew members will use top-quality flavor-maximizing espresso machines to make hand-crafted drinks to order. A single-cup machine will also enable the option of grinding and brewing select coffee varieties one cup at a time.

 

  • Dunkin’ on Demand: With fully-integrated digital kiosks coming in 2018, guests will choose to order with or without the help of a crew member.  Dunkin’ Donuts has also introduced an area dedicated to mobile pickups, so that members of the DD Perks® Rewards program who order ahead via Dunkin’s Mobile App can get in and out of the restaurant faster than ever before. Guests will be able to track the status of their orders placed for pickup inside the restaurant via a new digital order status board.

 

  • New Uniforms Designed by Life is Good®: For the store in Quincy, Dunkin’ Donuts will introduce new uniforms and headwear designed in partnership with lifestyle brand Life is Good®. Messaging on the new crew t-shirts, such as “Fueled by Positive Energy,” and “Drink Coffee. Be Awesome.” serve as a form of self-expression for crew members, reflecting the positive atmosphere of the new Dunkin’ Donuts store and the optimism and energy for which both the Life is Good and Dunkin’ Donuts brands are known. In addition, Dunkin’ Donuts and Life is Good share a commitment to spreading positivity and helping kids in need through their respective Foundations – the Joy in Childhood Foundation® and the Kids Foundation.

 

  • Greater Grab & Go Selection: An expanded, custom Grab & Go unit will feature bottled beverages, as well as snacks from leading brands that complement Dunkin’s menu. These will include better-for-you options like fresh bananas, mini oranges and grapes, as well as fruit snacks like Gogo Squeez® apple sauce, Yoplait® yogurt parfaits featuring Nature Valley™ granola, and other packaged snacks such as beef jerky, nut butter packs and more.

 

  • Increased Energy Efficiency: The new Dunkin’ Donuts is the 186th DD Green Achievement™ restaurant in the country. DD Green Achievement restaurants are designed to save 25% more energy compared to a standard Dunkin’ Donuts restaurant.

The new 2,200 square foot Quincy location, which is located about one mile away from the original Dunkin’ Donuts location, is the first of 30 or more new and remodeled Dunkin’ Donuts restaurants that will test variations of the new design this year. Dunkin’ Donuts’ final new store design is expected to be unveiled once testing is complete. The Quincy store is also one of a select number of Dunkin’ Donuts restaurants testing new signage that refers to the brand simply as “Dunkin’.”

“The launch of our next generation concept store marks one of the most important moments in Dunkin’ Donuts’ growth as an on-the-go, beverage-led brand,” said Dave Hoffmann, President of Dunkin’ Donuts U.S. and Canada. “We have worked closely with our franchisee community to create a positive, energetic atmosphere for our guests that remains true to our heritage, while emphasizing and enhancing the unparalleled convenience, digital innovation and restaurant excellence that distinguishes Dunkin’. We are thrilled to begin the New Year with such an exciting milestone for our brand, and look forward to rolling out Dunkin’ Donuts’ store of the future to our guests in all of our communities.”

Dunkin’ Donuts fans all across the country can enjoy a look at the brand’s new restaurant experience via a special Facebook Live event today at 12 PM Eastern. Dunkin’ Donuts representatives will provide a virtual tour of the next generation concept store’s design and technologies.

To learn more about Dunkin’ Donuts, visit www.DunkinDonuts.com, or subscribe to the Dunkin’ Donuts blog to receive notifications at https://news.dunkindonuts.com/blog.

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About Dunkin’ Donuts
Founded in 1950, Dunkin’ Donuts is America’s favorite all-day, everyday stop for coffee and baked goods. Dunkin’ Donuts is a market leader in the hot regular/decaf/flavored coffee, iced coffee, donut, bagel and muffin categories. Dunkin’ Donuts has earned a No. 1 ranking for customer loyalty in the coffee category by Brand Keys for 11 years running. The company has more than 12,400 restaurants in 46 countries worldwide. Based in Canton, Mass., Dunkin’ Donuts is part of the Dunkin’ Brands Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: DNKN) family of companies. For more information, visit www.DunkinDonuts.com.

