Nation's Restaurant News Daily NewsFax articles from June 2003

Nation's Restaurant News Daily NewsFax archives from June 2003

An Indiana state court jury ordered Outback Steakhouse Inc. to pay $39 million to a couple who allegedly were hit by a drunk driver who had left an Outback Steakhouse here. (Just In).(Brief Article)
June 30, 2003... MUNCIE, Ind. -- An Indiana state court jury ordered OUTBACK STEAKHOUSE INC. to pay $39 million to a couple who allegedly were hit by a drunk driver who had left an Outback Steakhouse here, according to the Associated Press. In a written...

Officials at Irvine, Calif.-based Taco Bell alerted health authorities and the public that an employee at a company-owned restaurant here contracted the Hepatitis A virus earlier in the month. (Just In).(Brief Article)
June 30, 2003... ALHAMBRA, Calif. -- Officials at Irvine, Calif.-based TACO BELL alerted health authorities and the public that an employee at a company-owned restaurant here contracted the Hepatitis A virus earlier in the month, according to spokeswoman...

Worldwide Restaurants Concepts Inc. plans to sell its 11 company-owned Sizzler restaurants in the New York market to new and existing franchisees within the next year. (Just In).(Brief Article)
June 30, 2003... SHERMAN OAKS, Calif. -- WORLDWIDE RESTAURANTS CONCEPTS INC. plans to sell its 11 company-owned Sizzler restaurants in the New York market to new and existing franchisees within the next year. Worldwide president and CEO CHARLES BOPPELL...

Luby's Inc., operator of 159 cafeterias and restaurants, said JP Morgan Chase Bank is demanding payment of $1.6 million by Monday on officer loans in which Luby's is in default.(Brief Article)
June 30, 2003... SAN ANTONIO -- LUBY'S INC., operator of 159 cafeterias and restaurants, said J P MORGAN CHASE BANK is demanding payment of $1.6 million by Monday on officer loans in which Luby's is in default. In an 8-K filed Friday with securities...

Domino's Pizza has extended the employment contract of its chairman and CEO, Dave Brandon, through Dec. 31, 2008. (Executive Suite).(Brief Article)
June 30, 2003... ANN ARBOR, Mich. -- DOMINO'S PIZZA has extended the employment contract of its chairman and CEO, DAVE BRANDON, through Dec. 31, 2008, according to an SEC filing. Brandon took his post when he first joined the nation's second-largest pizza...

Rosario Del Nero has been named vice president, corporate chef in charge of purchasing at Naked Restaurants Inc., which operates six Naked Fish and four Red Sauce restaurants. (Executive Suite).(Brief Article)
June 30, 2003... PEABODY, Mass. -- ROSARIO DEL NERO has been named vice president, corporate chef in charge of purchasing at NAKED RESTAURANTS INC., which operates six Naked Fish and four Red Sauce restaurants. Most recently, Del Nero was vice president,...

Benihana Inc. added Yoshihiro Sano and Robert B. Sturges to its board of directors. (Executive Suite).(Brief Article)
June 30, 2003... MIAMI -- BENIHANA INC. added YOSHIHIRO SANO and ROBERT B. STURGES to its board of directors. That brings the number of members on the 64-unit Asian restaurant chain's board to nine, including five independent directors. Sano is the founder of...

Stockwatch.(top restaurant industry stock price gainers and losers)(Brief Article)
June 30, 2003... STOCKWATCH (shares over $3) Pct. Fri. Top Gainers change close Elmer's Restaurants 18.18 $6.50 CKE Restaurants 4.11 5.57 Krispy Kreme Doughnuts...

MGM Mirage stated plans to sell its 1,907-room Golden Nugget Las Vegas and 300-room Golden Nugget Laughlin, in Laughlin, Nev., to Poster Financial Group for approximately $215 million. (Just In).(Brief Article)
June 27, 2003... LAS VEGAS -- MGM MIRAGE stated plans to sell its 1,907-room GOLDEN NUGGET LAS VEGAS and 300-room GOLDEN NUGGET LAUGHLIN, in Laughlin, Nev., to POSTER FINANCIAL GROUP for approximately $215 million. Poster Financial Group executives TIMOTHY...

Lawyers for Oak Brook, Ill.-based McDonald's Corp. asked a federal judge here to toss out a lawsuit that blames the quick-service chain for causing obesity in children. (Just In).(Brief Article)
June 27, 2003... NEW YORK -- Lawyers for Oak Brook, Ill.-based MCDONALD'S CORP. asked a federal judge here to toss out a lawsuit that blames the quick-service chain for causing obesity in children. McDonald's attorney, BRAD LERMAN, argued that the lawsuit...

