Learn when to sell franchise locations by evaluating financial performance, operations, market conditions, lease terms, and long-term business goals carefully.
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Wingstop adds 382 U.S. units to 3,056 total as comps dip; 2026 outlook hinges on loyalty, Smart Kitchen, and category tailwinds.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Domino’s leverages rising order volumes to boost revenue and market share despite industry challenges in Q2 2026, offering key lessons for restaurant owners.
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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.
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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
California Pizza Kitchen (CPK) revamped its brand identity to engage younger consumers through a strategic 40th-anniversary stunt.
CPK's rebranding effort under Chief Marketer Dawn Keller focused on rejuvenating the brand's image rather than entirely changing it. Despite being a mature brand with significant brand equity, CPK needed to establish a stronger presence in the consumer market. By recognizing the need for reinvention without losing its essence, CPK embarked on a strategic journey to appeal to a younger demographic while retaining its core identity.
The decision to mark CPK's 40th anniversary with a unique and attention-grabbing stunt was a calculated move to engage consumers in a memorable way. By steering clear of conventional celebratory tactics and opting for a disruptive approach resembling a midlife crisis, CPK successfully generated buzz and captured the interest of younger audiences. The stunt not only showcased creativity but also demonstrated CPK's willingness to evolve while staying true to its heritage.
CPK's partnership with creative and social agency Iris played a vital role in executing the rebranding stunt effectively. Leveraging Iris' expertise in social engagement and brand conversations, CPK managed to position itself in the digital spotlight without a substantial advertising budget. The collaboration emphasizes the significance of strategic partnerships in modern marketing initiatives, where creativity and social-first approaches are paramount for success.
The choice of actress and personality Busy Philipps as a brand ambassador for CPK further strengthened the rebranding campaign. Philipps, known for her relatable persona and genuine connection with audiences, brought authenticity and credibility to CPK's revitalization efforts. Her past association with the brand and personal journey resonated well with consumers, portraying CPK as an inclusive and relevant choice for the contemporary market.
CPK's strategic approach to media spending, spearheaded by digital agency Acadia, showcased a departure from conventional advertising norms. By investing in longer-form content and targeting existing brand-aware consumers, CPK managed to maximize exposure and engagement. The focus on innovative media strategies like sequential ads and utilizing various digital platforms highlighted CPK's commitment to adapting to modern consumer preferences.
In addition to the rebranding stunt, CPK's revamped promotional strategies demonstrate a keen focus on enhancing consumer engagement. By introducing interactive elements like QR code scans and loyalty program incentives, CPK successfully bridges the gap between physical and digital interactions. This multi-faceted approach not only attracts new customers but also retains existing ones by offering personalized and rewarding experiences.
