Eric Nomis 
Third-party order technology integrator Chowly acquired Koala, which is a guest experience platform. Established and emerging restaurant brands rely on Koala to enhance the digital ordering experience. Koala powers this across the web, app and on kiosks.
US commercial foodservice customer traffic, both to restaurants and other foodservice outlets, ended 2022 flat versus last year. This data point portends a more positive outlook for 2023, according to research from The NPD Group. With regard to spending (sales), that was up 4% due to higher prices.
A P.F. Chang’s Bistro opened at Alliance Town Center in Fort Worth, Texas. The full-service restaurants boasts the decor and service of its typical Bistro locations.
Church’s Texas Chicken named Will Cash vice president, purchasing. Cash brings to Church’s extensive procurement and supply chain expertise, according to an announcement. He will start the new role this week.
Focus Brands named Julie Younglove-Webb chief brand officer of Auntie Anne’s. In addition, it hired Jim Cannon as SVP of design and construction and appointed Chris Newman to the role of SVP of real estate. Focus Brands operates and franchises the Auntie Anne’s, Carvel, Cinnabon, Jamba, McAlister’s Deli, Moe’s Southwest Grill, and Schlotzsky’s brands.
Restaurant operators continue to face challenges keeping their restaurants fully-staffed. Six in 10 restaurants are understaffed, according to the National Restaurant Association’s Restaurant Business Conditions Survey. By and large, both full-service operators (63%) and limited-service operators (61%) say their restaurant does not have enough employees to meet customer demand.
Jollibee will open its first US two-lane drive-thru January 18 in Orlando on East Colonial Drive. The chain’s fourth location in Florida will mark this off-premises first. The fast-growing fried chicken QSR chain menus fried chicken Chickenjoy, chicken sandwiches and Philippine-inspired sides.
A recent survey suggests that restaurant operators are making tough decisions amid the challenges of higher food costs, labor expenses and energy/utility costs. The National Restaurant Association Business Conditions survey reveals how operators are responding to the challenge. Inflation has impacted supply costs, increased borrowing expenses and triggered menu price increases.
Freddy’s Frozen Custard and Steakburgers released a new Frozen Hot Chocolate Shake made with Ghirardelli. The limited-time beverage arrives at stores by January 4, 2023.
Jack in the Box partnered with Tree Restaurant Group for 37 new restaurants, as well as the purchase of 46 existing units in key markets. Partners Jeff Yablun and Frank Conley will operate Jack in the Box stores in Nashville, Baton Rouge, La., Greensville, S.C., and Charlotte, N.C.
