Restaurant Marketing Workshop

Got marketing chops? Prove it: The 2nd Annual Top 30 Movers & Shakers Nominations are live

February 23, 2026 by Cherryh Cansler — Editor, FastCasual.com

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Calling all restaurant marketing visionaries!

If you've spent the last year obsessing over guest data, crafting viral social moments, or building the kind of brand loyalty that keeps fans coming back for "just one more" special burger or fancy salad, it's time to step into the spotlight.

I am beyond thrilled to announce that nominations are officially open for our second annual Top 30 Movers & Shakers: Restaurant Marketing.

Last year's inaugural list set the bar high, but in 2026, the restaurant landscape is more data-rich and creative than ever. We're looking for the trailblazers who are redefining what it means to "Eat Happy."

Are you a Marketing Mover & Shaker?

We aren't looking for agencies or firms — this award is a "brand-side" celebration. To be eligible, you must work directly for a restaurant brand. We want to honor the individuals driving sales from the inside, leveraging groundbreaking tech and forging those deep, meaningful connections that turn casual diners into brand evangelists.

The road to Boston: How it works

Cherryh Cansler, publisher of FastCasual, and Founderology founder Kathleen Wood, welcome one of the 2025 winners, Tom Carr, to the stage during the awards parade in Indianapolis. WMBA mascot Freddy cheers him on.

We've designed a process that combines editorial expertise with the power of the people:

Nominate (Now-March 2): Tell us why you (or a peer) belong on this list. What was your "Hot Concept" moment this year? How did you push the boundaries of creativity?
The Shortlist (March 9): Our editorial board will narrow down the field and post the finalists.
The Ultimate Buzz Test (March 9- March 13): This is where your marketing chops really count. We'll open it up to a round of unlimited voting. It's time to see who can generate the most buzz and rally their community!
The Big Reveal (June 2-3): The 30 marketers with the most votes will be crowned and celebrated in person during an exclusive awards ceremony at the Restaurant Marketing Workshop in Boston.

Why you need to be in Boston

The winners will be honored during an awards parade at the Restaurant Marketing Workshop this June. This isn't just an awards show; it's an immersive "playbook" event. We'll be gathering at the Toast Headquarters in the heart of Boston's Seaport District to dive into everything from AI-driven GEO (Generative Experience Optimization) to the "fourth dimension" of experiential dining.

Whether you're scaling an emerging brand or steering a legacy favorite, this is your chance to inspire the next generation of marketers and show the industry what you're made of.

Don't wait — nominations close March 2! Let's celebrate the people who make this industry so vibrant, delicious and melty.

Click here to submit your nomination and join the movement!

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About Cherryh Cansler

Cherryh Cansler is VP of Events for Networld Media Group and publisher of FastCasual.com. She has been covering the restaurant industry since 2012. Her byline has appeared in Forbes, The Kansas City Star and American Fitness magazine, among many others.

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