Quick Service

By Jonathan Maze on Jan. 23, 2024

The Bottom Line: Even before the fast-food burger chain bought its largest franchisee, it was buying up swaths of restaurants around the country. That's a major shift for the brand.

Emerging Brands

With 'Cookie Wars' settled, Dirty Dough joins Craveworthy Brands' portfolio

By Lisa Jennings on Jan. 23, 2024

The trademark lawsuit made famous on social media is now officially over. Now Dirty Dough's new managing partner has plans for growth that could bring the stuffed cookies to grocery aisles.

Operations

In-N-Out Burger says ongoing crime is forcing closure of unit in Oakland, Calif.

By Lisa Jennings on Jan. 22, 2024

After 18 years in the Bay Area city, the quick-service chain that rarely closes stores said the unit there is scheduled to shutter in March out of concern for the safety of workers and guests.

Premium

Operations

A franchise ownership dream comes true

By Lisa Jennings on Jan. 17, 2024

Daintry McFadden was the first to sign on with the Wetzel's Pretzels' Access to Equity program designed to help women and minorities become owners. Now that program is bearing fruit.

Premium

Financing

With the Carrols deal, Burger King signals that bigger is not better

By Jonathan Maze on Jan. 17, 2024

The Bottom Line: In acquiring its largest franchisee, the fast-food chain more than tripled its investment in its revitalization and fundamentally altered its ownership structure.

Financing

With a big wage hike coming, California Subway franchisees look for solutions

By Jonathan Maze on Jan. 15, 2024

The sandwich brand’s operators in the state are worried that a $20-per-hour fast-food wage will push many of them out of the business and are asking for concessions from Subway. They’re not always getting them.

Food