QDOBA Announces Appointment of Former Applebee's COO, Kevin Carroll, as Chief Operating Officer

America's rapidly growing #2 restaurant brand in the Mexican fast-casual category, today announced Kevin Carroll has joined the company as Chief Operating Officer. Carroll brings extensive restaurant leadership experience and is responsible for all aspects of QDOBA's operations strategy and execution across approximately 800 restaurants in the U.S., Puerto Rico and Canada. This appointment comes on the heels of the brand posting a 7.7% increase in comp sales for its fiscal year ending September 2024, on top of last year's 6.3% comp sales growth...

Subway Continues to Expand Its Global Presence with Over 10,000 Future Restaurant Commitments

Subway®, one of the world's largest restaurant brands, is reaching new milestones as it makes progress on its global growth strategy to expand its footprint, while delivering a high-quality, convenient guest experience around the world.

Over the past three years, Subway has signed more than 20 master franchise agreements, resulting in over 10,000 future restaurant commitments and contributing to over 40% of the brand's new restaurant openings this year. Seven of the 20 master franchise agreements have been signed in 2024, marking its entry into...

Panera Bread Offers Feel-Good Fall Savings on Fan Favorite Menu Items

At Panera, you don't have to choose between a great deal and feeling good about what you eat. Just in time for fall, Panera is kicking off a limited-time deal on two fan-favorite menu items so guests can enjoy a satisfyingly delicious feel-good meal at a great value. Starting today, guests can use the code FALLDEAL to enjoy a whole-sized Chicken Bacon Rancher Sandwich or Fuji Apple Chicken Salad plus a free side for $7.99.*

Since its debut on the Panera menu this...

Smashburger Appoints Jim Sullivan as Chief Development Officer

Leading fast-casual better burger brand Smashburger® is excited to announce the recent appointment of Jim Sullivan as Chief Development Officer. In his new role, Sullivan is responsible for overseeing all facets of restaurant development, including market planning, site selection and franchise sales, with a strategic focus on elevating Smashburger's brand identity in the fast-casual space.

All 144 locations of the Company's two brands throughout the United States, including in Puerto Rico, and in Saudi Arabia, (both corporate-owned and franchised) will continue normal, uninterrupted operations. The Chapter 11 filing...

BurgerFi International Files for Protection Under Chapter 11

BurgerFi International, Inc. (NASDAQ: BFI, BFIIW) ("BurgerFi" or the "Company"), owner of the high-quality, casual dining chain Anthony's Coal Fired Pizza & Wings ("Anthony's") and one of the nation's leading fast-casual "better burger" dining concepts, BurgerFi, announced today that it has filed voluntary petitions for reorganization under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code in order to preserve the value of its brands for all stakeholders.

All 144 locations of the Company's two brands throughout the United States, including in Puerto Rico, and in Saudi Arabia, (both corporate-owned and franchised)...

fuku Spices Things Up with New Location at Crypto.com Arena

fuku®, the spicy fried chicken concept created by David Chang, has added a new location on the west coast at Crypto.com Arena. This partnership, brokered by AEG Global Partnerships, is the brand’s first presence in the Greater Los Angeles area and will go live during the NBA and NHL home openers with the Los Angeles Lakers on Oct. 22 and LA Kings on Oct. 24. fuku is forging an accelerated growth strategy and now has 23 locations in 15 major stadiums and arenas across the U.S. and counting...

Chipotle Brings Back Smoked Brisket in the U.S. and Canada

Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE: CMG) today announced Smoked Brisket is back on the grill at participating restaurants in the U.S. and Canada for a limited time. Smoked Brisket has remained a top requested menu item for Chipotle to bring back among fans on social media since it was first introduced three years ago.

We are listening to our guests and bringing this fan-favorite menu innovation out of the vault after three years," said Chris Brandt, Chief Brand Officer. "This premium protein...

More Choices, Less Satisfaction? A Look at Findings from Recent Micro Study on Fast-Casual Chains

Data intelligence solutions provider Competitor IQ, a subsidiary of DALBAR Inc., shared insights from a micro study focused on the fast-casual foodservice landscape.

The study focused on fast-casual chains operating in Atlanta, Georgia and the big takeaway focused on the “Customization Conundrum.”

