Taco Bell Franchise Expansion in Midwest
Southpaw adds 43 Ohio Taco Bell restaurants to its impressive portfolio, highlighting franchise growth and strengthening the Midwest QSR landscape.
Jun 26, 2026
Southpaw adds 43 Ohio Taco Bell restaurants to its impressive portfolio, highlighting franchise growth and strengthening the Midwest QSR landscape.
Jun 26, 2026
Discover how Cicis Pizza's rewards program skyrocketed to over one million members in under a year, driving customer engagement and retention. See the lessons for restaurant loyalty programs.
Jun 26, 2026
Darden Restaurants surpassed $13 billion in sales, fueled by robust performance at LongHorn Steakhouse and innovative menu changes at Olive Garden. Explore the strategies driving this industry giant’s continued dominance.
Jun 26, 2026
The fallout of Pizza Hut's mandated AI delivery system rollout has ignited a $100 million lawsuit from a leading franchisee, highlighting crucial franchisor-franchisee lessons for all restaurant owners.
Jun 26, 2026
Founders Table Restaurant Group acquires fast-casual leader Hopdoddy Burger Bar, expanding its reach to over 200 restaurants and accelerating operational growth across the platform.
Jun 25, 2026
LongHorn Steakhouse surpassed $1 billion in quarterly sales for the first time, driven by strong value perception and menu innovation. Restaurant leaders can draw key lessons for thriving when consumer price sensitivity is high.
Jun 25, 2026
Inspire Brands is preparing for an IPO aiming for a $20B valuation. Discover how giants like Arby’s, Sonic, and Dunkin’ are performing as part of this dynamic portfolio.
Jun 25, 2026
Estepp Energy, known for multi-unit brands like Little Caesars, is adding PJ's Coffee to its Kentucky convenience stores, marking a strategic expansion into specialty coffee.
Jun 24, 2026
Carl's Jr. has launched a "Pass on Jack" marketing campaign rewarding loyalty members with a free Sourdough Star burger for driving past a Jack in the Box to reach a Carl's Jr. location- a direct shot at its California-based burger rival.
Jun 24, 2026
Miso Robotics has acquired Zume Pizza’s technology deck, giving new life to pizza automation and food robotics for forward-thinking restaurant operators.
Jun 24, 2026
Discover the story behind Hot 'n Now's comeback in the fast-food industry. Learn about its history, challenges, and plans for expansion.


Hot 'n Now, the iconic fast-food burger concept founded in Kalamazoo, Michigan in 1984, is poised for a remarkable comeback, thanks to Gun Lakes Investments' strategic acquisition of the brand name. With plans to open two new locations in Michigan this year and a vision for further expansion in the future, Hot 'n Now is ready to reclaim its position in the hearts of fast-food enthusiasts.
The journey of Hot 'n Now has been a rollercoaster ride, marked by ownership changes, acquisitions, and setbacks. After being acquired by Taco Bell in 1990 and eventually sold in 1996, the chain faced turbulent times, leading to a bankruptcy filing in 2004. However, true to its resilient spirit, Hot 'n Now persevered, survived, and is now gearing up for a remarkable resurgence.
Hot 'n Now's plan to focus on drive-thru and walk-up-only locations with modular buildings signifies a strategic move towards catering to modern consumer preferences for convenience and speed. By partnering with Jeff Konczak's B Cubed Manufacturing, the brand is embracing innovation while staying true to its roots, setting the stage for a successful renaissance.
With the announcement of new Hot 'n Now locations in Michigan, residents and fans of the brand have reason to rejoice. The revival of Hot 'n Now not only brings back nostalgic memories but also represents a beacon of hope in the local fast-food scene, injecting new life and excitement into the industry.
The collaboration between Gun Lakes Investments and developer Jeff Konczak to form HNN Holdings LLC showcases a synergy of vision, dedication, and expertise. Monica King, CEO of GLI, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting the shared energy and passion that will drive Hot 'n Now's resurgence. This partnership paves the way for a bright future for the brand.