In this episode of the Repertoire Report, Ray discusses the recent expansion of Wegmans into the restaurant space with its new sushi restaurant, Next Door, in New York City. He explores the implications of this move for the brand and the restaurant industry as a whole. Additionally, he covers McDonald's significant hiring initiative as it prepares for the summer season, the rising menu prices in restaurants compared to falling grocery prices, and the resurgence of the 'third place' concept in dining. The episode concludes with insights on the fast-casual dining segment and the importance of perceived value for consumers in today's economic climate.
Wegman's Next Door: https://www.wegmansnextdoor.com/rochester-new-york/events/
McDonald's Hiring: https://www.cnn.com/2025/05/12/business/mcdonalds-hiring-announcement
Menu Prices Rising: https://www.nrn.com/restaurant-finance/menu-prices-increased-in-april-for-the-third-month-in-a-row
Third Spaces: https://www.nrn.com/quick-service/restaurants-embrace-the-return-of-the-third-place
Fast Casual Success: https://www.qsrmagazine.com/story/why-fast-casual-keeps-winning/
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