10 Must-Have Restaurant Technology Tools
Discover ten essential technology tools that help restaurant owners streamline operations, control costs, improve accuracy, and support better daily decisions.
Jul 31, 2026
Discover ten essential technology tools that help restaurant owners streamline operations, control costs, improve accuracy, and support better daily decisions.
Jul 31, 2026
Jersey Mike’s $1 billion IPO highlights big ambitions in franchising and international expansion, although shares dipped on debut. Restaurant owners take note - here’s what the move means for growth strategies ahead.
Jul 31, 2026
Every restaurant owner knows the industry is challenging, but failure is rarely caused by a single issue. From labor management and food costs to cash flow and technology decisions, here's what separates struggling restaurants from successful ones.
Jul 31, 2026
Discover how Chipotle’s Recipe for Growth is driving record sales, operational excellence, and digital innovation - insights for every restaurant leader.
Jul 30, 2026
Learn food cost management strategies to control inventory, reduce waste, improve purchasing, standardize portions, optimize pricing, and protect restaurant profits.
Jul 29, 2026
Grow your restaurant's email marketing list using websites, QR codes, loyalty programs, social media, incentives, events, and customer signups effectively.
Jul 29, 2026
DoorDash is changing how it calculates delivery and service fees, with longer-distance orders likely to cost more and shorter, larger orders set to stay the same or decrease.
Jul 29, 2026
Whataburger welcomes financial veteran Ryan Moore as its new CFO, signaling a strategic focus on national expansion and sustainable growth for the iconic brand.
Jul 29, 2026
Improve kitchen ticket times with practical strategies for better preparation, smoother workflows, stronger communication, smarter staffing, and effective restaurant technology.
Jul 27, 2026
PopUp Bagels welcomes industry veteran Mike Smith as Chief Operating Officer to lead their next phase of growth, putting quality and guest experience at the forefront.
Jul 28, 2026
Explore the recent surge in restaurant mergers and acquisitions, private equity investments, and the implications for the food industry.
Photo by Nils Stahl
Photo by Nils Stahl
Private equity firms like Freeman Spogli have been actively participating in the restaurant industry, investing in various successful chains such as El Pollo Loco, Popeyes, and First Watch. The experience gained from these ventures has positioned private equity as a key player in supporting restaurant chains, particularly in their expansion strategies.
Photo by Nils Stahl
One notable example of a recent acquisition in the food industry is the partnership between Philz Coffee and a private equity firm. Despite the change in ownership, the coffee chain emphasized continuity by assuring employees of unchanged benefits, pay rates, and future opportunities. The acquisition signaled a shift towards stability and growth for Philz, showcasing how acquisitions can be seamless transitions for established brands.
Photo by Nils Stahl
During mergers and acquisitions, employee morale and retention are critical factors for the success of the transition. Philz Coffee's commitment to providing thank you bonuses to all team members post-acquisition is a testament to their focus on employee well-being. While some former employees may face stock value losses, proactive initiatives like bonus payments can enhance employee loyalty and motivation.
The surge in restaurant M&A activities in 2025 reflects a dynamic industry landscape, despite prevailing economic challenges. With major brands contemplating strategic changes and new market entrants eyeing expansion opportunities, the sector is witnessing significant transformation. However, uncertainties such as declining same-store sales, real estate constraints, and economic volatility pose challenges to sustained investor interest in novel concepts.
Photo by Nils Stahl
As the food industry navigates through economic uncertainties and market fluctuations, the adaptability of businesses to address consumer preferences and operational efficiency becomes paramount. Instances like Hooters of America's sale of devalued assets highlight the potential outcomes of financial instability on M&A deals. Leveraging private equity support and strategic acquisitions can serve as growth catalysts for brands seeking to weather industry headwinds.