Potbelly’s RaceTrac Era: Growth
RaceTrac acquires Potbelly to accelerate a franchising-led expansion, backed by new leadership and an expanded development playbook.
Apr 18, 2026
RaceTrac acquires Potbelly to accelerate a franchising-led expansion, backed by new leadership and an expanded development playbook.
Apr 18, 2026
Photo by Adrien Olichon on Unsplash
Chili’s brings back Ziosk for pay-at-table, loyalty, and AI insights across 1,100+ locations, signaling a thoughtful, guest-focused digital restart.
Apr 18, 2026
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Scottsdale welcomes a compact, all-day market from True Food Kitchen blending wellness-forward meals with grab-and-go convenience, signaling broader growth into market formats.
Apr 18, 2026
The Melting Pot blends modernization with conversions to grow, inviting brighter guest experiences while honoring its fondue heritage.
Apr 18, 2026
Photo by Matt Benson on Unsplash
South Block grows along the East Coast with Savory Fund, preserving neighborhood-first ethos and people-on-the-block philosophy.
Apr 18, 2026
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California's 2024 PAGA reforms curb abuse and streamline workplace claims, balancing worker protections with clearer compliance guardrails for employers.
Apr 18, 2026
A thoughtful look at how fast-service restaurants are embedding safety into infrastructure through cameras, lighting, guards, and real-time communications.
Apr 17, 2026
Four leaders map growth through core offerings, culture, and authentic marketing, outlining Swig, L&L Hawaiian Barbecue, Firebirds, and El Pollo Loco.
Apr 17, 2026
McDonald’s Collector’s Meal blends collectible cups, AR experiences, and live events to rekindle brand bonds across generations.
Apr 17, 2026
Photo by Nick Karvounis on Unsplash
A refined look at how menus revive favorites and push new textures across brands this season.
Apr 17, 2026
Explore how Mountain Mike’s Pizza excels in its operational strategies, franchise support, and guest experience enhancements to drive sustainable growth.
Photo by Ivan Torres on Unsplash
Photo by Ivan Torres on Unsplash
Mountain Mike’s Pizza, under the leadership of CEO Jim Metevier, has strategically expanded its footprint, surpassing 300 restaurants and aiming for 350 locations. The chain's key focus is on finding the right franchisees to ensure the success of each new restaurant. By maintaining a strong franchisee support system, Mountain Mike’s secures sustainable growth and maintains quality across its expanding network.
The company's strategic plan revolves around three key pillars: strengthening the foundation, driving the culture, and growing the brand. By emphasizing guest experience tools, fostering a supportive culture for franchisees, and prioritizing same-store sales growth, Mountain Mike’s enhances operational efficiency and profitability.
Photo by Ivan Torres on Unsplash
Mountain Mike’s looks beyond traditional restaurant experience when selecting franchisees, valuing a hospitality mindset and community engagement. The chain's investment in franchisee training, real estate selection assistance, and continuous support ensures a strong, enduring relationship that drives success for both parties involved.
Embracing technology to elevate the guest experience, Mountain Mike’s Pizza leverages innovations like third-party delivery apps and internal systems to streamline operations. By carefully evaluating technology solutions from the perspective of consumers, operators, and financial impact, the chain ensures that each implementation enhances operational efficiency and guest satisfaction.
While exploring advancements like AI and automation, Mountain Mike’s remains committed to preserving the authentic guest experience. By striking a balance between technological advancements and maintaining personalized interactions, the chain ensures that guests feel valued and engaged, setting itself apart in the competitive restaurant landscape.