Panera Bread Co. posted a 3-percent increase in systemwide same-store sales for the four weeks ended June 14.(Brief Article)
June 27, 2003... ST. LOUIS -- PANERA BREAD CO. posted a 3-percent increase in systemwide same-store sales for the four weeks ended June 14. The increase consisted of a 4.9-percent rise at company-owned stores and a 2.1-percent increase at franchised units....

Avado Brands Inc. said that same-store sales at Don Pablo's Mexican Kitchen and Hops Restaurant Bar & Brewery have improved with new marketing initiatives.(Brief Article)
June 27, 2003... MADISON, Ga. -- AVADO BRANDS INC. said that same-store sales at Don Pablo's Mexican Kitchen and Hops Restaurant Bar & Brewery have improved with new marketing initiatives. The company said that its new marketing campaign for Don Pablo's began...

Metromedia Restaurant Group named Bill Spae president of the 300-unit Bennigan's Grill and Tavern. (Executive Suite).(Brief Article)
June 27, 2003... PLANO, Texas -- METROMEDIA RESTAURANT GROUP named BILL SPAE president of the 300-unit Bennigan's Grill and Tavern. Spae replaces JOHN WRIGHT, who is leaving to take a more active role in Restaurant Connections International, a Pizza Hut...

Lettuce Entertain you Enterprises has promoted Kevin Brown to chief executive, in addition to president. (Executive Suite).(Brief Article)
June 27, 2003... CHICAGO -- LETTUCE ENTERTAIN YOU ENTERPRISES has promoted KEVIN BROWN to chief executive, in addition to president. Brown, who joined Lettuce in 1977, assumes the CEO position temporarily held by RICHARD MELMAN, chairman and founder. "He's...

Checkers Drive-In Restaurants Inc., parent of a nearly 800-unit system of drive-thru burger units, promoted Ron Levondosky to vice president of franchise, taking over duties held by Keith E. Sirois before his appointment as CEO. (Executive Suite).(Brief Article)
June 27, 2003... TAMPA, Fla. -- CHECKERS DRIVE-IN RESTAURANTS INC., parent of a nearly 800-unit system of drive-thru burger units, promoted RON LEVONDOSKY to vice president of franchise, taking over duties held by KEITH E. SIROIS before his appointment as...

The 197-unit O'Charley's chain is combining traditional menu items to create new entrees during its "Summer's on the Grill" promotion, scheduled to run through Aug. 10. (Marketing Matters).(Brief Article)
June 27, 2003... NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- The 197-unit O'CHARLEY'S chain is combining traditional menu items to create new entrees during its "Summer's on the Grill" promotion, scheduled to run through Aug. 10. One item, Fire-Roasted Steak 'N Skewer, combines...

The Caribou Coffee Co. tapped Coca-Cola Co. to supply beverages at about 200 of its locations. (Supplier News).(Brief Article)
June 27, 2003... MINNEAPOLIS -- The CARIBOU COFFEE CO. tapped COCA-COLA CO. to supply beverages at about 200 of its locations. The coffee chain said it will offer Coke's carbonated beverages and bottled water brands as well as Odwalla brand juices.

Stockwatch.(top restaurant industry stock price gainers and losers)(Brief Article)
June 27, 2003... STOCKWATCH (shares over $3) Pct. Thurs. Top Gainers change close Back Yard Burgers 7.60 $5.38 Steak n Shake 6.86 15.11 Ark Restaurants...

Hakan Swahn, president of New York-based Aquavit, blamed the continuing business travel falloff since Sept. 11, 2001, and the influx of higher-end chain restaurants in the Minneapolis market for the recent closing of Aquavit here. (Just In).(Brief Article)
June 26, 2003... MINNEAPOLIS -- HAKAN SWAHN, president of New York-based AQUAVIT, blamed the continuing business travel falloff since Sept. 11, 2001, and the influx of higher-end chain restaurants in the Minneapolis market for the recent closing of Aquavit...

The Mansion on Turtle Creek, the flagship property of Rosewood Hotels & Resorts, will provide all of the foodservice operations at the new $70 million Nasher Sculpture Center, the two organizations announced Tuesday. (Just In).(Brief Article)
June 26, 2003... DALLAS -- The MANSION ON TURTLE CREEK, the flagship property of ROSEWOOD HOTELS & RESORTS, will provide all of the foodservice operations at the new $70 million NASHER SCULPTURE CENTER, the two organizations announced Tuesday. The sculpture...

A federal jury here ordered the former owners of a Rio Bravo restaurant in Clearwater, Fla., to pay $1.5 million to five former waitresses and hostesses who sued for sexual harassment. (Just In).(Brief Article)
June 26, 2003... TAMPA, Fla. -- A federal jury here ordered the former owners of a RIO BRAVO restaurant in Clearwater, Fla., to pay $1.5 million to five former waitresses and hostesses who sued for sexual harassment. RIO BRAVO INTERNATIONAL and parent...

