Sandell Asset Management says BEF Foods could sell for nearly $1 billion

Company hopes new menu and technology can reverse sales weakness

Fast-casual chain does brisk business up to and on the holiday

Former Bravo Brio CEO tapped to lead family-dining chain

Company to sell restaurants, headquarters, manufacturing plants by end of year

This is part of Nation’s Restaurant News’ annual Top 100 report, a proprietary census ranking the foodservice industry’s largest restaurant chains and companies by sales and unit data, among other metrics.

In a special series, NRN editors predict the trends that will emerge in the coming year in all areas of the restaurant industry. Here, Jonathan Maze tells us what’s next in restaurant finance.

NRN editor and restaurant finance expert Jennings breaks down what you should be watching in the industry this week. Connect with her on the latest finance trends and news at @livetodineout and lisa.jennings@penton.com...

Activist investor Sandell Asset Management gains four seats on board

Older consumers concerned technology would negatively affect service, Market Force Information finds.