As president of the Bistro Group, which owns 31 T.G.I. Friday’s and five McAlister’s Delis, Jeff Ritson has unique insight into both the fast-casual and the casual dining categories. He says the economy has forced the two to change in ways that shave away some of their differences. He notices that casual dining has become […]

Brandstand Group announced that Philip Friedman, former CEO and president of the McAlister Corporation (McAlister’s Deli), has been named vice chairman of the Board of Directors at Brandstand Group, a premier restaurant brand marketing and communication firm. “We’re very fortunate and excited to welcome Phil Friedman to the Brandstand Group,” says president and CEO Chris […]

Frank G. Paci replaces industry veteran Phil Friedman as president and CEO on September 27.

MonkeyMedia Software will help company grow its catering business.

McAlister’s Deli introduces the Tea Town USA promotion beginning July 2, and Free Sweet Tea Day on July 29.

Deli chain implementing a customized PCI compliance solution from BHI SecureConnect in both its corporate and franchise restaurants.

McAlister’s Deli will be expanding its presence throughout North Carolina with the help of H&H Restaurant Properties and Caerus Holdings, LLC.

Phil Friedman, chairman and CEO of McAlister’s Deli, is a firm believer in independent research of a company’s franchisees. Getting an independent read on the health of his franchise system has led to important changes in key operational areas, such as marketing and distribution. “It gives us tangible communication and it builds the relationship,” says […]

QSR tapped the best minds in the business to come up with a realistic list of ways operators could save thousands of dollars in less than one year. There’s no advanced logic or restaurant expertise needed—just a willingness to try new systems or make a few adjustments to existing protocols. From the bathroom to tax […]

Sandwich chain announces plans for moving forward, which includes the promotion, addition of several staffers.

Lean and Mean In the past six months, Ed Frechette has noticed a trend. “People on Wall Street are coming to Au Bon Pain for meetings and interviews,” says Frechette, senior vice president of marketing for the Boston-based chain, which has locations in New York City. Financial executives are not the only ones looking to […]