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.
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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 how Todd Ewen's commercial real estate experience is shaping Whataburger's expansion and growth strategy. Learn about his journey from L3 Commercial Development to Senior VP at the iconic burger chain.

Todd Ewen's journey from being the owner/manager of L3 Commercial Development to his current role as the Senior Vice President and Chief Development Officer at Whataburger is a testament to his exceptional leadership and expertise in the commercial real estate industry. With over two decades of experience, Ewen has amassed a wealth of knowledge in site selection, strategic growth, and deal-making, making him a valuable asset to Whataburger's ambitious growth plans.

Since joining Whataburger, Todd Ewen has been instrumental in spearheading the burger chain's expansion into new states, including Florida and Georgia. With plans to enter North Carolina and other markets, Ewen's strategic guidance is paving the way for Whataburger to bring its iconic menu items and hospitality to a broader audience. His role in opening over 1,000 locations last year showcases his dedication to scaling the brand's presence and increasing accessibility for customers.
One of Todd Ewen's key responsibilities at Whataburger is to forge strategic partnerships that fuel the brand's growth. The recent collaboration with Love's Travel Shops to open a location in San Antonio, Texas exemplifies Ewen's ability to identify new opportunities for expansion. By leveraging his real estate acumen and industry connections, Ewen is driving Whataburger's vision to introduce its beloved menu offerings to millions of new customers across the country.
As Whataburger aims to reach more customers and expand its footprint nationwide, Todd Ewen's in-depth understanding of the quick-service restaurant industry's real estate dynamics plays a pivotal role. His experience at McDonald's and L3 Commercial Development has honed his expertise in growth strategy execution, making him a trusted leader in guiding Whataburger towards sustainable and successful expansion.