Best Financing and Loan Options for Restaurant Owners in 2026
Restaurant owners can use this financing and loan guide to compare funding options, avoid costly mistakes, and improve cash flow.
Jun 19, 2026
Restaurant owners can use this financing and loan guide to compare funding options, avoid costly mistakes, and improve cash flow.
Jun 19, 2026
Propelled Brands lowers Camp Bow Wow’s investment and standardizes a 6,000-sq-ft prototype to attract multi-unit growth amid a tight real estate market.
Jun 18, 2026
Blue Bottle launches a 90-minute, machine-free Kyoto-style espresso, bottled for cold drinks across 152 cafés on June 16.
Jun 18, 2026
A missing Lego Star Wars cache puts Bricks & Minifigs in court, testing franchise rules, consignment policies, and brand trust across a 300‑unit network.
Jun 18, 2026
Domino’s launches a $9.99 any pizza deal, adding Parmesan Stuffed Crust through July 26, 2026, timed to the World Cup with gamified rewards and heavy ad support.
Jun 18, 2026
Raising Cane’s opens a 16,000-square-foot flagship by Intuit Dome in Inglewood, blending spectacle and throughput as the chain accelerates global expansion.
Jun 18, 2026
Restaurants race to modernize POS as mobile wallets surge, cloud adoption grows, drive-thru integrations expand, and costs and interoperability shape strategic selection.
Jun 18, 2026
Boost restaurant revenue during FIFA World Cup 2026 with proven promotion ideas, marketing strategies, staffing tips, and match-day sales tactics.
Jun 18, 2026
Discover how Via 313 and Terry Black’s Barbecue are fusing barbecue flavors and Detroit-style pizza in a bold Texas collaboration. Learn what this means for trend-focused restaurant operators.
Jun 18, 2026
FAT Brands' $595M asset sale marks a seismic shift in the restaurant world. Discover what this landmark bankruptcy outcome means for owners, franchisees, and the future of franchised dining brands.
Jun 18, 2026
Explore the career journey of Mike Axiotis, CEO of Lehigh Valley Restaurant Brands, and his strategies for franchise expansion and industry outlook. Learn about the National Restaurant Association's key focus areas for the coming year.
Photo by Louis Hansel
Photo by Louis Hansel
Mike Axiotis' career trajectory in the restaurant industry is a testament to hard work and determination. Starting as a dishwasher in his uncle's diner, he gradually climbed the ranks to become the CEO of Lehigh Valley Restaurant Brands (LVRB). His experience working in various roles within the company showcases his deep understanding of the business operations and the industry as a whole.
Under Mike Axiotis' leadership, Lehigh Valley Restaurant Brands has embarked on a strategic expansion journey. With 20 Red Robin locations and 10 Wingstop units, the franchise group has been actively growing its portfolio. By investing in the Wingstop system and opening 10 new locations in the past two years, Axiotis has demonstrated a keen eye for opportunities and sustainable growth.
Mike Axiotis' positive outlook for 2025 reflects his confidence in the restaurant industry's resilience and potential for growth. By focusing on thoughtful expansion and strategic partnerships, Axiotis aims to position LVRB as a key player in the market. His strategic vision for the future underscores his commitment to innovation and adaptability in an ever-evolving industry landscape.
As a board member of the National Restaurant Association, Mike Axiotis is actively involved in shaping the industry's future. The association's focus on key issues such as sustainability, technology integration, and workforce development aligns with Axiotis' own priorities for LVRB. By staying informed and engaged with industry trends, Axiotis ensures that the company remains competitive and relevant in a dynamic market.