Wingstop’s Expansion Runs Hot as Comps Cool
Wingstop adds 382 U.S. units to 3,056 total as comps dip; 2026 outlook hinges on loyalty, Smart Kitchen, and category tailwinds.
Jul 20, 2026
Wingstop adds 382 U.S. units to 3,056 total as comps dip; 2026 outlook hinges on loyalty, Smart Kitchen, and category tailwinds.
Jul 20, 2026
Topgolf Media Networks turns 100+ venues into an ad platform with 42M visits and 28,000 screens, tapping retail media tactics for measurable brand activations.
Jul 20, 2026
Discover how Fresh off the Boat in Santa Ana has built a thriving, health-focused Mexican-Mediterranean fusion restaurant. Explore operational insights, business strategies, and the customer experience that set this unique concept apart.
Jul 20, 2026
Burger King launches its “Your Way Champion” managerial role, focusing on guest experience, order customization, and staff engagement. Restaurant operators can glean insights for elevating hospitality in their own venues.
Jul 20, 2026
If your restaurant is busy but profits feel thin, food cost is usually the first place to look. Not because it is always the problem, but because it is the most controllable variable in your P&L.
Jul 20, 2026
Domino’s leverages rising order volumes to boost revenue and market share despite industry challenges in Q2 2026, offering key lessons for restaurant owners.
Jul 20, 2026
Thomas Keller Restaurant Group will pay $2M to settle an EEOC harassment and retaliation case tied to Bouchon Las Vegas, closing a long-running action from 2018.
Jul 19, 2026
Fresh Kitchen names Bill Knopf and Matt Livingston to lead operations and development as the clean-label bowl brand targets growth beyond 100 locations.
Jul 18, 2026
Hardee’s franchisee Superior Star filed Chapter 11 after a 2023 deal revealed unpaid taxes, costly repairs, and lease burdens; plans to reject leases and refocus.
Jul 18, 2026
Cinnabon posted a net gain of 308 U.S. units in 2025 and launched Seattle’s Best Coffee in 2026 to boost beverage mix, margins, and franchise-driven expansion.
Jul 18, 2026
Explore how Panera is reshaping the cafe experience with its 'It Just Meals Good' campaign, focusing on slow dining occasions and brand modernization efforts.
Photo by Pedro Forester Da Silva
Photo by Pedro Forester Da Silva
Panera's 'It Just Meals Good' campaign signifies a shift in the restaurant industry's focus back to slow dining experiences. By emphasizing the joy of savoring meals and socializing in a cozy setting, Panera aims to reestablish its cafes as 'third places' where people can relax and enjoy quality food.
Photo by Pedro Forester Da Silva
Partnering with Stagwell’s 72andSunny creative agency showcases Panera's commitment to modernization. The agency's innovative approach has led to the development of a fresh brand platform that aligns with changing consumer preferences. The 'It Just Meals Good' campaign not only pays homage to Panera’s classic menu items but also introduces a new vibrancy through innovative storytelling and visual elements.
Photo by Pedro Forester Da Silva
CMO Mark Shambura's statement on the campaign encapsulates the versatility of Panera as a dining destination. Whether it's a quick on-the-go lunch, a casual date night, or a special treat, Panera positions itself as the ideal choice for various dining occasions. This adaptability reflects the brand's understanding of the modern consumer's lifestyle.
Photo by Pedro Forester Da Silva
The blending of nostalgic elements with a fresh and contemporary approach in the 'It Just Meals Good' campaign is a strategic move by Panera. By invoking nostalgia for loyal customers while attracting new ones with innovative marketing strategies, the brand creates a unique brand identity that resonates with a diverse audience.
Photo by Pedro Forester Da Silva
Following a significant menu overhaul, Panera's strategic executive changes, including the appointment of Shambura as CMO and Carbone as CEO, indicate a renewed focus on brand building and innovation. These leadership transitions signal Panera's commitment to staying relevant and competitive in the ever-evolving restaurant landscape.