According to the firm, fast-casual chains have had an increased focus on customization options. Think of options like Chioptle or the various sandwich chains that allow customers to create meals to their specifications...

Chipotle Teamsters Hold Day of Action Throughout Michigan to Demand Fair Contract

Members of Teamsters Locals 243, 247, 332, 337, 406, and 1038 picketed and leafleted outside of Chipotle restaurants in Lansing and Detroit on Monday to demand a fair contract from the fast casual behemoth. Chipotle workers at one of the chain's Lansing restaurants are represented by Local 243.

"These hardworking Teamsters aren't going to back down from a fight for fair wages, increased safety standards, a fair process for scheduling, and protection from retaliation," said Scott Quenneville, President of Local 243. "Chipotle is a multibillion-dollar enterprise...

Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers to Expand South Carolina Footprint with 10-Unit Development 

Fast-casual restaurant concept, Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers®, announced today the signing of a multi-unit development agreement to bring 10 new locations to Greenville and Spartanburg Counties in South Carolina. NFL offensive lineman Ben Powers, along with GVL Hospitality Group, will spearhead this expansion.

GVL Hospitality, which includes business partners Brett Rickert and Brian Stevens, has already begun the search for suitable sites in each county. The first property is expected to be purchased by the end of...

Chipotle Announces CEO Departure

Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. today announced that Brian Niccol, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, has accepted the role as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Starbucks and will be leaving the Company effective August 31, 2024. Niccol has served as Chipotle's CEO since 2018 and as Chairman of the Board since 2020.

Chipotle's Board of Directors has appointed Scott Boatwright, Chief Operating Officer, as Interim CEO. Boatwright joined Chipotle in 2017 and has been instrumental in driving restaurant operations for the company's more than 120,000 employees and over 3,500 restaurants. He also led the integration...

Papa Johns Appoints Restaurant Industry Veteran Todd Penegor as President and CEO

Papa John’s International, Inc. today announced that its Board of Directors has appointed Todd Penegor as President and Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. Mr. Penegor has also joined the Company’s Board of Directors. He succeeds Ravi Thanawala, who has served as Interim CEO since March 2024 and will continue in his role as Chief Financial Officer.

Mr. Penegor, most recently President and Chief Executive Officer of The Wendy’s Company, is a proven leader with 20 years of experience in the restaurant and consumer goods industries...

Subway's Summer of Footlongs Heats Up with All-New Signature Sandwiches, Sauces and Toppings

Subway's Summer of Footlongs shows no signs of slowing down as the brand makes significant updates to its menu with bold new flavors, textures and returning fan favorites – each showcased on three new signature subs. After unveiling Footlong Dippers last month, Subway's latest footlong snacking innovation, this menu refresh gives its world-famous footlong subs a spicy, tangy and satisfying crunch.

New and Returning Signature Sauces

After a three-year hiatus, Subway's sweet and tangy BBQ sauce is back...

Dickey’s Barbecue Offering Sandwich Deal and FREE Delivery

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit continues to turn up the heat up this summer with some smokin’ hot, summer deals.

After huge success in the Dallas/Ft. Worth market, Dickey’s has decided to expand a local promotion for barbecue enthusiasts across the country. Starting July 8th, 2024, guests can now visit their favorite Dickey’s franchise store and purchase a pulled pork sandwich for only $4.99. This smokin’ special is available all day, every day, and can be purchased in store, online, and on the Dickey’s App with no additional purchase necessary...

Panera Takes Breakfast into its New Era with Savory and Sweet New Breakfast Menu

From savory to sweet, Panera Bread is bringing the "Cinna-mmm" this June as it continues its menu transformation with a suite of new and limited-edition breakfast items sure to wake up any morning meal. Now available at bakery-cafes nationwide, the new breakfast responds to guest preferences, bringing more bacon, new proteins and offering creative spins on popular bakery items.

New Breakfast Sandwiches Deliver Crave-Worthy Flavor
Panera Bread's commitment to delicious and satisfying breakfast options continues with the introduction of new breakfast sandwiches...

Chipotle Extends Celebrity Status to Brand Superfans, Launches Card Application on LinkedIn

Chipotle Mexican Grill today announced that it is accepting applications on LinkedIn for its coveted Celebrity Card for the first time ever.

