Five Guys Burgers and Fries’ founder Jerry Murrell was initially opposed to franchising the fast-casual concept and finally had to be persuaded by his business partners — his wife and five sons. 


The return of business travel and conventions is driving traffic at fine-dining chains, many of which have recently reported positive same-store sales after suffering from empty dining rooms during the recession.

While steakhouse chains including Morton’s, Ruth’s Chris and The Capital Grille have taken advantage of the increased spending among their core markets, the high-end seafood chain McCormick & Schmick’s says it has suffered from the Gulf oil spill, which has kept consumers away.