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
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
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
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
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
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 Dave & Buster’s is revamping its operations to improve customer experience and business outcomes.
Photo by Jim
Following a period of declining same-store sales, Dave & Buster's is undergoing a strategic transformation to address customer experience challenges. The departure of former CEO Chris Morris marked the beginning of a new chapter focused on enhancing operational efficiency and elevating guest satisfaction.
Photo by Jim
To enhance the overall guest experience, Dave & Buster’s is reevaluating its restaurant remodel strategy. By adopting a more methodical approach to refreshing store locations, the company aims to achieve a balance between improving aesthetics and optimizing financial investments. This revised remodeling program seeks to achieve higher returns on investment and drive substantial growth in same-store sales.
Photo by Jim
CEO Sheehan’s emphasis on a measured approach to the remodeling program highlights the company's commitment to balancing customer-centric initiatives with financial sustainability. By leveraging data-driven insights, Dave & Buster’s aims to brighten locations and enhance front-of-store experiences while optimizing costs. This strategic alignment is crucial for long-term business success.
In addition to physical renovations, Dave & Buster’s is exploring innovative ways to enhance the gaming experience for its customers. Testing different approaches to extend game playtime while maintaining profitability demonstrates the company's dedication to delivering unique and engaging experiences. By considering options like game and lunch combos, Dave & Buster’s aims to attract customers during traditionally slow periods and differentiate itself in the competitive market.
Photo by Jim
The shift towards a more customer-centric approach, as seen through the remodeling and gaming experience improvements, reflects Dave & Buster’s responsiveness to changing market dynamics. By aligning operational strategies with evolving consumer preferences, the brand positions itself for sustained growth and competitiveness in the leisure and entertainment industry.