Aramark extended its foodservice contract with the University of Pennsylvania. (Just In).(Brief Article)
June 26, 2003... PHILADELPHIA -- ARAMARK extended its foodservice contract with the UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA. The new contract, which Aramark estimated is worth $16 million in annual sales, is for an initial term of two years with options for four...

Gov. John Baldacci of Maine signed a bill Tuesday banning smoking in bars statewide, according to the Associated Press. (Just In).(Brief Article)
June 26, 2003... AUGUSTA, Me. -- GOV. JOHN BALDACCI of Maine signed a bill Tuesday banning smoking in bars statewide, according to the Associated Press. The inclusion of bars in Maine's 4-year-old workplace smoking ban makes it the fifth state behind...

KFC, a division of Yum! Brands Inc., confirmed its plans to introduce a new advertising campaign in August that no longer will feature actor Jason Alexander as its pitchman. (Marketing Matters).(Brief Article)
June 26, 2003... LOUISVILLE, Ky. -- KFC, a division of YUM! BRANDS INC., confirmed its plans to introduce a new advertising campaign in August that no longer will feature actor JASON ALEXANDER as its pitchman. Alexander, who is best known for his former role...

Buffalo's Southwest Cafe, operator and franchisor of approximately 50 chicken wing restaurants, launched a host of new summer drink menu items. (Marketing Matters).(Brief Article)
June 26, 2003... MARIETTA, Ga. -- BUFFALO'S SOUTHWEST CAFE, operator and franchisor of approximately 50 chicken wing restaurants, launched a host of new summer drink menu items. Two of the new items are a Canyon-Rita, featuring a blend of lime and tequila...

Gameworks, the 14-unit entertainment restaurant and bar, launched its annual "Hawaiian Summer" promotion at its U.S. units. (Marketing Matters).(Brief Article)
June 26, 2003... GLENDALE, Calif. -- GAMEWORKS, the 14-unit entertainment restaurant and bar, launched its annual "Hawaiian Summer" promotion at its U.S. units. The promotion includes deals for kids to eat free Monday through Friday, various game play...

Stockwatch.(various restaurants)(Brief Article)(Illustration)
June 26, 2003... STOCKWATCH (shares over $3) Pct. Pct. Top Gainers change close Checkers Drive-In Rests. 11.05 $10.35 Benihana Inc. 6.41 12.94 KrispyKreme...

The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday ruled against Joe's Stone Crab in a 12-year-old sexual discrimination suit, awarding $103,662 in back wages and benefits to two women who allegedly were overlooked in favor of men in their bid to become servers at the legendary Miami Beach restaurant, according to the Miami Herald. (Just In).(Brief Article)
June 25, 2003... MIAMI -- The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday ruled against JOE'S STONE CRAB in a 12-year-old sexual discrimination suit, awarding $103,662 in back wages and benefits to two women who allegedly were overlooked in favor of men in their bid to...

Starbucks Coffee Japan Ltd. plans to sell alcoholic beverages at certain shops after changing its corporate articles at its shareholders' meeting Tuesday to enable the strategy, according to the Associated Press. (Just In).(Brief Article)
June 25, 2003... TOKYO -- STARBUCKS COFFEE JAPAN LTD. plans to sell alcoholic beverages at certain shops after changing its corporate articles at its shareholders' meeting Tuesday to enable the strategy, according to the Associated Press. The company, which...

Del Taco, operator and franchisor of more than 416 Mexican quick-service units, signed a development deal for three new units in the San Fernando Valley. (Just In).(Brief Article)
June 25, 2003... LAKE FOREST, Calif. -- DEL TACO, operator and franchisor of more than 416 Mexican quick-service units, signed a development deal for three new units in the San Fernando Valley. The new franchisee, Whittier, Calif.-based THAT'S FRESH INC., is...

Wing Stop Restaurants Inc. said it signed a 17-unit development agreement with Wings South LLC to add restaurants in Alabama and Mississippi over the next two and a half years. (Just In).(Brief Article)
June 25, 2003... BIRMINGHAM, Ala. -- WING STOP RESTAURANTS INC. said it signed a 17-unit development agreement with WINGS SOUTH LLC to add restaurants in Alabama and Mississippi over the next two and a half years. The chicken-wing chain's system includes 111...

Four restaurant companies made it into Fortune magazine's "50 Best Companies for Minorities." (Just In).(Brief Article)
June 25, 2003... NEW YORK -- Four restaurant companies made it into FORTUNE magazine's "50 Best Companies for Minorities," including Oak Brook, Ill.-based McDonald's Corp., which topped the list at No. 1, and Denny's Inc. in Spartanburg, S.C., at No. 3....