Media Contact

Lindsay Cronin
Dunkin’ Brands
781-737-5200
Lindsay.Cronin@dunkinbrands.com

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Spontini partners with M.H. Alshaya Co. to open restaurants across the Middle East and North Africa region

Spontini partners with M.H. Alshaya Co. to open restaurants across the Middle East and North Africa region

Shuwaikh, Kuwait, 2018-Jan-18 — /EPR Retail News/ — Spontini, the rapidly-growing Milan-based pizzeria known for its simplicity and high-quality Italian ingredients, has signed an agreement with international retail franchise operator M.H. Alshaya Co. to open restaurants across the Middle East and North Africa region.

Spontini, the rapidly-growing Milan-based pizzeria known for its simplicity and high-quality Italian ingredients, has signed an agreement with international retail franchise operator M.H. Alshaya Co. to open restaurants across the Middle East and North Africa region.

“I’m proud that we’ll be able to offer diners in the MENA region a handmade pizza that will be prepared every day using the same recipe Spontini has been using since 1953, with the same Italian ingredients we use in our stores in Milan. It’s a pleasure to work with a partner that shares our vision and wants to offer our customers the same experience that they would experience in our Italian stores,” said Massimo Innocenti, Spontini executive chairman and founder of the brand.

Spontini started life in 1953 under the name of ‘Cibi Cotti’, characterised by simple and inexpensive dishes from Tuscany’s traditional cuisine. It soon introduced the now-typical slice of pizza, officially becoming ‘Spontini’, from the name of the street in which the original store is located. The recipe for the classic Spontini pizza has barely changed since then, offering an unmatched Italian taste experience.

Alshaya is a franchise operator for more than 80 world-leading brands, including Starbucks, Shake Shack, The Cheesecake Factory, P.F. Chang’s, Victoria’s Secret, Pottery Barn, H & M and Mothercare. The company operates more than 3,500 stores across the Middle East, North Africa, Russia Turkey and Europe, and employs more than 50,000 people.

“We think Spontini will offer something unique and authentic to our discerning customer base,” said Mohammed Alshaya, Executive Chairman of M.H. Alshaya Co. “With its simple approach to handmade, quality pizza, and a strong sense of heritage and tradition, it will be an exciting addition to our portfolio of world-leading food brands.”

SOURCE: M.H. Alshaya Co. W.L.L.

Media contact

If you are a journalist and want some information about Alshaya or one of our brands, please contact our Corporate Communications team:

+965 2224 2475
+965 2224 3626
communications@alshaya.com

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The McDonald’s All American Games unveils official rosters for the 41st annual Boys Game and 17th annual Girls Game

OAK BROOK, Ill., 2018-Jan-18 — /EPR Retail News/ — The McDonald’s All American Games today unveiled the official rosters for the 41st annual Boys Game and 17th annual Girls Game. The nation’s premier high school basketball all-star event will take place March 28 at Atlanta’s Philips Arena. Full team rosters are available at www.mcdaag.com.

The 2018 McDonald’s All American Boys teams feature the country’s top talent hailing from 17 different states. The East Team includes Duke-bound R.J. Barrett (Montverde Academy – Montverde, Fla.) and a pair of undecided highly ranked players, Zion Williamson (Spartanburg Day School – Spartanburg, S.C.), and Romeo Langford (New Albany High School – New Albany, Ind.).

The West Team will be led by Bol Bol (Findlay Prep – Henderson, Nev.), who will attend Oregon in the fall. He will be joined by highly ranked Duke commit, Cameron Reddish (Westtown School – West Chester, Pa.) and Simisola Shittu (Vermont Academy – Saxtons River, Vt.) who plans to suit up for Vanderbilt next season.

Of the 24 boys selected to be McDonald’s All Americans, two sets of current high school teammates will be featured and five have yet to make their college decisions. Of those who have decided, Duke and Kansas have the most commitments with three each, followed by Oregon, North Carolina and Vanderbilt with two each. The Boys Game begins at 7 p.m. EST March 28 and will air live on ESPN.

