Fresh Kitchen Hires Veterans to Scale Clean-Label Bowls
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
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
One of the largest U.S. Cyclospora outbreaks hits 34 states; Taco Bell pulls produce in Michigan as FDA and CDC trace the source.
Jul 16, 2026
Discover how SPB Hospitality, parent company of Krystal Restaurants and Logan’s Roadhouse, is reshaping its portfolio and spearheading a comeback for iconic brands.

SPB Hospitality's recent shake-up in its portfolio by divesting from its brewery business marks a strategic move to streamline its focus and pave the way for enhancing its iconic legacy brands. With the sale of several brewery establishments, including Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery and Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant, the company is now positioned to concentrate on reinvigorating brands like Krystal Restaurants and Logan’s Roadhouse.
Following an intense focus on improving the hospitality factor, Logan’s Roadhouse, a notable brand under SPB Hospitality, is nearing the completion of a successful turnaround phase. Looking ahead, the company aims to expand Logan’s Roadhouse into new markets, strategically targeting areas where its competitors are less dominant, such as Texas Roadhouse's strongholds.
In a bid to explore new horizons and cater to evolving consumer preferences, SPB Hospitality has acquired concepts by renowned chef Jose Garces, emphasizing a shift towards upscale casual dining experiences. By aligning with emerging market trends and culinary innovations, the company aims to stay at the forefront of the ever-changing restaurant landscape.

Krystal Restaurants, a beloved quick-service brand with a rich heritage, is undergoing a significant revival effort spearheaded by SPB Hospitality. Despite facing challenges post-bankruptcy, Krystal is on the path to recovery under the guidance of dedicated executives and operational teams.
Amanda Hyde, senior vice president of operations at Krystal, leads the charge in revitalizing the brand by restructuring operations, engaging with franchisees, and infusing new energy into the company. Through store remodels, talent development, and innovative initiatives like the Crystal Ops Advisory Committee, Krystal aims to blend its legacy with modernization seamlessly.