Thomas Keller Group Settles EEOC Case for $2 Million
Thomas Keller Restaurant Group will pay $2M to settle an EEOC harassment and retaliation case tied to Bouchon Las Vegas, closing a long-running action from 2018.
Jul 19, 2026
Thomas Keller Restaurant Group will pay $2M to settle an EEOC harassment and retaliation case tied to Bouchon Las Vegas, closing a long-running action from 2018.
Jul 19, 2026
Fresh Kitchen names Bill Knopf and Matt Livingston to lead operations and development as the clean-label bowl brand targets growth beyond 100 locations.
Jul 18, 2026
Hardee’s franchisee Superior Star filed Chapter 11 after a 2023 deal revealed unpaid taxes, costly repairs, and lease burdens; plans to reject leases and refocus.
Jul 18, 2026
Cinnabon posted a net gain of 308 U.S. units in 2025 and launched Seattle’s Best Coffee in 2026 to boost beverage mix, margins, and franchise-driven expansion.
Jul 18, 2026
Craveworthy taps master franchisee Unisan Bowls to launch Genghis Grill and Dirty Dough in India, targeting Hyderabad first amid tight U.S. financing.
Jul 17, 2026
Buffalo Wild Wings launches Poppin’ Ranch, a 99-cent popping-candy ranch add-on, designed to spark sensory buzz and impulse trials ahead of Wing Day.
Jul 17, 2026
Wonder closed a $650M Series D at a $9B valuation to expand locations and invest in robotics, AI, and delivery tech, accelerating its automation-first restaurant model.
Jul 17, 2026
Understand sports bar startup expenses, including location, construction, kitchen equipment, televisions, licenses, insurance, staffing, supplies, and cash reserves for operations.
Jul 16, 2026
Learn how to increase restaurant sales during the World Cup final through smarter planning, staffing, promotions, inventory, menus, and operations.
Jul 16, 2026
Mother-daughter duo Ciara Boyce and Tracey Pidge bring Hotworx to Wasilla, the first of four Alaska studios, extending a fast-growing 800+ location brand.
Jul 16, 2026
Explore the impact of consumer spending trends on large fast-food chains and the role of value offerings in driving traffic and growth.
Photo by Annie Spratt
In the current economic landscape, maintaining flat spending growth is increasingly viewed as a positive outcome for large fast-food chains. As David Portalitan aptly puts it, 'Flat is the new up,' emphasizing the need for continuous effort just to retain existing levels. This shift in perspective highlights the challenges faced by industry giants in sustaining growth.
Photo by Annie Spratt
Value deals have emerged as key drivers of consumer behavior, with a notable impact on traffic patterns. Studies indicate that value deals, such as meal packages and discounts, have led to a significant increase in footfall, often exceeding 5%. Understanding the value perception of customers and their evolving satisfaction with price-to-value ratios is crucial in the current market.
Photo by Annie Spratt
Value remains a crucial factor shaping consumer choices in the restaurant space. While price plays a role, customers are increasingly valuing other aspects of the dining experience. Quality, unique offerings, exceptional service, and convenience are now pivotal factors influencing where consumers choose to spend their money.
Photo by Annie Spratt
Consumers are placing a premium on differentiated experiences when dining out. Craveable indulgences not easily replicated at home, personalized customer service, memorable experiences, and overall convenience are becoming significant differentiators for restaurants. Understanding and catering to these demands can set chains apart in a competitive market.
Photo by Annie Spratt
McDonald's continues to hold a significant share of the market, with an impressive 86% annual buyer penetration rate. The chain's ubiquitous presence and convenient locations make it a go-to choice for many consumers. This underscores the importance of accessibility and speed of service in attracting and retaining customers.
Photo by Annie Spratt
While some large chains experience stagnant growth, there are success stories of emerging brands making their mark. Chains like Dutch Bros, Raising Cane’s, and Wingstop have showcased remarkable increases in consumer spending, indicating resilience and adaptability in a competitive landscape. This diversity highlights the dynamic nature of the industry.