Quick_Service

Remodels, a pandemic and Brazil led to the bankruptcy of a Wendy's franchisee

By Jonathan Maze on Nov. 15, 2023

Starboard Group, the Wendy’s franchisee that sought debt protection this week, said a number of factors converged that led to the filing, including a failed Brazilian joint venture.

Financing

A large Wendy's franchisee declares bankruptcy

By Jonathan Maze on Nov. 14, 2023

Florida-based Starboard Group sought debt protection for its Wendy’s restaurants. It is the latest in a series of restaurant companies to take that step.

Technology

POS provider Qu lands investment from Danny Meyer’s Enlightened Hospitality

By Joe Guszkowski on Nov. 14, 2023

Qu’s cloud-based system is designed to untangle the tech stack for limited-service chains. Meyer believes it could become a “big player.”

Financing

Why Burger King struggled, according to Patrick Doyle

By Jonathan Maze on Nov. 14, 2023

The executive chairman of the chain’s parent company Restaurant Brands International said operators had too much risk, particularly on the balance sheet.

Financing

Margins soar at Burger King franchisee Carrols, and so does its stock

By Jonathan Maze on Nov. 09, 2023

The 1,000-unit operator said sales and traffic were better than expected and margins increased by 530 basis points. And its stock took off.

Financing

McDonald's and Krispy Kreme may expand their partnership

By Jonathan Maze on Nov. 09, 2023

The burger giant has been selling Krispy Kreme doughnuts out of its Kentucky restaurants for months. Now they’re apparently talking about an expansion.

Financing

A third major Burger King franchisee declares bankruptcy

By Jonathan Maze on Nov. 08, 2023

Premier Kings, a 172-unit Alabama and Georgia operator whose owner died in 2022, declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, citing substantial operating losses.

Operations

Starbucks plans to give its workers another raise

By Jonathan Maze on Nov. 06, 2023

The coffee giant is giving all its workers at least 3% pay raises next year and will let hourly workers accrue vacation time sooner. Also: barista championships.

Financing