Smashburger Adds New CMO, Strengthens Leadership Team to Fuel Franchise Growth

Smashburger is adding fresh leadership as it pushes ahead with franchise growth and brand momentum, naming three new executives across marketing, development and operations.

The fast-casual burger brand has appointed Kate Savelli as Chief Marketing Officer, tasking the restaurant industry veteran with leading brand, consumer, menu and partnership strategies. Smashburger also named Theresa Vitale as Director of Non-Traditional Franchise Development and Jack Reed as Vice President of Western Operations, strengthening its executive bench as it targets disciplined...

Evolving Strategies and Market Momentum in Foodservice

The foodservice industry continues to evolve at a rapid pace, with major consolidation moves, strategic partnerships, and value-driven innovation shaping the landscape. This biweekly roundup highlights a blockbuster acquisition poised to reshape distribution, high-profile collaborations bringing new offerings to consumers, and continued momentum in emerging categories like sushi. At the same time, operators are doubling down on menu innovation and aggressive value platforms to navigate cost pressures and drive traffic, signaling a competitive environment where scale, differentiation, and affordability are more critical...

Smashburger Welcomes Spring with New Limited Time Offerings

Smashburger has introduced a new limited-time spring menu, continuing its strategy of driving traffic through frequent product innovation and bold flavor combinations.

"Spring is here, and this year we're celebrating with offerings that are more flavorful and more vibrant than ever," said Tom Ryan, Founder of Smashburger. "We're always pushing ourselves to innovate and bring our guests even more great taste. By pairing bold ingredients like jalapeño, avocado, truffle, and more with our classic builds across our premium burgers, our $4.99 value menu...

Restaurants Turn Up the Heat with Comfort Foods, Value Deals, and Returning Favorites

New year, new menus — restaurants are kicking off the year with fresh spins on classics and brand-new culinary creations.

In Expana’s latest Foodservice Round Up of the Year, "value"was pinned as the buzzword of 2025. Customers want (and need) quality without breaking the bank.

That theme looks set to retain its prominence heading into 2026.

With QSRs taking the lead in what’s been coined the "Value Wars," restaurants like Applebee’s and Chili’s have leaned heavily into “2 for” deals, often pairing an appetizer...