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 Wendy’s strategic growth plans and leadership changes. Learn how the company is expanding its footprint globally.
Photo by Jacob McGowin on Unsplash
Photo by Jacob McGowin on Unsplash
Wendy’s, under the leadership of its CFO, has been implementing a comprehensive long-term growth strategy that focuses on a mix of retrenchment and unit expansion. This approach involves a delicate balance of closing underperforming locations while simultaneously opening new stores to drive growth. By strategically evaluating and optimizing its footprint, Wendy’s aims to enhance profitability and market presence.
Photo by Jacob McGowin on Unsplash
The recent closure of 140 underperforming restaurants during Q4 2024 showcases Wendy’s commitment to pruning its portfolio for better efficiency. Simultaneously, the company has been actively developing new stores both domestically and internationally. This strategic move not only streamlines operations but also allows Wendy’s to allocate resources more effectively, positioning itself for sustainable expansion.
With plans to open 1,000 units within three years through a combination of local and international expansion efforts, Wendy’s is eyeing global growth opportunities. By tapping into new markets and diversifying its presence, the chain aims to capture a broader customer base and increase brand recognition on a global scale. This targeted approach reflects Wendy’s ambition to become a prominent player in the competitive QSR landscape.
Cook's extensive experience, coupled with his tenure at United Parcel Service, positions him well to drive Wendy’s growth agenda successfully. Having held key financial roles in the past, including CFO for a segment of UPS, Cook brings valuable insights into financial planning and strategic decision-making. His appointment underscores Wendy’s commitment to strong leadership and strategic financial management.
Photo by Jacob McGowin on Unsplash
The addition of Bradley Peltz as a director further enhances Wendy’s leadership team. With Peltz's background in managing a Wendy’s franchisee in key regions, his appointment aligns with the chain’s focus on leveraging expertise within the industry to steer the company towards sustained success. These leadership changes signal Wendy’s dedication to fostering a robust executive team to guide its expansion and operational strategies effectively.