The 2018 Girls team includes seven players from Texas, the most represented state. The East Team includes Georgia native and Connecticut-bound Olivia Nelson-Ododa (Winder-Barrow High School – Winder, Ga.), highly ranked Shakira Austin (Riverdale Baptist School – Upper Marlboro, Md.), who has committed to Maryland and Izabela Nicoletti (Neuse Christian Academy – Raleigh, N.C.) who will play at Florida State next season.

The West Team will be led by another Connecticut recruit, top-ranked Christyn Williams (Central Arkansas Christian Schools – North Little Rock, Ark.). She will be joined by Texas-bound Charli Collier (Barbers Hill High School – Mont Belvieu, Texas) and Aquira DeCosta (Saint Mary’s High School – Stockton, Calif.) who has committed to play at Baylor.

Of the 24 girls selected to be McDonald’s All Americans, Baylor has the most McDonald’s All American players suiting up next fall with four commits followed by Tennessee with three commits. Like the Boys roster, this year’s Girls roster features two sets of high school teammates that will play against each other. The Girls Game begins at 5 p.m. EST March 28 and will air live on ESPN2.

“The 48 players selected for the 2018 McDonald’s All American Games represent the future of basketball,” said Morgan Wootten, Hall-of-Fame basketball coach and McDonald’s All American Games Selection Committee Chairman. “As we leave a great legacy in Chicago, we look forward to hosting the Games in Atlanta and providing the players with the opportunity to show the entire country their tremendous talent.”

This year’s teams were selected from more than 700 nominees by the McDonald’s All American Games selection committee, led by Wootten.

In addition to the 48 players selected, four prep coaches from Alaska, Connecticut and South Dakota were named coaches for the 2018 Games. Dawn Seiler of (Aberdeen Central High School – Aberdeen, S.D.), will lead the Girls East Team, while Jeannie Hebert-Truax of (Wasilla High School – Wasilla, Alaska) will coach the Girls West Team. John Mirabello of (Northwest Catholic High School – West Hartford, Conn.) will lead the Boys East Team and Brad Lauwers of (A.J. Diamond High School – Anchorage, Alaska) will serve as head coach of the Boys West Team.

Since 1978, more than 1,300 players have competed in the McDonald’s All American Games. They form an elite group of some of the top names in basketball history, including Magic Johnson, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, James Harden, Kyrie Irving, Candace Parker, Maya Moore, Elena Delle Donne and Breanna Stewart. Alumni include current college standouts Trae Young of Oklahoma, Miles Bridges of Michigan State and Katie Lou Samuelson of UConn.

McDonald’s has continued to raise the bar by investing in the future of communities around the globe. We do this by providing programs with one-of-a-kind experience that help shape and develop the skills student athletes need to become the leaders of tomorrow. In addition to the All American Games, McDonald’s provides scholarships, hosts leadership summits and education workshops in the communities it serves and remains committed to continuing to extend service to the world outside of its restaurants.

Tickets for the 2018 McDonald’s All American Games go on sale Feb. 5 at 10 a.m. EST via Ticketmaster or the Philips Arena box office. Ticket prices start as low as $10.

Games week will kick-off on Sunday, March 25 with a free Fan Fest at Atlanta’s Atlantic Station (1380 Atlantic Drive) from 12 – 6 p.m. EST. Attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy a day of live entertainment, basketball themed activities and McDonald’s food.

The POWERADE® Jam Fest – featuring McDonald’s All American Games players in a three-point shootout, dunk contest and shooting competition – will be held Monday, March 26. The competitions will air live at 8 p.m. EST on ESPN2.

For more than 40 years, the McDonald’s All American Games have benefitted Ronald McDonald House Charities through its network of local chapters. At RMHC, programs like the Ronald McDonald House and Ronald McDonald Family Room provide comfort and compassion to families with sick children so they are fully supported and able to be a part of their children’s care. This year’s All American Games will benefit Atlanta Ronald McDonald House Charities which has served more than 50,000 families since 1979. Proceeds will support the operations of Atlanta’s two Ronald McDonald Houses, Ronald McDonald Family Room and Ronald McDonald Care Mobile.

