PopUp Bagels Names Mike Smith COO
PopUp Bagels welcomes industry veteran Mike Smith as Chief Operating Officer to lead their next phase of growth, putting quality and guest experience at the forefront.
Jul 28, 2026
PopUp Bagels welcomes industry veteran Mike Smith as Chief Operating Officer to lead their next phase of growth, putting quality and guest experience at the forefront.
Jul 28, 2026
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Fogo de Chão has announced Daniel Duran as its new CFO, marking a strategic leadership transition designed to enhance global growth and financial innovation for the renowned restaurant brand.
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Learn how to calculate, benchmark, track, and improve restaurant payroll percentage while balancing staffing costs, sales, service, and profitability effectively.
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Explore how catering and technology initiatives at Chipotle are revolutionizing restaurant operations, driving efficiency, and improving customer experience.

Catering has become a significant revenue driver for many restaurant chains, offering high-ticket orders that lead to substantial profits. Chipotle, known for its commitment to quality and innovation, is now venturing into the catering segment to tap into this lucrative market opportunity. By testing catering services in a selection of its restaurants, Chipotle aims to scale this business channel efficiently, boosting its overall sales and profits.
Catering orders not only bring in additional revenue but also provide restaurants with a predictable lead time, enabling better labor planning. Chipotle's strategic move towards catering can help streamline its operations by allowing managers to allocate resources effectively, ensuring smooth service and minimizing operational disruptions. This approach aligns with Chipotle's objective to optimize its same-store sales performance and drive sustainable growth in the long term.
Chipotle's investment in cutting-edge technology is revolutionizing its restaurant operations. Through the implementation of high-efficiency equipment packages, digital order management systems, and innovative kitchen solutions like Autocado and computer vision systems, Chipotle is enhancing the efficiency and precision of its processes. These technological advancements not only drive cost savings but also improve speed of service and customer satisfaction.
The deployment of advanced equipment, such as produce slicers, across Chipotle's restaurants has led to significant improvements in back-of-house tasks. By investing in technology that automates manual processes, Chipotle has increased the efficiency of its teams, allowing them to focus on essential tasks and improve overall labor execution. This optimization has resulted in enhanced productivity, reduced labor hours, and improved task allocation, contributing to operational excellence.
Chipotle's dedication to innovation is evident in the establishment of a restaurant innovation space dedicated to exploring emerging technologies. By leveraging advancements like the augmented digital makeline and efficient equipment packages, Chipotle is not only enhancing its culinary offerings but also elevating the guest experience. With a focus on driving higher returns and improving operational margins, Chipotle's investment in innovation sets the stage for long-term success and growth.