Quick Casual Replacing Fast Food for Number of Consumers. In an article featuring a new Noodles & Co. in Troy, Michigan, the Detroit News reviews the dining trend that seems to have consumers willing to sacrifice a little more of their income to dine on higher quality food in a higher quality environment. With the average check ranging from $6 to $10, Noodles & Co. restaurants require patrons to spend a bit more; however, the food is made to order and purports to focus on a balanced diet of protein and carbohydrates. Other quick casual concepts such as Atlanta Bread Co., Cosi and Panera are seeing similar interest and success. Sales at the largest 15 quick casual restaurant chains increased by 15% in 2002 according to Technomic, Inc. in Chicago (while McDonald's sales increased only 1.3% and Burger King's sales dorpped 3.4%).
Posted by franchiselawblog at September 24, 2003 11:40 AM