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 Shake Shack's expansion plans, licensing strategy, and global growth in the fast-food industry.

Shake Shack, known for its premium burgers and shakes, has set its sights on a bold expansion strategy to solidify its presence globally. With a vision to operate 1,500 company-owned locations, the company is not just focusing on traditional outlets but also on exploring innovative avenues for growth.

The company's president of global licensing, Michael Kark, highlighted the importance of flexible formats in penetrating new regions in the U.S. Shake Shack's move towards small-format locations and drive-thrus in suburban areas demonstrates its adaptability to diverse consumer preferences.

Shake Shack's recent licensed locations in North America and EMEA have showcased robust sales performances, indicating a positive reception from customers in these markets. This success is a testament to the brand's ability to resonate with a diverse global audience.

Aside from traditional outlets, Shake Shack has also ventured into unconventional partnerships to expand its reach. The collaboration with Delta to offer meals to first-class passengers on domestic flights is a prime example of this innovative approach. By providing a gourmet dining experience at 30,000 feet, Shake Shack is redefining in-flight food offerings.

The strategic licensing deals and expansion into new markets have proven fruitful for Shake Shack, with 256 licensed locations across 20 markets generating a significant $179.6 million in sales as of Q1 2025. This revenue growth is a clear indicator of the success of the brand's global expansion strategy.