UK

The burger chain has released an apology on its Facebook page for their latest campaign advertisements that prompted a backlash from vegetarians and vegans.

The NPD Group has revealed how Casual Dining contributes to an increasing proportion of Foodservice traffic - accounting now for 4% of all visits. Although still quite small, their traffic has grown by 29% since 2009. Casual Dining now equates to 441 million visits in the year ending September 2015. Fiscally, Casual Dining generates 4.4 billion pounds to the Foodservice Industry. This channel has a much higher average ticket (£9.92) than QSR (£3.63).

The takeaway food delivery service announced a reported 57% growth in orders for the the twelve months to 31 December 2015.

The bakery chain reported that total sales grew 5.2% in its fourth quarter trading update in the 52 weeks ended January 2, 2016. Company-managed shop like-for-like sales rose 4.7%, with a recorded growth of 2.3% in the fourth quarter.

Pret announced that it will be updating its entire soup range with the introduction of nine healthy new options.

From Tuesday 12th January 2016, all Muffin Break UK stores will see the introduction of the new Muffin Lab concept, which is set to offer experimental flavours to customers.

McDonald's in the United States unveiled new carry-out bags, fountain beverage cups and sandwich boxes, while UK versions are planned to come out later in the year.

The bakery chain will be opening a new company-owned store in Belfast and a franchise shop on the Crankhill Road.

McDonald’s UK became the first major retailer to enter into a partnership with the Nuffield Farming Trust. 

Yum Brands announced that David C. Novak is planning to retire in May 2016 following the Company’s annual shareholder meeting and step down from the Company’s Board at that time.

According to a story by Campaign, Fab Morvan, who was part of the disgraced German pop band Milli Vanilli, was featured in a documentary-style ad for KFC.

The brand, which went into administration almost two years ago before being sold to a private equity fund, announced that it is narrowing its losses by targeting sports stadiums and expanding its coffee range.

According to a story by Computing, the chicken chain has hired former JustGiving chief information officer (CIO) Richard Atkinson in the position of technology director.

Starbucks announced that Mary Dillon, CEO of Ulta Beauty, was elected to the Starbucks Board of Directors on Jan. 4 and she will serve on the Board’s Compensation and Management Development Committee.

The sandwich chain announced a new campaign that will build on Subway's 'Stay Picky’ campaign, supported by a heavy weight, mobile led cross-channel campaign. It launches with a new 20 second TV advert, on screen from 6th January 2016.

The fast food brand introduced its New Year menu, which includes a theme focusing on the power of plants.