For more information about the McDonald’s All American Games, POWERADE Jam Fest or game week activities in Atlanta, please visit www.mcdaag.com and follow @McDAAG.

Proud sponsors of the 2018 McDonald’s All American Games include adidas, American Family Insurance, Coca-Cola®, Mercedes-Benz, POWERADE® and Sprite®.

@McDAAG
Get in the Game by following the McDonald’s All American Games on Twitter and Instagram. Follow @McDAAG to receive up-to-date information and a behind-the-scenes look at the 2018 Games including; key announcements, local player/coach recognitions, fan giveaways and historical Games facts and figures.

About McDonald’s USA
McDonald’s USA, LLC, serves a variety of menu options made with quality ingredients to more than 25 million customers every day. Nearly 90 percent of McDonald’s 14,000 U.S. restaurants are independently owned and operated by businessmen and women. Customers can now log online for free at approximately 11,500 participating Wi-Fi enabled McDonald’s U.S. restaurants. For more information, visit www.mcdonalds.com, or follow us on Twitter @McDonalds and Facebook www.facebook.com/mcdonalds.

About Ronald McDonald House Charities®
Ronald McDonald House Charities® (RMHC®), is a non-profit, 501 (c) (3) corporation that creates, finds, and supports programs that directly improve the health and well-being of children and their families. Through its global network of nearly 290 Chapters in more than 64 countries and regions, and its three core programs: the Ronald McDonald House®, the Ronald McDonald Family Room® and the Ronald McDonald Care Mobile, RMHC helps families with sick children stay together, and close to the medical care their child needs at leading hospitals worldwide. RMHC programs not only provide access to quality health care, they enable family-centered care ensuring families are fully supported and actively involved in their children’s care. For more information, visit rmhc.org.

© 2018 McDonald’s
All trademarks and/or registered marks are owned by their respective companies

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Steven Hunter, McDonald’s USA
steven.hunter@us.mcd.com
317-910-2223

Kate Mulcahey, Golin
kmulcahey@golin.com
312-729-4332

SOURCE: McDonald’s/GLOBE NEWSWIRE

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McDonald’s commits to 100 percent renewable, recycled, or certified sources for its packaging by 2025

Oak Brook, IL, 2018-Jan-18 — /EPR Retail News/ — Today (Jan 16, 2018), McDonald’s announces goals to improve its packaging and help significantly reduce waste to positively impact the communities the company serves around the world.

By 2025, 100 percent of McDonald’s guest packaging will come from renewable, recycled, or certified sources with a preference for Forest Stewardship Council certification. Also by 2025, the company has set a goal to recycle guest packaging in 100 percent of McDonald’s restaurants. McDonald’s understands that recycling infrastructure, regulations and consumer behaviors vary city to city and country to country around the world, but it plans to be part of the solution and help influence powerful change.

This expands upon McDonald’s existing goal that by 2020, 100% of fiber-based packaging will come from recycled or certified sources where no deforestation occurs.

“As the world’s largest restaurant company, we have a responsibility to use our scale for good to make changes that will have a meaningful impact across the globe,” said Francesca DeBiase, McDonald’s Chief Supply Chain and Sustainability Officer. “Our customers have told us that packaging waste is the top environmental issue they would like us to address. Our ambition is to make changes our customers want and to use less packaging, sourced responsibly and designed to be taken care of after use, working at and beyond our restaurants to increase recycling and help create cleaner communities.”

To reach these goals, McDonald’s will work with leading industry experts, local governments and environmental associations, to improve packaging and recycling practices. Together they will work to drive smarter packaging designs, implement new recycling programs, establish new measurement programs and educate restaurant crew and customers.

As Tom Murray, Vice President of EDF+Business at Environmental Defense Fund noted, “Nearly three decades ago, McDonald’s and EDF teamed up to tackle solid waste and accelerate innovation in packaging.  Along the way, we pioneered a new partnership model for companies and nonprofit organizations. Today, McDonald’s continues to raise the sustainability bar by setting ambitious goals and collaborating with partners across the value chain for maximum impact.”

