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 latest trends in beverage innovation within the QSR and fast casual segments, and how chains are leveraging these to attract Gen Z consumers and drive menu expansion.
Photo by Prahant Designing Studio
The rise of beverage innovation in the Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) and fast casual industries reflects the changing demands of consumers, particularly the younger demographic such as Gen Z. Taco Cabana's introduction of Cabana Refreshers, priced competitively at $3.29, is a strategic move to cater to these evolving preferences. By combining a lemonade base with a fruit blend, the chain aims to provide customers with value-driven and refreshing beverage options.
Photo by Prahant Designing Studio
In a highly competitive market, where chains are constantly vying for consumers' attention, menu expansion is key. Chains like Taco Cabana, Taco Bell, and Whataburger have integrated iced, sweet drinks like Refrescas and Whatafreshers into their menus to attract new customers and retain existing ones. With Cabana Refreshers being available for dine-in, drive-thru, online, and delivery orders, Taco Cabana is ensuring accessibility across all touchpoints.
In addition to core menu additions, limited time offerings (LTOs) play a vital role in driving excitement and foot traffic. Taco Cabana's Tacos & Tequila menu and Cholula Rita LTO are examples of innovative and thematic offerings that resonate with consumers during specific occasions like Cinco de Mayo. These unique offerings not only showcase the chain's creativity but also capture the essence of celebratory moments, further enhancing the overall guest experience.
Photo by Prahant Designing Studio
A successful drink lineup can do more than just boost sales; it can also attract potential franchisees. By tapping into the trend of appealing to younger consumers with innovative beverages, Taco Cabana is not only enhancing its brand image but also creating opportunities for expansion through franchising. With plans to recruit multi-unit franchisees in new territories, the chain is poised to scale its concept beyond Texas and into states like Arizona, Arkansas, and Colorado.