How to Start a Restaurant With No Experience
Learn how to open a restaurant with no experience by planning your concept, budget, location, team, operations, and successful launch.
Aug 19, 2026
Learn how to open a restaurant with no experience by planning your concept, budget, location, team, operations, and successful launch.
Aug 19, 2026
Panera Bread welcomes Andrew Rebhun as Chief Marketing Officer, succeeding Mark Shambura. Learn about his background at CAVA, El Pollo Loco, and McDonald's.
Aug 20, 2026
Payroll advances help restaurant owners give hourly employees earlier access to earned wages while maintaining accurate records, policies, and compliance.
Aug 19, 2026
Taco Bell’s Taylor Montgomery has been appointed as President of Jack in the Box, positioning him to take over as CEO within a year - signaling major shifts for the QSR brand's future.
Aug 20, 2026
Explore the main types of ordering technology restaurants use to improve accuracy, speed, payments, customer convenience, and operational efficiency daily.
Aug 17, 2026
Learn the eight essential steps of the restaurant payroll process, from tracking hours and calculating wages to payments and recordkeeping.
Aug 17, 2026
Discover how restaurant SMS marketing works, from building subscriber lists and creating campaigns to improving engagement and measuring marketing performance.
Aug 14, 2026
The transition of Pizza Hut's CEO, Aaron Powell, marks a pivotal moment for the chain and offers valuable leadership lessons for restaurant owners. Here’s what this executive change could mean for your business.
Aug 17, 2026
Panera Bread welcomes Andrew Rebhun as its new CMO to spearhead strategic brand growth and transformation, bolstering its vision for 2028.
Aug 17, 2026
Learn how to manage cash flow in your restaurant by tracking finances, controlling costs, forecasting needs, and building cash reserves.
Aug 14, 2026
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Discover how restaurant chains like Shake Shack and Portillo’s are engaging customers through creative merchandise launches during National Food Celebration Weeks.
Photo by charlesdeluvio
In anticipation of National French Fry Day on July 12, Shake Shack has unveiled an innovative piece of merch, the Crinkle Cut Cuddler body pillow. Teaming up with Bearaby, known for its quality weighted blankets, Shake Shack's pillow mimics the signature wavy crinkle-cut fries. The yellow pillow cover is washable, and the packaging resembles a classic takeout box, adding a fun and nostalgic touch to the design.
Portillo’s, the Chicago-based hot dog and Italian beef specialist, is celebrating National Hot Dog Week in style. Besides offering dog toys and promotions from July 9 to July 19, they have introduced a delightful Chicago-style Hot Dog on a Rope and plushies resembling their famous crinkle-cut fries. This creative merchandise lineup adds a playful twist to the celebration, engaging both customers and their furry friends.
As part of the National Hot Dog Week festivities, Portillo’s is not only offering free delivery but also hosting a 'Find Pokey’s BFF! Contest'. Encouraging pet owners to share pictures using #PokeysPal, this initiative aims to foster community engagement and create a fun connection with the brand. Additionally, Portillo's dog toys are priced at $12 each, with $2 from each sale donated to the Anti-Cruelty Society, showcasing a commitment to animal welfare alongside the celebratory activities.
Nick Scarpino, Chief Marketing Officer at Portillo's, emphasizes the importance of National Hot Dog Week as a key event to connect with customers, stating that 'nothing says summer like a delicious Hot Dog'. By incorporating their beloved mascot, Pokey, into the festivities, Portillo’s aims to strengthen brand loyalty and create a memorable experience for guests. The 'Find Pokey’s BFF! Contest' and the range of dog toys further solidify the brand's commitment to its loyal patrons.
Photo by charlesdeluvio
The introduction of merchandise by Shake Shack and Portillo’s is part of a broader trend among restaurant chains to expand revenue streams beyond food sales. By offering themed items that resonate with their customer base, these chains can tap into consumer preferences and generate additional income. This strategy not only boosts revenue but also enhances brand visibility and fosters customer loyalty through unique and memorable merchandise.