Understand tip pooling rules, employee eligibility, distribution methods, compliance requirements, recordkeeping practices, and policies restaurant owners need for proper tip management.
Oct 2, 2026
Whit's Frozen Custard hires industry veteran Amos Durbin as COO to guide franchise expansion, drawing on two decades of restaurant leadership experience.
Oct 2, 2026
Evaluate restaurant industry performance in Q3 2026 through key trends affecting restaurant sales, traffic, consumer spending, labor, costs, and technology.
Oct 2, 2026
Learn how to open a bar covering concept, funding, licensing, location, equipment, staffing, menu, and marketing, from planning to opening night.
Sep 30, 2026
FAT Brands' $1B acquisition empire fell into bankruptcy and sold for $965M, re-emerging as OHG Brands with 1,700 restaurants.
Oct 1, 2026
CAVA names John Ludeke, former Dr. Squatch Chief Brand Officer, as its new CMO to drive national growth and guest loyalty.
Oct 1, 2026
La Madeleine's CEO John Dillon steps down mid-turnaround, leaving a menu overhaul, new coffee program, and franchise growth plans in limbo.
Oct 1, 2026
Hot Head Burritos promotes longtime operator Peter Wiley to corporate VP, chief marketing and chief technology officer, blending brand strategy with tech oversight.
Oct 1, 2026
Mo' Bettahs names Don Crocker, a Chick-fil-A and Inspire Brands veteran, as chief development officer to lead its national corporate-owned expansion.
Sep 30, 2026
Wage hikes, the penny's end, new NLRB rules, California sugar labels, and franchise law changes are converging on operators this year.
Sep 30, 2026
Unlock Exclusive Access To Webinars, Events, And The Latest News For Free!
Explore how Sweetgreen tackles declining sales, consumer behavior shifts, and tariff impacts through innovative business strategies.
Photo by Jack Cohen
Sweetgreen's recent challenges with declining sales and traffic highlight the importance of understanding consumer behavior and pricing sensitivity. The CFO's insights on the 3.4% price increase and its impact on a 6.5% drop in traffic signify the delicate balance businesses must maintain. The consumer pullback mentioned in core urban markets emphasizes the need for strategic pricing decisions to enhance value perception.
Sweetgreen's shift towards a points-based loyalty program signals a proactive approach to drive customer engagement and frequency. By acquiring 20,000 new loyalty members weekly, the brand showcases a successful strategy to enhance customer relationships and foster brand loyalty. This initiative not only incentivizes repeat visits but also strengthens the brand's connection with its customer base.
Photo by Jack Cohen
Jonathan Neman's focus on addressing price gaps in the lower and middle end of the menu reflects Sweetgreen's commitment to enhancing value perception among customers. By considering changes to their core menu and emphasizing seasonal limited-time offerings (LTOs), the brand aims to drive positive same-store sales growth. These strategic adaptations align with evolving consumer preferences and market dynamics.
The challenges posed by tariffs on goods from China have prompted Sweetgreen to diversify its supply base and secure long-term pricing agreements with key partners. By avoiding cost pass-throughs and focusing on operational efficiency, the brand aims to mitigate the impact of tariffs on its operations. Additionally, innovations like the Infinite Kitchen showcase Sweetgreen's commitment to long-term cost savings and enhanced operational effectiveness.