Krispy Kreme Doughnuts Inc. agreed to acquire the rights to the Shreveport, La., and Dallas markets, as well as five stores and one commissary in the Dallas market from a franchisee for an undisclosed sum. (Just In).(Brief Article)
June 25, 2003... WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. -- KRISPY KREME DOUGHNUTS INC. agreed to acquire the rights to the Shreveport, La., and Dallas markets, as well as five stores and one commissary in the Dallas market from a franchisee for an undisclosed sum. The company,...

Sonic Corp. posted an 8.6-percent increase in net income to $16.2 million, or 40 cents per diluted share, for the third quarter ended May 31, vs. $14.9 million, or 35 cents per share, in the year-ago period.(Brief Article)
June 25, 2003... OKLAHOMA CITY -- SONIC CORP. posted an 8.6-percent increase in net income to $16.2 million, or 40 cents per diluted share, for the third quarter ended May 31, vs. $14.9 million, or 35 cents per share, in the year-ago period. Revenue for the...

Brinker International Inc., the 1,400-unit casual-dining company, announced several management changes set into motion by the recent appointment of Doug Brooks, currently chief operating officer, who will assume in January the chief executive reins held by Ron McDougall. (Executive Suite).(Brief Article)
June 25, 2003... DALLAS -- BRINKER INTERNATIONAL INC., the 1,400-unit casual-dining company, announced several management changes set into motion by the recent appointment of DOUG BROOKS, currently chief operating officer, who will assume in January the chief...

The 235-unit Baja Fresh Mexican Grill launched a summer menu composed of lean, high-protein and high-fiber offerings. (Marketing Matters).(Fresh Enterprises Inc. Baja Fresh Mexican Grill)(Brief Article)
June 25, 2003... THOUSAND OAKS, Calif. -- The 235-unit BAJA FRESH MEXICAN GRILL launched a summer menu composed of lean, high-protein and high-fiber offerings. The new "Lighten Up!" menu includes chicken and vegetarian Bare Burritos, Enchiladas Verano,...

Stockwatch.(Brief Article)
June 25, 2003... STOCKWATCH (shares over $3) Pct. Tues. Top Gainers change close Sonic 5.67 $25.71 Checkers Drive-In 5.31 9.32 Papa John's...

About 100 health activists and trial lawyers at a two-day conference here this past weekend plotted strategies for suing restaurant chains and other food companies to force nutritional reforms and consumer warnings. (Just In).(Brief Article)
June 24, 2003... BOSTON -- About 100 health activists and trial lawyers at a two-day conference here this past weekend plotted strategies for suing restaurant chains and other food companies to force nutritional reforms and consumer warnings. Attendees at the...

The National Restaurant Association applauded the House of Representatives' passage Thursday of a bill that would allow small businesses to save money by banding together through trade associations to buy health insurance. (Just In).(Brief Article)
June 24, 2003... WASHINGTON -- The NATIONAL RESTAURANT ASSOCIATION applauded the House of Representatives' passage Thursday of a bill that would allow small businesses to save money by banding together through trade associations to buy health insurance. The...

A U.S. Bankruptcy Court judge here approved a $635 million bid to acquire the Aladdin Resort & Casino, submitted by a group led by Planet Hollywood chief executive Robert Earl and Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide. (Just In).(Brief Article)
June 24, 2003... LAS VEGAS -- A U.S. Bankruptcy Court judge here approved a $635 million bid to acquire the ALADDIN RESORT & CASINO, submitted by a group led by PLANET HOLLYWOOD chief executive ROBERT EARL and STARWOOD HOTELS & RESORTS WORLDWIDE. The buyer...

Yum Brands Inc. chairman and chief executive David Novak was splashed with a red substance, apparently by an animal rights protester, during a visit to a KFC-A&W restaurant here Monday. (Just In).(Brief Article)
June 24, 2003... HANOVER, Germany -- YUM BRANDS INC. chairman and chief executive DAVID NOVAK was splashed with a red substance, apparently by an animal rights protester, during a visit to a KFC-A&W restaurant here Monday. PEOPLE FOR THE ETHICAL TREATMENT OF...

Romacorp Inc., parent of the 256-unit Tony Roma's Famous for Ribs chain, named David Head chief executive, president and a board member. (Executive Suite).(Brief Article)
June 24, 2003... DALLAS -- ROMACORP INC., parent of the 256-unit Tony Roma's Famous for Ribs chain, named DAVID HEAD chief executive, president and a board member. He replaces FRANK STEED, who becomes president of the domestic Roma Franchise Corp. and Roma...

