Fresh Kitchen Adds to Leadership Team
Discover how Fresh Kitchen's new operations and development leaders are poised to accelerate the brand’s growth and innovate in the fast-casual dining sector.
Jul 15, 2026
Discover how Fresh Kitchen's new operations and development leaders are poised to accelerate the brand’s growth and innovate in the fast-casual dining sector.
Jul 15, 2026
McDonald's taps seasoned leader Ugwechi Amadi as Chief Strategy Officer, bringing expertise from Nike and LIV Golf to spearhead the chain's forward-thinking NEXT strategy for restaurant owners and managers.
Jul 15, 2026
Learn how to start a food truck business by planning costs, permits, menus, equipment, locations, marketing, staffing, and efficient operations.
Jul 14, 2026
Explore leading restaurant equipment brands and learn how to choose reliable cooking, refrigeration, preparation, beverage, storage, and serving systems confidently.
Jul 14, 2026
Great Hill Partners takes a minority stake in Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming to accelerate franchise support, technology, and expansion.
Jul 14, 2026
Olive Garden brings back its $100 Pasta Pass for 13 weeks of unlimited pasta, soup or salad, and breadsticks; 10,000 passes, Aug 24 to Nov 22, dine-in only.
Jul 14, 2026
Resales accelerate amid boomer exits, tighter margins, and complex deals. Data gaps persist as brands formalize programs to keep units open.
Jul 14, 2026
Chipotle is launching its first Mexican location, redefining fast-casual strategy for restaurant leaders and offering key lessons for international growth and partnerships.
Jul 14, 2026
PizzaExpress will master franchise Houston TX Hot Chicken across the U.K. and Ireland, targeting 50 sites in three years with three openings in six months.
Jul 13, 2026
Wingstop posts 8.7% comp decline; leans on Club Wingstop loyalty, sports-heavy media, and smart kitchens to rebuild traffic. Investors eye July 29, 2026 results.
Jul 13, 2026
An in-depth look at how restaurant brands fared in the first half of 2025, exploring the factors contributing to success and challenges faced by industry leaders.
Photo by engin akyurt
Brinker's Chili’s emerged as a clear winner in the fast-food sector during the early months of 2025, marked by a significant sales leap driven by strategic investments in equipment and labor. The introduction of TurboChef ovens enhanced food quality, specifically showcased through the improved texture of new menu items such as ribs. This success highlighted the importance of continuous innovation and operational enhancements in navigating the challenging market landscape.
Value-oriented marketing and menu plays, as seen in Chili’s and McDonald’s approaches, proved vital in overcoming declines in sales. These brands strategically adjusted pricing and introduced new menu items to appeal to cost-conscious consumers. Taco Bell’s focus on Crispy Chicken offerings not only boosted sales but also outpaced competitors in the limited-service category, demonstrating the power of catering to evolving consumer preferences.
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Domino’s success story in recovering from a sales stumble highlighted the significance of innovation and value offerings. Collaborations with third-party aggregators and menu additions like stuffed crust pizza showcased Domino’s proactive approach towards growth. Such initiatives allowed the brand to capture market share and stay ahead in a competitive landscape.
Photo by engin akyurt
Sweetgreen and Chipotle faced setbacks in the first half of 2025, emphasizing the challenges posed by evolving consumer preferences and economic pressures. Sweetgreen’s ambitious menu innovations backfired, underscoring the importance of balancing experimentation with operational feasibility. Chipotle's struggle with pricing highlighted the complexities of maintaining value perception amidst economic uncertainties.
Photo by engin akyurt
The challenging market conditions necessitated swift action for brands like Jack in the Box and Del Taco. Initiatives like Jack’s Way, focusing on operational improvements and increased value marketing, showcased efforts to revitalize struggling chains. However, the importance of proactive value strategies, as opposed to reactive measures, became evident in distinguishing successful turnarounds.