Over the past two decades, Chipotle's Celebrity Card has been presented to notable figures who have publicly expressed their passion for Chipotle, but now the brand is accepting applications from all superfans to participate.

How to Get a Celebrity Card

1. Starting today through July 3, Chipotle fans can apply to become a Celebrity Card holder via LinkedIn Easy Apply here...

Subway® Declassifies Ultimate Footlong Offering for World UFO Day: Flying Footlongs and Deals for True Believers

On World UFO Day, you might see a different kind of UFO in the sky as Subway drones* deliver the Ultimate Footlong Offering – Subway's all-new Footlong Dippers, the fan-favorite Footlong Cookies and the iconic Footlong Sub – in select U.S. cities across the country. Not lucky enough to see Subway's UFOs on World UFO Day? Not to worry, as the Ultimate Footlong Offering will also descend upon restaurants nationwide for one week only: 20% off any Footlong Sub when ordered...

QDOBA Introduces More Flavor and Heat to the Menu with Habanero Lime Steak

QDOBA, America's #2 restaurant brand in the Mexican fast-casual category, today announced its newest protein, Habanero Lime Steak, available for a limited time. Continuing to flex its innovation muscle and keeping guests' creations new and flavorful, the spicy new menu option, available exclusively at QDOBA, features tender grilled steak tossed in fiery habanero sauce, lime juice and fresh cilantro. Sautéed in-house over an open flame, the new Habanero Lime Steak packs a fiery punch, underscoring QDOBA's continued focus on flavor — and its ability to keep...

Subway Unveils All-New Footlong Dippers for $3, Kicking off the Summer of Footlongs

Subway® is fueling America's love for all things Footlong with the debut of all-new Footlong Dippers, available at restaurants nationwide. These hot, cheesy and craveable footlong snacks join the wildly popular Sidekicks menu at the irresistible price of $3*.

Footlong Dippers are served hot, swirling melted cheese and meat and rolled in Subway's soft and bubbly lavash-style flatbread. Three mouthwatering varieties – Pepperoni & Cheese, Chicken & Cheese and Double Cheese – are served with one of Subway's 11 signature sauces...

Chipotle will Reward Fans with Free Burritos During the 2024 Men's Professional Basketball Championship Series

Chipotle Mexican Grill today announced a new promotion called "Free Throws, Free Codes" ahead of the 2024 men's professional basketball championship series.

How It Works

1. When a player makes all their free throws at the line during games of the 2024 men's professional basketball championship series, Chipotle will drop a text-to-claim code* via a tweet from @ChipotleTweets on X.

Examples:

• A player is fouled on a two-point shot and makes both free throws...

Delicious Deal Alert: Domino's® Pizza is 50% Off This Week!

Craving delicious, mouth-watering pizza at an even tastier price? Domino's Pizza Inc. (NYSE: DPZ) has you covered. The largest pizza company in the world is running a special deal: 50% off all menu-priced pizzas ordered online June 3-9.

"The first day of summer is June 20, but you don't have to wait to celebrate," said Kate Trumbull, Domino's senior vice president – chief brand officer. "Start the festivities early by trying our newest crust – New York Style...

BurgerFi Relaunches The Chicken Wars

Hold onto your beaks! BurgerFi® is "winging it" big time by rebranding as ChickenFi and diving into the Chicken Wars! The name change ruffles feathers and celebrates the debut of the new Fried and Grilled Chicken Sandwiches and this antibiotic-free chicken is available every day including Sundays. Yes, that is right, Sundays! Bring your appetite and savor these new chicken offerings starting on May 21, 2024.

"Chicken presents a significant opportunity for business growth. We've expanded our chicken offerings by 50%, broadening our menu...

Pizza Hut Announces Kalen Thornton as Global Chief Brand Officer

Today, Pizza Hut announced two new executive marketing appointments.

Kalen Thornton will join the company as Global Chief Brand Officer reporting to Pizza Hut Division Chief Executive Officer, Aaron Powell, effective June 10. In this role, Thornton will lead Pizza Hut's global brand strategy and oversee all aspects of marketing across 110 markets and territories. Thornton will also be responsible for guiding the brand to a new chapter of relevance – harnessing the power of strategic, engaging customer connections across physical and digital touchpoints and ensuring that...