CKE Restaurants Inc. said same-store sales for the four weeks ended June 16 rose 1.5 percent at Carl's Jr. and 0.4 percent at Hardee's.(Brief Article)
June 24, 2003... SANTA BARBARA, Calif. -- CKE RESTAURANTS INC. said same-store sales for the four weeks ended June 16 rose 1.5 percent at Carl's Jr. and 0.4 percent at Hardee's. Same-store sales fell 2.7 percent at La Salsa. CKE's chains include 2,229...

Stock watch.(Restaurants)(Brief Article)(Illustration)
June 24, 2003... STOCK WATCH (shares over $3) Pct. Mon. Top Gainers change close McDonald's 1.59 $22.37 CKE Restaurants 1.27 5.58...

A T.G.I. Friday's franchisee here agreed to a $21 million settlement of claims arising from the deaths of two teens killed by a drunken driver last summer. (Just In).(Ohio Valley Bistros Inc.)(Brief Article)
June 23, 2003... LOUISVILLE, Ky. -- A T.G.I. FRIDAY'S franchisee here agreed to a $21 million settlement of claims arising from the deaths of two teens killed by a drunken driver last summer. OHIO VALLEY BISTROS INC. of Beavercreek, Ohio, on Friday expressed...

As financially distressed franchisees apply pressure for new menu items perceived as more healthful, Burger King Corp. has launched a limited-time nationwide promotion of a premium item called the Great American Burger. (Just In).(Brief Article)
June 23, 2003... MIAMI -- As financially distressed franchisees apply pressure for new menu items perceived as more healthful, Officials of the No. 2 burger chain pointed out that the "indulgent" sandwich, around $2.59 and described as BK's "juiciest burger...

Darden Restaurants Inc. reported a 16 percent decline in fourth quarter earnings on a 5.6-percent increase in total sales.(Brief Article)
June 23, 2003... ORLANDO, Fla. -- DARDEN RESTAURANTS INC. reported a 16 percent decline in fourth quarter earnings on a 5.6-percent increase in total sales. Darden said it earned $61.1 million, or 35 cents per share, for the fourth quarter ended May 25,...

McDonald's Holdings Co (Japan) Ltd., Japan's largest chain, in which U.S.-based brand owner McDonald's Corp. holds a nearly 55-percent stake, is expected to miss its first-half earnings target.(Brief Article)
June 23, 2003... TOKYO -- MCDONALD'S HOLDINGS CO (JAPAN) LTD., Japan's largest chain, in which U.S.-based brand owner MCDONALD'S CORP. holds a nearly 55-percent stake, is expected to miss its first-half earnings target following the failure of price increases...

Olive Garden, the 516-unit Italian arm of Darden Restaurants Inc., is scheduled to introduce today a new array of signature entrees. (Marketing Matters).(Brief Article)
June 23, 2003... ORLANDO, Fla. -- OLIVE GARDEN, the 516-unit Italian arm of DARDEN RESTAURANTS INC., is scheduled to introduce today a new array of signature entrees. The chain said the line would include Stuffed Chicken Siena, Chicken Castellina, Three Meat...

New World Restaurant Group Inc., operator and franchisor of 743 bagel bakery-cafes, said its 190-unit Manhattan Bagel arm added four entree salads to its lunch menu. (Marketing Matters).(Brief Article)
June 23, 2003... HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, N.J. -- NEW WORLD RESTAURANT GROUP INC., operator and franchisor of 743 bagel bakery-cafes, said its 190-unit MANHATTAN BAGEL arm added four entree salads to its lunch menu. The made-to-order or prepared "grab-and-go"...

Stockwatch.(top restaurant industry stock price gainers and losers)(Brief Article)
June 23, 2003... STOCKWATCH (shares over $3) Pct. Fri. Top Gainers change close Diedrich Coffee 6.15 $3.45 Peet's Coffee & Tea 4.45 17.41 Dave & Buster's ...

Opposing forces in the debate over restaurants' role in fattening consumers testified before a House of Representatives subcommittee Thursday as it weighed a bill that would restrict obesity-based lawsuits against restaurants. (Just In).(Personal Responsibility in Food Consumption Act)(Brief Article)
June 20, 2003... WASHINGTON -- Opposing forces in the debate over restaurants' role in fattening consumers testified before a House of Representatives subcommittee Thursday as it weighed a bill that would restrict obesity-based lawsuits against restaurants....

McDonald's Corp. (Just In).(calls on meat producers to stop using growth-promoting antibiotics)(Brief Article)
June 20, 2003... OAK BROOK, Ill. -- MCDONALD'S CORP. is calling on its meat suppliers worldwide to stop the practice of promoting growth in chickens, cattle and pigs through the use of antibiotics, citing concerns that the drugs can reduce the effectiveness...

