How to Calculate Cost of Goods Sold for a Restaurant
Learn how to calculate restaurant cost of goods using inventory, purchases, COGS percentage, variance reviews, and regular tracking for profitability.
Aug 31, 2026
Learn how to calculate restaurant cost of goods using inventory, purchases, COGS percentage, variance reviews, and regular tracking for profitability.
Aug 31, 2026
Explore restaurant technology trends in 2026, including AI, automation, digital ordering, workforce tools, connected kitchens, personalization, and profitability strategies today.
Aug 28, 2026
Understand how to evaluate a Kiosk system using key criteria including features, POS integration, hardware, pricing, customer experience, and support.
Aug 31, 2026
Learn the startup costs of opening an ice cream shop, including rent, equipment, renovations, permits, inventory, labor, marketing, and reserves.
Aug 28, 2026
A restaurant P&L statement reveals sales, expenses, and profits, helping owners manage costs, improve margins, and plan finances more effectively.
Aug 26, 2026
RaceTrac has appointed Jill Pemberton as chief financial officer, succeeding Karla Ahlert, who moves into the newly created role of chief administrative officer.
Aug 26, 2026
Learn practical ways to reduce labour costs through smarter scheduling, forecasting, productivity, cross-training, automation, overtime control, and performance monitoring strategies.
Aug 26, 2026
A payroll advance policy helps restaurant owners define eligibility, limits, repayment, documentation, approval procedures, and compliance requirements for employee advances.
Aug 24, 2026
Create a practical restaurant marketing plan by setting goals, targeting customers, choosing channels, budgeting wisely, scheduling campaigns, and measuring results.
Aug 24, 2026
Levain Bakery appoints Lorna Sommerville and Taya Stenson as co-CEOs, blending operational and marketing expertise to power national expansion and innovation while staying rooted in its brand values.
Aug 25, 2026
Unlock Exclusive Access To Webinars, Events, And The Latest News For Free!
Explore Arko's innovative transformation strategy focusing on food-centric convenience stores and dealierization to optimize operational efficiency and drive growth.
Photo by Tim Gouw
Arko's ambitious plans to introduce food-focused convenience stores mark a significant shift in the company's strategy. By investing substantial resources, between $700,000 and $1.1 million per location, Arko is aiming to redefine the traditional convenience store experience. The move signals a commitment to enhancing customer engagement and satisfaction by offering a wider range of food options, catering to evolving consumer preferences for convenient, fresh, and quality meals on the go.
With the commencement of building seven pilot food-focused stores by the end of the year, Arko is set to evaluate the success of the new design before scaling it across its vast network of over 1,300 company-operated c-stores. This phased approach allows the company to gather valuable insights and refine its offerings based on consumer feedback and operational efficiencies. By leveraging this data-driven approach, Arko aims to optimize the implementation process and ensure a seamless transition for its customers.
Photo by Tim Gouw
According to company spokesperson Kotler, the food-centric convenience stores are pivotal to Arko's broader transformation strategy. By prioritizing organic growth and investments in store-level enhancements, Arko is positioning itself for sustained success in the competitive retail landscape. The projected uptick in performance expected in 2026 reflects the company's optimism towards the positive outcomes of this strategic shift. By aligning with evolving consumer demands and driving operational improvements, Arko is poised for significant growth in the coming years.
In addition to the food-focused store initiative, Arko's dealierization strategy is a key component of its transformation plan. By shifting company-operated c-stores to dealer sites, Arko aims to streamline operations, reduce operating expenses, and enhance profitability. The recent conversion of 59 stores in Q1 2025 under this program underscores the company's commitment to maximizing efficiency and driving cost savings. The expected annualized operating income benefits of more than $20 million highlight the significant impact of this strategic realignment on Arko's financial performance.