Burger consumption is up considerably since 2009 with nearly half of today's consumers saying they eat a burger at least once a week compared with 38 percent just two years ago.

The makers of BUBBA Burger, Bubba Foods, LLC, Jacksonville, Fla., said it agreed to buy a meat processing plant in Hastings, Neb., from Armour-Eckrich Meats LLC.

Los Angeles retail meats processor Farmer John introduced new products across four categories -- in conjunction with improved packaging and a new brand logo to "make a premium statement at the shelf."

Consumers are willing to pay more for a specialty burger, especially a premium burger, than they are for a standard burger, regardless of restaurant segment.