Pizza Hut Enters the Burger Business with New Cheeseburger Melt

Starting today, Pizza Hut is entering the burger business with a better way to burger. Introducing the new Cheeseburger Melt, a parmesan-crusted thin crust Melt folded and loaded with beef, applewood-smoked bacon, onions, mozzarella, and cheddar, served with Burger Sauce on the side. The savory, cheesy, crunchy menu item ditches the bun (say goodbye to soggy bun burger deliveries) and brings together a medley of flavors for those craving a cheeseburger all wrapped into a crispy thin crust. With this handheld, Pizza Hut has cracked the code...

Papa Johns Announces Kurt Milburn as Chief Supply Chain Officer

Papa John's International, Inc. today announced the promotion of Kurt Milburn to Chief Supply Chain Officer, succeeding Shane Hutchins, who will retire after 26 years at Papa Johns, where he served as Chief Supply Chain Officer since October 2018. Mr. Hutchins will continue to work with Papa Johns as a consultant on special projects and to ensure a smooth transition.

Mr. Milburn joined Papa Johns in 2022 as Vice President of Supply Chain Operations and since that time has taken on additional responsibility to include engineering and...

Wingstop Inc. Reports Fiscal First Quarter 2024 Financial Results

Wingstop Inc.today announced financial results for the fiscal first quarter ended March 30, 2024.

Highlights for the fiscal first quarter 2024 compared to the fiscal first quarter 2023:

• System-wide sales increased 36.8% to $1.1 billion
• 65 net new openings in the fiscal first quarter 2024
• Domestic same store sales increased 21.6%
• Domestic restaurant AUV increased to $1.9 million
• Digital sales increased to 68.3% of system-wide sales
• Total revenue increased 34.1% to $145.8 million
• Net income increased 83.5% to $28.7 million, or $0.98 per diluted...

Subway Sale to Roark is Complete

Transaction signals next phase of Subway’s journey, capitalizing on three years of growth

Subway®, one of the world’s largest restaurant brands, today completed its previously announced sale to affiliates of Roark.

The acquisition comes on the heels of Subway’s three exceptional years of sales growth and positive global net restaurant growth for the first time since 2016. The brand has continued to innovate in 2024, with the introduction of Subway Sidekicks, a hot new menu category, and a fresh lineup of signature wraps, served on a new lavash-style flatbread...

Domino's® is Tipping Customers Who Tip Their Delivery Drivers

Domino's Pizza Inc. brought you Carryout Tips. Now the largest pizza company in the world, known for its value innovation, is launching You Tip, We Tip – a promotion that tips customers who tip their delivery drivers, beginning April 29.

"Domino's drivers have been hustling to deliver hot, delicious pizzas since 1960, and we love that customers have been tipping them for their great service since day one," said Kate Trumbull, Domino's senior vice president – chief brand officer. "But these days, everywhere you...

Introducing Domino's® New York Style Pizza

Craving a delicious, new crust that is thin and cut into big, foldable slices? Domino's Pizza Inc. (NYSE: DPZ), the largest pizza company in the world, has you covered. Introducing New York Style Pizza: a pizza that is designed to be even more delicious, whether you hail from New York City or beyond.

Domino's New York Style Pizza is made with fresh, never frozen dough that is stretched thin, by hand. It is topped with a melty blend of cheese made with 100% real mozzarella and provolone, and cut into six big, foldable...

Papa Johns Deepens Strategic Partnership With the Bajco Group to Expand Presence in North America 

Papa John’s International, Inc. (“Papa Johns” or “Company”) today announced plans to open 50 new restaurants by 2028 in partnership with franchisee Nadeem Bajwa and his company, The Bajco Group, which has grown over the past 20 years to become one of Papa Johns largest domestic franchisees.

Furthering Bajwa’s goal to own 500 Papa Johns restaurants, the new agreement will expand the Papa Johns footprint in The Bajco Group’s existing markets across the Midwest and in Arizona, Pennsylvania...

