Photo by Unseen Histories on Unsplash
Franchise Frenzy: Cross-Border Growth
A look at how U.S. brands expand through multi-unit deals, cross-border partnerships, and seasoned operators in 2026.
Apr 29, 2026
Photo by Unseen Histories on Unsplash
A look at how U.S. brands expand through multi-unit deals, cross-border partnerships, and seasoned operators in 2026.
Apr 29, 2026
Photo by Erik Mclean on Unsplash
McDonald’s unveils six beverages across 14,000 restaurants on May 6, expanding McCafé with Refresher and crafted sodas and a new store-level beverage specialist role.
Apr 29, 2026
Learn how to write a coffee shop business plan that covers concept, location, menu, finances, branding, marketing, and risk planning.
Apr 27, 2026
Explore marketing strategies for food businesses using reviews, professional photos, SEO, social media, partnerships, events, and catering.
Apr 28, 2026
Photo by shen wenjie on Unsplash
Holiday-driven menu drops fuse nostalgia with wellness, turning menus into living calendars for fast-casual brands.
Apr 28, 2026
Photo by Abdul Raheem Kannath on Unsplash
Susannah Frost named Chick-fil-A President, joining Cliff Robinson as COO to guide domestic expansion and international growth.
Apr 28, 2026
Photo by Moon Bhuyan on Unsplash
Ghost pepper-led promotions redefine autumn menus as chains blend heat, storytelling, and seasonal collaborations to drive foot traffic.
Apr 28, 2026
Photo by Noah Martinez on Unsplash
CAVA rolls out Garlic Ranch Pita Chips with a Steak + Harissa Bowl and a refreshed Rewards program, tying flavor innovation to personalized guest experiences.
Apr 28, 2026
Photo by Kate Trysh on Unsplash
Applebee’s launches Pick 6 Mondays, offering free wings with a $10 purchase when a Pick 6 occurs on Sundays, driving game-day momentum across dine-in and To Go.
Apr 28, 2026
Photo by Stu Moffat on Unsplash
Beatrice Nguyen explores how leadership blends speed, loyalty, and standardized operations to grow Shake Shack while preserving its signature experience.
Apr 28, 2026
Explore the transformative role of Donna Spangler-Josephson as Chief Brand Officer at Schlotzsky’s and the strategies shaping the brand’s future growth and success.
Photo by Christina @ wocintechchat.com on Unsplash
Donna Spangler-Josephson's transition from Chief Marketing Officer at Shipley’s Do-nuts to Chief Brand Officer at Schlotzsky’s marks a pivotal moment in the brand's evolution. With over two decades of rich experience in the restaurant industry, including prominent roles at Fazoli’s, Corner Bakery Cafe, and McAlister’s Deli, Spangler-Josephson brings a wealth of strategic insights and expertise to her new position.
At the core of Spangler-Josephson's role is a dual focus on marketing and operations strategy at Schlotzsky’s. By spearheading initiatives aimed at enhancing financial growth and fostering franchise success, she is actively shaping the brand's trajectory towards sustained profitability and operational excellence.
Spangler-Josephson’s appointment comes amidst a strategic shift at Schlotzsky’s, aimed at accelerating sales growth and expanding development opportunities. Her visionary leadership is poised to drive innovation and steer the brand towards new heights of success in the competitive restaurant landscape.
In a period of industry flux and evolving consumer preferences, Schlotzsky’s under Spangler-Josephson’s guidance is adapting to changing market dynamics. The brand's innovative approach, exemplified by the introduction of prototypes for smaller restaurants with double drive-thrus, showcases a commitment to agility and responsiveness in the face of challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Photo by Christina @ wocintechchat.com on Unsplash
As a part of Roark Capital, Schlotzsky’s under the stewardship of Spangler-Josephson stands to benefit from a rich ecosystem of expertise and resources. The recent milestone of McAlister’s crossing the $1 billion mark in sales underscores the growth potential within the Roark Capital family, setting the stage for Schlotzsky’s to leverage this momentum for sustained success.
With the strategic appointment of Bobby Morena as the new franchising SVP and the rebranding initiative from Focus Brands to GoTo, the future of Schlotzsky’s is positioned for transformative growth. These strategic moves signify a clear commitment to enhancing operational efficiency, expanding franchise reach, and strengthening the brand's market positioning.