Sweetgreen

Operations

The ongoing federal government shutdown is expected to take a toll on some chains

After a third quarter that "ended with a whimper," negative sales trends are expected to continue, said one report. Restaurant chains with a big presence in Washington, D.C. will be hit hardest.

Marketing

Sweetgreen is bringing in the baby goats

The fast-casual chain is spotlighting farmers, like the maker of its goat cheese. Baby goats will be available for holding (and chakra reset) at a unit in Los Angeles.

The weak second quarter wasn't just about consumers cutting back. CEO Jonathan Neman says Sweetgreen has some operational work to do. Will bringing back the Sweetflow dessert help?

The fast-casual salad chain is increasing portion sizes and getting rid of Ripple Fries after same-store sales fell 7.6% last quarter, sending its shares down more than 20%.

The new menu features three seasonal bowls highlighting peaches, tomatoes and bell peppers sourced from growers who share the fast casual’s sustainability mission.

The fast-casual chain is working on its value perception in a way that spotlights menu innovation and avoids discounts. Is the chain given enough credit for its more-affordable offerings?

Labor costs are expected to continue to rise across the industry. But the fast casual's CEO Jonathan Neman sees room for 1,000 Sweetgreens domestically, tapping technology that he says will help beat competitors on price.

Traffic and product mix declined 6.5% in the first quarter and headwinds continued in April. The fast-casual salad chain blamed the decline on consumer caution, but also the lingering effect of Los Angeles wildfires.

Simon Kim, the chef behind the celebrated COTE Korean Steakhouse, has developed three limited-time dishes that will bring Korean flavors to fast-casual Sweetgreen's menu for the first time.

Jason Cochran will become the fast-casual chain's operations chief officially on Monday, replacing outgoing COO Rossann Williams.

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