It's Back! Noodles & Company's Famous Steak Stroganoff Makes an Epic Return

The moment Noodles & Company fans have been waiting for is here, Steak Stroganoff is back! Noodles & Company, the national fast-casual chain known for spreading Uncommon Goodness with its globally-inspired noodle bowls, best-in-class service, and values-centric culture, announced today the highly anticipated, limited time return of Steak Stroganoff. Noodles is delivering nostalgia and satisfying goodness to guests with its most requested fan-favorite dish. Beginning April 10, Steak Stroganoff is available at Noodles restaurants for just $10.95, guests can now savor its return...

Chipotle Hides More than $1 Million in Free Burritos Inside New Burrito Vault Game 

Chipotle Mexican Grill today announced it is launching a new interactive game, Burrito Vault, that will give away 100,000 Buy-One-Get-One free entrée codes* redeemable exclusively on National Burrito Day, April 4.

Starting at 12pm PT today, fans can access the Burrito Vault game by visiting www.unlockburritoday.com. The brand is challenging fans to guess two exact order combinations, ingredient by ingredient, that will unlock the bank. Prizes are available for the first 50,000 fans on April 2...

Circana Announces Top 50 U.S. Restaurants

Circana™, the leading advisor on the complexity of consumer behavior, today released its 2024 Definitive U.S. Restaurant Ranking Report, offering insights into evolving consumer habits, performance trends, and the top players in the industry.

While restaurant traffic saw a modest growth of 1% in 2023 compared to the previous year, a 5% increase in consumer spending was recorded, surpassing the 4% growth observed in 2022. Notably, the industry now stands as a half-a-trillion-dollar juggernaut, with dollars exceeding 2019 levels by 12%, despite traffic remaining 8% below prepandemic levels...

Subway® Selects PepsiCo as its Beverage Partner in the U.S.

Subway®, one of the world's largest restaurant brands, today announced a 10-year agreement with PepsiCo to supply beverages in U.S. restaurants beginning January 1, 2025. Subway's longstanding partnership with Frito-Lay® will also be extended through 2030, bringing the brand's U.S. snack and beverage portfolio together under one supplier and driving more efficiency across the system.

Under the new agreement, Subway restaurants will offer a consumer-driven assortment of beverages from the diverse PepsiCo beverages portfolio such as Pepsi®, Pepsi®...

Marco's Franchising Announces Mexico Expansion with 50-Unit Master Franchise Agreement

Marco's Franchising, one of the nation's fastest-growing pizza brand franchises, announces a 50-unit master franchise agreement marking its debut in Mexico City as international development takes center stage in 2024.

Behind the development is Grupo Pizza Amantes SA de CV, a Mexican company run by four business partners. With the three principals having more than 20 years of experience in the restaurant, hospitality, and retail industry, Grupo Pizza Amantes has been appointed as the master franchisee for Mexico City...

Domino's® is Giving Basketball Fans a Slam Dunk of a Deal

Domino's Pizza Inc., the largest pizza company in the world, is celebrating college basketball's biggest month by offering customers 50% off all menu-priced pizzas ordered online today through March 24.

"Domino's is making an assist to customers for a slam dunk of a deal," said Christopher Thomas-Moore, Domino's senior vice president – chief digital officer. "What's better than enjoying delicious pizza while cheering on your favorite team? Enjoying delicious pizza when it's half off!"

The 50% off deal is available on menu-priced pizzas ordered through...

Chicken Al Pastor is Back: Chipotle Reintroduces One of its Most Popular Menu Innovations

Chipotle Mexican Grill today announced it is bringing back Chicken al Pastor to restaurants around the world for a limited time starting today. Back by popular demand, Chicken al Pastor levels up any go-to Chipotle order with a sophisticated flavor profile and elevated taste.

Sweet Heat Sizzles at Chipotle
Chicken al Pastor debuted in March 2023 as Chipotle's first global menu innovation, delighting fans in the U.S., Canada, U.K., France and Germany with a new flavor that quickly became a fan favorite...

Little Caesars to Launch Crazy Puffs®: Pocket-Sized Pieces of Pizza Bliss!

