Best Restaurant Marketing Ideas for 2026
This guide outlines restaurant marketing ideas that help operators attract nearby customers, convert demand faster, and strengthen long-term retention.
Apr 16, 2026
This guide outlines restaurant marketing ideas that help operators attract nearby customers, convert demand faster, and strengthen long-term retention.
Apr 16, 2026
A clear host training process helps restaurants manage greetings, waitlists, reservations, seating decisions, and guest communication more consistently.
Apr 15, 2026
Chipotle reshapes loyalty with Rewards on Repeat, blending in-store promotions, staff incentives, and simpler redemption to boost traffic.
Apr 16, 2026
Photo by Salah Ait Mokhtar on Unsplash
A refined look at Papa Murphy’s strategy as MTY guides a cautious turnaround amid a crowded pizza landscape—digital play, local marketing, and a new Detroit-style offering.
Apr 16, 2026
Photo by Sergio Mena Ferreira on Unsplash
Mo’ Bettahs leaves Kansas City as it pivots to a PE-backed national expansion to Phoenix, Indianapolis, and Minneapolis.
Apr 16, 2026
Photo by Kate Trysh on Unsplash
Applebee’s O-M-Cheese Burger fuses spectacle with value, driving social buzz and foot traffic—a signal for the skillet-cheese moment in casual dining.
Apr 16, 2026
Photo by Diego Mattevi on Unsplash
GoTo Foods taps Misra and Lambert to harmonize digital momentum with disciplined development across seven brands, aiming for stronger guest experiences and franchisee economics.
Apr 16, 2026
Bojangles launches Bo’s Chicken Rippers in an eight-week pilot, turning bites into a hands-on, sauce-forward experience with interactive, tear-apart slabs.
Apr 16, 2026
Photo by Jim Sosengphet on Unsplash
Popeyes teams with One Piece for a limited menu and merch drop, blending bold flavors with anime fandom to boost traffic and loyalty.
Apr 16, 2026
Photo by dedy kurniawan on Unsplash
A close look at Jersey Mike’s rapid expansion, leadership shift, and international push under Blackstone’s ownership.
Apr 16, 2026
Explore the closures of 25 KFC restaurants in Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin owned by EYM Chicken and the implications for the franchise industry.
Photo by Zyoung Hsiung on Unsplash
The closure of 25 KFC restaurants in the Midwest region owned by EYM Chicken has sent shockwaves through the franchise industry. Franchise closures can have significant implications, not only for the franchisee and the brand but also for employees, customers, and the broader community. When a franchise shuts down, it can result in job losses, financial struggles for the franchise owner, and a loss of trust among customers.
EYM Chicken, the franchisee that operated the closed KFC locations, faced various challenges leading to the closures. Financial difficulties, operational issues, and legal disputes, as evidenced by the Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection filing, all contributed to the decision to shutter these establishments. Such challenges highlight the complexities of running a successful franchise business and the importance of robust financial management and adherence to franchise agreements.
Photo by Zyoung Hsiung on Unsplash
The closure of these KFC restaurants serves as a cautionary tale for franchise owners and operators. It underscores the vital need for proactive financial planning, adherence to franchise agreements, and timely payment of royalties. Franchise owners must prioritize transparency, communication, and operational efficiency to mitigate the risk of facing similar challenges that could lead to closures or legal disputes with the franchisor.
Photo by Zyoung Hsiung on Unsplash
The closure of a significant number of KFC outlets owned by EYM Chicken raises questions about the health and stability of the fast-food industry. It spotlights the competitive nature of the market, the challenges faced by franchise operators, and the need for effective risk management strategies. The incident also emphasizes the importance of due diligence in selecting franchise partners and the potential ripple effects of closures on brand reputation and consumer trust.