Milton W. "Scotty" Wood, who founded the Wood Co. and built it into a major national contract-foodservice brand, died June 18 after a long illness. (Just In).(Brief Article)(Obituary)
June 20, 2003... ALLENTOWN, Pa. -- MILTON W. "SCOTTY" WOOD, who founded the WOOD CO. and built it into a major national contract-foodservice brand, died June 18 after a long illness. He was 89. Wood began his career as operator of a small sandwich shop and...

Yum! Brands. (Just In).(same-store sales for the four weeks ended June 14 )(Brief Article)
June 20, 2003... LOUISVILLE, Ky. -- YUM! BRANDS said its U.S. same-store sales for the four weeks ended June 14 were flat from a year ago, rising 5 percent at Taco Bill and 2 percent at Pizza Hut, but falling 8 percent at KFC. International sales grew 6...

Krispy Kreme Doughnuts Inc. on Thursday launched its first store outside North America, in this city's Penrith suburb. (Just In).(Sydney, Australia)(Brief Article)
June 20, 2003... SYDNEY, Australia -- KRISPY KREME DOUGHNUTS INC. on Thursday launched its first store outside North America, in this city's Penrith suburb. The Winston-Salem, N.C.-based chain's chairman and chief executive, SCOTTLIVENGOOD, said the unit is...

Rock Bottom Restaurants, 87-unit parent of the Rock Bottom, Old Chicago, ChopHouse and Walnut Brewery casual-dining brewpubs, promoted Chris Dodge from director of human resources to vice president of human resources. (Human Resources).(and other executive appointments)(Brief Article)
June 20, 2003... LOUISVILLE, Colo. -- ROCK BOTTOM RESTAURANTS, 87-unit parent of the Rock Bottom, Old Chicago, ChopHouse and Walnut Brewery casual-dining brewpubs, promoted CHRIS DODGE from director of human resources to vice president of human resources;...

Stockwatch.(top restaurant industry stock price gainers and losers)(Brief Article)
June 20, 2003... STOCKWATCH (shares over $3) Pct. Thurs. Top Gainers change close J. Alexander's 9.92 $4.10 CBRL Group 4.29 39.60 Total Entertainment ...

Wind Point Partners, a Southfield, Mich.-based private equity firm, acquired Denver-based Vicorp Restaurants Inc. from Bancboston Capital in a $225.5 million leveraged-buyout deal. (Just In).(Brief Article)
June 19, 2003... DENVER -- WIND POINT PARTNERS, a Southfield, Mich.-based private equity firm, acquired Denver-based VICORP RESTAURANTS INC. from BANCBOSTON CAPITAL in a $225.5 million leveraged-buyout deal. Vicorp owns and franchises more than 370 Village...

Cimm's Inc., the Burger King and Tony Roma's franchisee that filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in July 2001, was identified as the previously unnamed buyer of 13 Original Roadhouse Grill restaurants sold recently by Buffets Inc. for nearly $30 million. (Just In).(Brief Article)
June 19, 2003... GLENDALE, Calif. -- CIMM'S INC., the Burger King and Tony Roma's franchisee that filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in July 2001, was identified as the previously unnamed buyer of 13 Original Roadhouse Grill restaurants sold recently by BUFFETS...

Chefs such as the famed Alain Ducasse could be cross-marketed at resort-casino mogul Steve Wynn's new properties under a deal divulged June 13 in a securities filing. (Just In).(Las Vegas, Nevada)(Brief Article)
June 19, 2003... LAS VEGAS -- Chefs such as the famed ALAIN DUCASSE could be cross-marketed at resort-casino mogul STEVE WYNN's new properties under a deal divulged June 13 in a securities filing. Pending approval from the principality of MONACO, Wynn's WYNN...

Burger King International Inc. opened its first restaurant in Cyprus. (Just In).(Brief Article)
June 19, 2003... AGIA NAPA, Cyprus -- BURGER KING INTERNATIONAL INC. opened its first restaurant in Cyprus. The unit, in Agia Napa, is one of four slated to open in Cyprus over the next year for a total investment of $5 million, BK said. The expansion would...

CEC Entertainment Inc., which operates a system of 440 Chuck E. Cheese's, said its board of directors approved a new plan to purchase $25 million of CEC's common stock, following the completion of its 2002 $25 million buyback plan.(Brief Article)
June 19, 2003... IRVING, Texas -- CEC ENTERTAINMENT INC., which operates a system of 440 Chuck E. Cheese's, said its board of directors approved a new plan to purchase $25 million of CEC's common stock, following the completion of its 2002 $25 million buyback...

Pizza Hut will launch an offer on Sunday that it calls "the largest DVD-with-a-purchase promotion of its kind." (Marketing Matters).(Brief Article)
June 19, 2003... DALLAS -- PIZZA HUT will launch an offer on Sunday that it calls "the largest DVD-with-a-purchase promotion of its kind." In partnership with MGM HOME ENTERTAINMENT, Pizza Hut will give a free DVD a large pizza bought at the regular price....