Little Caesars, home of the HOT-N-READY® pizza, is redefining handheld goodness with the launch of Crazy Puffs. These bite-sized pockets of pizza perfection are a versatile option for any dining occasion and are perfect as your new road trip companion, lunchtime hero, crowd-pleasing treat, and game-day MVP.

The new Crazy Puffs product contains the crave-worthy flavors of a classic pizza, wrapped in a handheld golden, flaky crust. Melty mozzarella cheese, sizzling pepperoni...

QDOBA Mexican Eats® Has Valentine's Day Celebrations Covered, No Matter Your Relationship Status

This Valentine's Day, QDOBA is celebrating with fans, whether their relationship status is single, in a situationship or relationship, or simply those looking to grab lunch with a friend! According to a recent survey of the Gen Z demographic issued by QDOBA, only 11% of people believe Valentine's Day is strictly for romantic relationships, further underscoring the brand's invitation to celebrate yourself, friends, work bestie or anyone you fancy on the upcoming holiday. In the spirit of love — and like — for one day only on Valentine's...

Good Times Restaurants Reports Results for the 2024 First Fiscal Quarter Ending December 26, 2023

Good Times Restaurants Inc. (Nasdaq: GTIM), operator of the Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar and Good Times Burgers & Frozen Custard restaurant brands, today reported financial results for the 2024 first fiscal quarter ended December 26, 2023.

Key highlights of the Company’s financial results include:

• Total Revenues for the quarter decreased 0.8% to $33.1 million compared to the first quarter of fiscal 2023
• Total Restaurant Sales for Bad Daddy’s restaurants were $24.1 million for the quarter
• Same Store Sales1 for company-owned Bad Daddy’s restaurants...

Only 35% of Americans Have Had Their "First Time" with American Wagyu - Capriotti's is Fixing That

Capriotti's Sandwich Shop is on a mission to help everyone in America experience their first time with American Wagyu. In a recent survey of 1,500 Americans, only 35% of people have ever eaten American Wagyu. Known as some of the most tender and juicy beef on the market, American Wagyu is now more accessible than ever before with the permanent addition of the American Wagyu French Dip to the Capriotti's menu.

In the survey, 55% of those who have tasted American Wagyu...

Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers Drives Expansion Through Recent Reinvestment 

Fast-casual restaurant concept Freddy's announced today the signing of several multi-unit development agreements to further expand the brand's nationwide footprint. The growth will be led by seasoned franchisees in Freddy's existing system, bringing more than 30 new restaurants to target markets within New Mexico, Texas, Idaho, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Missouri, and Arizona. This announcement comes on the heels of a historic year of development for Freddy's, as the brand unveiled 62 new restaurants across the nation, including its 500th location...

SoundHound And Jersey Mike’s Introduce Voice AI Phone Ordering

SoundHound AI, Inc. (Nasdaq: SOUN), a global leader in voice artificial intelligence, and Jersey Mike’s Subs today announced that they are working together to give customers the ability to place phone orders for pick-up via a state-of-the-art voice AI ordering system. Optimized for natural human speech, Jersey Mike’s customers won’t have to modify their language or interact awkwardly with the software – they can just speak naturally as they would to another person.

Initially live at 50 locations, SoundHound’s voice technology has been trained on the...

Domino's® Weeklong Carryout Deal is Back with Great Value on Hot Pizza

If you are thinking about how to stay warm on these cold winter days, Domino's has you covered with a special price on hot pizza this week. Domino's Pizza Inc. (NYSE:DPZ) the largest pizza company in the world, is offering customers at its corporate and franchise owned stores across the country a limited-time special on large two-topping carryout pizzas for $6.99 each, available from Jan. 22-28.

"January's colder days are the perfect time for enjoying delicious hot pizza at a great value,"...

Pizza Hut Releases Report on 2024 Pizza Trends

To kick off the New Year, Pizza Hut is revealing its latest research on pizza trends and top predictions of what's to come in the pizza category for 2024. Pizza Hut has led the way with culinary innovation and iconic pizzas since 1958, from the Original Pan® Pizza to Original Stuffed Crust® to its latest category innovation, Pizza Hut Melts®. The leading pizza destination continues to push boundaries, always staying on the pulse of the latest trends and consumer behaviors to introduce new...

