Quick Service

A Delaware court hands a big loss to McDonald’s former HR chief

By Jonathan Maze on Jan. 26, 2023

A judge ruled that David Fairhurst, the company’s former head of human resources, had a duty to report actions by former CEO Steve Easterbrook that led to its ouster.

Operations

McDonald’s is testing strawless lids

By Jonathan Maze on Jan. 25, 2023

The burger giant is testing lids that do not need straws in some select U.S. markets as it works to bolster sustainability.

Premium

Financing

Who will win in a downturn? Chains with strong loyalty programs

By Jonathan Maze on Jan. 24, 2023

The Bottom Line: If a recession hits, price-weary consumers could look for more deals. But mass discount programs may be too difficult in an inflationary environment.

Financing

Checkers, citing inflation, looks to refinance its debt

By Jonathan Maze on Jan. 24, 2023

The operator of drive-thru restaurants has reportedly hired advisers to help it restructure its debt, which comes due next year.

Leadership

Focus Brands makes some executive changes

By Jonathan Maze on Jan. 20, 2023

Julie Younglove-Webb was named chief brand officer for Auntie Anne’s while the brand operator named new heads of design and real estate.

Premium

Food

Soaring egg prices pose a dilemma for a.m. chains

By Peter Romeo on Jan. 20, 2023

Do they share the pain with patrons or sacrifice margin to spare guests from unpleasant surprises?

Financing

Ransomware shuts 300 Yum Brands restaurants in the U.K.

By Jonathan Maze on Jan. 19, 2023

The restaurants were forced to close for a day but have since reopened. The attack hit the company’s IT systems.

Food

Taco Bell is bringing back chicken wings

By Jonathan Maze on Jan. 19, 2023

The Mexican chain’s “Ultimate Gameday Box” features its Mexican Pizza, chicken wings and tacos starting Jan. 26. It also has a special “Wings Filter” on its app showing which restaurants have wings available.

Operations