Welcome to the Surrender News/Blog.  Get the latest news, trends, tips and information to help you succeed and thrive in the workplace.

Know Yourself and Create Restaurant Success In Any Market

Those of us with decades of industry experience have become accustomed to up markets with a few down markets layered in. But none of us is accustomed to a flat market lasting this long.  A flat market taunts you – begging you (or even forcing you) to be willing to change so you can stand … Continued

Avoid Pitfalls of Restaurant Expansion by Planning in Advance

Maybe you already have multiple units and you’re building more in another part of town or embarking into multi-city. Or maybe, in addition to multi-city, you’re adding a second concept. Either way, if you want to sleep better – plan, organize and import knowledge from the best restaurant companies in America – and do that work in advance, … Continued

How To Learn from the Massive Cracker Barrel Debacle

So, let’s imagine you’re on the leadership team at Cracker Barrel (I know: Right now, even the idea is giving you a headache). You had a great plan: That did not go well. The resulting firestorm of public opinion – or manufactured outrage driven by bots, pick one – made you reinstate your classic logo … Continued

It’s a Surprisingly Easy Choice: Activated Or Average Restaurant?

No one ever came to me and said, “I’m excited about starting a restaurant company – I’ve always wanted to be average.” Still, I see a lot of average companies out there. In stark contrast to those truly activated operators who always become better, lead the pack, and dominate their segment.  Fearless or Scared? This … Continued