Freddy's Launches New Grilled and Crispy Chicken Club Sandwiches

Fast-casual restaurant concept, Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers®, announced today the launch of its new Grilled and Crispy Chicken Club Sandwiches and the limited-time Frozen Hot Chocolate Shake made with Ghirardelli®. The Chicken Club Sandwiches are available at Freddy's locations nationwide via drive-thru, in-restaurant dining, and pickup or delivery through the Freddy's mobile app and at https://freddys.com. The Frozen Hot Chocolate Shake made with Ghirardelli® is available now for a limited time through March 5, or while supplies last...

Crush Your New Year's Goals with Qdoba Mexican Eats New Post-Workout Bowls

In a flavorful collaboration, QDOBA has teamed up with Avocados From Mexico®, the number one selling avocado brand in the U.S., to add a nutritional boost to three of the new menu items with QDOBA's signature hand-smashed guacamole, crafted from the finest Avocados from Mexico that provides good fats and nearly 20 vitamins and minerals1.

Whether you're following a low carb or keto nutrition plan, macro counting or embracing a vegan, vegetarian or gluten-friendly diet...

Papa Johns Introduces New Cheesy Calzone Epic Stuffed Crust

Papa Johns is staking its claim as the leader in stuffed crust by announcing today its all-new Cheesy Calzone Epic Stuffed Crust pizza, a calzone-inspired stuffed crust that delivers crave-worthy flavors in a never-before-seen way. Cheesy Calzone Epic Stuffed Crust Pizza is the latest iteration of Papa Johns Epic Stuffed Crust line of pizzas, following the popular pepperoni and garlic varieties, proving that the brand knows its “stuff” about stuffed crust.

“Papa Johns has made a name for itself in the stuffed crust game by...

QDOBA Completes Whole Business Securitization, Providing Additional Liquidity to Supercharge Growth

QDOBA Restaurant Corporation (“QDOBA”), the leading fast-casual Mexican restaurant franchisor and portfolio company of Butterfly Equity (“Butterfly”), today announced the closing of its inaugural $305 million whole business securitization through Qdoba Funding LLC.

The transaction optimizes QDOBA’s capital structure for ongoing growth and provides meaningful interest expense savings. Proceeds from the transaction will be used primarily to refinance QDOBA’s existing senior debt facilities and provide liquidity to invest meaningfully in general corporate initiatives, such as remodeling more than 80 corporate restaurants and adding digital menu boards to... 

New Markets and Award Recognitions Position the Noodles & Company Franchise for Momentum in 2024

Noodles & Company, (NASDAQ: NDLS) the national fast-casual chain known for its globally inspired noodle bowls, best-in-class service, and values-centric culture, entered new franchise markets and achieved high accolades in 2023 with honors from top publications including Forbes, Denver Business Journal, and Franchise Times. Noodles' franchise growth and award achievements demonstrate how the franchise continues to be an enticing opportunity for experienced multi-unit, multi-concept operators.

This year Noodles & Company made significant strides in furthering its franchise growth strategy called...

Chipotle Names Ilene Eskenazi Chief Human Resources Officer

Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE: CMG) today announced that it has hired Ilene Eskenazi as its Chief Human Resources Officer. Serving on the Executive Leadership Team, Eskenazi will begin on November 27, and report to Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Brian Niccol.

Eskenazi comes to Chipotle from Petco Health and Wellness Company, where she served as Chief Legal and Human Resources Officer, overseeing compensation and benefits, human resources operations, talent management, as well as all legal matters. Prior to that, Eskenazi was the Global General Counsel and Chief Human Resources Officer at...

November 14: PrimoHoagies Celebrates Customer Appreciation Day with $6.99 Primo-Size Hoagies

Beloved hoagie brand PrimoHoagies will host a Customer Appreciation Day on November 14 throughout all its locations in gratitude to its loyal customers. The brand was recently voted the #1 best sandwich shop in the USA Today 10Best Reader's Choice Awards, a recognition based on selection by a panel of industry experts and journalists as among the top 20 sandwich shops, followed by public voting to determine the winner. PrimoHoagies prides itself on crafting gourmet hoagies with high-quality meats and cheeses piled high on fresh-baked...

