Stephen Owen of UC Santa Cruz cited higher menu prices, reduced hours, lost benefits and accelerating automation Researchers found that California’s minimum wage hike for fast-food workers led to “negative outcomes” such as automation and reduced work hours. The researchers at the University of California, Santa Cruz suggested in a report published in March that… read more

The Independent Restaurant Coalition says that the giant distributor’s proposed $29 billion acquisition of the cash-and-carry provider would eliminate a key alternative for many operators. The Independent Restaurant Coalition is calling on the U.S. Federal Trade Commission to block Sysco’s proposed acquisition of Restaurant Depot, saying that the deal would eliminate a crucial alternative used… read more

Filing 1040 tax forms is no fun. But 1,040 free footlongs? That’s a Tax Day refund Americans can get behind! With everyday costs and living expenses seemingly rising by the day, even taxpayers lucky enough to get a refund from the IRS this year may see it disappear quickly. That’s why Subway is offering Sub… read more

What separates resilient brands from fading ones is experienced leadership, a strong and authentic brand culture, and high-quality operators. Mediterranean cuisine has quietly crossed an important threshold. What was once viewed as a niche, coastal-inspired segment has become one of the most enduring growth categories in fast casual. More than 20 countries identify Mediterranean cuisine… read more

The campaign, held for the second time March 13, stems from a viral meme Chipotle’s “Tatted Like a Chipotle Bag” promotion, held Friday, March 13, generated the highest single-day sales in the company’s history. The promotion offered tattooed fans — whether donning permanent or temporary (or even hand-drawn) ink — a buy-one-get-one entrée free on… read more

Krispy Kreme, Inc. announced continued progress on its turnaround plan to deleverage the balance sheet and drive sustainable, profitable growth through refranchising, a key component of the plan. WKS Restaurant Group Increases Stake in Western U.S. Joint Venture and Expands Footprint On March 23, 2026, Krispy Kreme completed a transaction with its joint venture partner,… read more

The Independent Restaurant Coalition and Chase bank have teamed together to honor independent operators that model sustainability and workforce well-being. The Innovator Award includes a $25,000 grant. Forty independent restaurants across the country have won $1 million as the first class to be honored with Innovator Awards by the Independent Restaurant Coalition (IRC) and Chase…. read more

Restaurant Brands International announced that Chris Padoan has been appointed Chief Operating Officer of Popeyes U.S. & Canada, effective March 23. In this role, Padoan will lead operations across the Popeyes system, focusing on strengthening restaurant execution, enhancing the guest experience, and supporting franchisees across the U.S. and Canada. Padoan brings nearly 15 years of… read more

Atlanta-based Neighborhood Restaurant Partners took the step after it was unable to find a buyer for its 53 locations. Applebee’s is now in line to acquire them. A large Applebee’s franchisee has filed for bankruptcy, and the franchisor is in line to acquire the business. Atlanta-based Neighborhood Restaurant Partners (NRP) filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy… read more

The bundt cake chain, which is approaching $1 billion in system sales, is being sold at a reported value of $2 billion. It’s a rare exit for the private-equity firm Roark Capital. Nothing Bundt Cakes, the fast-growing, Dallas-based chain that turned a niche treat in a billion-dollar business, is being sold to the private-equity firm… read more