Multi-concept operator, franchisor also to grow other brands

W. Kent Taylor talks about about returning to his role as CEO

Smashburger will open restaurants in the Middle East

The dining public’s desire for authenticity and robust flavors is driving the popularity of Latin American street food.

U.S. units book 4.4% same-store sales increase

The chain could have its best sales month in years

Profile of Red Robin chief executive Steve Carley.

Now that commodities are front and center in the national spotlight, the finger pointers, conspiracy theorists and self-serving politicians have arisen as if drawn out by a full moon. Unfortunately, what many of them are spouting is sheer lunacy. Here are the three biggest “real” drivers of commodity prices.


As commodity costs continue to escalate, the burger giant will take price bump

Execs: Sponsorship driving franchisee interest in brand

When gasoline prices began a nearly month-long rally in February, rising for 20 straight trading days and surpassing $4 per gallon in many markets, a sense of “here we go again” settled over consumers and operators who recalled 2008, a year dominated by a deep recession and sky-high fuel prices that took their toll on restaurant traffic and spending.
 But that was then and this is now, and experts say that both consumer attitudes and the environment are likely to make this time around slightly different — although no less painful.