1851 Franchise Weekly Sizzle

Perdue is Creating a Better Life for their Chickens

The fourth-largest poultry producer in the country, Perdue, has announced that the company will be making changes to the way it raised chickens. The company will be giving the animals more space and sunlight by adding windows to sheds, increasing the roaming space and adding perches and hay bales. In addition to bettering the living conditions of the animals, the company will also be stunning the chickens so they are unconscious prior to slaughter. This change comes as the company has been facing growing public pressure around animal welfare. Animal welfare advocates hope this will put pressure on other companies to adjust their practices.

(From The Huffington Post)

Noodles & Company Warns of Potential Data Breach

If you dined at a Noodles & Company from January 31 through June 2, 2016, you may want to check your bank statements. The Colorado-based pasta chain has announced a “data security incident” that may lead to customer’s credit card information being compromised. The incident has affected 27 states and Washington D.C., according to the company, credit and debit cards used at the affected locations are no longer at risk.

(From Eater)

Chorizo Now Offered at Chipotle

Chipotle Mexican Grill is adding chorizo as a new menu item in select cities in the U.S. The chorizo is made with a blend of pork and white-meat chicken and is seasoned with paprika, toasted cumin, and chipotle peppers. The new chorizo will be available in Columbus, Ohio; New York City; Sacramento, California; San Diego and one location in Denver and in the Dulles International Airport location.

(From QSR Magazine)

Kelli Valade Named President of Chili’s Grill & Bar

Brinker International Inc., has named Kelli Valade to the role of president of Chili’s Grill & Bar. Previously, Valade served as the company’s chief operating officer at Chili’s since July 2009. In her new role, Valade will oversee domestic restaurant operations, marketing, franchising and human resources. Doug Comings, who previously served at Chili’s vice president of domestic franchise and a regional vice president, will succeed Valade in the role of chief operating offer for the brand.

(From Nation’s Restaurant News)

Tropical Smoothie Café Introduces Two New Summer Items

Just in time for summer, Tropical Smoothie Café has announced two new menu items. The brand is releasing Thai Chicken, available in spicy and mild versions, features cilantro, carrots, wontons, sesame seeds, scallions and choice of Thai peanut sauce, sriracha aioli or Frank’s sweet chili sauce. The brand is also releasing the new watermelon mojito smoothie, which features watermelon, strawberries, lime and mint.

(From Fast Casual)