It’s a very robust time for restaurant expansion, but the sector is not without its uphill climbs, says Duree & Co president Duree Ross. Capturing off-hours (times other than lunch and dinner) is a constant challenge, with weekend brunch and happy hours being big considerations. The fast-casual trend is putting pressure on longtime establishments that are trying to evolve while staying true to core values and guests. Most of Duree’s public relations clients now offer healthy dishes, including light and gluten-free menus that may not have been considered even five years ago. A significant amount of research and development is sought out to make sure smarter, healthier options are considered. Celebrity chefs still drive brands, and they play into the growing trend of restaurants helping the hungry with food banks and related charity mergers. Duree tells us that public relations agencies like hers are getting involved much earlier in the restaurant process, scouting locations and emerging trends. For more info on our Bisnow partner, click here.