Taco Delmar, a 60-unit chain that specializes in fish tacos and "mission-style" burritos, hired Tamara Wilson Public Relations as its agency of record. (Marketing Matters).(Brief Article)
June 19, 2003... SEATTLE -- TACO DEL MAR, a 60-unit chain that specializes in fish tacos and "mission-style" burritos, hired TAMARA WILSON PUBLIC RELATIONS as its agency of record. The shop is expected to develop a PR model for franchisees to follow and work...

The Oakland Athletics extended its multiyear partnership with the Pepsi Bottling Group Inc. to 2007. (Supplier News).(Brief Article)
June 19, 2003... SOMERS, N.Y. -- The OAKLAND ATHLETICS extended its multiyear partnership with the PEPSI BOTTLING GROUPINC. to 2007. The deal makes Pepsi the official soft drink of the team and Network Associates Coliseum, site of Oakland Raiders games.

Stockwatch.(top restaurant industry stock price gainers and losers)(Brief Article)
June 19, 2003... STOCKWATCH (shares over $3) Pct. Wed. Top Gainers change close J. Alexander's 7.80 $3.73 Chicago Pizza & Brewery 4.78 10.06 Red Robin Gour. Burgers...

Papa John's International, parent of the pizza segment's No. 3 chain, reached a confidential settlement of its lawsuit against 40-unit Pizza Magia, which was founded by former Papa John's president Daniel Holland. (Just In).(Brief Article)
June 18, 2003... LOUISVILLE, Ky. -- PAPA JOHN'S INTERNATIONAL, parent of the pizza segment's No. 3 chain, reached a confidential settlement of its lawsuit against 40-unit PIZZA MAGIA, which was founded by former Papa John's president DANIELHOLLAND. A U.S....

Popeyes Chicken & Biscuits, a unit of AFC Enterprises, signed three major international development deals that call for 214 outlets to open in Mexico, China and Jamaica over the next 10 years. (Just In).(Brief Article)
June 18, 2003... ATLANTA -- POPEYES CHICKEN & BISCUITS, a unit of AFC ENTERPRISES, signed three major international development deals that call for 214 outlets to open in Mexico, China and Jamaica over the next 10 years. The largest of the pacts is with...

The largest shareholder of Dave & Buster's Inc., Dolphin Limited Partnership I LP, reacting to D&B shareholders' June 10 rejection of Dolphin's slate of three proposed directors in favor of a slate backed by D&B management. (Just In).(Brief Article)
June 18, 2003... STAMFORD, Conn. -- The largest shareholder of DAVE & BUSTER'S INC., DOLPHIN LIMITED PARTNERSHIP I LP, reacting to D&B shareholders' June 10 rejection of Dolphin's slate of three proposed directors in favor of a slate backed by D&B...

Schlotzsky's Inc., the 619-unit deli sandwich operator and franchisor, plans to unveil the latest version of its cafe and bakery here tomorrow, featuring an expanded menu, updated decor, wireless Internet access for guests and staffing that will include 20 student-chefs from the Texas Culinary Academy. (Just In).(Brief Article)
June 18, 2003... AUSTIN, Texas -- SCHLOTZSKY'S INC., the 619-unit deli sandwich operator and franchisor, plans to unveil the latest version of its cafe and bakery here tomorrow, featuring an expanded menu, updated decor, wireless Internet access for guests...

Rodney Carter, executive vice president and chief financial officer of CEC Entertainment Inc., operator of the 440-unit Chuck E. Cheese's chain, resigned Tuesday to pursue other interests, the company said. (Executive Suite).(Brief Article)
June 18, 2003... IRVING, Texas -- RODNEY CARTER, executive vice president and chief financial officer of CEC ENTERTAINMENTINC., operator of the 440-unit Chuck E. Cheese's chain, resigned Tuesday to pursue other interests, the company said. Carter had been...

The 614-unit Cinnabon bakery chain, a division of AFC Enterprises, signed a licensing agreement with Lotta Luv LLC to sell Cinnabon-branded lip balms and glosses in such stores as Claire's and Limited Too, which cater to young girls.(Brief Article)
June 18, 2003... ATLANTA -- The 614-unit CINNABON bakery chain, a division of AFC ENTERPRISES, signed a licensing agreement with LOTTALUV LLC to sell Cinnabon-branded lip balms and glosses in such stores as Claire's and Limited Too, which cater to young...

