Quick Service

Here’s how Starbucks’ Web3 loyalty program extension will work

By Jonathan Maze on Dec. 08, 2022

Starbucks Odyssey, a major expansion of the company’s Rewards program into the metaverse, enables customers to collect NFTs and points through interactive activities.

Leadership

Krispy Kreme names Jeremiah Ashukian CFO

By Jonathan Maze on Dec. 08, 2022

He comes to the doughnut chain from Mars Inc., where he was CFO of Mars Wrigley North America.

Financing

MTY Food Group completes its acquisition of Wetzel’s Pretzels

By Jonathan Maze on Dec. 08, 2022

The $207 million deal is the latest in a string of acquisitions by the Canadian owner of Pinkberry and Papa Murphy’s, giving the company a major U.S. presence.

Premium

Financing

Tim Hortons goes small to make it work in the U.S.

By Jonathan Maze on Dec. 07, 2022

The Bottom Line: The coffee chain’s parent company still believes the brand can work south of the Canadian border, but it first had to change.

Food

4 secrets behind Sonic’s menu success

By Patricia Cobe on Dec. 06, 2022

Mackenzie Gibson, Sonic’s VP of culinary and menu innovation, shares an inside look at her team's R&D mindset.

Premium

Financing

For Starbucks, unspent gift cards become a big business

By Jonathan Maze on Dec. 02, 2022

The Bottom Line: As customers returned to Starbucks, revenue from unspent gift cards did, too, providing the coffee giant with a weird and profitable source of funds.

Operations