“McDonald’s global preference for Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified materials demonstrates their far-reaching commitment to source packaging that benefits people and forests around the world,” said Kim Carstensen, director general of the Forest Stewardship Council. “The partnership between McDonald’s and FSC – the world’s most trusted certification of forests and forest products – also creates a uniquely powerful opportunity for McDonald’s to engage customers about simple ways to protect forests,” he added.

Adds Sheila Bonini, Senior Vice President, Private Sector Engagement, World Wildlife Fund, “Smarter waste management begins with improved sourcing, increased value chain collaboration and better communication with customers. Today’s announcement demonstrates McDonald’s strong leadership in developing packaging and recycling solutions at a scale that can extend the life of our natural resources and push its industry toward more sustainable practices.”

McDonald’s first began its focus on sustainable packaging nearly 25 years ago with the establishment of the groundbreaking partnership with EDF. The initiative eliminated more than 300 million pounds of packaging, recycled 1 million tons of corrugated boxes and reduced waste by 30 percent in the decade following the partnership. In 2014, the company joined WWF’s Global Forest & Trade Network program and set its fiber sourcing targets, including FSC preference for packaging made from wood fiber.

Currently, 50 percent of McDonald’s customer packaging comes from renewable, recycled or certified sources and 64 percent of fiber-based packaging comes from certified or recycled sources. Also, an estimated 10 percent of McDonald’s restaurants globally are recycling customer packaging.

“We look forward to doing more and continuing to raise the bar on what it means to be a responsible company committed to people and the planet,” DeBiase said.

About McDonald’s
McDonald’s is the world’s leading global foodservice retailer with over 37,000 locations in over 100 countries. Over 90 percent of McDonald’s restaurants worldwide are owned and operated by independent local business men and women.

MEDIA CONTACT
Lauren Altmin, 847-542-2700
lauren.altmin@us.mcd.com

SOURCE: McDonald’s

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Wendy’s opens new restaurant in Guatemala City, Guatemala its 500th international location

DUBLIN, Ohio, 2018-Jan-12 — /EPR Retail News/ — The Wendy’s Company (NASDAQ: WEN) announced the grand opening of its 500th international restaurant location in Guatemala City, Guatemala by franchise organization Alimentos Corporativos Coralsa.

Alimentos Corporativos Coralsa joined the Wendy’s® system in 2015 and currently operates a total of 13 restaurants in Guatemala, employing more than 400 Wendy’s team members.

“In the past year we’ve grown our international portfolio by more than 60 net new restaurants,” said Todd Penegor, President and CEO of The Wendy’s Company. “This is a great achievement that we attribute to the strength of our brand and partnerships with exceptional and dedicated franchisees who are committed to developing Wendy’s abroad.”

The opening of the 500th international restaurant in Guatemala in late December follows recent openings of new international Wendy’s locations in Brazil, Chile, Indonesia, Japan and Malaysia, to name a few.

“We have an outstanding group of international franchise partners who play an essential role in the growth and success of our brand, and we are dedicated to helping them build strong, profitable restaurant businesses,” said Bob Wright, EVP, Chief Operations Officer & International of The Wendy’s Company. “At Wendy’s, our goal is to Delight Every Customer in every restaurant around the world. It’s this shared commitment that has resulted in the successful growth of our international business.”

About The Wendy’s Company
The Wendy’s Company is the world’s third-largest quick-service hamburger company. The Wendy’s system includes approximately 6,500 franchise and Company-operated restaurants in the United States and 30 countries and U.S. territories worldwide. For more information, visit www.aboutwendys.com.

Note: International restaurants within the Wendy’s system are those located outside the U.S. and Canada, and include restaurants in the U.S. territories of Guam, Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands.

