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.
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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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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.
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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.
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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.
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Explore how restaurants can strategically expand into emerging markets for sustained growth. Learn from Cava's development strategy and CFO Tricia Tolivar's insights on entering new markets.


Cava's emphasis on emerging and growth markets forms a strategic cornerstone for its expansion plans. By focusing on regions with promising growth opportunities and lower brand presence, the chain aims to capitalize on untapped market potential. This deliberate strategy aligns with industry trends that highlight the significance of venturing into new territories to drive revenue and increase market share.

Tricia Tolivar's insights underscore the importance of a diversified expansion approach. With 70% of growth targeted at emerging markets and 20% in greenfield markets, Cava balances risk and opportunity, ensuring a sustainable growth trajectory. This mix allows the brand to leverage established markets for stability while exploring new territories for innovation and scalability.
Cava's ambitious goal of reaching 1,000 units by 2032 reflects a bold vision for the brand's future. Such aspirational targets drive strategic decision-making, motivate teams, and instill a sense of purpose across the organization. By setting clear milestones, Cava creates a roadmap for growth, guiding its market expansion efforts with precision and purpose.
The cautious approach highlighted by Tricia Tolivar emphasizes the importance of meticulous planning when entering new markets. Opening in unfamiliar territories brings unique challenges, from understanding local consumer preferences to navigating regulatory landscapes. By prioritizing prudence over rapid expansion, Cava mitigates risks and ensures sustainable growth.

Cava's success in 2024, particularly in new markets like Chicago, serves as a testament to the effectiveness of its expansion strategy. The brand's focus on quality openings and strong sales performance underscores the value of market research, operational excellence, and customer engagement in driving growth. By learning from Cava's journey, other restaurants can glean insights for their own market expansion endeavors.