Stockwatch.(top gainers, biggest declines for June 17, 2003)(Brief Article)(Illustration)
June 18, 2003... STOCKWATCH (sharesover $3) Pct. Tues. Top Gainers change close Outback Steakhouse 6.51 $39.76 Panera Bread 6.36 39.46 Cheesecake Factory ...

Consolidated Restaurant Operations Inc., whose chains have 174 full-service outlets in 18 states and Canada, agreed to buy the 129-unit Chevys Inc. of Emeryville, Calif., for an undisclosed sum from Boston-based J.W. Childs Equity Partners. (Just In).(Brief Article)
June 17, 2003... DALLAS -- CONSOLIDATED RESTAURANT OPERATIONS INC., whose chains have 174 full-service outlets in 18 states and Canada, agreed to buy the 129-unit CHEVYS INC. of Emeryville, Calif., for an undisclosed sum from Boston-based J.W. CHILDS EQUITY...

Tony Roma, whose 1972 founding of a namesake restaurant in North Miami spawned a worldwide ribs specialty chain of more than 260 branches, died here Friday of lung cancer. (Just In).(Brief Article)
June 17, 2003... HEMET, Calif. -- TONY ROMA, whose 1972 founding of a namesake restaurant in North Miami spawned a worldwide ribs specialty chain of more than 260 branches, died here Friday of lung cancer. He was 78. Roma, who spent $65,000 to open that first...

Wingstop Restaurants Inc. of Dallas, franchisor of 109 chicken-wing eateries, has signed agreements to expand its South Florida outlets from two to 10 in the next two years. (Just In).(Brief Article)
June 17, 2003... MIAMI -- WINGSTOP RESTAURANTS INC. of Dallas, franchisor of 109 chicken-wing eateries, has signed agreements to expand its South Florida outlets from two to 10 in the next two years. TINA WILLIAMS and ROD STOKES of Miami plan to open their...

Rubio's Restaurants Inc., parent of the 144-unit Rubio's Fresh Mexican Grill fast-casual chain, named John C. Fuller as its new chief financial officer. (Executive Suite).(Brief Article)
June 17, 2003... CARLSBAD, Calif. -- RUBIO'S RESTAURANTS INC., parent of the 144-unit Rubio's Fresh Mexican Grill fast-casual chain, named JOHN C. FULLER as its new chief financial officer. He formerly was controller of Del Taco Corp. and vice...

Starbucks Corp. named Sandra Taylor senior vice president of corporate social responsibility. (Executive Suite).(Brief Article)
June 17, 2003... SEATTLE -- STARBUCKS CORP. named SANDRA TAYLOR senior vice president of corporate social responsibility. Taylor, who was VP and director of public affairs for Eastman Kodak Co., succeeds DAVE OLSEN, who still will oversee Starbucks' "Culture...

Luby's Inc. said same-store sales fell 3.2 percent in the third quarter ended May 7 as total company sales declined 5.4 percent to $78.2 million from the year-ago period.(Brief Article)
June 17, 2003... SAN ANTONIO -- LUBY'S INC. said same-store sales fell 3.2 percent in the third quarter ended May 7 as total company sales declined 5.4 percent to $78.2 million from the year-ago period. After closure-related charges totaling $23.9 million,...

McDonald's Corp. will be the exclusive worldwide sponsor of the Olympic Day Run, a global event designed to promote Olympic ideals and encourage people to participate in sports. (Marketing Matters).(Brief Article)
June 17, 2003... OAK BROOK, Ill. -- MCDONALD'S CORP. will be the exclusive worldwide sponsor of the Olympic Day Run, a global event designed to promote Olympic ideals and encourage people to participate in sports. The run is scheduled for June 21 and 22 in...

Stockwatch.(top restaurant industry stock price gainers and losers)(Brief Article)
June 17, 2003... STOCKWATCH (shares over $3) Pct. Mon. Top Gainers change close Smith & Wollensky 6.25 $5.10 Landry's Restaurants 4.53 23.75 J. Alexander's ...

Burger King Corp. chief executive Brad Blum, confirming on Friday that the chain's domestic same-store sales and guest traffic still are falling, said he wants to cut the price of BK's signature Whopper permanently. (Just In).(Brief Article)
June 16, 2003... LOUISVILLE, Ky. -- BURGER KING CORP. chief executive BRAD BLUM, confirming on Friday that the chain's domestic same-store sales and guest traffic still are falling, said he wants to cut the price of BK's signature Whopper permanently by about...

In an effort to stem the growth of class-action lawsuits, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 1115, "The Class Action Fairness Act of 2003." (Just In).(Brief Article)
June 16, 2003... WASHINGTON-- In an effort to stem the growth of class-action lawsuits, the HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES passed H.R. 1115, "The Class Action Fairness Act of 2003." Introduced by REP. BOB GOODLATTE, R-Va., the act in some cases will move...