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
Exploring the influence of population growth on Tim Hortons' expansion strategies and other notable events in the restaurant industry.

The significant increase in Canada's population, growing by 3.9% last year, has triggered a reevaluation of expansion tactics for Tim Hortons. With the country experiencing the most substantial population growth in 66 years primarily due to immigration, Tim Hortons, being Toronto-based, is directly impacted. The surge in residents has created a favorable environment for the chain to consider new locations and adjust its offerings to cater to the evolving demographic landscape.

In recent industry developments, Cherry Bounce Hospitality made headlines by acquiring Party Fowl, a three-unit chicken concept based in Nashville. The move comes after Party Fowl faced financial turmoil and filed for bankruptcy earlier this year. The acquisition showcases Cherry Bounce Hospitality's strategic vision and expansion plans within the competitive restaurant market. It highlights the resilience and opportunity present in acquiring distressed businesses and revitalizing them under new ownership.

Legal battles in the restaurant industry have been brought to light by Smalls Sliders suing Smashburger over trademark infringement. The dispute centers on Smashburger's updated logo bearing similarities to that of Smalls Sliders. With Smalls Sliders operating 19 units and Smashburger enjoying a fast-casual presence, the case underscores the importance of brand identity and the potential pitfalls of unintentional logo similarities in a saturated market.
Crumbl, the dessert chain, has expanded its reach into the corporate catering sector by teaming up with ezCater. This collaboration allows Crumbl franchisees to leverage ezCater's platform and smartphone app for delivering orders to workplaces. The synergy between the two companies capitalizes on the growing demand for convenient and diverse catering options in office settings, presenting a win-win situation for both businesses and consumers.
For more industry updates and insights, tune in to the Restaurant Daily podcast to stay informed about the latest trends, acquisitions, and legal challenges in the dynamic world of food service. Stay ahead of the curve by following the headlines and understanding the ever-evolving landscape of the restaurant business.