Off-premise blitz: Turning pandemic survival tactics into long-term growth engines

by Mandy Wolf Detwiler — Editor, Connect Media

Industry leaders at the Restaurant Franchising and Innovation Summit highlighted how the shift from convenience to a permanent off-premise model requires a blend of sophisticated technology, specialized catering strategies and operational precision to maintain brand consistency and a frictionless guest experience.

Part 1:  Cool technologies at the NRA Show 2026

by Mandy Wolf Detwiler — Editor, Connect Media

Editor Mandy Wolf Detwiler spent time in the tech pavilion at the National Restaurant Association Show.

Krispy Kreme launches limited-edition Masters of the Universe doughnut lineup

Krispy Kreme is partnering with Mattel and Amazon MGM Studios to launch a limited-edition doughnut collection inspired by the Masters of the Universe…

How CORE provides financial lifeline for food, beverage workers in crisis

by Mandy Wolf Detwiler — Editor, Connect Media

This episode of the Restaurant Operator Podcast features CORE’s Jill Chapman, who explains how the growing non-profit provides critical financial assistance to foodservice families navigating emergencies without the safety net of paid time off.

The Power of One System: Systematize your standards to scale

by Kathleen Wood — Founder, K. Wood Partners

To transition from a chaotic, founder-dependent business to a scalable enterprise, leaders must define, document and continuously improve a unified operating system that ensures predictable results.