Fast Casual - The editorial team of FastCasual.com has announced its annual list of the vibrant restaurant segment's most significant brands, people and trends. 

The downloadable "The 2013 Fast Casual Top 100 Movers & Shakers" was released Monday morning morning after an awards gala the night before in Chicago, timed to coincide with the National Restaurant Association tradeshow. Both "The Top 100" and the event were sponsored by restaurant equipment manufacturer Henny Penny.

Fazoli's CEO Carl T. Howard and his wife pose with the 2013 Brand of the Year award.

Judges determined the top 50 brands based on industry nominations and subsequent debate on the significance of the nominees to the segment. Criteria included innovation, growth, social responsibility and overall contribution. In addition, the judges acknowledged the 20 industry executives who have most contributed to the evolution and health of fast casual, the most influential menu innovations, and the most significant food and technology trends. Continue