A close look at 2024's executive moves across marquee brands, revealing a talent-driven playbook shaping growth, digital strategy, and cross-border expansion.

A wave of KFC closures under EYM Group tests communities and signals broader restructuring across franchise holdings, with layoffs and asset sales on the horizon.

Chipotle launches a roster-wide NIL partnership at Ohio State, offering weekly free entrées to ~1,000 student-athletes, signaling a new era in campus sponsorship.

Sycamore Partners acquires Playa Bowls, signaling a shift toward franchise-led expansion and a new era of scale for the Jersey Shore-born concept.

Leadership changes, strategic closures, and value initiatives push brands to rethink growth and formats as 2026 approaches.

A year of distress hits casual dining as Red Lobster and peers pursue Chapter 11 restructurings, reshaping footprints, leadership, and supplier relations.

Nasdaq deficiency notices push BurgerFi toward Chapter 11, signaling liquidity stress and governance shifts in a multi-brand fast-casual operator.

BJ’s signals renewed growth with a leadership refresh centered on Lyle D. Tick, aiming to sharpen brand clarity, boost guest traffic, and elevate margins across 217 restaurants.

Shake Shack trims its footprint for stronger returns while Hooters faces a sponsorship dispute with Hendrick Motorsports, and leadership moves ripple through the industry.

Six rising brands earn NRN's Hot Concepts badge and head to CREATE in Nashville, backed by Coca-Cola, as they chase national reach.