RBI Appoints Chris Padoan as Chief Operating Officer (COO), Popeyes US & Canada

Restaurant Brands International (RBI) has announced the appointment of Chris Padoan as Chief Operating Officer (COO), Popeyes US & Canada, effective March 23.

Padoan began his career as a teenager and has worked his way up to store ownership. He has nearly 15 years of relevant experience with RBI’s Burger King brand and most recently served as Regional Vice President for the South Region, where he led operational improvements while working closely with franchisees and restaurant teams to strengthen store...

Burger King China Embarks on Strategic Growth with RBI and CPE Partnership

Restaurant Brands International, Inc. (RBI) and CPE recently announced the completion of their previously unveiled joint venture, marking a significant milestone in Burger King China's next phase of growth.

This deal is the epitome of strategic growth planning, with the beloved brand joining forces with the local market expertise of CPE.

Upon finalizing the deal, CPE's $350 million investment of new primary capital into the joint venture will secure approximately 83% of the business, while RBI retains a 17% minority interest and...

Popeyes Announces New Head Chef and Chief Marketing Officer Appointment

Restaurant Brands International was featured in Expana's latest foodservice roundup, highlighting leadership shifts taking shape in 2026.

Just before the new year, the company announced internal promotions for Head Chef positions at two of its flagship brands.

Amy Alarcon has been appointed Head Chef for Burger King, U.S. & Canada, bringing 18 years of industry experience. She will lead Burger King's culinary strategy, including menu innovation, product development, and quality standards across the brand.

Robert (Bobby) O’Brien has been appointed Head Chef for Popeyes...

Leadership Shifts Set the Stage in Foodservice for 2026

So far in the new year, we've seen new menus, ad campaigns, partnerships, and emerging trends.

While the industry maintains its focus on consumers, value, and traffic retention, it has ramped up efforts to facilitate growth and expansion.

In this latest foodservice roundup, Expana has assembled a detailed look at the most significant leadership changes shaking up the industry as it welcomes 2026.

Hormel Foods

Hormel Foods announced the upcoming

Hormel Foods

Hormel Foods announced the upcoming retirements of two long-time leaders: Mark Morey, Vice President of Operations for fresh pork, and Paul Peil...

RBI and CPE Announce $350 Million Joint Venture to Expand Burger King in China

Restaurant Brands International (RBI) and CPE, a leading Chinese alternative asset manager, have announced a joint venture to drive the next phase of Burger King’s growth in China.

The partnership aims to expand Burger King’s presence in the Chinese market to 4,000 restaurants by 2035, up from the 1,250 locations currently operating.

Upon completion of the agreement, CPE will invest $350 million in new primary capital to support restaurant expansion, marketing, menu innovation, and...

Expansion and Menu Innovations Lead in Foodservice this Week

This week, Expana gathered a collection of headline-worthy news, showcasing the vibrant and constantly evolving world of foodservice. From strategic expansions to culinary innovations, these stories underscore the dynamic nature of the industry and its unwavering momentum.

International Expansion on the Horizon for TGI Fridays

TGI Fridays is gearing up for significant international growth, announcing two master franchise agreements today. In India, USR Hospitality (USR) will develop 51 new locations, while Mid-City Operadora Sapi de CV (MCO_Mexico) is set to open 50 new outlets in...

Joel Yashinsky Appointed Chief Marketing Officer of Burger King US & Canada

Today, Burger King® announced Joel Yashinsky as Chief Marketing Officer for the US & Canada. Yashinsky will build on the brand’s existing Reclaim the Flame plan that was created with the advice and support of Burger King Franchisees.

“We are thrilled to welcome Joel to the Burger King leadership team and the broader BK family,” said Tom Curtis, President of Burger King US & Canada. “Joel joins us at an exciting time for the brand, and brings the ideal mix of strategic marketing...