INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Here is a look at Monday’s business headlines with Jane King, who has the latest on Sizzler’s potential comeback and restaurants encouraging diners who ditch their phones.
Naval blockade could affect oil prices
Peace talks with Iran went nowhere this weekend, so President Trump is threatening to use the U.S. Navy to control the Strait of Hormuz.
The blockade is expected to start at 10 a.m. ET Monday.
The blockade would tighten the already challenging supply-and-demand equation for the global oil market, threatening to drive prices sharply higher.
Price of new cars slips into higher gear
The average price of a new vehicle in March rose to $49,275, a 3.5% year-to-year increase.
Kelly Blue Book also says the rate of year-to-year increases has been rising in recent months.
The average price of a new car has only eclipsed $50,000 twice, in September and December of last year.
Food pyramid guidelines could cost families more
The updated federal food pyramid advises more meat and fats, less grains — a shift that could cost households $1,000 more a year.
Market analysis firm Numerator found grocery bills would rise by nearly one-third under the new guidance. Changes involving protein have the biggest effect: the new guidelines recommend Americans eat nearly twice as much protein — especially from meat — as prior guidelines.
Sizzler prepares for comeback
An iconic steakhouse chain is making a comeback after nearly fading away.
Founded in 1958, Sizzler once had more than 700 locations across the country. It now has just 74.
QSR magazine’s Danny Klein recently spoke with Sizzler’s chief growth officer Robert Clark about the chain’s plan for a rebirth.
He says remodeling restaurants will be a key part of the revamp, as will a focus on the basics like fresh salads and quality steaks.
Bars and restaurants encouraging phone-free time
Yes, a growing number of bars and restaurants are adopting phone-free policies to encourage socializing and enhance dining experiences.
Establishments both highbrow and more casual have embraced the trend, from the upscale supper club Delilah’s to fast food chain Chick-fil-A, which recently ran a promotion at some locations offering free ice cream to diners who ditched their phones.
The movement aligns with broader societal shifts, including restrictions on phone use in schools and social media bans for minors.
Dining and Cooking