Chipotle Teamsters to Rally for a Fair Contract November 3, 2023

On Friday, November 3, Teamsters Local 243 members who work at Chipotle in Lansing will rally to demand a fair contract from the multibillion-dollar corporation.

Chipotle Teamsters are standing strong in their fight for a first union contract and calling on the company to get serious in negotiations. The Lansing store became the first Chipotle location in the country to organize over a year ago.

Chipotle recently made the shameful offer of a five cents per hour raise to top-performing workers...

Freddy's Features French Onion Steakburger and OREO® Cookie Peppermint Shake for a Limited Time

Fast-casual restaurant concept, Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers®, announced today the launch of its limited-time holiday menu items featuring the French Onion Steakburger and OREO® Cookie Peppermint Shake. The limited-time offers are available to order starting Nov. 1, 2023, through Jan. 2, 2024, at participating Freddy's locations nationwide via drive-thru, in-restaurant dining, and pickup or delivery through the Freddy's mobile app and at https://freddys.com.

The cooked-to-order French Onion Steakburger is prepared with two sizzling, premium, lean...

Baja Fresh Turns Up the Heat with Nashville Hot Chicken Menu Additions

Things are heating up at Baja Fresh Mexican Grill® (www.BajaFresh.com), the fast-casual fresh Mexican food chain, with two new menu items featuring Nashville-style hot sauce!

For guests looking to spice things up, the following offerings are now available:

• Nashville Hot Chicken Burrito – Crispy chicken tossed in Nashville hot sauce with Baja rice, roasted veggies, melted jack cheese, and chipotle aioli wrapped in a warm flour tortilla.
• Nashville Hot Chicken Taco Combo – Two flour tortillas filled with crispy chicken tossed in Nashville hot sauce, lettuce, and...

BurgerFi Introduces a New Wingman, Jumbo Chicken Wings

WTF… Wings Take Flight at BurgerFi®, owned by BurgerFi International, Inc. The better burger brand has an official wingman, fresh, never-frozen jumbo chicken wings. Starting Wednesday, November 1, 2023, all participating locations will now serve three flavors of Chicken Wings and four types of BurgerFi Bowls, as permanent menu additions to the restaurants. To add to the menu innovation, BurgerFi will also launch a seasonal White Chocolate Peppermint Shake for a limited time only.

"Our chef-crafted and sensationally indulgent menu strategy makes our new chicken wings the perfect...

Potbelly Announces 40-Shop Agreement with Royal Restaurant Group

Potbelly Corporation (NASDAQ: PBPB), the iconic neighborhood sandwich shop, today announced the completion of a 40-unit agreement with Royal Restaurant Group, a national franchise group that successfully operates restaurant locations for global brands.

The agreement will involve the future development of 36 Potbelly shops in markets across both Ohio and Florida. As part of the deal, Potbelly will also refranchise four locations in the greater Columbus, Ohio region.

“We’re delighted to have Royal Restaurant Group join the Potbelly system and further our growth in several key areas of the...

Sonny's BBQ Redefines BBQ Classics with BBQ Tour Inspired by Regional Flavors

Sonny's BBQ, the purpose-driven BBQ restaurant known for quality BBQ and spreading kindness in the communities they serve, introduced today the BBQ Tour Sampler, a new limited time menu offering. Inspired by the legendary flavors of some of the best barbecue in the country, Sonny's BBQ Pitmasters created this new offering as a tribute to their favorite regional barbecue styles and dishes.

The BBQ Tour Sampler features a generous helping of three proteins, each with their own unique regional flavor profile: Carolina Pulled Pork...

Authentic Restaurant Brands Completes Acquisition of Fiesta Restaurant Group

Authentic Restaurant Brands (“ARB”), a portfolio company of Garnett Station Partners, LLC (“Garnett Station” or “GSP”), a New York-based principal investment firm, today announced the completion of its previously announced acquisition of Fiesta Restaurant Group, Inc. ("Fiesta" or the "Company") (NASDAQ: FRGI), parent company of the Pollo Tropical® restaurant brand.

“Our distinct vision for Pollo Tropical is to amplify the fundamental aspects of the brand that customers love and expand its capabilities to deliver high-quality, affordable food in a casual setting,” said Alex Macedo, Chairman of Authentic Restaurant...