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
Discover how Tara Hinkle, the new President of Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, is leading the brand's franchising strategies and market expansion with a focus on sustainable growth.


Tara Hinkle's career boasts almost two decades of experience in the franchising industry, including significant roles at Taco Bell, Starbucks, and now as the President and head of the Americas at Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf. With a strong background in strategic operational planning and franchise finance, Hinkle is well-positioned to drive Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf's growth and market expansion strategies.

As the new President of Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, Tara Hinkle is tasked with overseeing the chain’s growth strategy in the Americas. Her focus on working closely with the franchise development team to support expansion underscores the brand's commitment to sustainable growth. By aligning the brand's strategic vision with scalable expansion plans, Hinkle aims to reinforce Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf's presence in various markets while optimizing business operations.
Hinkle's ambitious goal to expand market reach by empowering the brand's workforce highlights her dedication to exceeding guest expectations. With over 1,200 locations globally and new units in development across the U.S., South America, the Middle East, and Asia, Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf is poised for significant growth. The company's venture into new formats, such as the drive-thru-only concept in Rialto, California, demonstrates a commitment to innovative strategies that cater to high-traffic markets and mobile app users.
One of Hinkle's key responsibilities is to collaborate with operators who have prior restaurant experience, aligning with the brand's strategy to secure 10-store commitments in specific markets. This approach aims to foster long-term partnerships and ensure sustained growth. Additionally, the consideration of single-store and franchise agreements for non-traditional venues showcases Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf's adaptability and interest in exploring diverse expansion opportunities.