Photo by Unseen Histories on Unsplash
Franchise Frenzy: Cross-Border Growth
A look at how U.S. brands expand through multi-unit deals, cross-border partnerships, and seasoned operators in 2026.
Apr 29, 2026
Photo by Unseen Histories on Unsplash
A look at how U.S. brands expand through multi-unit deals, cross-border partnerships, and seasoned operators in 2026.
Apr 29, 2026
Photo by Erik Mclean on Unsplash
McDonald’s unveils six beverages across 14,000 restaurants on May 6, expanding McCafé with Refresher and crafted sodas and a new store-level beverage specialist role.
Apr 29, 2026
Learn how to write a coffee shop business plan that covers concept, location, menu, finances, branding, marketing, and risk planning.
Apr 27, 2026
Explore marketing strategies for food businesses using reviews, professional photos, SEO, social media, partnerships, events, and catering.
Apr 28, 2026
Photo by shen wenjie on Unsplash
Holiday-driven menu drops fuse nostalgia with wellness, turning menus into living calendars for fast-casual brands.
Apr 28, 2026
Photo by Abdul Raheem Kannath on Unsplash
Susannah Frost named Chick-fil-A President, joining Cliff Robinson as COO to guide domestic expansion and international growth.
Apr 28, 2026
Photo by Moon Bhuyan on Unsplash
Ghost pepper-led promotions redefine autumn menus as chains blend heat, storytelling, and seasonal collaborations to drive foot traffic.
Apr 28, 2026
Photo by Noah Martinez on Unsplash
CAVA rolls out Garlic Ranch Pita Chips with a Steak + Harissa Bowl and a refreshed Rewards program, tying flavor innovation to personalized guest experiences.
Apr 28, 2026
Photo by Kate Trysh on Unsplash
Applebee’s launches Pick 6 Mondays, offering free wings with a $10 purchase when a Pick 6 occurs on Sundays, driving game-day momentum across dine-in and To Go.
Apr 28, 2026
Photo by Stu Moffat on Unsplash
Beatrice Nguyen explores how leadership blends speed, loyalty, and standardized operations to grow Shake Shack while preserving its signature experience.
Apr 28, 2026
Exploring the influence of population growth on Tim Hortons' expansion strategies and other notable events in the restaurant industry.

The significant increase in Canada's population, growing by 3.9% last year, has triggered a reevaluation of expansion tactics for Tim Hortons. With the country experiencing the most substantial population growth in 66 years primarily due to immigration, Tim Hortons, being Toronto-based, is directly impacted. The surge in residents has created a favorable environment for the chain to consider new locations and adjust its offerings to cater to the evolving demographic landscape.

In recent industry developments, Cherry Bounce Hospitality made headlines by acquiring Party Fowl, a three-unit chicken concept based in Nashville. The move comes after Party Fowl faced financial turmoil and filed for bankruptcy earlier this year. The acquisition showcases Cherry Bounce Hospitality's strategic vision and expansion plans within the competitive restaurant market. It highlights the resilience and opportunity present in acquiring distressed businesses and revitalizing them under new ownership.

Legal battles in the restaurant industry have been brought to light by Smalls Sliders suing Smashburger over trademark infringement. The dispute centers on Smashburger's updated logo bearing similarities to that of Smalls Sliders. With Smalls Sliders operating 19 units and Smashburger enjoying a fast-casual presence, the case underscores the importance of brand identity and the potential pitfalls of unintentional logo similarities in a saturated market.
Crumbl, the dessert chain, has expanded its reach into the corporate catering sector by teaming up with ezCater. This collaboration allows Crumbl franchisees to leverage ezCater's platform and smartphone app for delivering orders to workplaces. The synergy between the two companies capitalizes on the growing demand for convenient and diverse catering options in office settings, presenting a win-win situation for both businesses and consumers.
For more industry updates and insights, tune in to the Restaurant Daily podcast to stay informed about the latest trends, acquisitions, and legal challenges in the dynamic world of food service. Stay ahead of the curve by following the headlines and understanding the ever-evolving landscape of the restaurant business.