Franchising veteran comes over from Le Duff.

Despite the challenging economy, several chain restaurant concepts continue to ink new development agreements and expand their presence into new markets. And, in this week's chain operating report, one iconic concept makes history.

Deal to close in the third quarter of 2012.

Industry veterans take on new roles with the pizza chain.

Producing freshly prepared menu items in an efficient kitchen helps this Southwestern grille and cantina-themed restaurant chain compete successfully in the quick-service burrito channel.

Updated décor and new operational efficiencies sweeten the growth prospects for this 25-year-old fast-casual chain.

One casual-dining chain adds better-for-you menu options while several others look to expand their reach both domestically and abroad in this week's Chain Operating Report.

Acquisition removes Japanese restaurant from NASDAQ.

Caribou and Cheesecake Factory explore new venues and markets, Del Frisco's Restaurant Group reports operating results for the second quarter and much more in this week's chain operating report.

Domestic expansion will be top priority.

A vibrant, refreshed look paired with a new, more efficient prototype has this chain poised to take a bigger bite out of the sandwich segment.

This week's chain operating report takes a look at a couple of chains' IPOs, expansion plans for several players and some transaction news.

This weeks' report includes Baja Fresh, Del Taco add new locations; revenue up at Chipotle; and Dunkin' continues international expansion.

Veteran chef takes on new challenges.

Pair of restaurant industry veterans join emerging burger chain.

Daphne's Greek, a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant chain with 55 locations across three states, announced a series of organizational changes.

Casual dining chain adds talent in catering, construction and design and culinary.

Former Panera executive to lead national expansion of the fledgling burger concept.

Spae previously served as chief development officer for the pizza buffet chain.

Former Yum! Brands' executive will drive the coffee chain's overall day-to-day operating activities.

A pair of chains plot international expansion plans, coffee giant Starbucks expands its menu and more in this week's Chain Operating Report.

Restaurant industry veteran adds COO to his role.

Parent company for Tony Roma's names new COO and two vice presidents for the restaurant chain.

An expanded menu, including grilled chicken salads and sandwiches, and a larger footprint with more seats and widescreen televisions than the traditional units positions this new sports concept for an appealing entry into new markets.

Sanford becomes vice chairman of the board for the 33-unit sports bar chain.

Beef O'Brady's buys into a new concept, The Egg & I Restaurants scramble into a new market, Seattle's Best expands the use of a new menu concept and much more.

Feierstein joins self-serve yogurt chain.

As the first half of the year comes to a close, now is a good time to take inventory of the state of the U.S. economy and how the foodservice industry has fared compared to other industries to date.

News on The Habit Burger Grill and U-Swirl, Inc.

Flynn becomes the chicken wing chain's executive chairman of the board.