Best Areas in Virginia to Open a Restaurant
Explore the best areas in Virginia to open a restaurant by comparing demand, costs, tourism, labor, competition, and concept fit.
May 8, 2026
Explore the best areas in Virginia to open a restaurant by comparing demand, costs, tourism, labor, competition, and concept fit.
May 8, 2026
Food handling checklists help restaurants manage receiving, storage, prep, cooking, service, cleaning, training, and daily safety checks.
May 8, 2026
Learn how ignoring employee availability and scheduling preferences leads to disengagement, higher turnover, and lower productivity. Discover why people-focused scheduling improves retention, morale, and overall team performance.
May 8, 2026
Optimize your restaurant google business profile with accurate details, posts, Q&A, attributes, reviews, and tracking to increase visibility and orders.
May 6, 2026
A strong restaurant brand comes from clear values, consistent experiences, visual identity, customer focus, digital presence, and trusted service.
May 5, 2026
Discover how constant last-minute schedule changes create workplace stress, lower employee morale, and reduce productivity. Learn why structured scheduling improves retention, communication, and overall business efficiency.
May 7, 2026
Clopen shifts may seem efficient, but they reduce rest, increase fatigue, and harm employee performance. Learn how back-to-back shifts impact morale, productivity, and retention and how better scheduling can improve team well-being and business outcomes.
May 6, 2026
Discover operational insights, business strategies, and customer experiences drawn from Cappys Cafe in Newport Beach. Learn how this iconic breakfast and lunch spot thrives through community connection, technology, and unique hospitality.
May 5, 2026
Overloading top employees may boost short-term results but leads to burnout and turnover. Learn warning signs, business impact, and how to balance workloads effectively.
May 5, 2026
Struggling with employee retention? Learn how unpredictable scheduling drives turnover and what you can do to create a more stable workforce.
May 4, 2026
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 on Unsplash
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 on Unsplash
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.