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 how Sun Holdings, a major franchisee, is strategically expanding its portfolio through acquisitions like Freebirds World Burrito.
Photo by AJ Garcia on Unsplash
Sun Holdings, a prominent franchisee known for its portfolio of restaurant brands like Applebee’s and Papa Johns, has recently made headlines with its acquisition of Freebirds World Burrito, a popular fast-casual chain based in Texas. This move marks Sun's second direct purchase of a brand, following the acquisition of Taco Bueno in 2019. The undisclosed terms of the Freebirds acquisition signal Sun Holdings' commitment to strategic growth and diversification.
CEO Guillermo Perales's statement regarding the acquisition reflects Sun Holdings' transition from solely being a franchisee to becoming a brand owner. Perales emphasized the growth potential of the burrito chain under Sun's ownership, indicating a shift towards a more active role in brand management. This strategic move underlines Sun's evolving business model, demonstrating a holistic approach to the restaurant industry.
Perales highlighted Freebirds' strength in customer engagement and menu innovation, positioning the fast-casual brand as a key player in the competitive market. Menu changes and Limited Time Offers (LTOs) play a pivotal role in Freebirds' strategy, with recent promotions featuring premium proteins like prime rib and Texas smoked brisket. These innovative menu additions not only attract customers but also showcase Freebirds' commitment to culinary creativity.
In today's fast-paced restaurant landscape, menu innovation is crucial for maintaining customer interest and loyalty. Freebirds' focus on introducing unique and seasonal offerings like prime rib burritos and Texas smoked brisket demonstrates a deep understanding of consumer preferences. By continuously updating and diversifying their menu, Freebirds strengthens its appeal to a broad customer base, fostering long-term loyalty.
Sun Holdings' aggressive expansion strategy, coupled with its focus on acquisitions, positions the company for substantial growth in the restaurant industry. The acquisition of Freebirds World Burrito aligns with Sun's vision to enhance its brand portfolio and capture new market segments. By leveraging the strengths of acquired brands and implementing innovative marketing campaigns, Sun Holdings solidifies its position as a leading player in the competitive franchising landscape.
With a network of approximately 1,500 restaurants, Sun Holdings continues to expand its footprint through a combination of acquisitions and organic development. The company's strategic investments, such as acquiring a 131-store Applebee's franchisee in 2021 and securing a significant franchising deal with Papa John's, underscore its commitment to sustained growth and market leadership. Sun Holdings' proactive approach to expansion sets a strong foundation for future success in the dynamic restaurant industry.