SOURCE The Wendy’s Company

Heidi Schauer, Director, Corporate Communications, heidi.schauer@wendys.com, Tel: 614.764.3368

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Costa Coffee introduces coconut milk to its menu

Costa Coffee introduces coconut milk to its menu

  • The nation’s favourite coffee shop introduces the new dairy-free alternative to its menu, available across UK stores from 4 January 2018
  • To celebrate the new offering, the brand has launched a limited edition drink; the Coconut & Vanilla Latte
  • The dairy-free alternative contains soya and has been specifically created for baristas, to provide a more professional, glossy finish; a more luxurious texture and taste

LONDON, UK, 2018-Jan-12 — /EPR Retail News/ — The nation’s favourite coffee shop, Costa Coffee, has today introduced coconut across its stores nationwide. In celebration of the new addition, Costa has released an exclusive, vegan-friendly hot drink; the Coconut & Vanilla Latte. The drink showcases the perfect partnership of Costa’s Mocha-Italia blend and the light, fresh taste of coconut.The limited edition drink is full of flavour – the perfect choice to lift the mood this January.

The introduction comes as customer demand for an additional alternative-milk to the range increases. The delicious, light flavour is the latest innovation on Costa’s drinks menu andhas been specifically developed for use in coffee. The addition of soya creates a rich and glossy microfoam; perfect for the creation of latte art.

Coconut offers a smooth, delicious and refreshing flavour for anyone looking to try something different. It is a great option for those looking to watch their waistline, with a similar calorie count to skimmed milk. In addition, coconut is perfect for those with dietary needs and ideal for those who follow a vegan or vegetarian diet.

Costa will also now offer a Coconut Flat White and a Coconut Mocha, which will be available for £2.95. Additionally, coconut will be available in Costa’s core range of drinks, including the Cappuccino, White Americano and Cortado, for an additional 45p.

Russell Braterman, Global Innovations Director at Costa, said: “January is the start of fresh beginnings for many and it’s often a time when people are looking to try something new. Opting for dairy-free alternatives and natural flavours are growing trends and coconut is becoming more and more popular. Coconut complements coffee perfectly and offers a fantastic alternative choice for our customers. We hope to not only encourage customers to try new and exciting ways to enjoy great coffee – but to escape the depths of UK winter with a deliciously smooth tasting coffee experience too.”

Costa is also adding a new range of delicious items to its food menu including the Orange Polenta Cake, a mouth-wateringly moist maize flour sponge made with orange curd and topped with candied orange shreds. The new Banana & Pecan Bread, Salted Caramel Melting Middles and Gingerbread Latte Loaf Cake are all additional sweet treats for those looking for a January lift.

Costa is also releasing a Pretzel and Wow Butter Slice, which contains all the flavour of peanut butter without the nuts. The vegan-friendly Paradise Slice will also entice customers, featuring coconut and vine fruit bound in coconut cream and topped with rich dark chocolate, dried raspberry pieces and nibbed pistachios.

All the new products will be available at Costa stores across the UK from 4 January 2018.

—–

Full list of new menu products includes:

Drinks Menu

  • Coconut & Vanilla Latte – from £2.95 NEW!

Food Menu

  • Gingerbread Latte Loaf Cake – from £2.30 NEW!
  • Banana Cake – from £2.45 NEW!
  • Orange Polenta Cake – from £2.45 NEW!
  • Pretzel and Wow Butter Slice – from £2.00 NEW!
  • Paradise Slice – from £2.00 NEW!
  • Salted Caramel Melting Middle Muffin – from 2.00 NEW!

All new menu items are subject to availability.

High-resolution images are available upon request. For more information please contact the Costa press office on 020 3196 9668 or at Costateam@onegreenbean.com

Founded in London by Italian brothers Sergio and Bruno Costa in 1971, Costa is now part of Whitbread PLC, which this year celebrates its 275thAnniversary as a great British business.

With over 2,200 coffee shops in the UK and more than 1,200 in 29 international markets we are the fastest growing coffee shop business in the UK and are proud to be the UK’s favourite coffee shop, having been awarded “Best Branded Coffee Shop Chain in the UK and Ireland” by Allegra Strategies for seven years running (2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014 & 2015 and 2016).

Looking after coffee growers is extremely important to us, which is why we established The Costa Foundation, a registered charity with the aim to relieve poverty, advance education and the health and environment of

coffee-growing communities around the world. So far, The Costa Foundation has funded the building of 75 schools and improved the social and economic welfare of coffee-growing communities.

SOURCE: Costa