The Latest
-
Spencer Platt via Getty Images
Tracking the same-store sales of 23 major restaurant chains
Q2 2026 saw more evidence of a casual dining resurgence, as fast casual sales stabilized and QSRs posted mixed results.
Updated Aug. 27, 2026 -
smallhandscreative.com
Sponsored by ToastHow to choose restaurant AI tools: What operators prioritize in 2026
Five things to look for in a restaurant AI tool, plus prompts operators can use mid-shift.
-
Laser1987 via Getty Images
OHG Brands appoints Dunkin’ vet as COO
The company, formerly known as Fat Brands, appointed several other C-suite executives as it prepares for its long-term, post-bankruptcy future.
-
Justin Sullivan via Getty Images
Denny’s operator files for Chapter 11
The diner chain is working with EYM’s creditors to find willing operators in its system to take over viable stores.
-
Courtesy of Papa Johns
Papa Johns mobilizes for a quality war
CEO Todd Penegor says the chain has a new business strategy that addresses the weakness of the overall QSR pizza segment.
-
Kevin Frayer via Getty Images
McDonald’s US CMO steps down as sales decline
As the fast food giant searches for a new marketing leader, it will split the role between two longtime executives on an interim basis.
-
Mario Tama via Getty Images
Cava Q3 comps growth moderates
Like Starbucks, Cava’s big traffic gains in H1 moderated, and mix and pricing accounted for a majority of its Q3 same-store sales growth.
-
Ceri Breeze via Getty Images
McDonald’s aims for nationwide drive-thru AI in 2027
The fast food giant says the automated ordering system could save 50 weekly labor hours, but some franchisees are unsure if the technology is something customers want or if it can improve hospitality.
-
bgwalker via Getty Images
McDonald’s pilots mix-and-match bundles
Following mishaps with its $3 and Under menu, the fast food chain laid out a plan to restore frequency and increase sales through entry-level value options.
-
Permission granted by Wetzel's Pretzels/Cold Stone Creamery
MTY Food Group rebuffs Foodtastic’s $720M bid
Following a strategic review of its business, Cold Stone’s parent declined a takeover offer from Foodtastic, prompting the latter to to accuse the company of “unrealistic expectations.”
-
Courtesy of Starbucks
Starbucks puts greater personalization on the menu for 2027
Service times are on target, stores feel warmer and executives want to elevate the app and drive-thru experiences with personalization and AI.
-
Courtesy of Yum! Brands
Taco Bell’s winning streak ends, KFC’s turnaround continues
Yum Brands hopes continued marketing magic at Taco Bell, menu investments at KFC and overall tech improvements will result in strong sales growth.
-
Scott Olson via Getty Images
Outback’s largest U.S. franchisee goes bankrupt
Out West’s bankruptcy could result in Bloomin’ Brands taking direct control of a majority of Outback Steakhouse’s U.S. franchise system.
-
Courtesy of 7 Brew
7 Brew debuts first food menu
The coffee chain’s food launch could help it compete with Starbucks and Dutch Bros, which have more developed breakfast and snack offerings.
-
Getty Images
DoorDash adds $12 value meal boxes
The meal option could help the delivery giant weather consumer price sensitivity, while driving new orders at partner restaurants.
-
Courtesy of Dallas Love Field
Dine Brands fights acquisition attempt with poison pill
Pizza Hut. Wendy’s. Now, Applebee’s and IHOP? Buyers want to take chains private to avoid market pressure — but Dine Brands isn’t ready yet.
-
Spencer Platt via Getty Images
Chipotle Rewards drives a record share of loyalty sales
Membership reached more than 24 million customers, and they accounted for one-third of the chain’s Q3 sales, CEO Scott Boatwright said.
-
Spencer Platt / Staff via Getty Images
Starbucks’ strong comps driven by ticket growth
The chain is moving from a turnaround to a sustained growth plan, CEO Brian Niccol said, as traffic, mix, pricing and merch all contribute to sales growth.
-
Getty Images
FTC, states sue Toast over fees
The agency and eight states allege that the point-of-sale services provider charges its restaurant clients and their customers hidden fees.
Updated Oct. 30, 2026 -
Courtesy of Wingstop
Wingstop leans on marketing, AI to end sale slide
The chain’s marketing strategy will focus on its value proposition and flavor, while the chain will create more personalization to create return guests.
-
Courtesy of Chili's
Chili’s sales are up 52% over 3 years. Here’s how it’s serving diners.
The chain shows no signs of slowing down as it laps multiple years of double-digit same-store sales growth and invests in training, equipment and staffing.
-
Courtesy of Burger King
Popeyes wing cuts and value miss drag sales, Burger King stays hot
Popeyes’ focus on the core menu has improved satisfaction, food quality and value scores — but not sales. Burger King’s success sped up its refranchising.
-
Bruce Bennett via Getty Images
Wendy’s evaluating $1.4B offer from investor group
A committee of independent directors is evaluating the proposal, but the chain made no assurances over the unsolicited proposal or any other transaction.
-
Justin Sullivan via Getty Images
DoorDash to buy Instacart for $17B
The deal marks the consolidation of two major players in the grocery e-commerce industry.
Updated Oct. 29, 2026 -
Brandon Bell / Staff via Getty Images
Wendy’s activist investors propose $1.4B buyout
Trian Fund, owned by former Wendy’s chair Nelson Peltz, alongside other private equity firms said a sale would help the chain focus on long-term profitability.
Updated Nov. 6, 2026 -
Maddie Meyer via Getty Images
The Cheesecake Factory hits record 15.2% comps growth
The brand’s strong managerial retention, social media marketing and menu innovation drove an exceptional quarter.
