Dan Harmon Takes the Helm at Pizzana
Veteran restaurant leader Dan Harmon is now CEO of Pizzana and is driving the brand’s national expansion, franchising plans, and operational innovation.
Jun 29, 2026
Veteran restaurant leader Dan Harmon is now CEO of Pizzana and is driving the brand’s national expansion, franchising plans, and operational innovation.
Jun 29, 2026
Major Popeyes franchisee Sailormen's sale of 97 restaurants out of bankruptcy signals shifting industry dynamics. Learn how resilience and adaptability are essential for today's restaurant owners.
Jun 29, 2026
Southpaw's strategic acquisition of 43 Taco Bell stores in Ohio pushes their restaurant count to 180, highlighting their people-first approach and strong growth in the quick-service space.
Jun 29, 2026
Southpaw adds 43 Ohio Taco Bell restaurants to its impressive portfolio, highlighting franchise growth and strengthening the Midwest QSR landscape.
Jun 26, 2026
Darden Restaurants surpassed $13 billion in sales, fueled by robust performance at LongHorn Steakhouse and innovative menu changes at Olive Garden. Explore the strategies driving this industry giant’s continued dominance.
Jun 26, 2026
Discover how Cicis Pizza's rewards program skyrocketed to over one million members in under a year, driving customer engagement and retention. See the lessons for restaurant loyalty programs.
Jun 26, 2026
The fallout of Pizza Hut's mandated AI delivery system rollout has ignited a $100 million lawsuit from a leading franchisee, highlighting crucial franchisor-franchisee lessons for all restaurant owners.
Jun 26, 2026
Expanding to multiple locations requires clear systems, strong managers, smart financing, market research, and performance tracking to protect restaurant profits.
Jun 26, 2026
World Cup knockout games help restaurants boost sales with food and drink specials, group bundles, takeout offers, and timely promotions.
Jun 26, 2026
LongHorn Steakhouse surpassed $1 billion in quarterly sales for the first time, driven by strong value perception and menu innovation. Restaurant leaders can draw key lessons for thriving when consumer price sensitivity is high.
Jun 25, 2026
Stay updated on the latest developments in the restaurant business from ownership changes to innovative product offerings.

Blackstone, a renowned private-equity firm, has made significant moves in the fast-food industry. Following its acquisition of Tropical Smoothie earlier this year, Blackstone has now acquired a majority stake in Jersey Mike’s, a popular sandwich chain. The reported valuation of this deal stands at a staggering $8 billion, showcasing the confidence and interest large investment firms have in the quick-service restaurant sector.

McDonald's, known for its iconic fast food offerings, has faced operational challenges with its espresso machines. The company recently disclosed that its supplier, Melitta, has decommissioned these machines due to safety concerns. This development comes after efforts to resolve issues with the chain's ice cream machines. Such incidents highlight the complexities of maintaining consistent operations in a high-demand industry.

Wendy’s, a prominent player in the fast-food landscape, has appointed a new Chief Financial Officer, Kenneth Cook. Bringing a wealth of financial experience from his previous roles at UPS, Cook's expertise is expected to drive Wendy’s financial strategies forward. This strategic hiring signals Wendy’s commitment to strengthening its financial position and navigating the evolving market dynamics effectively.
In a unique move, Pizza Hut, under the ownership of Yum Brands, has ventured into the world of wine. Partnering with a Kansas winery, Pizza Hut has launched a basil-infused tomato wine specially crafted to complement its signature pizzas. This innovative product offering not only diversifies Pizza Hut's menu but also adds a touch of sophistication to the fast-food dining experience, catering to a broader range of consumer preferences.
The fast-food industry continues to witness exciting developments and strategic shifts as major players adapt to changing consumer preferences and market dynamics. From ownership changes to product innovations, these recent updates showcase the resilience and creativity of restaurant brands in staying relevant and meeting the evolving needs of their customers. Stay tuned for more insights and updates in the dynamic world of fast-food business.